Anyone feed their dog beneful

[Britster]

Originally Posted by 107barney

Doubt they have vet nutritionists on staff.
Recalls are voluntary.
Ingredient lists tell you nothing about nutrient profile or digestability of the product.

Just saying.

Actually, they do. Not sure on Fromm but Farmina has been around for decades. Purina, RC and SD have put forth lots of research and I respect and trust them but they're not the be-all-end-all either, it's always nice to have a few other options. Jackson doesn't do well on RC or SD (to be fair, we didn't try it for long, but that's because I didn't like what I was seeing in a short period of time, he didn't do well on Fromm either IMO... go figure he does great on Purina Beyond ha!)... And honestly at this point, I don't put 100% trust or faith in ANY food company, human or dog.

Edit- thought I should add when I say 'not well', I pretty much just mean he gets more eye boogers, softer/bigger poo, and a "less than ideal body condition" (for him anyway). He gets flabby on high carb foods, including Fromm.

We have 6 staff veterinarians and 20 other professionals with advanced scientific degrees. Two of our people are fellows to the European equivalent of the AVMA. We have 3 of our plants and do extensive testing with the University of Milan and Naples. Our company has been around since 1965 and is owned by the Russo family.


The food you sampled was tested for 24 months in three published studies for safety before they were put on the market.

I like a lot of Purina foods. I think Beneful IS gross though and I wish they didn't produce it.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Britster

Actually, they do. Not sure on Fromm but Farmina has been around for decades. Purina, RC and SD have put forth lots of research and I respect and trust them but they're not the be-all-end-all either, it's always nice to have a few other options. Jackson doesn't do well on RC or SD (to be fair, we didn't try it for long, but that's because I didn't like what I was seeing in a short period of time, he didn't do well on Fromm either IMO... go figure he does great on Purina Beyond ha!)... And honestly at this point, I don't put 100% trust or faith in ANY food company, human or dog.

Edit- thought I should add when I say 'not well', I pretty much just mean he gets more eye boogers, softer/bigger poo, and a "less than ideal body condition" (for him anyway). He gets flabby on high carb foods, including Fromm.

I like a lot of Purina foods. I think Beneful IS gross though and I wish they didn't produce it.

They are awfully vague and lump a lot of things into those 20 people. We don't know if they have credentials because they don't disclose it. I am not interested in the food or I might ask them. I did see them saying that dogs didn't evolve to eat grains yet they stuff their food full of peas and potato.... that is truly capturing the essence of a dog's natural diet as nature intended I guess. LOL. And honestly if dog didn't evolve to eat grains, wolf biologist says dog would be extinct...science and evolution do tell us things, but why pay attention to that when we can just look to the stars....the DFA stars.

[sandy simpson]

I saw this on the news about baneful dog food killing dogs and my heart sank. They should rip that stuff off all shelves. Target still sells it and so does the other stores. People should be more informed about the dog food they feed not buy that cheap stuff in the stores. It is filled with junk that is not good for our dogs. Lots of dyes and unmentionable things no dog should be fed. Anyone who deliberately hurts a dog by feeding him trash or giving him meds that are questionable should not have the blessing of a dog.

[megansmomma]

Originally Posted by Jakester

Actually from reading the following paragraph of their website I believe they have a good group of nutritionists on staff:

The company now employs approximately 200 people, of which 20 have advanced education and training in animal science, nutrition, quality control and food risk management. The company is also proud to say that several veterinarians are on staff helping to ensure your pets are well taken care of. Dr. Angelo Russo and his brother Nicola Russo have nurtured Farmina into a world class pet nutrition company, not just a pet food company.

I know recalls are voluntary but companies like Purina have them left and right and there is a reason for that.

\

How are you able to come to your conclusion they have a "good group of nutritionists?" I went to their website but to me it all seems like nothing except advertising buzzwords. The statement you quote is buried in the fourth paragraph of the history of the company.

I'm more a a cut the the chase type of person and look for those facts that lay out who/what they are stating and I just cannot seem to find that information on their site.

[Britster]

Originally Posted by 107barney

They are awfully vague and lump a lot of things into those 20 people. We don't know if they have credentials because they don't disclose it. I am not interested in the food or I might ask them. I did see them saying that dogs didn't evolve to eat grains yet they stuff their food full of peas and potato.... that is truly capturing the essence of a dog's natural diet as nature intended I guess. LOL. And honestly if dog didn't evolve to eat grains, wolf biologist says dog would be extinct...science and evolution do tell us things, but why pay attention to that when we can just look to the stars....the DFA stars.

I'm not too sure Purina is overly enthusiastic about sharing information on their credentials either, but correct me if I'm wrong.

I don't know where you saw them say that, considering they sell foods WITH grains they also have prescription foods over in Europe. If they did say that, I highly disagree with it. I believe dogs were raised on scraps, corn mush, and raiding garbage cans LOL

Totally not 'defending' Farmina or w/e, I really don't care, but just sayin'.

[Britster]

Originally Posted by megansmomma

How are you able to come to your conclusion they have a "good group of nutritionists?" I went to their website but to me it all seems like nothing except advertising buzzwords. The statement you quote is buried in the fourth paragraph of the history of the company.

I'm more a a cut the the chase type of person and look for those facts that lay out who/what they are stating and I just cannot seem to find that information on their site.

Sorry, nothing against Purina, as I said I feed it on occasion w/ no problems or worries, but I see a lot of buzzwords and marketing on their website too and see no mention of specific credentials. Unless I am missing it. Purina is, after all, a business as well and trying to profit just like the rest of them. And there is nothing wrong w/ that.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Britster

I'm not too sure Purina is overly enthusiastic about sharing information on their credentials either, but correct me if I'm wrong.

I don't know where you saw them say that, considering they sell foods WITH grains they also have prescription foods over in Europe. If they did say that, I highly disagree with it. I believe dogs were raised on scraps, corn mush, and raiding garbage cans LOL

Totally not 'defending' Farmina or w/e, I really don't care, but just sayin'.

Page 3, bottom left.
http://www.plusplus.co.rs/brosure/Fa...s_brochure.pdf

[Britster]

Originally Posted by 107barney

Page 3, bottom left.
http://www.plusplus.co.rs/brosure/Fa...s_brochure.pdf

Definitely some buzzwords going on and they're obviously trying to talk up their food. Yes they are pushing the "carnivore" and "wolf" thing which I'm not big on anymore (because no, dogs are not wolves) but literally EVERY food company does it. Every one has a marketing team. I don't see how this somehow discredits the food for being not forthcoming and somehow Purina is better, simply because they're more well known in the US?

I mean even the Purina Beyond website spouts the "NO WHEAT, NO SOY, NO CORN!!!" "NO BY PRODUCT!!" when they clearly have other products containing those things. Are they saying they're BAD then? or to avoid them? Or are they just trying to sell a particular product to a particular crowd of people? Would these be considered Buzzwords and marketing terms? They knew that there is a market out there now for people wanting "healthier" options for their pets, so they made it. It appeals to folks like me, who maybe wouldn't have otherwise considered a purina product.

I do like the little video: https://www.beyondpetfood.com/why-be...nutritionists/

But Orijen/Acana has similar videos. Who knows what to believe! It's obviously all a part of a marketing plan.

[Britster]

Woohoo I just found a $5 coupon for Beyond, I know what Jackson will be eating when his little bit of Acana left is gone. The 4lb bags are all of like $9 so that will be nice to save some $$$. I wouldn't have gone on their site if it wasn't for this thread!

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Britster

Definitely some buzzwords going on and they're obviously trying to talk up their food. Yes they are pushing the "carnivore" and "wolf" thing which I'm not big on anymore (because no, dogs are not wolves) but literally EVERY food company does it. Every one has a marketing team. I don't see how this somehow discredits the food for being not forthcoming and somehow Purina is better, simply because they're more well known in the US?

I mean even the Purina Beyond website spouts the "NO WHEAT, NO SOY, NO CORN!!!" "NO BY PRODUCT!!" when they clearly have other products containing those things. Are they saying they're BAD then? or to avoid them? Or are they just trying to sell a particular product to a particular crowd of people? Would these be considered Buzzwords and marketing terms? They knew that there is a market out there now for people wanting "healthier" options for their pets, so they made it. It appeals to folks like me, who maybe wouldn't have otherwise considered a purina product.

I do like the little video: https://www.beyondpetfood.com/why-be...nutritionists/

But Orijen/Acana has similar videos. Who knows what to believe! It's obviously all a part of a marketing plan.

I don't disagree wih you on marketing. Capitalism is alive and well. But, I see Purina as a company that is doing more than that though and doing research. But hey, I can't sort it all out, never could, and feel better feeding them my own home cooked meals.

[megansmomma]

Originally Posted by Britster

Sorry, nothing against Purina, as I said I feed it on occasion w/ no problems or worries, but I see a lot of buzzwords and marketing on their website too and see no mention of specific credentials. Unless I am missing it. Purina is, after all, a business as well and trying to profit just like the rest of them. And there is nothing wrong w/ that.

But I see case studies like this one on the Purina site. What I am talking about with the Farmina is they are boasting about 200 employees and 20 experts. I'd like to see who those experts are since it's such a very small company that is like family. Do you see why I am questioning

Of course there is marketing involved in all sales. They want to entice the consumer into purchasing their product vs the competition.

[MarkFromSea]

Originally Posted by megansmomma

I will have to agree with you that Dog Food Advisor is for the less sophisticated consumer that needs a quick reference for a knee jerk purchase on the opinions of other consumers and the dentist (who is this aspect is just another consumer).

After posting information that requires following a few links and reading actual scientific results, I see how basic dog owners/consumers looking knee-jerk answer would find information that is more complicated a little overwhelming. We do live in a word of quick satisfaction even if it leads to misinformation which is also at issue.

Both of the sites that I linked are not fee bases so I am left to assume only a very quick glance was made to them proving my above statement about that knee-jerk answer to questions. I'm a very inquisitive person so I find the information from Dr. Remmilard and Skeptvet high interesting. The difference between my links and DogFood Advisor is the idea that their information is based on science and not opinions of other consumers. With a little bit of link following Dr. Remmilard and Skeptvet are very informative in how dog foods are trailed and tested. Their writing is not opinion based it is science based which I prefer. This information has help me greatly in deciding how to pick brands of food that meets the needs of my pets. While you inferred the Dog Food Advisor is a free site the dentist offers a subscription service for his opinion. Member Login

It seems that Dr. Sagman, DDS is covering his butt pretty well with all of his disclaimers for his BLOG as he likes to call it. I've posted them below so that they are easily found and no links need be followed.

Way down under that fine print at the very bottom of the website you will find this:

Disclaimer and Disclosure
The Dog Food Advisor is a reference site written and edited by me. It’s intended to provide you with the information you need to make better decisions about feeding your dog.

Dr. Mike Sagman

The views and opinions expressed in the articles posted here are presented in good faith and are strictly my own.
Accordingly, I promise to make every effort to be fair, accurate and truthful.
However, comments posted at the end of each article represent the advice, reports and opinions of my readers. So, I cannot ensure the accuracy of or be held responsible for their content.
As a human being, my thoughts and opinions change from time to time. I consider this a necessary consequence of having an open mind.
It is my goal to base all information presented here on current science. Yet because scientific concepts can change or be unknowingly defective I apologize for any errors I unwittingly publish.
The articles and reviews presented on this website are designed to help you make a more informed decision when buying dog food.
However, my rating system is not intended to suggest feeding a particular product will result in a specific health benefit for your pet.
Please be advised that I am not a veterinarian. For this reason, this website was never meant to be used as a substitute for sound professional advice.
Because the health of your dog can be directly affected by what you read here, you should always consult with a licensed veterinary professional before taking any specific action.

A Note to Manufacturers
It’s never been my intention to willfully misrepresent any product. Or to perpetuate the many myths surrounding the topic of dog food that pervade the Internet.
If you discover a material error in any of my reviews, please contact me and provide verifiable proof of my oversight. And if I’m in agreement with your point, I will gladly correct that error.

Financial Disclosure
I do not accept money, gifts, samples or any other incentives from pet food manufacturers in exchange for special consideration in the preparation of my reviews or ratings.
However, I do receive a fee from Chewy.com for each purchase made as a direct result of a referral from my website. This fee is a fixed dollar amount and has nothing whatsoever to do with the size of an order or the brand selected for purchase.
In addition, I also collect a membership fee in exchange for access to the Editor’s Choice section of my website.
In any case, please be assured it is my intention to always remain objective, impartial and unbiased.

For Your Protection
Any claim, statistics, or other representation about a product or service recommended on this website should be verified with the manufacturer or other sources before you make any purchase.
This blog contains links to other websites. Remember, all external links contain content which cannot be endorsed or controlled by the editor of this site.

Reporting Errors and Making Comments
It is impossible for me to keep each and every article and review updated on a daily basis. For this reason I cannot guarantee the accuracy of all the information you read everywhere on this website.
I welcome your feedback and assistance in updating the information I present. And I promise to correct any errors as I discover them or as they are brought to my attention.
This website is designed to be a blog and an open forum. So, feel free to challenge me or disagree with me in the Comments section at the end of each post.
However, I reserve the right to delete any comment that is abusive, rude, mean-spirited, profane or completely unrelated to the topic itself.
Thanks for visiting.
Mike Sagman
Editor and Creator
The Dog Food Advisor

So, the answer is no then? Your links don't provide specific brands or specific dog food formulas. Nothing specific?

You know what you can do with your "knee jerk, less sophisticated consumer" comment aimed directly at me. LOL

Are ANY of the dentist's 5 star rated foods, garbage? If not, move along!

[MarkFromSea]

Originally Posted by megansmomma

less sophisticated consumer
knee jerk purchase
knee-jerk answer would find information that is more complicated a little overwhelming.
misinformation

knee-jerk

I find your response offensive and rude.

Putting that aside, we want healthy dogs. Once they are in our care, good food, clean water, lots of exercise and love.....with routine vet care, is what is in our control to keep healthy pets.

I'm not a vet nutritionist, I don't want to be a vet nutritionist.... I just want to feed my dogs the best food for them that I can and still have the convenience of a dry dog food that doesn't spoil if left out over night.

Here's "The Dentist's" 5 star rated dry dog foods, a free list, at dogfood advisor:
Five Star Dry Dog Foods | Dog Food Advisor
Acana Dog Food (Dry)
Acana Regionals Grain-Free (Dry)
Amicus Dog Food (Dry)
Annamaet Grain Free (Dry)
Back to Basics Dog Food (Dry)
Blackwood ExPro (Dry)
Blue Buffalo Wilderness (Dry)
Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Care (Dry)
Brothers Complete Dog Food (Dry)
Canidae Grain Free Pure (Dry)
Canidae Single Grain Protein Plus (Dry)
Castor and Pollux Natural Ultramix Grain-Free (Dry)
DNA Dog Food (Dehydrated)
Dogswell LiveFree (Dry)
Dr. Harvey’s Oracle Dog Food (Dry)
Dr. Tim’s Dog Food (Dry)
Dr. Tim’s Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Earthborn Holistic Primitive Natural (Dry)
Evanger’s Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Evanger’s Hi Bio Dog Food (Dry)
EVO Dog Food (Dry)
Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain (Dry)
Farmina N&D Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Go! Fit and Free (Dry)
Great Life Grain Free (Dry)
Hi-Tek Naturals Grain Free (Dry)
Holistic Blend Grain Free (Dry)
Honest Kitchen Grain Free (Dehydrated)
Horizon Legacy (Dry)
I and Love and You Nude Food (Dry)
Infinia Dog Food (Dry)
Innova Nature’s Table (Dry)
Merrick Classic Dog Food (Dry)
Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Native Performance Dog Food (Dry)
Nature’s Logic (Dry)
Nature’s Select Grain Free (Dry)
Nature’s Variety Instinct (Dry)
Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost (Dry)
Northwest Naturals Freeze Dried Raw (Freeze-Dried)
Nulo FreeStyle (Dry)
Nulo Medal Series (Dry)
Nutram Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Nutreco Wholesome Blend Grain Free (Dry)
Nutrience Grain Free (Dry)
Nutrisca Dog Food (Dry)
Only Natural Pet MaxMeat Dog Food (Dry)
Orijen Dog Food (Dry)
Oven-Baked Tradition Grain Free (Dry)
Perfect Balance Grain Free (Dry)
Performatrin Ultra Grain Free (Dry)
Pinnacle Peak Protein Formula (Dry)
Pioneer Naturals Grain Free (Dry)
Primal Freeze-Dried Formula (Freeze-Dried)
Real Meat Air-Dried (Dehydrated)
Sammy Snacks Ancestry Dog Food (Dry)
Simply Nourish Source (Dry)
Solid Gold Barking at the Moon (Dry)
Solid Gold Sun Dancer (Dry)
TimberWolf Platinum (Dry)
Tuscan Natural Carne Dog Food (Dry)
Victor Grain Free Dog Food (Dry)
Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry)
Wellness Core Reduced Fat (Dry)
Wild Calling! Rocky Mountain Medley (Dry)
Wysong Archetype Burgers (Dehydrated)
Wysong Epigen (Dry)
Wysong Epigen 90 (Dry)
Wysong Uncanny Dog Food (Dehydrated)
Young Again Dog Food (Dry)
ZiwiPeak Daily Dog (Dehydrated)

I think the Fromm formula he reviewed hit a 4 1/2 star.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by MarkFromSea

So, the answer is no then? Your links don't provide specific brands or specific dog food formulas. Nothing specific?

You know what you can do with your "knee jerk, less sophisticated consumer" comment aimed directly at me. LOL

Are ANY of the dentist's 5 star rated foods, garbage? If not, move along!

Yes, many of the foods you listed literally end products from human food chain production after the better ingredients are bought up by the high volume companies who control the supplier resources with huge buying power. Many come from manufacturers with long lists lf problems. A five star rating from a layperson isn't helping anyone. Do you really need someone to cut and paste ingredient lists for you? Just research a company yourself and read the bag. I didn't find the comments offensive and rude... It's true... And that's why DFA is successful because he plays on the emotional needs of owners to feed their dogs the best which he erroneously claims is grounded in his stars. I have a problem with his enterprise, talk about offensive. He's the one treating people like they can't read dog food bags! How insulting!!

[Ellie May]

I like Purina simply because they do put money into research, feeding trials, and hiring qualified scientists. That said, 'personally' I would not choose to feed their regular foods. Never been a fan. I would not suggest anybody feed the bottom of the line foods like Beneful. I've seen enough dogs just get by with that type of food which is not optimal for most, imo. They do have some better varieties though for those who can afford it.

I think their QC could be improved. On the other hand at least they have scientists on staff to handle these issues instead of the one vet/PhD/interested person business model. I am not sure why some of these small companies think they know enough about canine nutrition to feed the nation's dogs. Most won't even do the AAFCO feeding trial. While it may not be much it is still better than using my dogs as the guinea pigs.

Every company is in it for the money. Good incentive to do research and try to save some lives. Purina has done that for my dog with one of their rx foods. Some other companies are too busy solely thinking up ways to market their products instead of putting some effort and cash into trying to help sick dogs.