WholeHearted Dog Food is a private-label brand of pet food sold exclusively at Petco, a well-known retailer specializing in pet supplies. It offers a variety of dog food products designed to provide high-quality nutrition at an affordable price. With a focus on wholesome, natural ingredients and free from many common allergens, the brand appeals to dog owners who want to feed their pets a nutritious diet without breaking the bank.

Key Features of WholeHearted Dog Food

1. Natural Ingredients: WholeHearted dog food is made with natural ingredients, ensuring that dogs get the essential nutrients they need without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. The recipes focus on high-quality proteins, fruits, vegetables, and grains (or grain-free alternatives).
2. Grain-Free and Grain-Inclusive Options: The brand offers both grain-free and grain-inclusive formulas to cater to dogs with different dietary preferences and needs. Grain-free diets typically substitute grains like rice or wheat with ingredients like sweet potatoes or peas, making them a good choice for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies. Grain-inclusive options are also available for those who prefer traditional dog food with healthy grains.
3. High-Quality Protein Sources: WholeHearted prioritizes high-quality proteins like chicken, beef, lamb, and fish as the primary ingredients in their dog food. Protein is essential for muscle development, immune function, and overall vitality, making it a key component in a dog’s diet.
4. Nutritionally Balanced: Each WholeHearted formula is designed to provide a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, along with added vitamins and minerals to support a dog’s overall health. This ensures that dogs of all ages and breeds receive the nutrients they need to thrive.
5. No Corn, Wheat, or Soy: WholeHearted dog food is free from corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens for some dogs. By avoiding these ingredients, the brand aims to reduce the likelihood of food sensitivities or digestive issues in dogs.
6. Affordable Pricing: One of the standout features of WholeHearted dog food is its affordability. Despite its focus on natural ingredients and high-quality nutrition, the brand is priced competitively compared to premium dog food brands, making it accessible for pet owners on a budget.
7. Formulas for Different Life Stages and Needs: WholeHearted offers a variety of formulas tailored to dogs at different life stages, including puppies, adults, and seniors. They also provide special formulas for weight management, small breeds, large breeds, and specific dietary needs, such as limited ingredient diets for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

Types of WholeHearted Dog Food

The brand comes in several forms to accommodate different preferences and feeding styles:

1. Dry Dog Food (Kibble): WholeHearted’s dry dog food is a popular option for its convenience, storage ease, and cost-effectiveness. It comes in several flavors and formulas, with options for grain-free, grain-inclusive, and life-stage-specific diets. The kibble is designed to be crunchy and palatable, helping with dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
2. Wet Dog Food (Canned): Wet dog food is often more appetizing for dogs due to its rich aroma and soft texture. WholeHearted’s wet dog food is available in pâté or stew form, offering a tasty, moisture-rich meal that can be served on its own or mixed with kibble. Wet food can also be a good option for dogs with dental issues or those who prefer softer foods.
3. Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): WholeHearted’s limited ingredient diets are designed for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. These formulas contain fewer ingredients, focusing on a single animal protein and a limited number of carbohydrates. LID diets can help minimize the risk of allergic reactions while providing complete nutrition.
4. Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food: For pet owners interested in raw feeding but looking for a more convenient option, WholeHearted offers freeze-dried raw dog food. This type of food preserves the nutritional benefits of raw ingredients while offering a shelf-stable, easy-to-serve meal. Freeze-dried food can be served as-is or rehydrated with water.
5. Treats and Supplements: In addition to dog food, WholeHearted offers a range of dog treats and supplements, including training treats, dental chews, and supplements that support joint health, digestion, and skin and coat health.

Popular WholeHearted Dog Food Products

Here are a few of WholeHearted’s most popular dog food products:

• WholeHearted Grain-Free All Life Stages Dry Dog Food: This grain-free kibble is suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages. It features high-quality proteins like chicken or salmon as the first ingredient, along with sweet potatoes and peas for carbohydrates.
• WholeHearted Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food: Specifically designed for growing puppies, this formula provides the essential nutrients needed for development, including DHA for brain and eye health. It’s available in both grain-free and grain-inclusive versions.
• WholeHearted Senior Formula Dry Dog Food: For senior dogs, this formula contains added glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, along with lower fat content to help maintain a healthy weight in older dogs.
• WholeHearted Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): These formulas feature a single source of animal protein, such as lamb or duck, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The LID recipes are available in both dry and wet food varieties.
• WholeHearted Wet Dog Food: Available in several flavors, including chicken, beef, and lamb, WholeHearted wet dog food is a flavorful option that can be served as a complete meal or mixed with dry food for added variety.

Nutritional Value and Quality

The brand is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for dogs. This means the food contains the essential nutrients that dogs need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Each recipe includes a balanced blend of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and fiber, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Some of the key nutritional benefits of WholeHearted dog food include:

• High Protein Content: Most formulas feature animal protein as the first ingredient, ensuring that dogs receive adequate amounts of high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and overall health.
• Omega Fatty Acids: WholeHearted includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in its formulas, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat while supporting joint health and brain function.
• Digestive Support: Many WholeHearted products contain prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion and gut health, which can be especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• No Artificial Additives: WholeHearted dog food is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, focusing on natural ingredients to deliver flavor and nutrition.

WholeHearted dog food is a strong contender for pet owners looking for a nutritious, affordable, and accessible option for their dogs. With a wide range of grain-free and grain-inclusive options, life-stage-specific formulas, and choices for dogs with special dietary needs, WholeHearted caters to a variety of dogs and preferences. The brand’s commitment to using natural ingredients and avoiding common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy makes it a popular choice among health-conscious pet owners.