Lamb-based dog foods can be an excellent choice for your furry friend, whether you’re searching for an alternative protein source due to food allergies or attempting to entice your selective pup into eating more nutritious meals.
It is now common for dog food producers to use lamb in their recipes because it is a beneficial source of protein.
When Is Lamb a Good Dog Food Choice?
In the past, lamb was not commonly used in commercial dog food, but it has become more common and accessible in recent times.
The meat may not have inherently hypoallergenic properties and the reason it was first advertised as such may have been due to the low consumption of lamb-based foods by dogs during that time.
According to AuthorityNutrition, lamb is a type of red meat that bears some resemblance to beef. It contains higher amounts of iron compared to white meat such as chicken or fish, as well as all essential amino acids and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Typically, cooked lamb consists of approximately 25% protein per weight.
There are several compelling and popular justifications for feeding your canine a lamb-centered diet, including:
- Your dog is suffering from food allergies . It is often necessary to feed dogs that suffer from food allergies novel protein sources. Many dogs are raised on chicken – or beef-based diets, so lamb is an obvious choice.
- You are interested in rotating your dog’s foods . Some owners like to rotate their dog’s food periodically in an effort to avoid any nutritional deficiencies or excesses. Lamb makes an excellent choice in such circumstances, as it offers a slightly different nutritional profile from the other commonly used protein sources.
- You have a dog with a picky palate . All dogs are individuals, but many seem to love lamb. Accordingly, it is often a smart choice for dogs that turn their nose up at most other foods.
Best Lamb Dog Foods: Our Top Picks
Before choosing any of these five dog foods made with lamb, keep in mind the specific needs of your pup, especially their life stage and health concerns, to ensure they receive the necessary nutrition.
1. Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
Taste of the Wild Sierra Mountain
High-protein, grain-free, and made in the USA
The dog food contains lamb and lamb meal as the primary ingredients, and lamb is the only source of animal protein. It is also easily digestible.
The Taste of the Wild Sierra Canine Formula is a top-quality dog food that features lamb as its main ingredient and limited additional components. Along with its exclusion of grains that are found in lower-quality brands, the formula includes vibrant fruits rich in antioxidants. This dry dog food has garnered widespread praise and Taste of the Wild also boasts a variety of other animal protein options. Despite this, the lamb recipe certainly deserves special recognition.
Characteristics:
- Fortified with probiotics to help ensure smooth and problem-free digestion
- Because Taste of the Wild is made in the USA , you can be confident it is made under the strictest safety protocols
- Made with delicious and nutritious fruits and vegetables, including blueberries, raspberries, peas and tomatoes
- Taste of the Wild contains Omega-fatty acids to help support a healthy coat
2. Zignature Grain Free Lamb Dry Dog Food
Zignature Grain Free Lamb
Grain-free formula with lamb as the exclusive animal protein
Designed for dogs with allergies, this limited-ingredient formula features authentic lamb as its primary protein source.
Zignature Dog Food is a delectable and healthy option that omits the typical allergens such as beef, chicken, wheat and corn. Moreover, it is created purely using natural preservatives and flavors.
Characteristics:
- Designed to be extremely palatable for dogs , which many picky dogs find appealing
- Includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, including blueberries, carrots and cranberries
- Real lamb is the first listed ingredient; lamb meal is the second
- Higher fiber content than most comparable dog foods , which helps promote proper gastrointestinal function
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Lamb & Brown Rice
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Lamb & Brown Rice
Budget-friendly lamb-based dog food
With cost-effectiveness in mind, this recipe highlights lamb as its main component and also incorporates nutritious grains, specifically oatmeal and barley. In addition, it contains probiotics to enhance digestive health.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection offers exceptional dog food that is reasonably priced, featuring de-boned lamb as its core ingredient. Additionally, the recipe is crafted with nutrient-rich items such as cranberries, spinach, and pomegranate, guaranteeing that your furry friend receives a diverse array of vitamins and minerals.
Characteristics:
- Made in the USA , which ensures it has been made under stricter safety protocols than many substandard foods
- Includes probiotics for improved digestion and gastrointestinal health
- Fortified with Omega-6-rich sunflower oil which may provide benefits for your dog’s skin and coat
- Contains no soy, wheat, corn or any artificial flavors, colors or additives
4. Diamond Naturals Lamb
Diamond Naturals Lamb
Budget-friendly, grain-inclusive food
The primary component of this canine nourishment is lamb, while white rice and pearled barley serve as the origin of carbohydrates.
Diamond Naturals Lamb Dog Food provides a cost-effective and nourishing option for your pet, complete with vital supplements like probiotics, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids.
Characteristics:
- Fortified with three different probiotics to help support digestive function and promote healthy gut flora
- Lamb and rice make for an easily digested protein source , making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Supplemented with vitamins, minerals and antioxidant-rich ingredients to ensure balanced nutrition
5. Natural Balance L.I.D. Lamb & Brown Rice Formula
Natural Balance Lamb and Brown Rice Formula
Easy-to-digest limited-ingredient recipe
The diet focuses on lamb and a minimal number of ingredients, specifically chosen to avoid ingredients that may worsen allergic reactions.
The Natural Balance Lamb and Brown Rice Formula provides essential nutrients for dogs without the addition of fillers or additives that are often present in other dog foods. Many dogs enjoy the taste and find it easily digestible.
Characteristics:
- Natural Balance contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives to avoid unnecessary health problems
- Made with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to help protect your dog’s joints, skin and immune function
- Unlike some other LID foods, Natural Balance is appropriate for dogs of all ages
- You can purchase with confidence, thanks to Natural Balance’s 100% satisfaction guarantee
BONUS: Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Recipes
As the information on commercial dog foods and recalls keep changing, an increasing number of dog owners are choosing to prepare their own canine food at home. Although dogs relish home-cooked meals, preparing homemade dog food does not entail the same process as cooking for yourself or members of your family. To ensure good health for your dog, some essential regulations must be adhered to.
Should You Feed a Homemade Diet?
The rise in popularity of homemade diets can partly be attributed to the ability to monitor the ingredients, thus eliminating concerns over dog food recalls. Furthermore, many individuals who strive for healthy eating habits also desire the same for their beloved pets. Certain individuals prefer homemade diets, as they incorporate natural, unprocessed food items which are often perceived as healthier compared to commercially-produced dog food.
Before transitioning your dog to a homemade diet, certain factors must be taken into consideration since not every individual will find home-cooked dog food suitable.
- Be sure to find a dog food recipe that is complete and balanced. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to feed an incomplete or imbalanced diet to your dog.
- It takes time to measure ingredients and prepare the food correctly. Be sure you have a schedule that allows enough time to properly make your dog’s food on a regular basis.
- Make sure you can afford the ingredients to make your own dog food. Homemade food is typically less expensive than commercially prepared fresh or raw dog food, but it usually costs a little more than kibble.
- If you have a picky dog, you may need to source multiple recipes so you can change the diet periodically and keep your dog interested.
Proper Nutrition for Dogs
Similar to humans, dogs require specific nutrition to flourish. However, their dietary requirements are distinct from ours, therefore, just giving your dog leftovers from your plate won’t suffice. A deficient or disproportionate diet can result in insufficiencies of essential vitamins and nutrients in dogs.
To meet their energy requirements, dogs require the proper amount of calories according to their life stage and activity level. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian to help establish the exact daily caloric intake necessary for your dog.
For a dog’s homemade diet to be complete and balanced, it must have a proper proportion of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and fat, as well as added vitamins and minerals.
- At least 10% protein , such as chicken, turkey, fish, lean beef
- Up to 50% carbohydrates, such as rice, pasta , and potatoes (also provides some fiber)
- About 2.5-4.5% fiber , which can come from vegetables like peas, green beans, and carrots
- At least 5.5% fat , usually in the form of vegetable oil
- Vitamin and mineral supplements (dog-specific; can be purchased from a reputable company like BalanceIT.com )
Before beginning to cook for your dog, it is important to consult with your veterinarian. Your vet can provide you with recipes to experiment with, or they may refer you to a veterinary nutritionist or a canine nutrition-focused veterinarian.
How to Prepare Homemade Food for Dogs
It is vital to select a comprehensive and well-balanced recipe when creating a diet for your dog at home. Once you and your veterinarian have agreed on the right recipe, it is time to commence.
- Before you begin, it’s best if you have ready a food scale, food processor, pots and pans, and containers or bags for portioning the food.
- Purchase fresh, high-quality ingredients that are not canned, seasoned, or heavily processed.
- Set yourself up in a clean area of the kitchen that is free of foods that may be harmful to your dog .
- Measure out the ingredients. Use a food scale if possible for accuracy.
- Cook ingredients as directed on the recipe
- Mix food and supplements together well (ideally, use a food processor to blend ingredients).
- Place food in containers and store in the refrigerator or freezer.
- In general, refrigerated food will stay fresh for three to four days. Frozen dog food is best within about two months. Avoid feeding homemade dog food that has been in the freezer for more than six months.
To save time and money, several pet owners prefer to cook food in a large quantity and store it in pre-measured containers in the refrigerator or freezer. However, it is advisable to initially prepare less food to observe how your dog copes with the new diet.
Sample Dog Food Recipe
Northwest Holistic Pet Care: Cooked Meal for a 20 lb. Dog
It is crucial to seek advice from your holistic veterinarian before altering your dog’s diet and consider their current health condition. Beforehand, measure your dog’s weight so that you have a reference point to help regulate their portions if they undergo significant weight fluctuation. Keep in mind that a dog’s activity level, age, and general well-being are determining factors for their necessary food intake.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces ground organic turkey thigh (boneless)
- 2 tbsp ground organic turkey organ meat (liver, gizzards, hearts)
- ¼ c finely grated organic veggies
- 1 tsp ground raw sunflower seeds
- ½ tsp organic coconut oil
- ½ tsp salmon oil
- 500 mg Calcium Citrate (*must include this!)
Tailor ingredient quantities according to your dog’s weight and level of activity. The quantities specified above are suitable for a 20-pound pup who engages in minimal physical activity. A dog’s calorie demands can multiply by four with vigorous workouts. Ensure you keep an eye on your canine’s body weight and modify meal proportions to comply with its caloric needs.
- 40 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 2
- 60 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 3
- 80 lb. Dog: Above amounts x 4
Directions:
Boil the vegetables until tender and keep them aside. Heat the ground turkey thigh and organ meat over medium-low heat. Take off the heat when the meat has mostly turned white, with a little amount still pink. Put the blanched vegetables in a food processor or a clean coffee grinder and pulse until it reaches a finely grated consistency. Combine all the components and serve after ensuring that the blend has cooled down sufficiently for consumption.
When food is cooked, its life force or vitality reduces due to the heat. To preserve more vitality of the food, it is recommended to partially cook it gently, as this would make it easier for certain pets to digest while still providing a meal. Additionally, blanching and finely grating veggies can improve nutrient absorption and digestibility.
