(Getty)
Beneful dog food, made by Purina, is under fire this week. CBS News reports that dog owner Frank Lucido filed a class-action lawsuit against Purina, alleging that the company’s Beneful dog food made two of his dogs seriously ill, and killed a third. Lucido says that some dogs who have eaten Beneful have developed serious symptoms like stomach bleeding, liver malfunction, vomiting, diarrhea, kidney failure, and more.
Beneful is fighting back against the suit. On their Facebook page, Beneful writes:
A class action lawsuit was recently filed against Beneful. We believe this lawsuit to be baseless and intend to vigorously defend our high quality, nutritious food, which is backed by Purina’s strict quality controls and comprehensive food safety program. Beneful is enjoyed by millions of dogs every day and consumers can continue to feed Beneful with total confidence. We encourage you to reach us with any questions at 1-800-877-7551.
However, despite assurances from Beneful, some consumers are still worried about the consequences of feeding Beneful to their dog. Concerned about allegations that Beneful dog food is hazardous to your pet’s health? Here are five high-quality alternatives to Beneful, including some organic options for people who are concerned about additives in their pet’s food. Our list below focuses on dry food/kibble. If your dog prefers wet food, one option we recommend is Newman’s Own Organic Beef & Liver, which is grain-free and comes in a 12-pack.
1. Castor & Pollux Organix Adult Dry Dog Food
(Castor & Pollux Organix)
Made in the USA, this dog food is ideal for people who are concerned about their pet’s health. This dry food contains a blend of organic chicken, brown rice, fruits, and vegetables, which is designed to provide a balanced diet. There is also quinoa added for extra protein, as well as flaxseed to help promote a lush, soft coat. This dog food is free of all artificial colors and preservatives. No corn, wheat, or soy products were used to make this food.
Price: $12.79 for a 5.25 pound bag
Buy it here.
2. Taste of the Wild Dry Dog Food
(Taste of the Wild)
This is the best-selling dry dog food on Amazon.com right now. Made from real roasted venison and bison meat, this dog food can be fed to dogs of all ages. It is a grain-free product, but it does contain some fruits and veggies to supplement the meat. The most prominent veggies in the blend are sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes. The food contains probiotics like Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus to promote digestion and an healthy immune system. Lamb meal, chicken meal, and “egg product” are also listed as ingredients.
Price: $41.99 for a 30 pound bag
Buy it here.
3. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
(Wellness Natural Pet Food)
Wellness specializes in feeding dogs with sensitive tummies. These dry foods contain only five main ingredients. Each blend contains on “novel” protein (by which they mean duck, lamb, or salmon). Added to that protein are tomato pomace, ground rice, canola oil, and vitamins/minerals. These foods are free from dairy, corn, wheat, soy, and eggs. They are also free of artificial preservatives, colorings, or flavors.
Wellness also makes a similar version of this dry food for weight control, which can be good for pets that need to lose a few pounds. You can see all the flavor and formula options for this brand via the link below.
Price: $52.99 for a 24 pound bag
Buy it here.
4. Diamond Naturals Dry Food for Adult Dogs
(Diamond Pet Foods)
Looking for a pet food that’s tailored to your pet’s breed and size? Diamond makes pet foods for both small breeds and large breeds. The large breed formula contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which aid in joint health. For aging older breeds, joint health is often a big concern. The small breed kibble contains small pieces that are easy on the tiny teeth of a small dog. Both the large breed and small breed formulas contain fatty acids for a shiny coat.
Price: $22.39 for an 18 pound bag, $41.93 for a 40 pound bag
Buy the small breed food here.
Buy the large breed food here.
5. Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6
(Rachael Ray Nutrish)
Made with just six main ingredients (plus a laundry list of vitamins and minerals), this is the perfect dog food for pet owners who love Rachael Ray. The list of ingredients in the lamb version of the dry food includes lamb meal, brown rice, ground rice, dried beet pulp, natural chicken flavor, and poultry fat. There is also a beef version of this dry food, as well as Just 6 dog treats.
Price: $16.98 for a 14 pound bag
Buy it here.
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