Is Victor good quality dog food

Victor Classic Dog Food Review (Dry)

The Victor Classic product line includes the 5 dry dog foods listed below.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Ingredients Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is beef meal. Beef meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh beef.

The second ingredient is sorghum. Sorghum (milo) is a starchy cereal grain with a nutrient profile similar to corn.

Since it is gluten-free and boasts a smoother blood sugar behavior than other grains, sorghum may be considered an acceptable non-meat ingredient.

The third ingredient is chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.

Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.

The fourth ingredient is pork meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate that can also be high in ash about 25-30%.

However, the ash content of the final product is typically adjusted in the recipe to allow its mineral profile to meet AAFCO guidelines.

The next two ingredients listed are chicken meal and menhaden fish meal, yet more high protein meat concentrates.

Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.¹

The seventh ingredient is blood meal. Blood meal is a by-product of slaughter and used to make high-protein (very low ash) animal feeds.

Yet even though some consider it a controversial ingredient, blood meal can still be considered a quality source of animal protein.

The eighth ingredient is millet, a gluten-free grain harvested from certain seed grasses. Millet is hypoallergenic and naturally rich in B-vitamins and fiber as well as other essential minerals.

The ninth ingredient is alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa meal is high in plant protein (about 18%) and fiber (25%), this hay-family item is more commonly associated with horse feeds.

From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.

But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Victor product.

With 7 notable exceptions

First, tomato pomace is a controversial ingredient, a by-product remaining after processing tomatoes into juice, soup and ketchup.

Many praise tomato pomace for its high fiber and nutrient content, while others scorn it as an inexpensive pet food filler.

Just the same, theres probably not enough tomato pomace here to make much of a difference.

Next, dried seaweed meal is a product made from a family of brown algae known as Fucaceae (Rockweed). Although it does contain a number of healthy nutrients, seaweed meal is primarily used as a source of inexpensive carbohydrates (about 60% dry matter).

This item is only rarely used to make pet food and is more typically found in feeds for cattle, horses, hogs, hens and sheep.

In addition, we note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.

Since taurine deficiency appears to be more common in pets consuming grain-free diets, we view its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.

Next, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

Additionally, brewers yeast can be a controversial item. Although its a by-product of the beer making process, this ingredient is rich in minerals and other healthy nutrients.

Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system.

Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself.

In addition, a vocal minority insists yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is a claim weve not been able to scientifically verify.

In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to it, yeast can still be considered a nutritious additive.

Whats more noteworthy here is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

We also find some vegetable oil, a generic oil of unknown origin. The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats in any oil is nutritionally critical and can vary significantly (depending on the source).

Without knowing more, its impossible to judge the quality of an item so vaguely described. However, compared to a named animal fat, a generic vegetable oil cannot be considered a quality ingredient.

And lastly, this product includes selenium yeast. Unlike the more common inorganic form of selenium (sodium selenite), this natural yeast supplement is considered a safer anti-cancer alternative.

Nutrient Analysis

Based on its ingredients alone, Victor Classic Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 33%, a fat level of 22% and estimated carbohydrates of about 37%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 18%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 46% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.

Which means this Victor product line contains

Above-average protein. Above-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the alfalfa meal and brewers yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat.

Victor Dog Food Review 2024: Pros, Cons, Recalls & FAQ

Review Summary

Our Final Verdict

We give Victor Dog Food a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Introduction

Victor dog food is a newer dog food from a US-owned company. The brand touts its commitment to high-quality dog food with only the best ingredients, ensuring that dogs get the best possible nutrition at any life stage.

The brand offers five different product lines for dog foods, as well as a wide variety of different recipes. The formulas provide both grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes, healthy weight formulas, performance and high-energy formulas, senior formulas, and puppy formulas. You have plenty to choose from to suit your dogs needs and your budget.

At a Glance: The Best Victor Dog Food Recipes:

Victor Dog Food Reviewed

Victor Dog Food offers a lot of variety in recipes, formulas, protein sources, and product lines. No matter the choice, the brand is committed to quality ingredients and testing to ensure optimal nutrition for dogs.

Heres what you need to know about Victor dog food to make an informed decision for your pet.

Who Makes Victor Dog Food and Where Is It Produced?

Victor Dog Food is owned and produced by Mid America Pet Food in Mt. Pleasant, Texas, in their own facility. The in-house nutrition team works with third-party nutritionists to formulate recipes and compliance regulations. All ingredients are rooted in scientific testing.

Which Type of Dog Is Victor Dog Food Best Suited For?

From puppies to high-energy dogs in performance careers, Victor Dog Food offers nearly 20 dog food formulas and five canned varieties. Each formula has an appropriate age range, breed size, and activity level so you can choose the best option for your dog. Victor also offers special formulas for joint health, weight control, and more.

Which Type of Dog Might Do Better With a Different Brand?

Though Victor offers so much variety, its not ideal for every dog. Dogs that are pregnant or have specific health conditions may need a brand that caters to their needs or a prescription diet that provides nutritional support.

Discussion of the Primary Ingredients (Good and Bad)

The protein and ingredients may vary by recipe, but overall, Victor dog food includes the same four ingredients in every recipe. This is known as the VPRO Difference by the brand, which includes selenium yeast, mineral complexes, prebiotics, and probiotics for health and well-being.

Selenium Yeast

Selenium yeast is a feed additive for livestock and dogs to increase the selenium content in the food. This is important for making DNA and protecting against cell damage and infections. Selenium yeast may cause allergies in dogs, however.

Mineral Complexes

Mineral complexes are added to provide nutrients, such as zinc, manganese, and iron, for immune, digestive, and joint health.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are yeast cultures that are included to promote healthy digestion and overall immune health.

Probiotics

Probiotics are included to support healthy digestion and promote the growth of good bacteria in the digestive system.

A Quick Look at Victor Dog Food

Pros

• Made in the USA
• Quality ingredients
• Good variety
• Dry and wet options
• Grain-free and grain-inclusive options

Cons

• Some plant-based protein
• Minimal fruits and vegetables

Recall History

At the time of writing, Victor Dog Food has had one recall on October 30, 2023. Mid America Pet Food in Mount Pleasant, Texas, voluntarily recalled three lots of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Select Beef Meal & Brown Rice Formula due to a Salmonella risk.

Reviews of the 3 Best Victor Dog Food Recipes

Victor Dog Food offers a wide range of dog food lines and formulas. Here are our top picks for a range of different Victor Dog Food products.

1. Victor Classic Multi-Pro Dry Dog Food

Victor Classic Multi-Pro Dry Dog Food is the best overall dog food from this brand. The food features premium beef, chicken, and pork meals as the first ingredients to support the energy needs of active dogs and adult maintenance. The recipe is grain-inclusive, but the grains are gluten-free.

This recipe is formulated for all breeds, sizes, and life stages. Several reviewers noted that the food caused digestive upset in their dogs. In addition, some dogs dont enjoy the flavor or texture.

Pros

• Chicken, beef, and pork as first ingredients
• Ideal for all sizes and life stages
• Made with gluten-free grain

Cons

• Few fruits and vegetables
• May cause digestive upset

2. Victor Purpose Performance Dry Dog Food

Victor Purpose Performance Dry Dog Food is a nutrient-dense food for sporty and working dogs. The formula includes sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for long-term joint health and mobility in large dogs. It also promotes stamina and endurance with quality gluten-free grains.

This food also features quality sources of beef, chicken, and pork meals. Some reviewers noted inconsistency across different recipes or different batches of the same brand and product line, which could be problematic.

Pros

• Designed for performance dogs
• Glucosamine and chondroitin
• Quality beef, chicken, and pork

Cons

• Some quality control issues

3. Victor Beef Meal & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food

Victor Beef Meal & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food offers a complete and balanced diet with premium-quality beef meal. Its also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids for all-around health. This is ideal for dogs with normal activity levels, but its suitable for all life stages and breeds.

For dogs with allergies, this formula is gluten-free and free from other allergens like chicken. Reviewers noted that their dogs were too picky about the foods odor and texture.

Pros

• Protein from beef meal
• Contains vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients
• Suitable for all life stages
• Gluten-free

Cons

• Not suitable for picky dogs

What Other Users Are Saying

Weve researched Victor Dog Food to see what dog owners had to say about it. After reading reviews, weve learned that overall, dog owners are pleased with the quality and nutrition of Victor, though some reviewers ran into problems with quality control or picky eaters.

• She [dog] literally has perfect poops while eating Victor!
• Finally found a food he [dog] will eat that isnt filled with yucky ingredients!
• Amazon As pet owners, we always double-check with Amazon reviews from buyers before we buy something. You can read these by clicking here.

Conclusion

Victor Dog Food is a US-based dog food brand that offers a rich variety of dog food lines and recipes for different breeds, activity levels, nutritional needs, and life stages. With responsibly and ethically sourced ingredients and no recalls for any product, Victor earns the confidence of its customers. Despite some minor quality control concerns, Victor Dog Food is an affordable, healthy choice for your dog.

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