As a dog mom to a precious fur baby named Bailey, I’m always looking for the healthiest, highest-quality dog food I can find. I want to make sure I’m giving her the very best nutrition to keep her happy, healthy and full of energy. That’s why, after tons of research, we settled on WholeHearted’s grain-free dog food line.

The ingredient list is packed with top-notch proteins and superfoods, without any nasty fillers or artificial junk. The recipes are specially crafted to mimic a dog’s natural ancestral diet. And with complete, balanced recipes for puppies to seniors, WholeHearted has something for dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages. Keep reading for the full scoop on why we love WholeHearted grain-free dog food and why you should check it out too!

A Closer Look at the Key Ingredients

The first thing I look for in any pet food is the ingredient list. I want to see high-quality, recognizable ingredients – nothing suspicious or heavily processed. WholeHearted grain-free formulas feature:

• Premium animal proteins: chicken, beef, salmon, turkey, etc. These deliver essential amino acids dogs need.
• Digestible carbohydrates: lentils, peas, sweet potatoes. These provide steady energy without spiking blood sugar.
• Antioxidant-rich fruits & veggies: blueberries, cranberries, spinach, carrots. These offer vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.
• Gut-healthy fiber: dried chicory root, pumpkin. These support digestion and a healthy microbiome.
• Natural flavor boosters: apples, flaxseeds, sunflower oil. These add taste and skin/coat nourishment.

I don’t see any cheap fillers, artificial preservatives or high-glycemic grains. The ingredients sound downright delicious – even I’d eat them!

Bye Bye Bloat, Allergies and Tummy Trouble

Dogs are carnivores meant to thrive on a meat-based diet. So feeding a grain-free formula tailored to their biology just makes sense. Since transitioning Bailey to WholeHearted’s grain-free line, I’ve noticed:

• Less bloating and gas. Those nasty grains were likely causing her GI upset before. Now her tummy feels better.
• Reduced allergy symptoms. No more itchy skin, ear infections or paw chewing. The grain-free recipes avoid ingredients that often trigger allergic reactions.
• Smaller, less smelly poops. Grain-free diets mean less filler and better digestibility. We’re picking up fewer landmines in the yard now!
• Improved energy and stamina. With more bioavailable nutrition from quality proteins, Bailey has her puppy pep back!
• Shinier coat and clearer eyes. That omega-rich salmon recipe in particular has done wonders for her skin and fur.

Ditching the grains has made a huge difference in Bailey’s comfort, health and happiness. Her body was telling me those carbohydrates weren’t natural fuel sources for a carnivorous canine. We’re both so glad we made the switch!

Tailored Recipes for Every Doggo

What I really appreciate about WholeHearted is that they offer grain-free options tailored for dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages and activity levels. There’s a recipe fit for your unique furry companion.

Small breed recipes cater to little dogs’ faster metabolisms and high energy with protein-packed kibble.

Large breed formulas meet bigger dogs’ needs for controlled bone growth with glucosamine and chondroitin.

Puppy food supports rapid development with DHA brain boosters and optimal protein and fat.

Senior recipes give mature dogs’ metabolism a lift with L-carnitine and gentle fiber.

No matter your dog’s individual needs, there’s a WholeHearted grain-free recipe to provide completely balanced nutrition.

A Flavor for Every Fur Baby

One challenge with dog food is that our four-legged friends can get bored of eating the same old thing every day. That’s why WholeHearted grain-free recipes come in a wide variety of savory flavors to keep mealtime exciting.

Some irresistible flavors we rotate through include:

• Beef & Venison: A protein-packed blend brimming with iron and B vitamins.
• Chicken & Turkey: Classic and delicious, made with farm-raised fowl.
• Lamb & Trout: A tasty twist on fish and red meat.
• Salmon & Shrimp: Omega 3’s galore from fish oils and algae.
• Boar & Sorghum: A gluten-free wild boar recipe.
• Pumpkin & Chicken: Fall flavors with added fiber for digestive health.

Bailey gobbles up every recipe and licks her bowl clean every time. The rotating proteins and flavors keeps her interested at chow time. It’s like a culinary adventure!

Allergy and Sensitivity Support

One of the biggest motivators for trying a grain-free dog food was Bailey’s developing food sensitivities. She was itchy, gassy and showing signs of a chicken allergy. The vets suggested a limited ingredient, grain-free diet to pinpoint triggers.

I love that WholeHearted’s recipes use novel proteins like bison, duck or venison that dogs are less likely to be allergic to. Their short, clean ingredient lists make it easy to avoid individual problem ingredients.

Within a few weeks of switching flavors, we determined chicken and wheat were the culprits behind Bailey’s issues. Now on a chicken-free salmon and pea formula, she’s a whole new dog! Her skin and digestion have never been better.

Farm-Fresh Protein Sources

In my view, the protein source is the most important ingredient in high-quality pet food. That’s why I prefer WholeHearted’s use of ethically raised animals from trusted farms.

WholeHearted takes pride in sourcing proteins like:

• Free-range chicken raised cage-free in low-stress environments.
• Pasture-raised New Zealand lamb grazed on open hill country.
• Wild-caught Alaskan salmon fished sustainably in cold water.
• Kangaroo from Australia’s wild harvest program.
• Duck raised on family farms with access to fresh water.

Knowing the proteins come from reputable sources makes me feel good about feeding them to my furry family member. The high standards result in better nutrition, taste and digestibility too.

Budget-Friendly for Pet Parents

One concern many pet parents have is the cost of upgrading to higher-end dog food. Some premium brands come with a staggering price tag!

I really appreciate that WholeHearted recipes are very reasonably priced for their quality. They range from about $1.50 – $2.50 per pound. Given Bailey’s size and daily portion needs, her food costs us less than $2 per day.

Considering the immense health benefits she gets from grain-free nutrition tailored to her breed and age, I’m happy to pay that for my baby girl. It’s a worthwhile investment in her wellbeing.

You may pay a bit more than generic grocery store kibble, but you couldn’t pay me to feed that mystery meat again! WholeHearted gives my dog premium food at a price her mom can afford.

Rave Reviews from Real Pet Parents

Don’t just take my word for it! WholeHearted grain-free recipes have earned rave reviews from pet parents who’ve seen the benefits firsthand. Here’s what other dog owners are saying:

“This food gave my sensitive pitbull the best poops of his life! His coat looks amazing too. I’m never going back to corn and wheat fillers.”

“My Frenchie puppy is thriving on the small breed puppy formula. She’s growing steadily without tummy trouble.”

“I can’t believe how much more energy my elderly Shih Tzu has after making the switch. It’s her new favorite mealtime.”

“My German Shepherd’s skin allergies have drastically improved since feeding the salmon recipe. Her fur is no longer red and irritated.”

“Even my picky Chihuahua eats this stuff right up! I’ve tried so many brands she refused to touch. This is a win.”

Based on other pet parents’ experiences, WholeHearted grain-free clearly provides impressive results across breeds. I’m thrilled it’s working so well for my Bailey too!

Wet Food and Dry Food Options

While we mainly feed Bailey the dry kibble recipes, WholeHearted also offers grain-free wet/canned food versions for each formula.

The benefits of the canned recipes are that they have an even higher moisture content (important for hydration) and the proteins are cooked in their own juices for added flavor.

I like to buy a case of the canned salmon recipe to use as mixer with Bailey’s kibble a few times a week. Adding a spoonful of the savory wet food entices her to scarf down the whole bowl.

The cans are also great to take traveling, for doggie daycare or to the vet since they don’t require refrigeration after opening. It’s paw-lickin’ nutrition we can easily take on the go!

Feeding Guidelines Tailored to Your Dog

To make life easy, WholeHearted provides a handy feeding guide on their website so you know exactly how much to feed your pup.

Recommendations are broken down based on:

• Your dog’s weight (in lbs)
• Your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult or senior)
• Whether you are feeding dry kibble or wet canned food.

For example, Bailey is a 45 lb adult dog. For dry food, they recommend 2 and 1/4 to 3 cups per day split into two meals.

For the wet food, they recommend 1 and 1/3 to 1 and 3/4 cans split between two meals.

These guidelines make determining portion sizes effortless so I know Bailey’s getting the nutrition she needs!

Rigorously Tested for Quality and Safety

When it comes to dog food, I want to know it’s been rigorously tested for both quality and safety before being sold.

I called WholeHearted’s customer service line and was relieved to learn that all recipes and facilities go through extensive quality control steps including:

• Ingredient testing to verify identity, purity and quality
• Microbial testing for pathogens like salmonella
• Nutritional analysis to confirm formulations meet requirements
• Shelf-life studies to set appropriate expiration dates
• Safety feed trials with dogs checking for adverse effects
• Truck and warehouse inspections to prevent contamination and spoilage
• Environmental monitoring for cleanliness, temperature and pest control

It gave me peace of mind that WholeHearted recipes are held to such high standards – I never want to take risks with my Bailey girl’s health. Knowing the food is rigorously tested for her safety is hugely important.

Peace of Mind with a Recall-Free Track Record

Speaking of safety, I always check for any history of recalls related to dog foods we buy. I’m extra cautious after the terrible melamine contamination tragedy in 2007.

I was so relieved to learn that WholeHearted has no history of any product recalls or withdrawals. Their rigorous safety processes have prevented any incidents.

WholeHearted also states on their website that all recipes are free of artificial preservatives, colors and flavors. This also makes me feel good about the quality and care put into each small batch.

Many big box brands have been plagued by recalls so WholeHearted’s perfect track record gives me great peace of mind. I never want to wonder if my dog’s food is making her sick!

Trusted Formulations Backed by Science

Some dog food brands make dubious claims not backed by evidence. That’s why I appreciated learning how WholeHearted’s recipes are formulated and tested by expert veterinary nutritionists.

WholeHearted partners with respected animal nutrition scientists to design recipes backed by research on canine biology.

Their team combines knowledge of:

• Dog physiology – digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, etc.
• Nutritional requirements – proteins, carbs, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, etc.
• Ingredient function and bioavailability – how ingredients provide nutrients.
• Feeding trials – ensuring dogs thrive when eating the food.

This scientific foundation gives me confidence I’m feeding Bailey nutritionally balanced, high-quality recipes designed specifically with dogs in mind.

It’s food made by experts who truly understand canine health and nutrition needs.

Promotions to Save Pet Parents Money

Given how thrilled I am with WholeHearted grain-free recipes, I want to help other pet parents save money trying them too!

Right now you can take advantage of these promotions:

• Amazon discount codes – Save 20% off your first WholeHearted purchase
• Buy one get one free – At participating PetSmart locations through 5/30
• Buy two get one free – On their official website through 4/15
• Free shipping – On online orders over $49 via their website

Be sure to check back often as they frequently offer seasonal sales and online promotions! Gotta love a brand that helps pet parents save.

Try it Out with Sample Sizes First

If you’re unsure which recipe or flavor your dog will go crazy over, WholeHearted offers smaller 1 lb sample bags so you can try a few.

This is perfect for picky pups or dogs with food sensitivities that need to rotate proteins. You can test a few recipes without committing to huge bags.

I recommend starting with the top-selling Beef & Venison and Chicken & Turkey samples. See which flavors make your dog’s tail wag!

You can also request free samples direct from their website by filling out a simple form. They’ll mail you a coupon to redeem at your local PetSmart for a free 1 lb bag!

Crunching the Calorie Counts

When calculating my dog’s daily food needs and portions, the first thing I look for is the caloric content per cup or can of food.

Here are some of the approximates for WholeHearted grain-free recipes:

• Dry kibble contains around 375-415 calories per cup
• Wet canned food contains about 100-150 calories per 3 oz can

These averages help me estimate how much energy Bailey is getting from each meal. Since she’s fairly active, I aim for about 900 calories a day total.

I love that WholeHearted provides calorie counts right on their packaging and website so I can determine appropriate portions tailored just for my dog. It takes the guesswork out!

Omega Fatty Acids for Skin and Coat

An area I look to improve with higher-quality dog food is getting more omega fatty acids EPA and DHA. These are amazing for skin health, allergies, brain development, joint mobility and so much more.

WholeHearted grain-free recipes are packed with omega nourishment from:

• Salmon oil – Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s.
• Flaxseeds – Plant-based source of ALA omega-3s.
• Canola oil – High in omega-3s and omega-6s.
• Algae oil – Sustainably sourced DHA for brain function.

Just a month after starting the salmon recipe, I noticed Bailey’s coat looking softer, shinier and less dry. The omega boost is visibly improving her skin and fur!

Probiotics for Digestion

Since making the switch to grain-free, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in Bailey’s digestion and poop quality. The recipes are very easy on her stomach.

Part of the reason is that WholeHearted includes probiotics in select recipes. These healthy gut bacteria aid digestion and nutrient absorption.

Some of their probiotic strains include:

• Bacillus coagulans – Stabilizes intestinal flora
• Lactobacillus acidophilus – Breaks down food and alleviates gas
• Enterococcus faecium – Produces enzymes for digestion

I especially like rotating the probiotic-rich recipes in with her regular food to keep Bailey’s gut flora balanced. Her tummy troubles are a thing of the past!

Long Shelf Life for Food Freshness

Nothing is worse than buying a bag or can of food and having it expire before your dog can finish it. I despise seeing money wasted and food going to waste.

That’s why I was relieved to learn WholeHearted’s formulas have an impressive shelf life of 24 months for dry kibble and 18 months for wet food.

As long as I store the bags or cans properly by:

• Placing in air-tight container after opening
• Storing in a cool, dry spot
• Keeping away from extreme temps

…the food retains its freshness for well over a year! Even Bailey with her big appetite can’t finish a bag in under 6 months.

The long shelf life prevents me from having to worry about rush ordering food or it spoiling before we’ve used it up. Such a relief!

Frequently Updated Recipes

Dog food brands often come out with “new and improved” formulas that end up causing more harm than good. But with WholeHearted, I appreciate that they are consistently evaluating recipes to make meaningful improvements.

For example, in the past year they’ve:

• Increased levels of some vitamins & minerals based on the latest FDA guidelines for canine health.
• Switched all chickpeas to peas and lentils due to evidence of legume link to canine heart disease.
• Added more natural fiber sources like chicory root to support digestion.

I love that they stay on top of emerging nutrition research and update formulas accordingly. It gives me peace of mind that Bailey is getting the most cutting-edge nutrition.

The bottom line is that I fully trust WholeHearted grain-free recipes to provide Bailey with the very best nutrition customized to her needs. The ingredients are top-notch and rigorously tested for safety. And the reasonable prices make premium dog food accessible for any pet parent.

If you’re looking for a wholesome, biologically appropriate diet to keep your canine companion healthy and happy, look no further than WholeHearted grain-free recipes. Your dog will thank you with plenty of sloppy kisses!