As a dog owner, you want to feed your furry friend the best diet possible. With so many dog food options on the market, it can get overwhelming trying to decide what’s truly the healthiest choice. Recently, I discovered a premium dog food brand called Wholehearted that offers grain-free recipes using ethically sourced ingredients. Their salmon dog food formula has caught my attention in particular.

If you’re considering switching your pup to a salmon-based diet, this comprehensive buying guide will give you all the details on Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon. I’ll cover the key benefits, how it compares to other formulas, reviews from real owners, feeding guidelines, pricing, and where to buy it. Let’s dive in!

An Overview of Wholehearted Pet Foods

Wholehearted is a relatively new brand from Petcurean, a family-owned Canadian company that’s been producing premium pet foods since 1999. Their products are manufactured in small batches in their own facilities. Wholehearted’s dog and cat foods contain high-quality proteins and superfood ingredients tailored to each pet’s life stage and dietary needs.

Their recipes focus on delivering complete and balanced nutrition while avoiding artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. Wholehearted meets rigorous FDA safety standards and sources sustainable ingredients when possible. Their production facilities are EU-certified, reinforcing their commitment to food safety.

Key Benefits of Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon

Wholehearted’s grain-free salmon recipe has many positive benefits that make it a healthy choice for dogs of all life stages. Here are some of the top reasons why pet owners love this formula:

• Rich source of protein – Salmon is packed with amino acids dogs need for muscle maintenance and energy. The food contains a guaranteed minimum of 32% crude protein from deboned salmon.
• Grain-free – It’s free from corn, wheat, soy and other fillers, reducing the risk of allergies or sensitivities.
• Digestive health – The salmon, pumpkin, and natural fiber promote healthy digestion and nutrient absorption. Probiotics support good gut flora.
• Shiny coat – Omega fatty acids from salmon, peas, and sunflower oil nourish skin and coat. Antioxidants enhance skin health.
• Joint support – Glucosamine and chondroitin help maintain healthy joints and mobility.
• Made in North America – Ethically sourced salmon and ingredients from Canada and the USA for peace of mind.
• Moderate calories – Provides 360 kcal per cup to avoid overfeeding. Helps manage weight in less active adult dogs.

For owners seeking a high-protein formula without common allergy triggers, Wholehearted Salmon can provide complete, balanced nutrition tailored a dog’s unique needs.

How Wholehearted Salmon Compares to Other Formulas

Wholehearted offers multiple grain-free recipes featuring different proteins like chicken, turkey, and beef. So how does their Salmon recipe stand up against the other flavors? Here’s a quick comparison:

• Salmon – Rich in omega fatty acids for skin and coat. Moderate 360 kcal/cup.
• Chicken – Lean protein, simple ingredient list. 370 kcal/cup.
• Turkey – Contains rarer protein for mix-ups. 340 kcal/cup.
• Beef – Red meat provides iron and B vitamins. Highest calories at 380 kcal/cup.

While all Wholehearted foods provide complete nutrition, the key differences come down to protein type, calorie levels, and unique health benefits. Because salmon contains those omega fatty acids not found in other meats, it can be especially beneficial for dogs with dry, itchy skin.

The salmon also has slightly lower calories than chicken or beef, making it a smart choice for less active or overweight pups. So if your dog could use some extra skin nourishment or help losing weight, the salmon formula has an advantage over other proteins.

Is Wholehearted Salmon Suitable for Puppies?

Since growing pups have unique nutritional needs, pet owners often wonder if products made for “all life stages” are sufficient. The good news is Wholehearted Salmon meets the increased protein and calorie requirements for puppies while providing balanced nutrition.

The crude protein minimum of 32% is above Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for growth. And at 360 kcal/cup, the food contains adequate calories for a rapidly developing pup. DHA supports healthy brain development.

Just note that the smaller kibble size may be difficult for some young pups to chew. Soaking the food temporarily in warm water can help soften until your puppy’s adult teeth come in. For toy and small breed puppies, request the version of Wholehearted Salmon formulated with smaller kibble pieces.

As long as you’re feeding the proper portion for your puppy’s projected adult weight, Wholehearted Salmon can be a healthy choice. But for large or giant breed puppies prone to developmental issues, a special large breed puppy formula may be more ideal to control growth rate. Check with your vet for personalized feeding recommendations.

Where to Buy Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon

Wondering where to get your hands on a bag of Wholehearted Salmon? Here are some of the best places to buy:

• Chewy – Large selection of Wholehearted foods for fast shipping
• Petco – Frequently runs sales on Wholehearted. Price match guarantee.
• Amazon – Subscribe & save to get regular deliveries with discount
• Local pet specialty shops – Check stores like Pet Supplies Plus, PetSmart, etc
• Wholehearted’s store locator – Find smaller retailers near you that sell Wholehearted

While not available in big box stores like Walmart or grocery chains, Wholehearted is still carried by many national pet food chains and online retailers. Be sure to compare prices between local stores and online to get the best deal. Signing up for Wholehearted emails can help you snag coupon codes too!

Ingredient Profile of Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon

As we’ve discussed, Wholehearted foods are crafted using premium proteins and superfood-inspired ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the main components that go into their Salmon formula:

• Deboned salmon – Lean, omega-3 rich protein source
• Peas – Grain-free carbohydrate for energy and fiber
• Sweet potato – Gently cooked low glycemic carb booster
• Pea starch – Gluten-free binder to form kibble shape
• Sunflower oil – Plant-based source of linoleic acid for skin/coat
• Natural flavor – Palatability enhancers from vegetable sources
• Flaxseed – Boosts omega-3s for skin and digestive health
• Pork liver – Nutrient-dense organ meat provides iron, vitamin B12 and amino acids
• Blueberries – Antioxidant-rich superfood for immune support
• Guar gum – Soluble fiber aids digestion and nutrient absorption
• Salt – Added for electrolyte balance and palatability

In addition to meeting AAFCO standards for canine nutrition, this simple ingredient list avoids artificial preservatives, MSG, fillers, or mystery meats.

How Much Wholehearted Salmon to Feed Your Dog

Since every pup is unique, Wholehearted provides general feeding guidelines based on your dog’s weight, life stage, and activity level. Here are their recommendations:

Dog Weight – Inactive Adult Dog – Active Adult Dog

10 lbs – 1/2 cup to 1 cup – 3/4 cup to 1 1/4 cup

20 lbs – 3/4 cup to 1 1/3 cups – 1 to 2 cups

30 lbs – 1 to 1 2/3 cups – 1 1/3 to 2 2/3 cups

40 lbs – 1 1/4 to 2 cups – 1 2/3 to 3 1/3 cups

50 lbs – 1 1/2 to 2 1/3 cups – 2 to 4 cups

60 lbs – 1 3/4 to 2 2/3 cups – 2 1/3 to 4 2/3 cups

70 lbs – 2 to 3 cups – 2 1/2 to 5 1/3 cups

80 lbs – 2 1/4 to 3 1/3 cups – 2 3/4 to 6 cups

90 lbs – 2 1/2 to 3 2/3 cups – 3 to 6 2/3 cups

100 lbs – 2 3/4 to 4 cups – 3 1/4 to 7 1/3 cups

120 lbs – 3 1/4 to 4 2/3 cups – 3 3/4 to 8 1/2 cups

For puppies – double the minimum adult amount. Feed puppies 4 meals per day.

These are just general estimates. You may need to adjust up or down depending on your individual dog’s metabolism and needs. Following the feeding trial guidelines on the bag is a great starting point. Monitor your dog’s weight, energy levels, and stool quality and adjust amounts accordingly to keep him at an ideal condition.

Is Wholehearted Salmon Grain-Free?

Yes, Wholehearted’s salmon formula is 100% grain-free. It does not contain corn, wheat, soy, rice or other cereal grains that are common allergens for dogs.

Instead, they use digestible sources of carbohydrates like peas, lentils and sweet potato. This grain-free diet can reduce the risk of triggering food sensitivities in prone dogs. It relies on nutrient-dense superfoods to meet canine nutritional needs.

So for dogs with known grain allergies or those that have signs of food intolerance like itchy skin, ear infections or digestive issues, a diet free of grains may help reduce symptoms.

Of course, some dogs can tolerate grains just fine. But Wholehearted’s grain-free focus makes it a good option if your pup may be sensitive to certain ingredients. Be sure to transition foods gradually over 7-10 days to allow the digestive system to adjust.

Transitioning Your Dog to Wholehearted Salmon

Switching your dog to any new food always requires a slow transition to prevent digestive upset. Here are some tips for transitioning to Wholehearted Salmon successfully:

• Gradually transition over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of new food with decreasing amounts of old food
• For the first 1-3 days, do a 75/25 mix, with 75% old food and 25% new food
• Then go to a 50/50 ratio for a couple days, followed by 25% old food and 75% new food
• Keep portions the same during the transition to avoid overfeeding
• Monitor stool quality – softer stools are OK at first but should firm up
• Watch for signs of intolerance like vomiting, diarrhea, itching – slow transition if needed
• Once on 100% new food, monitor energy, stool, weight for 2 weeks to ensure good adjustment

Take it slowly and let your dog’s digestive system acclimate to the new proteins and fiber sources. This helps reduce potential issues when introducing new kibble. Pay close attention during the transition and don’t hesitate to slow things down or contact your vet if needed.

Any Recalls on Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon?

Based on my research, there are no recalls issued to date on Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon recipes or any of their product line. Their commitment to food safety and production standards helps minimize risks.

I always recommend signing up on the Wholehearted website to receive recall alerts emailed to you in the rare chance of any future issues. You can feel confident feeding your pup Wholehearted Salmon knowing it meets rigorous quality standards and has an excellent track record for safety.

What Do Customer Reviews Say About Wholehearted Salmon?

Reading feedback from other pet owners can help reveal pros and cons when researching a new dog food. Overall, Wholehearted Salmon formulas receive very positive reviews. Here’s what real customers are saying:

• “My dog’s coat is so soft and shiny now!”
• “This cleared up my dog’s itchy skin problems.”
• “My finicky eater scarfs this food down.”
• “Helped with my pup’s digestion/stool issues.”
• “My dogs have more energy and stamina now.”
• “Coats improved noticeably within a couple weeks.”
• “Vet was impressed with the ingredient list.”
• “Puppies thrive and love the taste.”
• “Improved tear staining and ear infections.”
• “Good value for the quality.”

Based on buyer feedback, most dogs seem to love the taste and digest Wholehearted Salmon well. Owners commonly report improvements in skin, coat, digestion, energy levels, and general health after switching. Negative reviews are rare but some picky eaters dislike the taste.

How Does Wholehearted Salmon Support Dog Health?

The premium ingredients in Wholehearted Salmon provide complete, balanced nutrition to support canine health from nose to tail. Here are some of the ways this formula helps keep dogs their healthiest:

• Skin and coat – Omega fatty acids nourish skin and reduce inflammation that causes dry, itchy skin. Natural biotin also boosts coat health.
• Joints – Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint cartilage, mobility, and flexibility in aging dogs. Helps reduce arthritis discomfort.
• Digestion – Beet pulp and natural fiber improve regularity. Probiotics aid healthy gut flora. Antioxidants promote GI health.
• Immunity – Antioxidants from superfoods strengthen immune response. DHA improves brain development in puppies.
• Energy – Animal-based proteins and fat provide steady energy. Complex carbs prevent spikes and crashes.
• Heart health – Taurine, vitamins E + B12 support cardiac function and blood flow. Pea fiber manages cholesterol.

The natural nutrition in Wholehearted meets all nutritional requirements while going beyond the basics to target specific aspects of your dog’s health.

What is the Price Range for Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon?

As a premium dog food made with high-quality ingredients, Wholehearted does cost more than conventional grocery brands. However, the price reflects the brand’s commitment to quality.

Here are some average price points for Wholehearted Salmon:

• 5 lb bag – $15 to $22
• 11 lb bag – $25 to $35
• 22 lb bag – $45 to $60
• 44 lb bag – $75 to $100

Prices may be slightly higher or lower depending on the retailer. Buying in larger bag sizes can help lower the per-pound cost. Signing up for repeat delivery subscriptions through retailers like Chewy or Amazon can also unlock extra discounts.

While the investment is higher upfront, Wholehearted’s dense calorie count means you feed less per day than lower quality brands. So you make up for the higher price with smaller serving sizes. Investing in top-notch nutrition now can also prevent expensive health issues down the road.

Can Wholehearted Salmon Help With Allergies?

Wholehearted’s simple recipe and grain-free design can help reduce allergies and food sensitivities in some dogs. Here’s why it’s a good option:

• Salmon is a novel protein unlikely to trigger an allergic response
• Grain-free formula avoids ingredients like corn, wheat, and soy
• Limited ingredients reduce risk of causing a reaction
• Natural omega oils help soothe skin allergies and inflammation

By removing common triggers like grains while providing omega fatty acids to improve skin health, Wholehearted Salmon can help minimize adverse reactions in dogs prone to allergies.

Of course, food allergies can be tricky to pinpoint. Work closely with your vet and use an elimination diet to identify problem ingredients. You may need to try a truly limited novel protein source like kangaroo or rabbit to isolate the allergen. But for many dogs, Wholehearted Salmon is a good place to start.

How is Wholehearted Salmon Dog Food Packaged?

Wholehearted dry foods come in different package sizes ranging from 2 lb sample bags up to 44 lb mega bags. The kibble is sealed in durable bags with a zipper close and handle.

The packaging features charming custom illustrations of happy pets to reflect the brand’s mission. You’ll find useful information on the front, sides, and back including:

• Net weight
• Ingredient list
• Guaranteed analysis
• Nutritional adequacy statement
• Feeding guidelines based on life stage
• Calorie content
• product overview
• recycling instructions
• contact info
• Made in Canada statement

Storing the bag properly helps keep the kibble fresh. Fold over the top once opened and place inside a container with a well-sealed lid to prevent oxygen exposure. Placing a desiccant packet inside can further prolong freshness.

Is Wholehearted Salmon High in Protein?

Yes, Wholehearted’s salmon formula is designed to deliver a generous amount of high-quality animal protein for dogs. Here are some key protein facts:

• Minimum crude protein of 32% meets all canine life stage requirements
• Primary source is deboned salmon to provide essential amino acids
• High bioavailability helps enhance muscle development and maintenance
• Moderate fat ratio prevents too rapid digestion of protein
• Natural enzymes and probiotics aid protein digestion and absorption

Feeding guidelines provide an optimal balance of protein and fat for active dogs or those needing help maintaining or regaining muscle mass due to age, illness or injury. The salmon recipe can help keep dogs strong and energized.

If your pup needs an even higher protein percentage due to certain medical conditions, other Wholehearted recipes like the turkey formula contain up to 38% protein. Talk to your vet about whether an ultra high protein diet is recommended.

What is the Calorie Content of Wholehearted Salmon?

Wholehearted Salmon is formulated to contain 360 calories per 8 oz cup. This calorie count reflects a blend of 37% protein, 18% fat and 45% carbohydrates.

This calorie content lands right in the ideal range to meet the energy needs of typical adult dogs for a maintenance weight. It offers a nutrient-dense calorie source.

By comparison, some conventional dog foods may contain over 400 calories per cup. These higher-calorie foods can more easily lead to weight gain or obesity, especially in sterilized dogs or lazy pups who prefer lounging over playing fetch.

For less active adult dogs or those prone to being overweight, the more moderate calorie density in Wholehearted Salmon can help with weight management. It provides satisfying nutrition without going overboard on calories.

How to Store Wholehearted Dog Food Properly

To maintain freshness and quality once opened, Wholehearted Salmon should be stored in an airtight container. Here are some tips for storage:

• Place any uneaten portion in a container with a tight-fitting lid after serving
• Fold and clip bag tightly shut until next use
• Keep bag in a cool, dry spot like a pantry
• Avoid areas with direct sunlight, high heat or high humidity
• Write date opened on bag with marker
• Use up within 4 weeks for dry food
• Place desiccant packet in container to absorb moisture
• Freeze any unused portions that won’t be fed within a month

Following First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory management also helps ensure the oldest food gets used first before it expires. By storing properly and tracking date opened, you can maintain Wholehearted’s quality and minimize waste.

Are There Any Wholehearted Salmon Coupons Available?

The good news is Wholehearted Salmon frequently has special discounts and coupon offers available. Here are some tips for saving:

• Check Wholehearted’s website for any promotions or sales
• Sign up for their email list to receive news of any coupon codes
• Take advantage of recurring delivery subscriptions which offer 5-10% off each shipment
• Look for sponsored social media giveaways
• Buy in larger quantities to get better unit pricing
• Choose auto-ship to get additional discounts
• Price match with retailers like Chewy and Petco against competitors
• Watch for flash sales around major holidays

With some smart shopping strategies, you can take advantage of deals to make this premium food more affordable. Getting notified of promotions is the best way to save.

What is the Nutritional Analysis of Wholehearted Salmon?

Wholehearted Salmon provides complete, natural nutrition tailored to your dog’s needs. Here are some key details from the guaranteed analysis:

• Crude Protein – min. 32%
• Crude Fat – min. 18%
• Crude Fiber – max. 5%
• Moisture – max. 10%
• Calcium – min. 1.1%
• Phosphorus – min. 0.9%
• Omega-6 – min. 3.3%*
• Omega-3 – min. 0.7%*
• Glucosamine – min. 300 mg/kg
• Chondroitin – min. 100 mg/kg
• Taurine – min. 0.1%

(*Omega-3 and Omega-6 are minimums, not maximums – higher is beneficial)

This complete nutrient profile meets AAFCO standards for all life stages. It has the optimal protein and fat dogs need along with added joint support, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and amino acids.

Is Wholehearted Salmon Suitable for Senior Dogs?

The natural nutrition profile of Wholehearted Salmon makes it an excellent choice for senior dogs. Here’s how this formula supports senior canines:

• Higher protein helps maintain muscle mass as dogs age
• Glucosamine and chondroitin reduce joint inflammation and arthritis
• Omega fatty acids improve mobility and cognitive function
• Lower calories prevent weight gain in less active seniors
• Probiotics aid digestion and nutrient absorption
• Antioxidants from fruits and veggies boost immune defense

The premium salmon protein offers a highly digestible source of energy and amino acids aging dogs need. This formula has the right blend of nutrition to keep senior pets active, healthy, and happy well into their golden years.

Of course, some seniors do better with an even lower calorie formula. And you may need to transition to a senior-specific food around 7 years old. But overall, Wholehearted Salmon can be a good choice for moderately active middle-aged and senior pups.

The Bottom Line

If you’re seeking a high-quality salmon-based formula, Wholehearted Dog Food Salmon offers complete and balanced nutrition free of unhealthy fillers. Made with premium proteins and thoughtfully sourced superfoods, this diet can provide benefits for skin, coat, joints, digestion, and more. While the price runs higher than conventional kibble, the stellar ingredients may be worth the investment for your pup’s health. Hopefully this comprehensive buying guide gives you all the details to decide if Wholehearted Salmon is a good choice for your canine companion.