You love your furry friend and want to make sure you’re feeding them the best. With so many options out there, choosing the right food can feel overwhelming. Diamond Naturals offers premium formulas tailored to your dog’s unique needs. In this guide, we’ll explore how to pick the perfect Diamond Naturals food for your pup.
First up is considering your dog’s age and size. Diamond Naturals has recipes made just for puppies, adults, and senior pups. Look at the recommended weights on the bag and pick one that fits your dog’s life stage. Small, medium or large breed – they’ve got a formula designed to give your dog the right nutrients.
Next, think about your dog’s activity level. Active pups need food with higher protein and fat to fuel all that play, while couch potatoes do better with lower calories. Luckily, Diamond Naturals has options for both high-octane and more laidback lifestyles.
Specific dietary needs? Diamond’s got you covered there too. They offer grain-free and limited ingredient recipes perfect for pups with sensitivities. Probiotics, fatty acids, glucosamine – you name it, they’ve got a formula that has it.
Finally, check that ingredient list and nutritional analysis. You want meat-based proteins, whole grains, and veggies. Skip artificial additives. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets standards that Diamond Naturals meets or exceeds.
By factoring in age, size, activity, and dietary needs when choosing a Diamond Naturals recipe, you can give your dog the nutrition they need to lead their very best life. Let’s dig in!
Consider Your Dog’s Life Stage and Size
As a pet owner, you want to provide your furry friend with the best nutrition for their needs. When choosing a Diamond Naturals formula, first consider your dog’s life stage and size to select an age-appropriate and properly sized option.
Puppy
For puppies, it’s critical to choose a formula specifically for puppies to support their growth and development. Puppy formulas have higher levels of protein, fat, and certain nutrients like calcium for bone health. Diamond Naturals’ puppy recipes feature real meat as the first ingredient, whole grains, and essential fatty acids to give your puppy the best start in life.
Adult
Once your dog reaches maturity, transition them to an adult dog formula. These recipes have balanced nutrition for normally active adult dogs. They contain natural ingredients to support overall health, as well as joint and digestive health. For active or performance dogs, consider a formula for “All Life Stages” which has elevated protein and fat levels suitable for both puppies and active adults.
Senior
As dogs enter their golden years, their nutritional needs change. Senior dog formulas have lower calories but increased supplements for joint, digestive and cognitive support. They also have elevated levels of certain nutrients that become harder to absorb with age. Diamond Naturals’ senior recipes feature glucosamine, chondroitin and L-carnitine, as well as probiotics and antioxidants.
Size-Specific
In addition to life stage, choose a Diamond Naturals formula specifically for your dog’s size. Formulas for small breed, large breed and all breed dogs have sizespecific kibble and adjusted protein, fat, and certain minerals based on your dog’s unique needs. For example, large breed dogs require formulas with controlled growth rates and supplements for bone and joint health, while small breeds need smaller kibble and higher metabolizable energy.
By considering your faithful companion’s age and size, you can choose a Diamond Naturals dog food formulated to give them the nutrition they need to live a long, healthy and happy life by your side. The right formula for your dog’s life stage and size will help them thrive at every step, from playful puppyhood through the senior years.
Take Your Dog’s Activity Level Into Account
An active dog has different nutritional needs than a couch potato pup. When choosing a Diamond Naturals formula, think about your dog’s typical activity level and pick one suited to their energy demands.
If you have an athletic or working dog, consider a formula for “active” or “high-energy” dogs. These tend to be higher in protein and fat to provide the fuel an active dog requires. For example, Diamond Naturals’ Extreme Athlete formula has 28% protein and 18% fat, with L-carnitine to help convert fat into energy. This level of nutrition will keep your agile pup feeling energized during long hikes, jogs or training sessions.
On the other hand, if your dog spends most days relaxing at home, a regular adult dog formula will suit them fine. These have moderate protein and fat levels, around 24-26% and 14-16% respectively, which is adequate for the typical pet dog. You may even consider a formula for less active or senior dogs, with slightly lower calories to prevent unwanted weight gain from excess kibble.
Some dogs fall somewhere in the middle activity-wise. If your dog goes for a 30-minute walk each day but is mostly a homebody, you have some flexibility in choosing a formula. An adult formula would likely work great, but you could also consider an option for “active” dogs and simply feed a little less to account for their moderate activity. The key is to choose a formula that will provide your dog energy for their normal daily activity plus a bit extra in case they have an unusually active day, without contributing to weight gain on lazier days.
By factoring in your dog’s activity habits when choosing a Diamond Naturals formula, you can provide them a diet with the appropriate nutrition for their individual needs. The result will be a happy, healthy dog with the energy they need to do what they love!
Address Any Dietary Needs or Sensitivities
Your furry friend may have specific dietary requirements or sensitivities you need to consider. Some dogs are allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients like grains, while others require supplements to support joint or digestive health. Diamond Naturals has options for dogs with unique needs.
Grain-Free and Limited Ingredient Diets
If your dog has a grain allergy or sensitivity, choose a grain-free formula. Diamond Naturals’ grain-free options are made with digestible carbohydrates like chickpeas, peas, and sweet potatoes. For dogs with multiple food sensitivities, limited ingredient diets contain a single animal protein source and limited ingredients to avoid potential allergens.
Formulas for Joint Health
For dogs with joint issues or arthritis, select a formula with added glucosamine and chondroitin, which help support joint mobility and flexibility. Diamond Naturals formulas featuring these supplements provide the specific nutrition aging or less active dogs require to maintain joint health and an active lifestyle.
Probiotics for Digestive Health
If your dog frequently experiences gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, flatulence or constipation, a formula with added probiotics can help. Probiotics introduce good bacteria to promote digestion and gut health. Diamond Naturals formulas with probiotics contain a balance of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to support your dog’s sensitive tummy.
By considering your dog’s unique dietary needs and sensitivities, you can choose a Diamond Naturals formula tailored to their specific requirements. Whether your dog needs a grain-free recipe, joint support or digestive health benefits, Diamond Naturals offers high-quality options with natural, nutritious ingredients for dogs of all life stages. Providing your dog food that suits their individual needs will help keep them happy, healthy and by your side for years to come.
Read the Ingredients and Nutrition Facts
When choosing a Diamond Naturals formula for your dog, reading the ingredient list and guaranteed analysis on the packaging is key. You want to make sure the first ingredient is a high-quality protein source, like beef, chicken, or fish meal. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables should also be included, along with natural supplements to support your dog’s health.
Avoid artificial additives, byproducts and fillers. Diamond Naturals uses all-natural, holistic ingredients and nutrient-rich superfoods in their recipes. Their formulas are also free from corn, wheat and soy, common allergens for dogs.
Check the Protein Level
Look at the guaranteed analysis to determine the formula’s protein level. More active or working dogs require higher protein, around 24-32%, while less active dogs need a moderate level of around 18-24%. Diamond Naturals provides a range of protein levels across their formulas to suit different needs.
Examine the Fat Content
Fat provides energy for your dog, so consider their activity level. Moderately active dogs need a fat level of 10-15%, while high-energy dogs require 15-25%. Fat also aids the absorption of certain vitamins, so the ideal level depends on your dog’s unique needs.
Ensure Complete and Balanced Nutrition
Make sure the formula meets the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) for complete and balanced nutrition. AAFCO regulates the production and distribution of pet food to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy. All Diamond Naturals formulas either meet or exceed AAFCO’s nutritional requirements for dogs at different life stages.
Consider Supplements
Some Diamond Naturals recipes contain supplements for additional health benefits, such as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, or probiotics for digestive health. Choose a formula with supplements appropriate for your dog’s needs and age. For most dogs, a basic formula with high-quality natural ingredients will provide complete nutrition, but supplements can be beneficial for some.
By carefully examining the ingredients and guaranteed analysis, you can choose a Diamond Naturals formula that will provide your dog with the nutrition they need to live a long, healthy and happy life. Select a formula tailored to their age, size, activity level and any unique dietary needs for optimal nutrition and wellness.
Compare Diamond Naturals Formulas Side-by-Side
Puppy Formulas
Diamond Naturals offers puppy-specific formulas to support your pup’s growth and development. Their Large Breed Puppy and Small Breed Puppy formulas are tailored to the unique needs of puppies according to their anticipated size at maturity. Both provide essential protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals for healthy growth. The Large Breed Puppy formula in particular contains controlled calcium and phosphorus levels for optimal bone growth in bigger breeds.
Grain-Free Options
If your dog has a grain sensitivity or you prefer a grain-free diet, Diamond Naturals Grain-Free formulas are a great choice. Made with digestible ingredients like peas, lentils, and chickpeas instead of grains, these formulas provide high-quality protein and fiber.
Limited Ingredient Diets
For dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, a limited ingredient diet (LID) may be beneficial. Diamond Naturals LID formulas contain a single animal protein source and limited potential allergens. Their Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice formula is a popular choice, made with high-quality lamb meal, rice, and natural supplements. It provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs with food sensitivities.
Weight Management
Made with high-quality ingredients and L-carnitine for fat metabolism, this formula provides the essential nutrition adult dogs need while controlling calories for weight loss and maintenance. For less active or senior dogs, it helps balance activity level and calorie needs.
Comparing these formulas side by side allows you to evaluate which option best meets your dog’s needs based on factors like age, size, activity level, and dietary requirements. Diamond Naturals provides high-quality, natural formulas for dogs in all life stages and with different nutritional needs. With a range of product lines to choose from, you can find a formula to support your dog’s health and happiness.
Transition Your Dog to a New Food Gradually
Gradually transitioning your dog to a new food is important to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new Diamond Naturals formula in with your dog’s current food. For the first week, do a 25/75 mix of new food to current food. Monitor your dog to make sure they don’t show signs of digestive issues like diarrhea, gas or vomiting. If all goes well, up the amount of new food to 50% the second week.
In the third week, you can do a 75/25 mix in favor of the new food. By the fourth week, your dog should be eating 100% of the new Diamond Naturals formula. This gradual transition allows your dog’s digestive system to slowly adapt to the new food. Their stomach needs time to develop the proper enzymes and bacteria to break down the new ingredients and nutrients.
Rushing the transition can overwhelm your dog’s stomach and lead to gastrointestinal upset. While Diamond Naturals formulas are highly digestible, each dog is different. Some dogs may need an even slower transition, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. It’s best to go at your dog’s pace. Watch for any signs they are struggling with the new food like loose stools, gas or lack of appetite. If you see these signs, you may need to slow down the transition or temporarily go back to the previous ratio before trying to increase the new food again.
Once your dog has fully transitioned to the new Diamond Naturals formula, you should notice some positive changes. Their coat may become shinier and softer. Digestive and skin issues often clear up. Mobility and energy levels frequently improve. Your dog will also likely enjoy the great taste of Diamond Naturals, made with high-quality, natural ingredients. By choosing a formula tailored to your dog’s needs and making a gradual transition, you’ve given your faithful friend the gift of health and happiness.
Follow Feeding Guidelines and Track Progress
Now that you’ve chosen the right Diamond Naturals formula for your dog, it’s important to properly follow the feeding guidelines and monitor them to ensure their needs are being met. The recommended amount to feed your dog each day will be listed on the packaging based on their age, size, and activity level. Use this as a starting point, but keep a close eye on your dog to determine if adjustments need to be made.
Some signs your dog may need slightly more or less food include:
- Weight loss or gain: If your dog is losing or gaining weight on the current amount, you’ll want to adjust up or down by about 1/4 cup at a time. Recheck their weight in 2 weeks to determine if further changes are needed.
- Energy level changes: If your dog seems overly energetic or lethargic, their diet may need tweaking. For high energy, increase food a bit, and for low energy, decrease the amount.
- Appetite changes: If your dog acts very hungry before meals or leaves food in the bowl, adjust the amount up or down accordingly at the next meal.
- Coat health: A dull coat can indicate a need for more protein or certain nutrients. You may need to switch to a formula for more active or working dogs. A soft, shiny coat means their diet is balanced well for their needs.
- Stool quality: Loose, watery stools may mean too much food or fat, while hard, dry stools could indicate not enough. Make changes in small increments to get your dog to a healthy stool.
Be patient through the adjustment period, as it can take 2-4 weeks for your dog’s body to adapt to diet changes. But by monitoring them closely and making prudent alterations as needed, you’ll dial in the perfect amount of the Diamond Naturals formula you chose. Your dog’s ideal weight, energy level, appetite, coat health, and stool quality will confirm when you’ve found the sweet spot. By following the feeding guidelines and paying attention to their progress, you’ll keep your dog as happy and healthy as possible.
Where to Buy Diamond Naturals Dog Food
When it comes time to purchase Diamond Naturals dog food for your furry companion, you have several options to choose from. The most obvious place is your local pet store. Many pet stores carry a wide selection of Diamond Naturals formulas for dogs of all life stages, sizes, and activity levels. Pet store staff can also provide helpful recommendations to ensure you choose a formula that meets your dog’s needs.
Another choice is to shop at large retailers that sell pet products, such as Walmart, Target, Kroger, or Publix. These stores frequently stock popular Diamond Naturals formulas at lower prices due to their high volume. You may be able to find additional discounts through weekly ads or by using coupons from Diamond Naturals’ website or your local paper.
For the widest selection and best prices, consider purchasing Diamond Naturals dog food online. Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart all sell Diamond Naturals and offer free 1-2 day shipping on orders over a certain amount. You can also buy directly from Diamond Naturals’ website, where they frequently run promotions like buy one, get one half off or $5 off your first order. Buying in bulk sizes online can save you money in the long run.
Some pet owners choose to buy from neighborhood pet boutiques or small independent retailers in their area. While prices may be slightly higher, you’ll be supporting a local business and can develop a relationship with the staff to get customized recommendations for your dog. They can also special order certain Diamond Naturals formulas if they don’t regularly stock the one you need.
No matter where you shop, be sure to compare ingredients and prices to get the best value. And don’t forget to sign up for any rewards programs offered to earn points or discounts on future Diamond Naturals purchases. By taking advantage of all the available options, you can provide your dog with high-quality, affordable nutrition for life.
Diamond Naturals Dog Food FAQs
You likely have some questions about Diamond Naturals dog food and how to choose what’s right for your pooch. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help make your decision easier.
Diamond Naturals offers recipes for puppies, adults, and senior dogs to provide the unique nutrition each life stage requires. Puppy food supports healthy growth with more calories, protein, and certain nutrients. Adult dog food provides balanced nutrition for everyday health. Senior dog food is formulated with glucosamine, chondroitin and L-carnitine for joint and mobility support in older dogs.
Grain-free dog food contains no wheat, corn or soy—common ingredients that can trigger sensitivities in some dogs. Instead, grain-free recipes use digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, peas or chickpeas. Grain-free is a good option if your dog has a grain allergy or sensitivity.
Many Diamond Naturals recipes contain supplements to support joint, digestive and immune health. Glucosamine and chondroitin promote joint mobility and flexibility. Probiotics aid digestion and gut health. Antioxidants like vitamin E support cell health and the immune system.
Protein provides the building blocks for your dog’s muscles, organs and immune system. More active or high-energy dogs require higher protein levels, while less active dogs need slightly less. Choose a Diamond Naturals formula with a protein level appropriate for your dog’s activity and life stage.
When switching your dog to a new Diamond Naturals recipe, do so gradually. Replace a portion of their current food with the new food, and slowly make the new food a bigger part of each meal over 7-10 days. This helps avoid digestive upset by allowing their system to adjust to the change in ingredients and nutrients.
By understanding the differences between Diamond Naturals’ product lines and formulas, you can choose a recipe tailored to your dog’s unique needs. Make sure to also consider your dog’s age, size, activity level and any dietary sensitivities. With the right food and nutrition, your furry friend will be on the path to health and happiness!
Conclusion
You’ve got this! Choosing the dog food that’s just right for your furry friend might feel overwhelming at first, but you’re now equipped with the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your pup’s unique needs. Trust your instincts, read those labels carefully, and keep your buddy’s health and happiness top of mind. With so many great Diamond Naturals options specially formulated for pups of all kinds, you can feel confident you’ll find the perfect fit. Just take it one step at a time. Before you know it, you’ll have picked out the ideal food to keep your doggo energized, strong, and living their very best life.
