1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food is a pet food line with a 3-star rating — around 31% of all the pet food we review fall in this tier.
They seem to have nutrition ratio similar to a common pet food, and contain mainly named ingredents. We think they are fine, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
What We like
No Plant Protein in Top Ingredients
Use Organic Minerals to Improve Absorption
What We Concern
More than 37% Carbs
Numberous Controversial Ingredients
Seems No Probiotics to Aid Digestion
Contain Potential Allergens like Corn, Soy, Gluten, and Dairy products
Contain Ingredients that might be Uncertain
「Chief of Food」Fat Hill
Recipes Rating
Recipes could have different ingredients in the same product line. We rate each recipe and list them from higest to lowest ratings.
Higher protein and lower carbs recipes are rated higher
Recipe and 1st Ingredient
Rating
Grain Free
1st Choice Growth Toy and Small Breeds Puppy
1️⃣Chicken Meal🍚Carbs:33%
3.5
1st Choice Growth Medium and Large Breeds Puppy
1️⃣Chicken Meal🍚Carbs:38%
3
1st Choice Healthy Skin & Coat Toy and Small Breeds Puppy
1️⃣Lamb Meal🍚Carbs:41%
3
1st Choice Sensitive Skin & Coat
1️⃣Lamb🍚Carbs:40%
3
Tips
Recipes have similar ratings. This means they are quite similar.
Recipe to review
To rate 1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food, we will take one representative recipe to evaluate the nutrition, ingredients and meat content of this product line.
We have chosen 1st Choice Growth Medium and Large Breeds Puppy.
Nutrition Label
Pet food show guaranteed analysis on their labels. It includes moisture and does not reflect the level of carbs — which we prefer lower for dogs and as low as possible for cats.
From the label of 1st Choice Growth Medium and Large Breeds Puppy
Protein
26%
Fat
16%
Fiber
4.5%
Carbs
?%
Calculate the dry value (no moisture) on a dry matter basis will help us to estimate the carbs level and other nutrition without water — so we can get a better idea about the ratio.
(We think the ideal nutrition profile would be Protein > Fat > Carbs)
Nutrition
Our Ideal
Dry Value
Like?
Protein
30% or more
29%
Fat
15% or more
18%
Carbs
Less than 28%
38%
Fiber
Less than 5%
5%
Join our discussion group with other pet owners
We answer and discuss any questions about cats and dogs, food selection, other pet owners will share their experience too!
54 ingredients are listed on the label. We research their quality to pet and use our best judgement to group them in the proportion of Prefer, Concerned, and Notice ingredients in the bar chart.
♨ Allergen
1 units
🌋 Indigest
2 units
⁉ Uncertain
1 units
Organic Minerals Seems to Include
Probiotics Seems Not Included
Prefer
Concerned
Notice
Neutral
Click an ingredient to see the detail
Chicken Meal
Animal Protein
A dehydrated form of chicken, it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh chicken on dry matter basis.
PreferA high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Oat Groats
Carbs
A whole grain that has higher protein and fats compared to other types. It is rich in B-vitamins and dietary fiber.
ConcernedAn inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Brewers Rice
Carbs
Small milled fragments (5/164 of an inch) of rice kernels that have been separated from the larger kernels of milled rice. “Dust” and “floor sweepings” from rice.
NoticeAn inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pearled Barley
Carbs
♨🌋
A type of grain that is high in carbs and fiber, along with manganese and selenium.
ConcernedAn inexpensive filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
♨
AllergenContains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.
🌋
Related to DigestGluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach.
⁉
UncertainN/A
Chicken Fat Naturally Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols
Fat
The fatty layer separated during the cooking process, with a high level of omega 6, It is more preferable by dogs and cats over other types of fats.
PreferA high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Beet Pulp
Carbs
The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.
ConcernedControversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Tomato Pomace
Carbs
The leftover by-product of the process in making ketchup and other tomato products. Depending on quality, it could provide a certain amount of vitamin C, K1, and potassium.
ConcernedVegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Egg Product
Animal Protein
A processed form of eggs, a less expensive option compared to whole eggs. It could mean anything from egg yolk, white, and eggshell.
ConcernedA less preferable egg ingredient that is made of unspecified egg parts - which quality is concerned.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Lecithin
Fat
A fat essential in body cells, it could be extracted from different food like soybean. It acts as an emulsifier that helps fats mixing with other ingredients.
NeutralAn acceptable source of fat from plants.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Powdered Cellulose
Carbs
🌋⁉
The substance provides strength and rigidity to plants, which are mostly made of insoluble fiber. It is commonly added to pet foods to reduce the calorie content for the "weight management" type.
NoticeUnspecified plant products made of unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestDogs and cats lack the enzymes capable of digesting cellulose. A high level of fiber could interfere with the digestion of protein and other minerals.
⁉
UncertainCould be made up of cheap and unwanted fiber by-products. However, from our research, most cellulose used in pet food is made up of pine trees.
Whole Flaxseed
Fat
One of the richest sources of plant-based omega 3s, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains around 41% of fat, 57% of the total fatty acids is omega 3s.
NeutralA harmless seed with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Chicken Liver Hydrolysate
Animal Protein
Chicken liver is broken down into smaller parts by using enzymes in a process called "Hydrolysis". MSG (food enhancer) is formed during the process.
ConcernedAn animal protein with high digestibility. However, MSG could be linked to several side effects including headache, nausea, and weakness.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Monosodium Phosphate
Supplement
An inorganic form of phosphate, has 5 - 15% less absorption rate compared to the organic form. Phosphorus is essential for various body functions, especially critical to maintain normal metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Herring Oil
Fat
The fish oil extracted from herring. It is an excellent source of omega 3s, DHA, and EPA, which help reduce inflammation in the body.
PreferA high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Potassium Chloride
Supplement
An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Choline Chloride
Supplement
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
NeutralA safe supplement for potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Salt
Others
Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.
ConcernedA controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Calcium Propionate
Supplement
An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Yeast Extract
Plant Protein Concentrate
Made from fungus and often used to make beer, a rich source of minerals such as selenium. B-complex vitamins, and chromium. It contains around 40% protein.
ConcernedA controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Calcium Carbonate
Supplement
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Ascorbic Acid
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Taurine
Supplement
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
PreferA safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Chicory Extract
Carbs
Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.
NeutralA harmless plant with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Ferrous Sulfate
Supplement
An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Glucosamine Sulfate
Supplement
The most common joint supplement for reducing the level of pain and inflammation.
NeutralA safe supplement for potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Zinc Oxide
Supplement
An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Alpha-tocopherol Acetate
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Chondroitin Sulfate
Supplement
Derived from animal parts containing cartilage, as a supplement to support joint health.
NeutralA safe supplement for potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Yucca Schidigera Extract
Carbs
Yucca schidigera is a desert plant found in the arid southwestern US and Mexico. It has been shown to reduce fecal aroma (poop's smell) without any harmful effect.
NeutralA harmless ingredient with specific benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Collagen Peptide
Animal Protein
Small pieces of proteins made of collagen, research suggests that it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to treat osteoarthritis.
PreferA safe supplement to improve the quality of protein.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Iron Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Zinc Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Sodium Selenite
Food Additive
An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.
ConcernedA food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Thiamine Mononitrate
Supplement
An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Seaweed Meal
Carbs
An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.
NeutralAn acceptable ingredient as a source of vitamins and minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Green Tea Extract
Others
One of the most healthy tea in the world. It contains catechins, which are natural antioxidants that help prevent radical damages to the body and offer many health benefits.
NeutralA harmless ingredient with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Spearmint
Carbs
A herb from the mint family that contains a compound (-)-carvone which inhibits contraction in the digestive tract and helps relieve digestive upset.
NeutralA harmless herb with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Dried Parsley
Carbs
A type of plant native to the Mediterranean. It is particularly rich in vitamin K, and a good source of vitamin A, C, and antioxidants. Dried parsley seems to have 17 times more antioxidants than the fresh form.
NeutralVegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Copper Sulfate
Supplement
An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Calcium Iodate
Supplement
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Supplement
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Manganous Oxide
Supplement
An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Manganese Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% higher absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is essential for normal metabolic function with the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Ginger Extract
Carbs
Knowns for its digestive properties, especially its aid in digesting fats.
NeutralA harmless plant with potential health benefits.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Nicotinic Acid
Supplement
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
D-calcium Pantothenate
Supplement
An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin A Supplement
Supplement
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Copper Proteinate
Supplement
An organic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional minerals.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Cholecalciferol
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin D, which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Folic Acid
Supplement
A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Riboflavin
Supplement
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Biotin
Supplement
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Vitamin B12 Supplement
Supplement
Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Cobalt Carbonate
Supplement
Cobalt is essential for the synthesis of vitamin B12. This is an inorganic form of cobalt, which has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
NeutralA safe supplement for additional vitamins.
♨
AllergenN/A
🌋
Related to DigestN/A
⁉
UncertainN/A
Tips
We find 9 Concerned and 2 Notice ingredients from 1st Choice Growth Medium and Large Breeds Puppy. Check from the above list to view the details.
Concerned
Oat Groats
Pearled Barley
Dried Beet Pulp
Dried Tomato Pomace
Dried Egg Product
Chicken Liver Hydrolysate
Salt
Yeast Extract
Sodium Selenite
Notice
Brewers Rice
Powdered Cellulose
Estimated Meat Content
Some pet food uses high plant protein ingredients to boost up the overall protein level — to make it looks like it includes a lot of meat, which is more appealing for customers.
Therefore, protein level itself cannot tell the quality and how much animal ingredients (more digestible than plants) is in the pet food.
Check if protein is overrated by plant protein boost up
Count of Plant Protein
0 / 7 (0%)
in top 7 ingredients
Protein Level
29%
in dry matter
By looking at the plant protein in top ingredients and compare with the total protein level, we will try to estimate how much animal ingredients is used in the pet food as Meat Content.
Meat Content
Based on my "godly" guess, the meat content might be Medium !
It looks like it contains a moderate amount of meat. Your furbabies should still be fine with it.
1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food Product Line Review
To make a conclusion about the whole product line, we will consider all recipes and their average nutrition ratio.
Recipes Average Compares to Ideal Level
In the total of 4 recipes, the group has an average of 28% protein, 17% fat and 38% carbohydrate.
(Protein and Fat: Prefer Higher丨Carbs: Prefer Lower)
Protein is -2 (%) less than ideal
Fat is 2 (%) higher than ideal
Carbs is 10 (%) higher than ideal
What does it mean?
Overall,1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food has an carbs level higher than our preferred level.
Conclusion
Throughout the review, we have 3 major opinons about this pet food line:
Similar nutrition ratio as a common pet food
Clear, named animal products as main ingredient
Medium level of meat content
Based on these, we can conclude 1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food is a pet food line with a 3 star rating.
Do we recommend 1st Choice Puppy Dry Dog Food ?
It is a fine pet food, and it might be great to give your pets some extra meaty food or treats.
The review is entirely our own view and opinon. It is for informational reference only and not a purchase advice.
Has an unusual obsession with the taste and ingredients of food, over 5+ years experience in professional eating. As the Chief of Food, he will tell you the truth about food.
"Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish, and Stay Hungry again!"