Is Diamond Naturals Good Dog Food? A Comprehensive Look
Diamond Naturals dog food has carved out a strong reputation among pet owners seeking a balance between quality ingredients and affordability. Produced by Diamond Pet Foods—a family-owned company in the US since 1970—this line offers both dry and canned foods designed to deliver complete nutrition with a holistic touch. But is it actually good for your dog? Let's dig into what sets Diamond Naturals apart, its ingredients, nutritional profile, owner experiences, and expert perspectives.
What’s Inside Diamond Naturals?
The formulas feature animal protein sources as the main ingredients. You'll find cage-free chicken, pasture-raised lamb, beef, or real salmon heading up the list. For example, the All Life Stages Chicken & Rice formula contains about 16% chicken, 16% chicken meal, and 16% whole grain brown rice—rounded out with grains like barley and sorghum plus chicken fat. Roughly half of each recipe comes from animal-based ingredients; the rest is made up of wholesome grains.
Beyond proteins and grains, Diamond Naturals includes a variety of natural components such as:
- Dried yeasts
- Beet pulp
- Natural flavorings
- Linseed
- Salmon oil (a source of DHA)
- Kale, chia seeds, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges
- Dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya
- Dried chicory root and yucca extract
This superfood blend aims to provide antioxidants and nutrients that support overall health.
Nutritional Analysis & Special Additions
The All Life Stages Chicken & Rice formula boasts a guaranteed analysis of approximately 26% protein (minimum), 16% fat (minimum), and up to 2.5% crude fiber. Carbohydrates come in at an estimated 42%. The recipes are enhanced with K9 Strain proprietary probiotics, which are claimed to support digestive and immune health. Omega fatty acids from flaxseed, chia seed, and coconut help maintain skin and coat condition. Some formulas—especially those for adults or seniors—add glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.
Price Point & Availability
Diamond Naturals targets pet owners who want quality without breaking the bank. Prices are generally moderate compared to similar brands. You can find these products easily online or in retail stores across multiple countries.
Transitioning: What to Expect?
If you’re switching your dog to Diamond Naturals from another brand, expect some digestive adjustment. Loose stools might occur temporarily; it’s best to transition slowly over at least a week. Many owners report improvements in coat shine, energy levels, stool consistency—and picky eaters often find it palatable after just a few weeks on the new diet.
User Reviews: The Good & The Bad
- Positive feedback: Healthier coats; increased energy; firm stools; ingredient transparency; affordability; palatability for picky eaters.
- Negative feedback: Occasional vomiting or digestive upset; rare reports of ingredient inconsistency or kibble size issues for very small dogs.
The majority of owner reviews are favorable—especially regarding visible improvements in their dogs' appearance and vitality—but every dog is different.
The Veterinary Perspective
Veterinary opinions on Diamond Naturals are mixed. Some vets recommend brands with extensive research backgrounds (like Purina or Hill’s). While Diamond participates in AAFCO feeding trials on a limited basis and most formulas meet "Complete and Balanced" standards for life stage nutrition, not all experts view them as top-tier in terms of research investment. Experts do advise choosing grain-inclusive formulas, since grain-free diets high in peas or legumes have been linked to heart disease risk (diet-associated DCM) in some studies.
A Note About Recalls & Quality Control
The company has experienced recalls in the past (notably around 2012–2013). Current products should always be checked for up-to-date recall status before purchase. That said, their foods follow AAFCO nutrient guidelines and are produced under quality-control protocols.
Main Benefits Reported by Owners:
- Sleek coats due to added fatty acids and superfoods.
- Improved digestive health from fibers and probiotics (firmer stools).
- Sustained energy levels—especially for active or large breed dogs.
- Specialized options for seniors or large breeds targeting joint support and healthy weight management.
Main Drawbacks/Risks:
- Mild digestive upset during transition or with specific recipes.
- Picky eaters may reject certain flavors/formulas (though this is uncommon).
- Persistent concerns about heart health risks with non-grain-inclusive diets—so stick with grain-inclusive unless otherwise directed by your vet.
Tips for Feeding Your Dog Diamond Naturals:
- Transition gradually over at least 7–10 days;
- Monitor your dog's energy level, stool quality, appetite, and coat;
- If your pet has food sensitivities or medical conditions consult your vet before switching;
- Select formulas enriched with glucosamine/chondroitin/omega fatty acids if joint/skin support is needed;
- Store kibble properly—in sealed containers away from moisture/pests;
The Bottom Line: Is It Good?
Diamond Naturals offers balanced nutrition with real animal proteins plus superfoods at an accessible price point. Most dogs thrive on it—owners see shinier coats, better digestion, steady energy—but some pets may not tolerate certain recipes well. Always transition foods slowly and watch your dog's response closely. If you have concerns about specific dietary needs or heart health risks related to diet type (grain-free vs grain-inclusive), talk to your veterinarian first.
