WholeHearted: Petco’s Store Brand of Dog Food
When shopping for high-quality dog food, knowing which offerings are store brands can help pet owners make more informed decisions. At Petco, their store brand of dog food is WholeHearted. This brand is exclusive to Petco and reflects the company’s dedication to providing affordable, nutritious, and high-quality options for dogs of all breeds and life stages.
About WholeHearted Dog Food
WholeHearted was developed by Petco to fill the gap between affordable pricing and premium ingredients. It was launched as part of Petco’s ongoing commitment to health and wellness in pet nutrition. WholeHearted stands out by offering a wide range of products tailored for various dietary needs.
Key Features of WholeHearted Dog Food
- High-Quality Protein Sources: Real meat like beef, chicken, and salmon is frequently the first ingredient.
- Grain-Free and Limited Ingredient Formulas: Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
- Added Supplements: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, probiotics for digestive wellness, and antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits.
- No Artificial Additives: Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Affordable Pricing: Offers competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
Popular WholeHearted Recipes
WholeHearted offers an extensive range of recipes for various dietary needs and life stages. Some of the popular offerings include:
- WholeHearted Grain-Free Beef and Pea Formula: Contains beef as a primary protein source, plus added vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.
- WholeHearted Limited Ingredient Salmon and Pea Recipe: Crafted for dogs needing simpler recipes due to food allergies.
- WholeHearted Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe: A well-rounded choice for everyday nutrition with whole grains and real chicken.
Benefits for Different Life Stages
WholeHearted caters to dogs of all ages, with special formulas based on life stage:
- Puppies: High in calories, proteins, and fats to support rapid growth and development.
- Adults: Balanced nutrition to maintain overall health and support an active lifestyle.
- Seniors: Lower calorie options and added joint support to accommodate changing health needs.
Why Choose a Store Brand Like WholeHearted?
Many pet owners wonder why they should opt for a store brand over more widely advertised national brands. The advantages of WholeHearted include:
- Exclusive Formulation: Developed with Petco’s standards for health and nutrition.
- Affordability: Provides value without sacrificing essential nutrients.
- Availability: Always in stock at Petco locations and online.
- Product Range: Includes dry food, canned food, freeze-dried toppers, and treats.
How WholeHearted Compares to Other Brands
Compared to other popular brands at Petco, such as Hill’s Science Diet or ORIJEN, WholeHearted doesn’t necessarily aim to replace prescription or biologically appropriate diets. Instead, it offers balanced, ingredient-conscious recipes that meet the average dog’s needs, while remaining within budget. While ORIJEN uses a variety of premium, high-protein animal sources, WholeHearted focuses on practical, straightforward nutrition accessible to more pet parents.
Customization and Specialized Needs
WholeHearted also features recipes for weight control, small breeds, and sensitive systems, making it easier for pet owners to manage specific health goals. Whether your dog needs lower fat content, smaller kibble size, or limited ingredients to avoid allergies, WholeHearted likely has a fitting option.
How to Transition to WholeHearted
As with any food change, it's essential to transition slowly:
- Start with 25% WholeHearted mixed with 75% current food for 2-3 days.
- Shift to 50/50 for the next few days.
- Move to 75% WholeHearted and 25% old food before fully switching.
This gradual introduction helps avoid digestive problems and allows your dog to adapt to the new formula.
Veterinarian Consultation
Before switching dog foods—especially if your pet has special dietary needs, like kidney issues or skin conditions—it is always wise to consult with your veterinarian. WholeHearted offers a broad enough product selection that some formulas may align well with specific vet-recommended criteria.
WholeHearted: Part of Petco’s Commitment to Health
Through WholeHearted, Petco reaffirms its commitment to pet wellness and customer satisfaction. It’s a step toward making high-quality pet nutrition more widely available, aligning with Petco’s larger mission to improve animal well-being through knowledgeable care and premium products.
In Summary
- WholeHearted is Petco’s proprietary dog food brand.
- It offers various formulas for unique dietary needs and life stages.
- Quality ingredients and affordability make it a solid choice.
WholeHearted combines value, accessibility, and nutritional quality, making it a well-rounded option for pet parents who want balanced nutrition without paying premium prices.
