Open Nature Dog Food: A Detailed Review

Overview of Open Nature Dog Food

The Open Nature brand was launched in 2017 as Walmart’s new private label natural pet food line. Open Nature is made and sourced in the USA, with manufacturing facilities located across the country.

Open Nature aims to provide wholesome, natural nutrition at an affordable price point. The brand uses recognizable, simple ingredients and does not include artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Open Nature dog food comes in both wet and dry food varieties for puppies, adult dogs, and seniors. Most recipes feature a single animal protein source as the first ingredient.

Open Nature follows Walmart’s corporate policy of trying to source USA-raised ingredients whenever possible. However, like most pet food brands, they are not able to source all ingredients from the USA. Open Nature states that around 80% of their ingredients come from the United States or Canada.

Ingredient Profile of Open Nature Dog Food

When reviewing any dog food, an in-depth look at the ingredients is crucial. Here are some of the notable ingredients used in Open Nature dog food:

Animal Protein Sources: Chicken, turkey, salmon, duck, lamb, bison. The specific animal protein varies depending on the recipe. Meat meals are also frequently used.

Carbohydrates: Whole grain brown rice, oatmeal, barley, potatoes. No corn, wheat, or soy.

Fruits and Vegetables: Peas, sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, cranberries. Help provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Omega Fatty Acids: Flaxseed, canola oil, sunflower oil. Help support skin and coat health.

Probiotics: Fermentation products help promote healthy gut flora.

Natural Flavor: Derived from vegetable or animal sources. Help enhance palatability.

Mixed Tocopherols: A natural preservative made from vitamin E. Help preserve freshness.

Noticeably absent from the ingredient list are many fillers, by-products, artificial colors/preservatives that are common in cheaper dog foods. Open Nature avoids these unnecessary or potentially harmful ingredients. Overall, the ingredient panels consist mainly of whole food ingredients.

However, there are a few points of consideration:

Some recipes contain pea or potato protein to boost the protein content. While not necessarily harmful, plant-based proteins are less bioavailable than meat protein.
Some recipes list unspecified meat meals, fish meals, and animal fats. It's preferable when the type of protein or fat source is specified.
Carb sources like rice and oatmeal provide nutrients, but some dog owners prefer grain-free recipes.

So while Open Nature is not perfect, it does use all-natural whole food ingredients to create nutritionally balanced recipes suited for dogs based on their life stages.

Nutritional Analysis of Open Nature Dog Food

When assessing dog food, it’s important to analyze the guaranteed analysis and nutritional adequacy statements. The guaranteed analysis lists minimum percentages of key nutrients. For Open Nature, a sample dry dog food analysis is:

Crude Protein: min. 22%
Crude Fat: min. 12%
Crude Fiber: max. 4%
Moisture: max. 10%

These meet AAFCO standards for adult dog foods. The ratios of protein and fat indicate meat-based recipes with moderate fat levels to support energy needs. Fiber levels are lower than some premium brands but still adequate.

In addition, each Open Nature formula includes an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement. This confirms the recipe has passed feeding trials to demonstrate it provides complete and balanced nutrition.

So while the nutrient levels may not be as high as more expensive brands, Open Nature does provide complete nutrition in their all life stage recipes to support dogs’ health.

Flavors and Formulas of Open Nature Dog Food

One advantage of Open Nature is the wide variety of formulas and flavors available to suit different dogs’ needs:

Puppy Food: Designed for growing puppies under 12 months old. Higher protein, calories, DHA for brain development.

Adult Food: Offered for both small and large breed adult dogs over 1 year old. Provides maintenance nutrition.

Senior Food: Tailored ratios of protein, fat, and fiber to meet needs of less active, aging dogs 7 years and up.

Weight Management: Slightly lower fat and calories to prevent weight gain in prone dogs. High fiber content gives volume.

Wet Food: Canned stews and wet recipes add variety. Increased moisture benefits hydration.

Grain-Free: Substitute lentils, tubers, or legumes as the carbohydrate source. Good for sensitive dogs.

Limited Ingredient: Contain a single novel protein/carb source. Helpful for dogs with food allergies.

Breed Specific: Recipes for small or large breeds. Also formulas tailored for Pit Bulls, Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and other popular breeds.

This range of options makes it easy to choose an Open Nature recipe suited for a dog’s life stage, size, sensitivities, and health conditions. There are also formulas designed for active dogs and dogs with high protein needs.

Feeding Guidelines for Open Nature Dog Food

Since no two dogs are alike, Open Nature provides general feeding guidelines based on a dog’s weight, life stage, and activity level. These are suggestions only, and owners should monitor their individual dog’s body condition score to adjust amounts as needed. Here are the basic feeding guidelines:

Puppy Food:

2-12 weeks old: feed 3-4 times amount for ideal adult weight
3-6 months old: feed 2 times amount for ideal adult weight
6-12 months old: feed 1.5 times amount for ideal adult weight

Adult Food:

Typical adult dogs: feed 1-2 cups per day for every 20 lbs of body weight
Less active dogs: feed towards lower end of range
Highly active dogs: feed towards higher end of range

Senior Food:

Feed 20% less than adult feeding guidelines to account for less activity
Divide into 2-3 smaller meals throughout the day

Weight Management Food:

Feed 10-20% less than regular adult food
Monitor weight frequently. Adjust as needed.

Owners should always follow feeding instructions on package based on individual dog’s needs. Puppies and seniors especially need carefully monitored food amounts to ensure proper growth/weight.

Price Comparison of Open Nature Dog Food

A major perk of Open Nature is its affordability, especially compared to many premium and natural brands on the market. Here is a pricing comparison on some popular recipes:

Open Nature Adult Dry Dog Food (6 lb bag): $13.98
Purina ONE SmartBlend (6 lb bag): $12.98
Blue Buffalo Life Protection (6 lb bag): $47.98
Wellness Core Original Deboned Turkey (4.5 lb bag): $31.99

As you can see, Open Nature provides a significant savings over brands like Blue Buffalo and Wellness Core. The ingredients and quality are comparable to Purina ONE but at a slightly lower price point.

Of course, pricing varies based on formula, bag size, retailer sales and promotions. But in general, Open Nature offers quality nutrition at more budget-friendly prices.

Where to Buy Open Nature Dog Food

The main advantage and disadvantage of Open Nature is its availability exclusively at Walmart stores. Open Nature cannot be purchased at any other retailers.

Advantage: One-stop shopping since you can pick up Open Nature during regular Walmart trips. Walmart's giant buying power means competitive pricing.

Disadvantage: Cannot compare prices or shop sales at other stores. Some people prefer to avoid shopping at Walmart. Limited inventory/selection at individual stores.

The primary places to buy Open Nature are:

Walmart brick-and-mortar stores: Find it in the pet aisles. Select stores carry food based on local demand.

Walmart.com: Offers home delivery for a wider range of formulas and larger bag sizes compared to in-store.

Walmart Grocery Pickup/Delivery: Add to online orders and pickup at store or have delivered. Easy and convenient.

If Walmart is your typical grocery destination anyway, the exclusivity of Open Nature is not an issue. But buyers who like having retailer choice may view the limitation as a downside.

Open Nature Dog Food

Quality Control and Safety of Open Nature Dog Food

All manufacturing facilities that produce Open Nature dog food must follow Walmart’s strict quality and safety standards. Additionally:

Facilities follow hazard analysis and FDA food safety plans.
No ingredients from China are used in Open Nature products.
No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives are used.
Rigorous testing protocols are in place to check ingredient suppliers and finished products for contaminants.
Detailed record-keeping and traceback procedures track ingredients and finished goods.
Regular third-party audits evaluate facilities for compliance with standards.

While occasional recalls occur with all pet food brands, Open Nature has not had any significant recall events since its launch in 2017. Walmart's stringent requirements ensure Open Nature foods meet quality and safety benchmarks.

Is Open Nature a Good Dog Food?

Overall, Open Nature is a good quality option for pet owners looking for an affordable natural dog food. The brand offers complete nutrition for maintenance, using recognizable ingredients, without fillers or additives.

While the protein and fat levels are not as high as many premium brands, Open Nature meets AAFCO standards for all life stages. The wide variety of formulas can work for many dogs.

The exclusivity at Walmart stores can be either a pro or a con, depending on your regular shopping habits. But the prices and convenience make it easy to add Open Nature to the cart.

No food will be the perfect solution for every dog. But Open Nature provides a solid nutritious choice for dog owners seeking a budget-friendly natural brand with simplicity of shopping. For most dogs, Open Nature can provide balanced nutrition tailored to their needs.

Switching to Open Nature Dog Food

When transitioning your dog to a new food like Open Nature, follow these tips:

Gradually mix in increasing amounts of the new food over 5-7 days. This gives your dog's digestive system time to adjust.
Split meals between old and new food. Mix ratios like 25%/75%, 50%/50%, 75%/25% until fully switched.
Monitor stool quality during the transition. Loose stool or diarrhea indicates the food change was too abrupt. Slow down switching if needed.
Try easing the transition by mixing the kibble with warm water, broth, canned food, or yogurt initially.
Stick with one new recipe for at least 2-3 weeks before switching proteins or grain-free.
Feed the same number of total calories/day. Don't increase portion sizes until weight is stable.
Evaluate energy levels, skin/coat, digestion, etc. after fully switched. Tweak amounts or try another formula if issues.

With a gradual transition, most dogs can readily adapt to Open Nature food. Pay attention during the switch and don't hesitate to slow down or try a different recipe if your dog seems uncomfortable.

Top 5 Formulas in the Open Nature Line

With a wide selection of recipes, flavors, and formulas, Open Nature offers diverse options for dogs. Here are 5 of the top recipes to consider:

1. Open Nature Adult Grain-Free Chicken & Pea Recipe

A limited ingredient diet for dogs with food sensitivities. Features deboned chicken and digestible peas. Omitting grains makes it a good choice for dogs with allergies.

2. Open Nature Senior Recipe with Glucosamine

Tailored for less active senior dogs over 7 years old. Glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health. Lower calories prevent weight gain. Antioxidants for immunity.

3. Open Nature Puppy Recipe with DHA

DHA from fish oil aids brain and eye development in growing puppies. Higher protein for muscles. Probiotics aid digestion. Great for large and giant breed puppies.

4. Open Nature Adult Recipe Chicken & Brown Rice

A classic protein-and-carb combo. Whole grain brown rice provides energy. Natural flavors enhance taste. Balanced nutrition for adult maintenance.

5. Open Nature Adult Weight Management with Chicken & Vegetables

Designed for overweight-prone dogs. Higher fiber and lower fat help dogs feel full while cutting calories. Plus lean protein and veggies for nutrients without excess. Helps dogs achieve or maintain healthy weight.

This selection highlights some of the formulas tailored to dogs with specific needs, sensitivities, or life stages. There are many other excellent options in the Open Nature line too numerous to mention!

Similar Budget-Friendly Brands to Consider

Open Nature is far from the only affordable, natural brand of dog food. Pet owners who like the concept but want to compare may want to check out these other budget-friendly lines:

Purina ONE SmartBlend

Offered in grocery stores and pet stores
Made by trusted Purina brand
Natural ingredients optimized for digestion
Formulas for puppies to mature dogs
Often priced competitively with Open Nature

Whole Earth Farms by Merrick

Sold at pet specialty stores
Grain-free and classic recipes
Emphasizes USA-sourced ingredients
No corn, wheat, soy, or by-products
Competes with Open Nature's prices

Nature's Recipe

Sold at many online and big-box retailers
Known for digestive and skin/coat formulas
Pumpkin aids digestion
Limited ingredients for sensitive dogs
Affordable for a natural brand

Iams ProActive Health

Offered at grocery and mass retailers
Not strictly natural but no fillers or artificial additives
Focus on ingredients to support specific health areas
Comparable to Open Nature pricing

While recipes and availability differ, these brands provide similar high-quality nutrition without the premium price tag. so pet owners have lots of choice in the budget natural category.

Open Nature Dog Food with Lamb: Nutritious Meat-Based Meals

The Open Nature brand offers a variety of recipes featuring real, farm-raised lamb as the first ingredient and main protein source. These lamb recipes provide nutritionally balanced, meat-based meals perfect for dogs of all breeds and life stages.

Here are some of the top Open Nature dog food formulas that feature delicious lamb:

Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe: Whole grain brown rice complements the lean lamb in this all-life-stages recipe. Natural antioxidants help maintain a healthy immune system.

Limited Ingredient Lamb & Sweet Potato: A simple recipe with easily digestible lamb and sweet potato, great for sensitive stomachs. Plus dried chicory root to support digestion.

Grain-Free Lamb Recipe: Features lamb paired with lentils, chickpeas and pumpkin instead of grains. An option for dogs with grain allergies.

Small Breed Lamb & Veggie Medley: Made for small dogs' higher metabolism. Lamb provides protein while veggies give antioxidants for whole-body wellness.

Lamb Meal & Potato Formula: A budget-friendly recipe enriched with lamb meal as the first ingredient. Tasty and nutrient-dense.

Pet parents say the lamb recipes have a mouthwatering aroma and pleasing taste. The natural lamb provides essential amino acids dogs need. With quality lamb-based options, Open Nature can meet your dog’s nutrition needs while staying gentle on your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Open Nature Dog Food

Open Nature is still a fairly new brand, so many dog owners have questions about their formulas and where to buy it. Here are answers to some of the most common questions:

Is Open Nature made in the USA?

Open Nature states that around 80% of its ingredients come from the US or Canada. Manufacturing facilities are located across the USA. So while not 100% US-sourced, the majority of ingredients and production take place domestically.

Does Walmart carry all Open Nature formulas in stores?

Unfortunately no. In-store availability is limited based on local demand. More varieties are available online via home delivery or in-store pickup. Check online for formulas your local store doesn't carry.

Is Open Nature less expensive because it’s lower quality?

Not necessarily. Thanks to Walmart's massive buying power, they can negotiate better prices from manufacturers and offer those savings directly to consumers. Open Nature isn't the highest quality but still uses natural ingredients in nutritionally balanced recipes.

Can I feed my puppy Open Nature adult dog food?

No, it's not recommended. Puppies under 12 months have higher calorie and nutrient needs for growth. Feeding adult food can lead to deficiencies or developmental issues. Choose an All Life Stage or proper puppy formula instead.

Does Open Nature test on animals?

No. Open Nature states that they do not test any products on animals during research or development. All nutritional testing is done via laboratory analysis.

Hopefully these FAQs help provide answers on some common Open Nature questions. As the brand grows in popularity, they may expand formulas and retail availability in the future.

The Bottom Line: Open Nature Offers Quality and Value

At the end of the day, Open Nature succeeds in its mission to offer affordable, natural pet food that doesn't cut corners on ingredients or nutrition. While not the highest-priced premium brand, Open Nature provides complete balanced diets full of recognizable, wholesome ingredients.

The focus on natural recipes tailored to dogs' needs makes it easy to find a formula well-suited to your dog's life stage and dietary sensitivities. And the price is certainly right, thanks to Walmart's buying power.

Yes, you can only buy Open Nature at Walmart stores. But if that's not an inconvenience, then this brand offers quality nutrition without blowing your budget. Open Nature makes it possible to feed your dog a natural diet rich in whole foods for less.

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