Nature's Variety Instinct Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken Meal Formula Dry Dog Food

Our four dogs really enjoy this small breed formula. Every time I introduce them to a new kibble, I taste some myself. This has a distinctive fishy flavor, probably because salmon and Menhaden fish meal are part of the ingredient list. Before switching to Nature’s Variety, I used to supplement salmon oil into the dogs’ diet, and they loved its flavor. The same fishy taste may be one reason why they’re so eager to eat this.

Besides salmon and fish meal, Instinct’s ingredient list is extensive, and it’s important to note the primary ingredients are chicken meal and chicken. Meat meals have more protein punch than simple animal meat, so I’m glad there’s a combination of the two, and that the company lists specific meat names (like chicken meal, freeze-dried turkey, chicken and turkey livers). Cheaper brands often just list generic phrases like poultry by-products or meat and bone meal. This ingredient list is very specific yet diverse, and the formula is a naturally preserved product that contains a source of live, naturally occurring microorganisms.

Besides excellent flavor and nutrition, these are just the right sized nuggets for our three Jack Russells and one Boston Terrier. Morsels look similar to fish chow. I’ve included a picture showing just how small the pieces really are—about four nuggets can fit on a dime. Regular sized kibble is also included in the picture for a general size comparison. Our oldest dog is around 13 yrs. old—this is very easy for her to eat and digest, even though the nuggets are crunchy.

Our dogs don’t usually get excited about dry kibble—they save that kind of enthusiasm for treat-like products. I was surprised to see the same kind of eagerness while eating this formula. They come running when it’s meal time. I only wish a four lb. bag was a bit cheaper.

You can find the product at Amazon here: Nature's Variety Instinct Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken Meal Formula Dry Dog Food