Allergy/L.I.D. Diets:

Most food allergies or sensitivities are caused by grains or certain protein sources.  Allergy formulas or Limited Ingredient Diets™ are developed to eliminate most, if not all, grain sources; along with certain proteins that are commonly found in commercial pet food.  Carbohydrates or protein sources that are used in allergy formulas would be considered “novel” sources.  

Rice and potatoes would be among the novel carbohydrate sources seen in different allergy formulas.  These carbohydrate sources are highly digestible and not used as frequent as corn or wheat in commercial diets. Proteins such as duck, venison, lamb, or fish are also used in allergy formulas because they are not as frequently used in other pet food such as chicken or beef.  Like carbohydrates, these protein sources would be considered “novel”.  By using both a novel carbohydrate and protein source in the diet, will mean that it would be less likely that the animal will be sensitive to it.

Limited Ingredient Diets™ are commonly used in food elimination procedures, to determine what the animal may or may not be sensitive to. In order to evaluate possible food sensitivities, the Limited Ingredient Diet™ must be fed exclusively, and given at least 4-6 weeks for best results. There are recent studies that suggest extending the trial up to 12 weeks. Only after evaluating results, when using a Limited Ingredient Diet™ or elimination diet can a food allergy be diagnosed or excluded.  

Jennifer Freeman, B.S., R.V.T.12/4/08

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® Dry Dog Formulas are used and respected worldwide by top trainers, breeders, veterinarians, kennels, and caring pet owners who want the best for their animals. Natural Balance® products provide all-natural, complete, and balanced nutrition. Our Ultra Premium Formulas are scientifically formulated for All Life Stages, from Puppies through Adulthood. Our Allergy Formulas are made especially for puppies and dogs with specific allergies. Click the bag images above, choose a formula to learn more about it. Read our ingredient panel... It speaks for itself

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® Original Ultra™ Line of food includes our original "Ultra-Premium Formula", made for Puppies through Adulthood, and "Reduced Calorie Formula" for senior and overweight dogs. Our NEW Natural Balance® A.M.P.™ Ultra Active Dry Formula is formulated for highly active and working dogs!

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets™ Allergy Formulas are made especially for puppies and dogs with specific allergies to common pet food ingredients. Choose a formula to learn more about it and find which one is right for your dog or puppy. Our original allergy lines: Sweet Potato & Venison Formula, Potato & Duck Formula, Sweet Potato & Fish Formula also include Canned and Treats! And Lamb Meal and Brown Rice Formula.

For Puppies: When you first start feeding Natural Balance® Dry Dog Food, we suggest you take a look at the "Suggested Feeding Guidelines for Puppies" on the web page of the Natural Balance® Dry Formula you are using, and start with the recommended amounts in the Table provided. How is Natural Balance® Dog Food good for All Life Stages?

And... In response to our small breed dog owners' requests we now offer Natural Balance® Ultra Premium and Potato & Duck Formulas in a smaller kibble for small breed dogs!

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® has two very special dry dog formulas, our award winning Natural Balance@ Vegetarian Formula, a True Vegan Formula made for adult dogs, and Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® Organic Formulas, which is certified Organic by Oregon Tilth - GMO and pesticide-free.

Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance® Dog Food Rolls and Gourmet Treats are made of wholesome, natural ingredients. Our Dog Food Rolls have been scientifically formulated by veterinarians and animal nutritionists to provide high quality nutrition and optimize skin and coat condition.