Diamond Naturals Grain-Free – Worth It for Your Dog Let’s Find Out:
Our Opinion
Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Formula is a standout grain-free dry dog food that combines wild-caught salmon, omega-rich ingredients, and probiotic support into one well-balanced kibble. This recipe is ideal for dogs with sensitive skin, allergies, or needing a boost in coat health; this recipe delivers premium benefits without the premium price tag. Its digestibility, quality ingredients, and absence of artificial fillers make it a solid choice for health-conscious pet owners.
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Salmon #1 ingredient | May upset sensitive stomachs |
| Omega-3 & 6 for coat health | Contains peas (DCM risk) |
| Probiotics for digestion | Some dogs dislike fish taste |
| No fillers or artificial additives | Few flavor choices |
| All life stages formula | Bag not resealable |
Recipe and Nutrient Analysis
Principal Components:
- Wild-caught salmon & Fish Meal – rich in protein and omega-3s for healthy skin and muscles
- Lentils, Potatoes & Peas – grain-free, digestible carbohydrates
- Pumpkin, Kale, Blueberries, Oranges – antioxidant-rich superfoods
- Coconut & Flaxseed – natural sources of fatty acids
- K9 Strain® Probiotics – added for digestive health and immune support.
Guaranteed Analysis (Dry Matter Basis):
- Protein: 28% – Supports lean muscle maintenance
- Fat: 16% – Aids in energy and skin support
- Carbohydrates: ~49% – Balanced for moderate energy
- Fat-to-Protein Ratio: ~57% – Optimal for active dogs without being too rich
Feeding Guidelines
General Instructions:
This food is complete and balanced for all life stages (except for the growth of large-size dogs under 70 lbs as adults). Always provide fresh water and adjust feeding amounts based on weight, age, and activity.
Dog Weight Daily Amount
| 5 – 15 lbs | ½ – 1 cup |
| 16 – 30 lbs | 1 – 1 ¾ cups |
| 31 – 50 kg | ¾ – 2 ⅔ cups |
| 51 – 100 kg | 2 ⅔ – 4 ½ cups |
| 100+ lbs | Add ½ cup per additional 10 lbs |
Comparative Brand Snapshot
| Brand | Main Protein | Grain-Free | Unique Feature |
| Diamond Naturals | Wild Salmon | Yes | K9 Strain® Probiotics + budget-friendly |
| Taste of the Wild | Roasted Bison & Venison | Yes | Roasted meats + unique proteins |
| Blue Buffalo Wilderness | Chicken | Yes | LifeSource Bits® antioxidant blend |
| Merrick Grain-Free | Beef | Yes | Locally sourced, high protein |
| Orijen Original | Multiple raw meats (blend) | Yes | 85% animal ingredients, biologically appropriate |
What Makes Diamond Naturals Unique?
- Budget Luxury: Delivers premium ingredients and benefits at a more affordable price.
- Custom Probiotic Blend: Developed specifically for dogs to support GI tract health.
- Superfood Infusion: Fruits, vegetables, and seeds provide extra nutrients and antioxidants.
- No Nonsense: Free from corn, wheat, soy, fillers, artificial flavours, and preservatives.
- USA Made: Sourced and manufactured in the U.S. by a family-owned company.
About Diamond Naturals
Schell & Kampeter, Inc., a family business behind Diamond Pet Foods, owns Diamond Naturals. Known for manufacturing in the USA and maintaining strict quality control, Diamond offers value-driven formulas using high-quality proteins and functional ingredients like probiotics and superfoods. Their emphasis on accessible premium nutrition makes them a respected player in the mid-tier dog food market.
AAFCO and FDA Compliance
- AAFCO-Approved: Meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages (excluding considerable breed puppy growth).
- FDA-Regulated: Produced in facilities audited and regulated under FDA pet food safety standards.
Final Score: 4.6 / 5
| Category | Rating (★) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Satisfaction | ★★★★☆ (4.6) | Highly rated on Amazon & Chewy; praised for coat improvements and digestibility. |
| Nutrient Profile | ★★★★☆ (4.5) | Great for moderate to active dogs, well-balanced macronutrients. |
| Ingredient Quality | ★★★★☆ (4.6) | Real salmon, no fillers, includes probiotics & omegas. |
| Ethical Sourcing | ★★★☆☆ (3.5) | Sourced in the USA but lacks transparency vs. premium brands. |
| Value for Price | ★★★★★ (5.0) | Top-tier formula under $2/lb for this quality. |
| Safety Record | ★★★☆☆ (3.5) | 2012 recall noted; no recent issues (always check for updates). |
Perfect For:
- Dogs with skin allergies or dry coat conditions
- Dogs sensitive to grains or fillers
- Owners seeking balanced nutrition without a premium price tag
- Dogs of all sizes and life stages (except large breed puppies)
Pro Tip:
If your dog is picky, try mixing this food with warm water or bone broth to release aroma and improve palatability.
300+ Amazon Review Synopses
Positive Feedback (approx. 85%):
- “No more scratching!” – Drastically improved itchy skin in many dogs.
- “Shiny, soft coat” – After just a few weeks
- “Great for sensitive stomachs” – Most report easy digestion and firm stools
- “Best bang for your buck” – Quality ingredients at a fraction of premium prices
Criticisms (approx. 15%):
- “Too fishy” – Some dogs didn’t like the smell or taste.
- “Gave my dog gas” – A minority reported GI issues
- “Needs resealable packaging” – Storage could be improved.
Where to Buy
Final Judgment
Suppose you’re looking for grain-free dog food with real salmon, joint and coat support, and an affordable price tag. In that case, Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Formula is a winner. It’s not flawless, but it delivers premium performance without burning a hole in your wallet.
Highly Recommended for:
- Skin & coat health
- Budget-conscious dog owners
- Dogs with mild food sensitivities
Illustrative Image – Not Actual Product Packaging
This disclaimer informs readers that any images used in the blog are for illustration purposes only and may not reflect the actual packaging of the product. Always refer to the product page for the most up-to-date packaging information.
