Diamond Dog Food Review: Everything You Need To Know

Diamond Dog Food Products—Can They Make Your Pooch Happy and Healthy?

Nose-to-tail wellbeing of your pooch is our greatest concern. If you are searching for a new food brand for your pooch, we are here to help you. We’ll discuss Diamond Naturals dog food in today’s article.

There’s no need to torture yourself trying to figure out if some brand is suitable for your precious little one or not. The Alpha Paw team is here to evaluate not only single dog food formulas but dog food brands as well.  

Our target for today—Diamond Natural Dog Food. You want to find recipes that will keep your dog healthy, and we will tell you if you should look for those among Diamond Dog Food formulas. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you through everything you need to know about this brand

What Is Diamond Pet Food?

The Diamond Pet Food company was established in 1970, and it has grown to become one of the greatest names in the pet food market. The idea that lies behind the company is to sell high-quality pet formulas that pet owners can afford. Although most of their products are made in the United States, they are distributed to more than 100 countries and all products go through a series of rigorous quality checks. 

It’s no question why the quality of Diamond dog food products is top tier amongst its competitors. The brand only uses the most excellent ingredients, such as high-quality animal protein and superfoods. 

The Diamond Pet Food company has four brands of dog food – Diamond, Diamond Naturals, Diamond Care, and Diamond Pro89. All of these brands consist of a plethora of recipes, including dry dog food and canned dog food, as well as treats. This impressive range of products has quality dog food for every age, size, breed, and for special food preferences. 

In this article, we are going to go through several of these company’s recipes and check if their products meet the criteria that you will find below. Our primary goal is to investigate the ingredient quality, company reputation, and other details relevant to pet owners. 

And remember, we are not paid to advertise or talk poorly of any food company. We wish only the best for your dog. We strongly believe our pets are our family and we only want the best for them. 

How We Chose Our Top Picks

Our team, with the help of experts, established a set of main criteria that we deemed important when evaluating dog food brands. This is what a good dog food formula should encompass:

1. Named meat sources on the top of the ingredient list 
2. No meat or vegetable by-products
3. Only whole grains
4. “Complete and balanced” label by The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)

How We Evaluated Diamond Dog Food

Our primary task is to provide our readers with verified and invaluable info on dog food brands and their formulas. Our detailed research has once again helped us find all we needed to know, and now, we are going to present it to you. 

If you’ve followed our work for a while, you know that we never work alone. Our greatest desire is to have your canines grow healthy and strong, which is why we always seek experts’ opinions.

We look behind the marketing strategies and focus on what really matters in your dog’s nutrition—healthy ingredients. For evaluation of Diamond Dog Food recipes, we sought help from: 

1. Veterinary nutritionists
2. Dog owners
3. Dog lovers community

Our veterinary nutritionists have come across many low and high-quality products in their practice. They always emphasize that each dog is an individual and that what is beneficial for one, can be harmful to the other. But despite that, there are some general rules that must be followed, as well as ingredients that should be excluded from your dog’s diet.

Dog owners who follow our work know that we appreciate the help and valid information. They helped us with their stories and experiences.

Finally, the dog lover community helps us round off our inquiry. Community members told us that Diamond company doesn’t sell low-quality formulas, but they do come at affordable prices.

This evaluation is the fruit of our meticulous research, in which you can find lots of useful information. So, let’s dive in!

Diamond Dog Food Review

Here you will find the entire Diamond dog food assortment.

Diamond Dog Food—Our Evaluation Picks

We have chosen one random product for each of the following categories:

1. Senior dogs
2. Puppies
3. Adult dogs
4. Large breed dogs
5. Small breed dogs

Based on the products we evaluate in this article, you will be able to see a bigger picture of the brand and its formulas. 

Senior Dogs: Diamond Care Weight Management Formula for Adult Dogs

Image source: diamond dog food

Our senior pups’ legs become more brittle as they age. Putting on extra weight can place enormous pressure on their joints. Their nutrition must be balanced and tailored according to their needs. 

Diamond Care Weight Management Formula Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food formula is low in fat, which reduces the risks of obesity. It has L-Carnitine that helps the body metabolize fat. It is high in natural fiber, providing your pooch with a feeling of satiation, without overeating. This Diamond dog food recipe provides complete and balanced nutrition to maintain an adult dog’s health.

The product doesn’t contain:

• Soy
• Wheat
• Corn
• Grain
• Gluten
• Fillers
• Artificial colors, flavors, preservatives

As you can see, the formula lacks ingredients that could lead to dog allergies. Its protein comes from high-quality sources. Real lamb maintains lean muscles, and the high amount of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that boost your doggo’s immune system. It is a highly condensed protein source. Glucosamine and chondroitin keep those brittle bones oiled and maintain general joint health. The product also guarantees omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, antioxidants for boosted immune system, and canine-specific probiotics that support your dog’s digestive health, as well as its overall health well-being. 

Other prime ingredients are peas that provides plant-based protein and a generous amount of vitamins and minerals, chickpea as an excellent source of carbohydrate and is naturally rich in dietary fiber and protein, lentils for B vitamins and minerals, as well as providing a notable amount of plant-based protein, and sweet potato, an excellent source of beta carotene and is a common gluten-free carbohydrate ingredient in most dog food. 

Diamond Care Weight Management Formula for Adult Dogs is a complete and balanced diet and can be fed to your dog for long-term.  However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian first before making changes to your older dog’s diet. 

In case your pooch has digestive issues, canine-specific probiotics will help their upset tummies. L-carnitine is there to support your beloved one’s metabolism.

Apart from senior pups, the formula is suitable for adult dogs of all breeds, especially overweight canines. Check out other senior dog brands, and perhaps you will find something you like!

Ingredients:

Lamb meal, peas, chickpeas, lentils, sweet potatoes, powdered cellulose, potatoes, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), flaxseed, natural flavor, ocean fish meal, menhaden fish oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), DL-methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, glucosamine hydrochloride, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid, chondroitin sulfate, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6).

Puppies: Diamond Puppy

Image source: diamond dog food 

Best for Puppies: Diamond Puppy is a formula tailored specifically for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs. It is rich in protein, which is extremely important for vigorous and rapidly growing pups. 

The main downside of this brand is that the protein is derived from chicken by-product meal and whole grain ground corn. Like other meat by-products, chicken by-products are treated as a controversial ingredient, mainly because they are inexpensive and consumers have linked them to slaughterhouse wastes.  

Meat by-products aren’t high-quality protein sources. They can be made up of many slaughtered animals leftovers, such as:

• Hair
• Hooves
• Beaks
• Feathers
• Claws
• Horns

Whole grain ground corn is also considered a questionable ingredient. Ground whole grain corn contains the entire corn kernel. And while it does provide a moderate amount of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein, it is still one of the most controversial dog food ingredients, mainly because of digestibility. 

Whole grain ground corn is only digestible if corn is processed into a meal or flour and cooked. In terms of being a protein source, corn is a plant-based protein that does not provide enough necessary amino acids needed for dogs to maintain good health. Therefore, corn as a substitute for meat degrades the overall protein quality of the product. 

In addition, formulas that contain too much grain can induce vomiting and diarrhea with canines, and dogs’ digestive systems can’t process them efficiently. 

Another controversial ingredient that Diamond Puppy has is wheat flour. Wheat flour provides dietary fiber, various vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein. As mentioned, plant-based protein is one of the main factors of product quality degradation. Many people also believed that wheat is a common ingredient that causes allergies and intolerance.  

Moving on from controversial ingredients, Diamond Puppy contains egg product that is easily digestible and is a source of high-quality protein and flaxseed, an impressive source of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and a good amount of protein, B vitamins, and various minerals. 

In addition, it also contains salmon oil. It is the source of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is essential for the neural development of your puppy. Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids maintain your pup’s healthy coat and skin while boosting their immune system.

Ingredients:

Chicken by-product meal, whole grain ground corn, wheat flour, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), dried beet pulp, egg product, flaxseed, natural chicken flavor, fish meal, salmon oil (a source of DHA), potassium chloride, salt, choline chloride, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, vitamin A supplement, biotin, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, manganese proteinate, thiamine mononitrate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, niacin, calcium pantothenate, manganese sulfate.

Adult Dogs: Diamond Naturals Beef Meal & Rice Formula

Image source: diamond dog food

Adult Dogs: Beef Meal & Rice Formula contains Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, which support your pooch’s lustrous coat and skin.

The first ingredient of this Diamond Naturals dog food  is a beef meal. It’s a highly-concentrated source of natural protein. Fresh beef meat contains more moisture and little protein, however, with beef meal, most of the water is removed for a more solid source of protein by volume. 

Grain sorghum is a digestible cereal grain rich in antioxidants. Its popularity is on the rise, as it’s proven to contain vitamins, minerals, fiber, zinc, B1, iron, niacin, and dietary fiber. This ingredient is less likely to cause allergies, but grains aren’t easy on your dog’s tummy. Dog food brands mostly use them to keep their costs low. 

As mentioned, the grain sorghum in this particular Diamond Naturals dog food is less likely to cause allergies but a good number of grains can trigger food allergies in some dogs. If you have a sensitive dog, make sure to check dog food labels for any grain-like ingredient. Otherwise, it’s an extremely healthy and nutritious ingredient. 

Another ingredient for this recipe is chicken fat. It’s a good source of Omega-6 and Vitamin E. In addition, it enhances the aroma of the food, making this dog food appealing for your furry friend. 

This product contains blueberries, which are an excellent source of fiber. They are especially beneficial for diabetic pups. Useful ingredients are also carrots, which support healthy bowel movement and are rich in vitamin A. The formula is further enhanced with a healthy serving of probiotics that help your dog’s digestive system maintain perfect condition. 

Ingredients:

Beef meal, grain sorghum, ground white rice, dried yeast, egg product, rice bran, cracked pearled barley, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), dried beet pulp, natural flavor, flaxseed, potassium chloride, salt, DL-Methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, glucosamine hydrochloride, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, calcium pantothenate, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, beta carotene, chondroitin sulfate, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, biotin, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite.

Large Breed: Large Breed Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula

Image source: diamond dog food

Large Breed: Large Breed Adult Dog Chicken & Rice Formula derives most of its protein from real chicken meat and a chicken meal. For superior taste, Diamond dog food uses cage-free chicken. The protein also comes from grain and brown rice, which can be difficult for your canine to digest properly. 

Chicken meal is made by cooking the chicken through a process called rendering. This process thoroughly reduces the natural chicken moisture and results in a highly-condensed protein source. For superior taste, Diamond Natural dog food uses cage-free chicken. 

The protein also comes from grain and brown rice. Whole grain brown rice is rich in fiber and various minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium. However, it can be difficult for your dog to digest properly. 

Large breed dogs are known to suffer from joint issues, as their legs have to endure higher pressure of their body weight. Glucosamine and chondroitin keep your dog’s joints healthy and relieve the pain. 

It’s crucial not to allow your pooch to put on weight. This product doesn’t contain too much fat, which will reduce the risks of obesity. The product is packed with probiotics that thrive in the GI tract. It doesn’t contain any:

• Wheat
• Corn
• Fillers
• Artificial colors, flavors, preservatives

This recipe also contains rice bran and is an excellent source of fiber. This also provides all three macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbohydrates) and various vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your dog. 

This product is also beneficial for dogs with dry skin, due to Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids. Overall, the ingredients show that this Diamond Naturals dog food for large breed adult dogs derives most of its protein from animal-based sources. This is a significant feature since meat-based proteins have all the necessary amino acids that your dog needs. 

Ingredient:

Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice, rice bran, grain sorghum, dried yeast, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), egg product, dried beet pulp, natural flavor, flaxseed, potassium chloride, salt, DL-Methionine, choline chloride, taurine, glucosamine hydrochloride, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, manganese proteinate, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, vitamin E supplement, beta carotene, chondroitin sulfate, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, manganous oxide, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride.

Small Breed: Small Breed Adult Dog Lamb & Rice Formula

Image source: diamond dog food

Small Breed: Small Breed Adult Dog Lamb & Rice Formula is tailored for our tiniest beasties. Its small kibble is easy to munch on, and it helps reduce plaque. If you need more ideas on how to maintain your pooch’s dental hygiene, you can find some ideas in the top 10 best dog dental chew.

The first ingredient is real lamb, which is a great source of protein. This is produced by cooking lamb using the rendering process, where the natural moisture is thoroughly reduced, resulting in a highly-condensed protein source. This food also contains kale, blueberries, and coconut. They are rich in minerals and vitamins, which strengthen your buddy’s immune system. 

The formula also contains grain and rice as protein sources, which provide your sweetheart with energy. Ground white rice is not as harmful to your dog’s digestion as brown rice and is a gluten-free carbohydrate source. 

The former is easier to digest if compared to the latter. The formula doesn’t contain:

• Corn
• Wheat
• Soy

Another prime ingredient in this recipe is grain sorghum, also another source of gluten-free carbohydrates. This grain provides a good amount of B vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and manganese. 

Based on its listed ingredients, we recognized this Diamond Naturals dog food product does not have any artificial colors, preservatives, or unknown meat ingredients. It shows that it derives most of its protein from animal-based sources and contains all the necessary amino acids that a dog’s health demands. 

Ingredients:

Lamb, lamb meal, ground white rice, cracked pearled barley, grain sorghum, egg product, dried yeast, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), oatmeal, dried beet pulp, natural flavor, flaxseed, potassium chloride, salt, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, L-Carnitine, kale, chia seed, pumpkin, blueberries, oranges, quinoa, dried kelp, coconut, spinach, carrots, papaya, yucca schidigera extract, manganous oxide, dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Bifidobacterium animalis fermentation product, vitamin E supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D supplement, folic acid, beta carotene, iron proteinate, zinc proteinate, copper proteinate, ferrous sulfate, zinc sulfate, copper sulfate, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite.

Let’s Wrap It Up

Based on the products that we evaluated, you can see that there are many highly beneficial nutrients in Diamond dog food formulas that your lovely canine will thrive on. They mostly use real meat or named meat meal as their first ingredient, which provides high-quality protein. 

But you must be cautious when buying their products. Some formulas list meat by-products or unnamed meat meals on top of the ingredient list, which you don’t want to feed your pet with. Their recipes are mostly grain-inclusive.

The brand also strives hard to use lots of fruits and vegetables and give your pooch vitamins and minerals.

The Alpha Paw team rates Diamond Natural Dog Food brand with four out of five stars. We would advise you to give it a go, but to check the ingredient list prior to buying. This way, you will be able to bypass harmful ingredients that exist in some recipes.

If you want to expand the scope of your search, take a look at our list of the best large breed dry dog food or best dry dog food for small dogs, and see if there’s anything you like. Avoid buying the worst dry dog food brands on the market. If you’re looking for canned food, we suggest taking a look at the best-canned dog food.

References:

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_food
2. Tjernsbekk, M. T., et al. “Raw Mechanically Separated Chicken Meat and Salmon Protein Hydrolysate as Protein Sources in Extruded Dog Food: Effect on Protein and Amino Acid Digestibility.” Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, vol. 101, no. 5, 2017, doi:10.1111/jpn.12608.
3. Robertson, Debora. Bone appétit: 50 Clean Recipes for Healthier, Happier Dogs. Harper Design, 2019.