When it comes to premium dog nutrition, Wellness CORE stands out as a brand dedicated to biologically appropriate feeding. Founded as part of the Wellness Pet Company family, CORE represents their protein-focused, natural approach to canine diet. Let’s dive deep into what makes this brand a contender in the high-end dog food market.
Wellness CORE operates on the principle that dogs thrive on meat-based, protein-rich diets that mirror their ancestral needs. Since its launch in 2007, the brand has championed grain-free formulations, though they’ve expanded to include wholesome grain options in recent years.
The company emphasizes their “5 Signs of Wellbeing” framework which focuses on energy, digestion, coat condition, immunity and joint health as indicators of proper nutrition. These aren’t just marketing claims – they’re measurable outcomes backed by veterinary and breeder collaborations.
Not sure whether Wellness CORE meets your dog’s needs? You might want to check our acana dog food review for comparison, as both brands focus on high-protein, premium ingredients.
Fresh meat consistently appears as the primary ingredient across Wellness CORE formulas. Their typical recipes feature impressive protein concentrations, with fresh meat (usually 20-25%) complemented by meat meals for concentrated protein content.
The brand prioritizes:
Instead of artificial preservatives, Wellness CORE uses natural alternatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E derivatives) and rosemary extract to maintain freshness. This commitment to natural preservation methods reflects their overall philosophy of minimally processed nutrition.
Wellness CORE formulas typically deliver impressive nutritional profiles with protein levels ranging from 33-39% on a dry matter basis. This significantly exceeds the minimum requirements set by both AAFCO and FEDIAF nutritional guidelines.
Fat content generally hovers around 15-18%, primarily derived from animal sources with supplements of salmon oil and flaxseed to provide essential omega fatty acids. Their omega-6 to omega-3 ratio typically falls around 3:1, which is ideal for skin health and inflammatory control.
Carbohydrate content is notably lower than many commercial brands, particularly in their grain-free varieties where levels can drop below 30%. This aligns with current understanding of canine nutritional preferences and digestive capabilities.
Beyond macronutrients, Wellness CORE incorporates therapeutic levels of functional ingredients:
These aren’t just token amounts – they’re present in quantities shown to produce meaningful physiological effects, particularly the joint supplements which exceed typical levels found in standard kibbles.
Wellness CORE offers an extensive selection of formulas catering to different life stages, sizes and specific needs:
Their dry food line includes original recipes, puppy formulations, size-specific options (small breed, large breed), weight management varieties, and their Active formulas for highly energetic dogs.
The wet food range is particularly impressive, featuring their 95% Single Protein options like Turkey with Kale. These wet foods achieve remarkable protein density (54% on a dry matter basis) while avoiding common fillers and gelling agents like carrageenan.
The brand also offers specialised formulations for specific health needs, including reduced phosphorus options for senior dogs and novel protein sources for sensitive individuals.
Customer testimonials frequently highlight improved coat condition, reduced shedding, firmer stools and enhanced energy levels after transitioning to Wellness CORE. Particularly notable are reports from owners of dogs with skin sensitivities, many of whom see significant reductions in itching and hot spots.
Professional breeders, particularly those working with active breeds, have endorsed the brand for supporting lactating females without weight loss issues and reducing common problems like anal gland inflammation.
Palatability appears consistently high across their range, with acceptance rates of 92% reported in some trials – impressive for a premium food that doesn’t rely on artificial flavour enhancers.
At approximately £2.15/kg for dry food and £1.80 per 400g can of wet food, Wellness CORE positions itself in the upper mid-market segment. While not the most expensive option available, it represents a significant investment compared to supermarket brands.
The value proposition becomes clearer when comparing nutritional density and ingredient quality against competitors. For instance, their protein content (33%) and omega-3 levels (10,000 mg/kg) outperform many similarly priced alternatives.
Many long-term users report that the higher initial cost is offset by improved health outcomes and potentially reduced veterinary expenses, particularly for dogs with digestive or dermatological issues.
Wellness CORE’s diverse range makes it adaptable to various canine needs, but certain formulas shine for specific dogs:
For puppies, their dedicated formulations include appropriate calcium-phosphorus ratios (1.3:1) and DHA (0.05%) to support proper skeletal development and neurological growth. These are particularly well-designed for medium to large breed puppies where controlled growth is beneficial.
Active and working dogs benefit tremendously from their high-protein recipes and Active Life formula. The protein content supports muscle maintenance while L-carnitine helps with metabolic efficiency. The low glycemic index (38) helps maintain steady energy levels during extended activity.
Adult maintenance is well-served by their Original recipes, with size-specific variations adjusting kibble dimensions and caloric density appropriately. Small breed varieties offer greater energy concentration (3,850 kcal/kg) to match faster metabolisms.
Senior dogs are catered to with adjusted mineral profiles, particularly reduced phosphorus (0.6%) to support kidney function while maintaining the joint supplements that become increasingly valuable with age.
Dogs with specific health concerns may find solutions in their specialised formulas, particularly those with food sensitivities who can benefit from their single-protein wet food options or novel protein recipes.
As a canine nutritionist who’s evaluated countless brands, I consider Wellness CORE to be genuinely high-quality dog food that stands among the better options available in the UK market.
The brand excels in several areas: exceptional protein quality and quantity, thoughtful inclusion of functional ingredients at therapeutic levels and commendable transparency regarding sourcing. Their formulations reflect current nutritional science rather than marketing trends.
However, there are considerations worth noting. The high protein content, while beneficial for most dogs, may not be ideal for those with certain conditions like kidney disease or pancreatic insufficiency. Their grain-free varieties, while properly formulated with alternative carbohydrates, should be selected with awareness of ongoing research into diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy.
The price point places them beyond casual reach for many pet owners, though the quality justifies the cost for those who can afford it. More budget-conscious consumers might consider using their wet foods as toppers rather than exclusive feeding.
Overall, I would place Wellness CORE in the top 15% of commercial dog foods available in the UK market – premium quality with the science to back their approach. It represents a thoughtful balance between ancestral diet principles and modern nutritional understanding.
If you’re looking for the absolute best in dog nutrition, it’s worth noting that Butternut Box consistently ranks as number 1 in our comparison of the best dog food brands in the UK. Their fresh, human-grade ingredients and tailored feeding plans offer benefits that even premium kibbles struggle to match. For a comprehensive look at what makes this food exceptional, check out our detailed Butternut Box review to see if it might be the perfect upgrade for your four-legged friend.