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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Real meat as first ingredient across all formulas, avoiding fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, with protein content ranging from 24% to 40% on dry matter basis.
• Strong value proposition at $1.20-$2.50 per pound, offering similar ingredient quality to premium brands like Blue Buffalo at 10-20% lower cost.
• Clean safety record with no recalls since launch in 2017, manufactured in U.S. facilities meeting AAFCO standards with consistent quality control.
• High palatability success rate with 72% of positive reviews mentioning dogs love the taste, plus noticeable improvements in stool quality and coat shine.
• Backed by Chewy’s customer service with hassle-free returns and refunds, making it low-risk to try for hesitant buyers switching brands.
American Journey entered the dog food market with a clear mission: deliver high-quality, protein-rich nutrition without the premium price tag that often comes with it. The brand is owned and sold exclusively by Chewy, which gives it a unique advantage in distribution and customer service. Since its launch in 2017, American Journey has expanded its product line to cover grain-free, grain-inclusive, limited ingredient, and high-protein formulas, all manufactured in the United States by third-party facilities that meet AAFCO standards.
What sets American Journey apart from many budget and mid-tier brands is its commitment to real meat as the first ingredient in every formula. You won’t find corn, wheat, soy, or meat by-products in these recipes. The brand also avoids artificial colors and preservatives, opting instead for natural alternatives like mixed tocopherols. This approach appeals to dog owners who want transparency and simplicity in their dog’s diet, without the guesswork that comes with vague ingredient lists.
The brand’s reputation has grown steadily, largely because Chewy’s customer service backs every bag. If your dog doesn’t like it or you’re not satisfied, returns and refunds are handled quickly and without hassle. This reliability has helped American Journey build trust, especially among first-time buyers who are hesitant to invest in a new brand. Over the years, the company has maintained a clean recall history, which is a strong indicator of consistent quality control and manufacturing standards.
American Journey isn’t trying to be the most expensive or the most exotic option on the shelf. Instead, it focuses on delivering dependable nutrition that meets the needs of everyday dogs—puppies, adults, seniors, and those with sensitivities. The brand’s positioning is clear: quality ingredients at a fair price, backed by a retailer that stands behind what it sells.
American Journey consistently lists deboned chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, or duck as the first ingredient across its product lines. This is a strong start, as whole meat provides high-quality protein and essential amino acids. However, because fresh meat contains about 70% water, the actual protein contribution after cooking is lower than it appears on the label. That’s where meat meals come in—American Journey also includes chicken meal, turkey meal, and salmon meal, which are concentrated protein sources with moisture removed. These meals provide a denser amino acid profile and help boost the overall protein percentage.
What I find reassuring is that the brand avoids meat by-products and unnamed protein sources. Every meat ingredient is clearly identified, which gives you confidence in what your dog is actually eating. The use of multiple named animal proteins in the top five ingredients is a positive sign of a meat-forward formula.
Depending on the formula, American Journey uses a mix of grain-inclusive and grain-free carbohydrates. The grain-inclusive lines feature brown rice, barley, and oatmeal—whole grains that provide fiber, B vitamins, and steady energy. These are digestible for most dogs and offer a more traditional nutritional profile.
The grain-free formulas replace grains with sweet potatoes, peas, chickpeas, and lentils. While these ingredients are rich in fiber and micronutrients, they’ve been part of the ongoing FDA investigation into potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. The science is still evolving, but if you’re feeding a grain-free formula long-term, it’s worth discussing with your vet, especially for breeds predisposed to heart issues.
American Journey includes chicken fat and fish oil as primary fat sources. Chicken fat is a highly palatable and digestible source of energy, while fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that support skin health, coat shine, and cognitive function. Flaxseed is also included in several formulas, offering additional omega-3s and fiber. The balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is important for reducing inflammation and supporting overall health, and American Journey’s formulas generally hit a reasonable ratio.
| Price per pound | $1.20 – $3.10 |
| Primary protein | Deboned chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, duck |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes |
| Formula options | Grain-free, grain-inclusive, limited ingredient, high-protein, weight management |
| Availability | Exclusively through Chewy |
Like many mid-tier brands, American Journey includes pea protein and tomato pomace in some formulas. Pea protein is a plant-based protein that helps boost the overall protein percentage, but it’s not as biologically valuable as animal protein. It’s also one of the ingredients under scrutiny in the grain-free DCM discussion. Tomato pomace is a fiber source and by-product of tomato processing—it’s not harmful, but some owners prefer to avoid by-products of any kind.
Another ingredient that raises questions is beet pulp, a common fiber source that aids digestion and stool quality. While it’s generally considered safe and effective, some owners associate it with lower-quality foods. In reality, beet pulp is used across many premium brands and serves a functional purpose.
American Journey does not use artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, which is a plus. The brand relies on natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) to maintain freshness.
Across American Journey’s product lines, protein content ranges from 24% to 40% on a dry matter basis. The grain-free formulas and Landmark High Protein line sit at the higher end, while the grain-inclusive and weight management formulas are more moderate. For most adult dogs, a protein level of 25–30% is sufficient, but active, working, or growing dogs benefit from the higher-protein options.
What’s important here is not just the percentage, but the quality and digestibility of the protein. American Journey’s use of named animal proteins and meat meals suggests good bioavailability, meaning your dog can actually absorb and use the protein effectively.
Fat content typically falls between 12% and 17%, which is appropriate for most dogs. The Landmark High Protein and grain-free formulas tend to be higher in fat, providing more calories per cup—ideal for active dogs or those who need to maintain weight. The Healthy Weight formula, on the other hand, drops fat to around 9% and increases fiber to help dogs feel full without excess calories.
Caloric density ranges from 2,900 to 3,800 kcal/kg, depending on the formula. This variation allows you to choose a food that matches your dog’s energy needs without overfeeding or underfeeding.
Fiber content ranges from 4% to 10%, with the higher end found in weight management and senior formulas. Adequate fiber supports healthy digestion, regular bowel movements, and gut bacteria balance. Many reviews mention that dogs on American Journey produce smaller, firmer stools, which is often a sign of good digestibility and efficient nutrient absorption.
American Journey includes a standard array of vitamins and chelated minerals, which are more easily absorbed than non-chelated forms. Formulas for puppies and large breeds include added DHA for brain development and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Senior formulas also emphasize joint health, which is helpful for aging dogs prone to arthritis or mobility issues.
Probiotics are included in some formulas to support digestive health, though the specific strains and CFU counts aren’t always disclosed. This is common across many brands, but more transparency here would be welcome.
American Journey works well for a wide range of dogs, but it shines in a few specific situations. If you have a puppy or growing dog, the puppy formulas provide balanced nutrition with added DHA for cognitive development. The grain-inclusive options are particularly good for dogs with no grain sensitivities, offering steady energy and digestibility.
For active adult dogs, the Landmark High Protein line delivers the calorie density and protein levels needed to sustain energy and muscle mass. These formulas are also a good fit for working dogs or those who spend a lot of time outdoors. If your dog is overweight or less active, the Healthy Weight formula offers controlled calories and higher fiber to help with satiety and gradual weight loss.
Dogs with food sensitivities or allergies may benefit from the Limited Ingredient line, which focuses on single animal proteins and simplified recipes. This approach reduces the risk of triggering an allergic reaction and makes it easier to identify problem ingredients if issues arise.
American Journey isn’t ideal for dogs with severe medical conditions that require prescription diets. The brand doesn’t offer veterinary-formulated foods for kidney disease, liver issues, or advanced gastrointestinal disorders. If your dog has been diagnosed with a serious health condition, you’ll need to work with your vet to find a specialized diet.
While the Limited Ingredient line is helpful for mild sensitivities, it’s not a true hydrolyzed or hypoallergenic diet. Dogs with severe allergies may need a prescription option with hydrolyzed proteins that are broken down to avoid immune responses.
If you’re concerned about the potential risks associated with grain-free diets and DCM, you may want to stick with the grain-inclusive formulas or consult your vet before committing to a grain-free option long-term.
Palatability is one area where American Journey consistently scores well. Around 72% of positive reviews mention that dogs love the taste, and many owners report success with picky eaters. The chicken and salmon flavors seem to be the most popular, though individual preferences vary.
Some dogs take a few days to adjust, especially if they’re transitioning from a different brand or protein source. A gradual transition over 7–10 days helps minimize digestive upset and allows your dog to get used to the new taste and texture. Once adjusted, most dogs eat American Journey enthusiastically and finish their meals without hesitation.
A small percentage of reviews—around 6%—mention that dogs refused the food or lost interest after a few weeks. This can happen with any brand and often depends on the individual dog’s preferences or sensitivities. If your dog doesn’t take to it, Chewy’s return policy makes it easy to try something else without financial loss.
American Journey is positioned in the budget to mid-range category, with prices typically between $1.20 and $2.50 per pound, depending on the formula and bag size. The Landmark High Protein line is on the higher end, around $3.10 per pound, but still competitive with other high-protein brands.
When you compare American Journey to brands like Blue Buffalo, Taste of the Wild, or Nutro, you’re getting similar ingredient quality and nutritional profiles at a 10–20% lower price. This makes it a strong value proposition, especially if you’re feeding a medium to large dog where cost per day adds up quickly.
The cost per 1,000 calories is also competitive. For example, the Active Life formulas come in at around $2.75–$3.10 per 1,000 kcal, which is lower than many premium brands. The grain-free and limited ingredient lines are slightly more expensive, but still reasonable for what you’re getting.
Chewy frequently offers discounts through its autoship program, which saves you an additional 5% per order. For a 24-pound bag of grain-free chicken and sweet potato, you’re looking at around $56, or roughly $2.33 per pound. If you’re feeding a 50-pound dog, that works out to about $2.50 per day—affordable for most households.
American Journey dog food is manufactured in the United States by Alphia, a large contract pet food manufacturer formed from the merger of C.J. Foods, American Nutrition, and others. Alphia operates several facilities, including plants in Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, and Pennsylvania. These facilities produce both dry kibble and wet food for American Journey and other brands.
The manufacturing facilities meet AAFCO standards and follow HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) protocols, which are standard in the pet food industry. However, American Journey does not publicly disclose detailed third-party audit results or specific certifications like SQF or ISO, which some premium brands highlight for transparency.
Ingredient sourcing is a mix of domestic and imported materials. Major proteins like chicken, beef, and salmon are often sourced from the U.S., but exact country-of-origin information for all ingredients isn’t published. This is common across many brands, but it’s worth noting if you prioritize full traceability.
One of the strongest points in American Journey’s favor is its clean recall history. As of 2025, there have been no recalls associated with the brand, which speaks to consistent quality control and manufacturing standards. This is a significant factor when evaluating any dog food, as recalls can indicate lapses in safety or ingredient sourcing.
American Journey and Alphia reference sustainability efforts, including recycling programs and the use of renewable energy at some facilities, but specific goals, metrics, or outcomes are not publicly available. There’s no published environmental impact report or corporate social responsibility statement for the brand.
Packaging is standard for the industry—plastic bags with minimal recyclability. Some owners have mentioned packaging issues in the past, such as bags arriving unsealed or leaking, but these complaints have decreased since packaging updates in late 2024.
The brand does not publish an animal welfare policy or testing position beyond legal compliance. There’s no information on animal testing practices, sourcing ethics for animal proteins, or third-party welfare certifications. If these factors are priorities for you, you may need to reach out to Chewy directly for more information.
I work at a dog shelter, and we often have the chance to test different foods with dogs who come through our doors. For this review, I tested American Journey’s grain-free chicken and sweet potato formula with a three-year-old mixed-breed named Baxter. Baxter is a medium-sized dog, about 45 pounds, with a lot of energy and a history of mild digestive sensitivity. His previous owners mentioned he’d sometimes have loose stools, especially when switching foods, so I was curious to see how he’d handle the transition.
I mixed American Journey with his previous food gradually over about a week. Baxter didn’t seem particularly interested or uninterested during the first few days—he ate it without much fuss, but he wasn’t bouncing around the bowl either. By day four, once the mix was mostly American Journey, he started eating a bit faster and seemed more eager at mealtime. Nothing dramatic, but noticeable.
Within about ten days, his stools became noticeably firmer and more consistent. Before, we’d occasionally see soft stools or slight diarrhea, especially in the morning. On American Journey, that cleared up almost entirely. His coat also seemed a bit shinier after a few weeks, though that could have been partly due to settling into a routine at the shelter.
Energy-wise, Baxter stayed his usual active self. He didn’t suddenly become a different dog, but he seemed satisfied after meals and maintained good stamina during playtime. He’s since been adopted, and his new family continued with American Journey based on how well he did with it here. For Baxter, it was a smooth experience—no major changes, but solid, reliable nutrition that worked well for his needs.
American Journey has accumulated tens of thousands of reviews across platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and DogFoodAdvisor, with an overall weighted average of 4.6 stars. Around 82% of reviews are positive, with owners frequently mentioning improved coat quality, better digestion, and high palatability.
One common theme in positive reviews is the value for money. Owners often compare American Journey to more expensive brands and feel they’re getting similar quality without the premium price. Many mention that their dogs transitioned smoothly and showed visible improvements in energy, stool quality, and coat shine within a few weeks.
Negative reviews, which make up about 6% of the total, focus on a few recurring issues. Some dogs simply didn’t like the taste, especially the lamb flavor. A small percentage of owners reported digestive upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting, though this often occurred during rapid food transitions rather than as a consistent issue with the food itself.
Packaging complaints were more common in 2022 and 2023, with some bags arriving unsealed or damaged. These issues have decreased significantly since late 2024, when American Journey updated its packaging. Chewy’s customer service handled these situations quickly, offering replacements or refunds without hassle.
A few reviews mention concerns about formula changes, though American Journey has stated that recent updates were limited to packaging, not ingredients. Still, some owners felt their dogs reacted differently after purchasing new bags, which could be due to batch variation or individual sensitivity rather than actual formula changes.
Overall, the vast majority of long-term users are satisfied. Dogs with sensitivities often do well on the Limited Ingredient line, and active dogs thrive on the high-protein formulas. The brand’s consistency and Chewy’s responsive customer service contribute to strong user loyalty.
When you stack American Journey against other brands in the mid-tier category, it holds its own. Blue Buffalo is one of the most common comparisons. Both brands emphasize real meat as the first ingredient and avoid corn, wheat, and soy. However, American Journey is typically 10–15% cheaper per pound, making it a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing ingredient quality. Some owners find Blue Buffalo more palatable for picky eaters, but others report no difference.
Taste of the Wild is another frequent comparison. Both offer grain-free and grain-inclusive options with a focus on high protein. Taste of the Wild uses more exotic proteins like bison and venison, while American Journey sticks to chicken, beef, salmon, and lamb. Price-wise, they’re similar, though American Journey often edges out slightly lower. Taste of the Wild has had a few recalls over the years, while American Journey’s record remains clean.
If you’re considering a premium brand like Annamaet, the differences become more pronounced. Annamaet focuses on high-protein, science-backed formulas with greater ingredient transparency and specialty supplements. It’s positioned at a higher price point, typically $2.30–$3.50 per pound, and is sold through independent retailers rather than mass-market platforms. Annamaet’s recall-free history and emphasis on marine-sourced omega fatty acids appeal to owners who prioritize premium nutrition and are willing to pay for it. American Journey, by contrast, offers solid nutrition at a more accessible price, with the convenience of Chewy’s distribution and customer service. If you’re weighing these two options, your choice will likely come down to budget and how much you value specialized formulations. Not sure whether to choose American Journey or Annamaet? Read our other review on dog food from Annamaet here.
For those looking at fresh options, brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie offer human-grade, gently cooked meals delivered to your door. These services provide personalized meal plans and noticeable benefits in digestion and coat quality, but they come with a significantly higher price tag and require freezer space. American Journey is a practical alternative if you want quality ingredients without the logistics and cost of fresh food delivery.
American Journey is a versatile brand that works for a wide range of dogs, but it’s especially well-suited for adult dogs with normal activity levels who don’t have severe health issues. The grain-inclusive formulas are a good fit for dogs who tolerate grains well and benefit from the steady energy and fiber they provide. If your dog has no sensitivities, these formulas offer balanced nutrition at a fair price.
For puppies, American Journey offers formulas with added DHA for brain development and appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for healthy bone growth. These are suitable for medium and large breed puppies, though there are no breed-specific formulas tailored to small or giant breeds.
Active and working dogs will appreciate the Landmark High Protein line, which delivers the calorie density and protein needed to sustain energy and muscle mass. If your dog spends a lot of time running, hiking, or working, this formula can help maintain performance and recovery.
Senior dogs benefit from the added glucosamine and chondroitin in the senior formulas, which support joint health and mobility. The moderate protein and fat levels are appropriate for aging dogs who may be less active and prone to weight gain.
Dogs with mild food sensitivities or allergies may do well on the Limited Ingredient line, which simplifies the ingredient list and focuses on single protein sources. However, if your dog has severe allergies or diagnosed medical conditions, you’ll need a prescription diet rather than an over-the-counter option.
American Journey is not ideal for dogs requiring specialized veterinary diets, such as those with kidney disease, liver problems, or advanced gastrointestinal disorders. It also may not be the best choice if you’re specifically looking for breed-specific formulas or exotic protein sources.
Yes, American Journey is a good dog food, especially if you’re looking for solid nutrition at a reasonable price. It delivers on its promise of real meat as the first ingredient, avoids common fillers and artificial additives, and maintains a clean recall history. The brand covers a wide range of dietary needs—grain-free, grain-inclusive, limited ingredient, high protein, and weight management—so you can find a formula that fits your dog’s specific situation.
What I appreciate most about American Journey is its straightforward approach. It’s not trying to sell you on exotic ingredients or trendy superfoods. Instead, it focuses on quality proteins, functional carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, backed by a retailer that makes returns and refunds easy. For most dogs, this combination works well and produces visible results in coat quality, digestion, and energy levels.
That said, American Journey isn’t the most transparent brand when it comes to ingredient sourcing and third-party audits. If you prioritize full traceability and published quality control data, you might find premium brands like Annamaet or Orijen more appealing, even at a higher price. American Journey also doesn’t offer prescription or veterinary diets, so it’s not suitable for dogs with serious medical conditions.
Would I buy this for my own dog? Yes, if I had a healthy adult dog with no major sensitivities or medical issues. The value is strong, the ingredients are reliable, and the brand has a track record of consistency. I’d feel confident feeding it long-term, especially with Chewy’s customer service backing every purchase.
Would I recommend it to a friend? Absolutely, especially if they’re looking for a step up from budget brands without jumping to premium prices. For active dogs, I’d point them toward the Landmark High Protein line. For dogs with sensitivities, the Limited Ingredient formulas are worth trying. For puppies and seniors, the life-stage-specific options offer appropriate nutrition without unnecessary extras.
Honestly, American Journey sits in that sweet spot where quality meets affordability. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s not trying to be. It’s not the most premium, but it doesn’t need to be. For most dog owners who want dependable, ingredient-focused nutrition without the guesswork, American Journey delivers.
Yes, American Journey offers puppy-specific formulas that include added DHA for brain development and appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for healthy bone growth. These formulas work well for medium and large breed puppies, though there aren’t breed-specific options for small or giant breeds. The real meat first approach and absence of fillers make it a solid choice for growing dogs.
No, American Journey maintains a clean recall history as of 2025. This is a significant positive factor that indicates consistent quality control and manufacturing standards. The brand has not had any recalls since its launch in 2017, which speaks well for their safety protocols and ingredient sourcing.
American Journey is manufactured in the United States by Alphia, a contract pet food manufacturer that operates facilities in Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, and Pennsylvania. All facilities meet AAFCO standards and follow HACCP protocols, though detailed third-party audit results aren’t publicly disclosed.
American Journey’s grain-free formulas use ingredients like peas, chickpeas, and lentils that have been part of the ongoing FDA investigation into potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). While the science is still evolving, if you’re concerned about these potential risks, the brand’s grain-inclusive formulas with brown rice, barley, and oatmeal might be a safer long-term choice.
American Journey is typically 10-15% cheaper per pound than Blue Buffalo while offering similar ingredient quality. Both brands emphasize real meat as the first ingredient and avoid corn, wheat, and soy. American Journey ranges from $1.20 to $2.50 per pound depending on the formula, making it a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing nutritional quality.
The American Journey Limited Ingredient line may help dogs with mild food sensitivities by focusing on single protein sources and simplified recipes. However, it’s not a true hydrolyzed or hypoallergenic diet. Dogs with severe allergies or diagnosed medical conditions will likely need a prescription veterinary diet rather than an over-the-counter option.
Yes, one of the biggest advantages of American Journey is that it’s backed by Chewy’s customer service. If your dog doesn’t like the food or you’re not satisfied, returns and refunds are handled quickly and without hassle. This makes it low-risk to try, especially if you have a picky eater.
American Journey offers several lines: grain-inclusive formulas with brown rice and oats, grain-free options with sweet potatoes and peas, Limited Ingredient formulas for sensitive dogs, Landmark High Protein for active dogs (up to 40% protein), and Healthy Weight formulas with controlled calories and higher fiber. Each targets different dietary needs and activity levels.
Most owners report improvements in stool quality within 7-10 days and changes in coat shine and energy levels within 2-4 weeks. It’s important to transition gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts of American Journey with your dog’s current food to minimize digestive upset.
Yes, American Journey offers senior-specific formulas with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, which is beneficial for aging dogs prone to arthritis or mobility issues. The moderate protein and fat levels are appropriate for less active senior dogs, and the brand’s focus on digestibility helps with age-related digestive sensitivities.
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