9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
Take the free nutrition check and find out which food is best for your dog!
Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
American Natural Premium launched in 1998 when Jennifer Burlo and Gene Large, both experienced dog breeders running the Riverview Kennel in rural Wisconsin, decided the market needed better. Their goal was simple: create affordable, high-quality dog food using real ingredients sourced primarily from American farms, manufactured in the USA, and formulated with input from veterinarians and breeders who actually work with dogs daily.
The brand remains family-owned and independent, headquartered in Grafton, Wisconsin, with no corporate buyouts or conglomerate ownership diluting the original mission. That’s increasingly rare in an industry dominated by Mars, Nestlé, and J.M. Smucker. ANP’s core philosophy centers on three principles: American-made production, real natural ingredients, and premium-quality nutrition without artificial additives.
Over the years, ANP has grown from a regional favorite to a brand distributed across 800+ retail locations in the continental US, mostly independent pet stores and specialty retailers. They’ve expanded their lineup to include grain-free, legume-free, and ancestral grain formulas, responding to evolving dietary trends and allergy concerns. In 2019, they launched two legume-free recipes—Turkey with Pumpkin and Triple Protein with Ancestral Grains—and have continued adding options like freeze-dried raw and sensitive-care lines.
American Natural Premium’s spotless recall history is one of its strongest selling points. As of October 2025, there have been no recalls, FDA warnings, or USDA violations on record. That’s a significant achievement in an industry where even premium brands occasionally stumble on quality control. Production happens at USDA-inspected facilities, and the brand emphasizes small-batch processing to maintain consistency and nutrient integrity.
The brand’s reputation is strongest among breeders, performance dog owners, and long-term customers who value ingredient transparency and digestibility. Online reviews consistently highlight shiny coats, firm stools, and strong palatability. However, ANP doesn’t have the national brand recognition of Blue Buffalo or Wellness, and its limited distribution can make it harder to find outside the Midwest and Northeast.
What I find refreshing about ANP is its straightforward approach. There’s no flashy marketing or celebrity endorsements—just a focus on quality ingredients and practical nutrition. That said, the brand lacks some of the transparency you see with ultra-premium competitors: no published third-party lab results, no detailed sustainability reports, and limited information about specific sourcing farms or supply chain audits. For a brand positioning itself as transparent, there’s room for improvement.
Let’s dig into what’s actually in the bag. American Natural Premium emphasizes named meat meals, whole grains, and functional supplements, avoiding corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives. The brand uses mixed tocopherols (a natural form of Vitamin E) for preservation, which is a solid choice for maintaining freshness without synthetic chemicals.
The cornerstone of most ANP recipes is chicken meal, pork meal, and menhaden fish meal. Meat meals are concentrated protein sources with moisture removed, meaning they pack more protein per pound than fresh meat. Chicken meal, for example, is a complete protein with a strong amino acid profile, making it highly digestible and biologically valuable for dogs.
In the Original Recipe, the first ingredient is chicken meal, followed by pork meal and egg product. This trio provides a diverse amino acid spectrum and reduces the risk of single-protein sensitivities. The Market Fresh Beef Recipe, designed for sensitive stomachs, swaps chicken for beef and includes carrots and cauliflower as supportive ingredients. For dogs with chicken allergies, ANP offers duck-based and pork-based formulas.
What I appreciate here is the use of named, identifiable proteins. You won’t find vague terms like “poultry by-product meal” or “meat and bone meal” on ANP labels. That specificity matters for traceability and quality assurance.
ANP takes a balanced approach to carbohydrates. The Original Recipe includes oatmeal, brown rice, and barley—whole grains that provide steady energy, fiber for digestive health, and a lower glycemic response compared to refined grains or legumes. These are non-GMO and gluten-free, addressing common concerns about grain quality.
The Chicken Recipe with Ancestral Grains introduces buckwheat, quinoa, and chia seeds, which are technically seeds but marketed as “ancestral grains.” These ingredients are nutrient-dense, offering omega-3s, fiber, and micronutrients. Buckwheat, for instance, is rich in magnesium and antioxidants, while quinoa is a complete plant protein. It’s a thoughtful nod to trends favoring ancient grains over modern corn and wheat.
For dogs with grain sensitivities, ANP offers grain-free options that use potatoes and peas as carbohydrate sources. However, the brand has also responded to concerns about legume-heavy diets and potential links to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) by creating legume-free formulas. The Market Fresh line, for example, is both grain-free and legume-free, relying instead on vegetables like carrots and cauliflower.
Fat content in ANP recipes typically ranges from 12% to 18%, which is moderate to slightly above average for dry dog food. Primary fat sources include chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) and menhaden fish oil. Chicken fat is highly palatable and provides essential fatty acids, while fish oil is rich in omega-3s (EPA and DHA), which support skin health, coat shine, joint function, and cognitive development.
The inclusion of flaxseed adds plant-based omega-3s (ALA), though these are less bioavailable than marine-sourced omega-3s. Still, flaxseed contributes fiber and lignans, which have antioxidant properties. The balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids isn’t explicitly stated on the label, but the combination of chicken fat and fish oil suggests a reasonable ratio for anti-inflammatory benefits.
| Price per pound | $3.00 – $3.50 |
| Primary protein | Chicken meal, Pork meal, Menhaden fish meal, Beef, Duck, Turkey |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulation method, no feeding trials) |
| Formula options | Multiple lines including grain-free, grain-inclusive, sensitive care, and performance formulas |
| Availability | 800+ independent pet stores, limited national distribution |
ANP formulas include a range of vitamins, minerals, and functional supplements to meet AAFCO standards and support overall health. Here’s what stands out:
What’s missing is detailed transparency about supplement dosages. For example, we know glucosamine is included, but not whether it’s at a therapeutic level (typically 500–1,500 mg per day for a medium dog). This is common in the industry, but it’s a gap for owners who want to verify efficacy.
ANP avoids several controversial ingredients, which is worth noting. There’s no corn, wheat, or soy—common allergens and often used as cheap fillers. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. No by-products or unspecified meat sources. And no GMO grains in the ancestral grain recipes.
The brand also steers clear of excessive legume content in newer formulas, responding to the FDA’s investigation into grain-free diets and DCM. While the science on legumes and DCM is still evolving, ANP’s move toward legume-free and grain-inclusive options shows responsiveness to consumer concerns and emerging research.
American Natural Premium formulas are designed to meet AAFCO nutritional profiles for maintenance and all life stages, which means they’re formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition. However, ANP does not publish evidence of formal AAFCO feeding trials, which involve controlled animal testing to verify nutritional adequacy over time. Most brands, including ANP, rely on formulation compliance rather than feeding trials—a less rigorous but industry-standard approach.
Let’s look at the Original Recipe as a representative example. On a dry matter basis (removing moisture for accurate comparison), the guaranteed analysis is approximately:
The protein content is above average for mainstream dry dog food, which typically ranges from 22% to 26%. This higher protein level supports muscle maintenance, especially for active dogs, and reflects the quality of the meat meal ingredients. The fat content is moderate, providing energy and palatability without being excessive for less active dogs.
Carbohydrates at 41% are within the expected range for grain-inclusive kibble. While some owners prefer lower-carb diets, these whole grains provide digestible energy and fiber for gut health. The fiber content of around 4% is appropriate for promoting regular bowel movements without causing loose stools.
ANP formulas include a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals to meet AAFCO requirements. Key highlights include:
The use of chelated minerals (like zinc proteinate) improves bioavailability, meaning your dog’s body can actually absorb and use these nutrients effectively. This is a quality marker that separates premium brands from budget options.
Caloric density varies by recipe, but the Original Recipe provides approximately 375–420 kcal per cup. This is moderate, making it suitable for adult dogs with average activity levels. For high-energy or working dogs, ANP offers the Endurance Plus formula, which has higher fat and protein to support sustained activity. Conversely, the Sensitive Care line has lower protein and fat for seniors or less active dogs.
Portion control is straightforward with ANP. The feeding guidelines on the bag are based on weight and activity level, and most owners report that their dogs maintain healthy body condition when fed according to these recommendations. If your dog tends to gain weight easily, you might need to adjust portions slightly or choose a lower-calorie formula.
All ANP recipes meet or exceed AAFCO nutrient profiles for the indicated life stage. For example, puppy formulas meet the higher protein and calcium requirements for growth, while adult maintenance formulas are balanced for long-term health. The brand doesn’t cut corners on essential nutrients, which is reassuring for owners who want confidence in their food’s completeness.
That said, AAFCO standards are minimum requirements, not optimal targets. They ensure a food won’t cause deficiencies, but they don’t necessarily guarantee the highest quality or bioavailability of ingredients. ANP’s use of named meat meals, whole grains, and chelated minerals suggests the brand goes beyond minimums, but without published feeding trials or digestibility studies, it’s hard to quantify exactly how well dogs utilize these nutrients.
American Natural Premium offers enough variety to suit a wide range of dogs, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all brand. Here’s a breakdown of which dogs will benefit most—and which might need alternatives.
Adult Dogs with Moderate Activity: The Original Recipe and Chicken with Ancestral Grains are excellent choices for adult dogs with average energy levels. The protein and fat content support muscle maintenance and healthy weight, while whole grains provide steady energy without spikes.
Dogs with Food Sensitivities: If your dog struggles with chicken allergies, the duck-based and pork-based formulas are solid alternatives. The Market Fresh Beef Recipe is specifically designed for sensitive stomachs, with easily digestible ingredients and no legumes or chicken. Many owners report fewer digestive upsets and less itching after switching to these formulas.
Active and Working Dogs: The Endurance Plus formula is tailored for high-energy dogs—think sporting breeds, working dogs, or dogs who accompany you on long hikes. With elevated protein and fat, it supports stamina and muscle recovery. Breeders and performance-dog owners consistently praise this line.
Puppies and Growing Dogs: ANP’s puppy formulas provide the higher protein, fat, and calcium needed for healthy growth. The inclusion of DHA from fish oil supports brain and eye development, which is especially important in the first year of life.
Senior Dogs: The Sensitive Care line, with lower protein and fat, is appropriate for older dogs with reduced activity or those managing weight. The added probiotics and joint-support ingredients (glucosamine and chondroitin) are practical bonuses for aging dogs.
Dogs with Severe Grain Allergies: While ANP offers grain-free options, the brand’s focus is increasingly on grain-inclusive formulas. If your dog has a confirmed grain allergy, you’ll need to stick to the grain-free lines, which may limit variety.
Dogs Requiring Prescription Diets: ANP doesn’t offer veterinary or prescription formulas for conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or severe food allergies. If your dog has a diagnosed medical condition requiring specialized nutrition, you’ll need a brand like Hill’s or Royal Canin.
Very Large or Giant Breeds Prone to Bloat: While ANP formulas are nutritionally balanced, the kibble size and density aren’t specifically designed to slow down fast eaters or reduce bloat risk. If you have a Great Dane or Mastiff, consider a large-breed-specific formula with larger, slower-eating kibble.
Dogs on a Tight Budget: ANP is priced at a mid-premium level, typically around $3.00–$3.50 per pound. If cost is a primary concern, there are more affordable options like Diamond Naturals or Victor that still meet AAFCO standards.
Palatability is where American Natural Premium shines, according to most owner reports. The combination of high-quality meat meals and chicken fat makes the food appealing to even picky eaters. The kibble has a mild, savory smell—nothing artificial or overpowering—and dogs tend to dive into their bowls with enthusiasm.
ANP offers a decent range of flavors, including chicken, beef, duck, pork, turkey, and multi-protein blends. The Turkey with Pumpkin recipe is particularly popular for small dogs and picky eaters, while the Triple Protein with Ancestral Grains appeals to dogs who need variety. If your dog has a history of turning up their nose at food, the Exhibitor’s Choice formula is worth trying—it’s designed for show dogs and breeders who need consistent acceptance.
That said, flavor variety isn’t as extensive as brands like Blue Buffalo or Wellness. If you like rotating proteins frequently, you might find ANP’s lineup a bit limited.
The kibble size is standard to medium, suitable for most breeds. It’s not as small as toy-breed-specific formulas, but small dogs generally handle it fine. The texture is crunchy, which helps with dental health by reducing plaque buildup as your dog chews.
One thing I’ve noticed in owner feedback is that the kibble consistency can vary slightly between batches. Some users report darker, smaller pieces in newer bags, which may reflect minor production variations. While this doesn’t seem to affect palatability, it’s worth noting if your dog is particularly sensitive to changes.
Most dogs transition to ANP without issue, but as with any food switch, a gradual transition over 7–10 days is recommended. Mix increasing amounts of ANP with your current food to allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust. This reduces the risk of loose stools or upset stomach.
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, the Market Fresh or Sensitive Care lines are designed to be extra gentle, making the transition smoother. Probiotics in these formulas also help stabilize gut flora during the switch.
American Natural Premium sits in the mid-premium price range, typically around $3.00–$3.50 per pound, depending on the formula and where you buy it. For context, that’s more expensive than budget brands like Diamond Naturals ($2.00–$2.50/lb) but less than ultra-premium options like Orijen ($4.00–$5.00/lb).
At this price point, you’re getting named meat meals, whole grains, and functional supplements without artificial additives. The USA-sourced ingredients and small-batch production add to the cost, as does the brand’s emphasis on quality control. The zero-recall history suggests that ANP invests in safety and consistency, which has real value for peace of mind.
Compared to competitors like Blue Buffalo or Merrick at similar prices, ANP holds its own. The protein content is competitive, the ingredient list is clean, and the palatability is strong. Where ANP falls slightly short is in transparency and innovation. Brands like Wellness or Orijen publish more detailed sourcing information and invest in feeding trials, which justifies their higher prices.
If you’re feeding a medium-sized dog (50 lbs), you can expect to spend roughly $60–$80 per month on ANP, depending on the formula and your dog’s activity level. That’s reasonable for a mid-premium brand, but it’s not a bargain. For owners who prioritize USA-made products and ingredient transparency, ANP offers solid value. If you’re budget-conscious and willing to compromise on sourcing transparency, there are cheaper options that still meet AAFCO standards.
One frustration I’ve seen in recent reviews is price increases and smaller bag sizes. Some owners report that a 30-lb bag that used to cost $64 now costs $80, or that the bag size has shrunk to 23 lbs at the same price. This erodes the value proposition, especially when the formula hasn’t noticeably improved. If ANP continues raising prices without adding clear benefits, it risks losing loyal customers to more affordable alternatives.
Speaking of alternatives, if you’re considering high-energy formulas, it’s worth comparing ANP’s Endurance Plus to dog food from Inukshuk. Inukshuk is a Canadian brand designed specifically for working and sporting dogs, with calorie-dense formulas (up to 650 kcal/cup) and protein levels in the 32–34% range. It’s priced similarly to ANP but delivers more calories per dollar, making it a better value if you have a truly high-energy dog. However, Inukshuk’s formulas are less suitable for average pet dogs, as the high fat content (up to 28%) can lead to weight gain in less active animals. ANP’s Endurance Plus offers a middle ground—energetic enough for active dogs but not so extreme that it’s risky for moderate activity levels.
American Natural Premium manufactures all its food in the USA, specifically in USDA-inspected facilities in Wisconsin. The brand emphasizes small-batch processing, which allows for tighter quality control and fresher product compared to mass-produced kibble. Low-temperature processing is used to retain nutrient integrity, which is a positive sign for ingredient quality.
ANP sources ingredients primarily from American farms, though the brand doesn’t disclose specific supplier names or locations. This is fairly typical in the industry, but it’s a transparency gap compared to brands like Open Farm or The Honest Kitchen, which provide detailed sourcing maps.
The use of named meat meals (chicken meal, pork meal, fish meal) rather than generic “meat meal” is a quality marker. Named meals are traceable to specific protein sources, reducing the risk of contamination or inconsistency. The inclusion of non-GMO grains and the avoidance of artificial additives further support the brand’s natural positioning.
While ANP doesn’t publish third-party lab results or detailed quality control protocols, the zero-recall history suggests robust internal testing. USDA-inspected facilities are required to follow strict sanitation and safety standards, which reduces the risk of contamination from pathogens like Salmonella or Listeria.
That said, the lack of published certifications like HACCP, ISO 22000, or SQF is a transparency gap. These certifications demonstrate adherence to international food safety standards and often involve third-party audits. Without them, we’re relying on ANP’s word and regulatory compliance rather than independent verification.
Some recent reviews mention inconsistencies between batches—darker kibble, smaller pieces, or a slightly different smell. These could be due to natural variation in ingredients (e.g., seasonal changes in meat or grains) or minor production adjustments. While this doesn’t seem to affect palatability or safety, it’s worth monitoring if your dog is particularly sensitive to changes.
American Natural Premium’s sustainability story is mixed. On the positive side, the brand emphasizes local sourcing and small-batch production, which reduces food miles and overproduction. Manufacturing in the USA also means adherence to stricter environmental and labor regulations compared to some overseas facilities.
However, ANP doesn’t publish sustainability reports or specific environmental targets. There’s no information about carbon footprint, water usage, or waste reduction initiatives. Packaging appears to be standard plastic bags, with no mention of recyclable or biodegradable materials. For eco-conscious owners, this is a significant gap.
Compared to brands like Open Farm (which uses 100% recyclable packaging and offsets carbon emissions) or The Honest Kitchen (which emphasizes minimal processing and human-grade sourcing), ANP lags behind on environmental transparency.
ANP doesn’t publish details about animal welfare standards for its meat suppliers. There’s no mention of cage-free eggs, grass-fed beef, or humane slaughter practices. While the brand works with breeders and veterinarians for formulation input, this doesn’t directly address the welfare of farm animals used in production.
For owners who prioritize ethical sourcing, this lack of transparency is a concern. Brands like Stella & Chewy’s or Primal Pet Foods are more explicit about humane sourcing and free-range proteins.
As a small, family-owned company, ANP doesn’t have the resources for large-scale CSR initiatives. There’s no evidence of charitable programs, community partnerships, or employee welfare disclosures. This isn’t necessarily a negative—small businesses often operate on tighter margins—but it’s a contrast to larger brands that invest in social programs or disaster relief for pets.
I work at a local dog shelter, and we occasionally test new foods with our residents to see how they respond before recommending them to adopters. For this review, I tried American Natural Premium’s Original Recipe with a dog named Clover, a three-year-old mixed-breed (likely Beagle and Australian Cattle Dog) who’d been with us for about two months.
Clover came to us underweight and with a dull coat, likely due to inconsistent feeding before her surrender. She’s not picky—she’ll eat pretty much anything—but she does have a sensitive stomach. Rich foods or sudden switches tend to give her loose stools, so we’re always cautious about transitions.
We transitioned Clover gradually over seven days, mixing increasing amounts of ANP with her previous food (a mid-range grocery store brand). She showed immediate interest in the new kibble, which was a good sign. The smell is mild and meaty—nothing artificial—and she didn’t hesitate when we first offered it.
Clover took to the food easily. She finished every meal without hesitation, and there was no sign of the usual sniffing and sorting she does with some brands. The kibble size was appropriate for her medium build, and she seemed to enjoy the crunch. Over the two weeks we fed her ANP, she never refused a meal or showed signs of boredom with the food.
By the end of the first week, we noticed firmer stools. Clover’s digestion had been a bit unpredictable before, but on ANP, her stools were consistent and well-formed—a practical win for shelter staff managing cleanup. She didn’t have any gas or stomach upset, which was encouraging given her sensitivity.
After about ten days, her coat started to look shinier. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but there was a noticeable improvement in softness and a slight reduction in shedding. Her energy level remained steady—she’s always been a playful, active dog—but she seemed a bit more focused during training sessions, which could have been coincidental or related to better nutrition.
From a practical standpoint, feeding ANP was straightforward. The portion sizes recommended on the bag kept Clover at a healthy weight, and we didn’t need to adjust much. The smaller stool volume made cleanup easier, which is a real consideration in a shelter setting with multiple dogs.
Overall, Clover responded well to American Natural Premium. It wasn’t a miraculous change, but it was a solid, reliable food that supported her health without any issues. For a dog transitioning from inconsistent care, that stability mattered.
American Natural Premium has a loyal following, particularly among breeders and long-term customers. Across platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and DogFoodAdvisor, the brand consistently receives high ratings—historically around 4.5–5 stars, though recent reviews have dipped slightly to 4.1–4.3 due to formula changes and price increases.
The most common praise centers on palatability, coat health, and digestive tolerance. Owners frequently mention that their dogs love the taste, even picky eaters who refuse other brands. One Chewy reviewer wrote, “I have fed American Natural Premium to my AKC Labradors for over 15 years. American Natural Premium is a food that I feel good about feeding to all my dogs, from puppies to my seniors.”
Another recurring theme is improved coat quality. Owners report shinier fur, less shedding, and healthier skin within a few weeks of switching. One user noted, “The difference between this and the national brand we had previously fed for many years is amazing.”
Digestive health is another highlight. Many dogs with sensitive stomachs or chronic diarrhea show improvement on ANP, with firmer stools and less gas. The Market Fresh Beef Recipe, in particular, receives praise for being gentle on digestion.
Recent complaints focus on formula changes, price hikes, and quality inconsistencies. Several Chewy reviews mention that the kibble looks different—darker, smaller pieces—and smells “off” or “rancid” in some batches. One frustrated owner wrote, “Something had obviously changed. The pieces were darker and smaller and most importantly smelled totally awful. It smelled like the oil in the food had gone rancid.”
Palatability issues have also increased. Dogs that previously loved ANP are now refusing to eat it, leading owners to switch brands. One review stated, “Purchased in 2022, my dog wouldn’t eat it anymore. Something changed in the formula. Used for 6 years without problems, now searching for another brand.”
Price complaints are frequent. Owners note that bags have shrunk (from 30 lbs to 23 lbs) while prices have risen (from $64 to $80), eroding the value proposition. One reviewer asked, “How did dog food go from $64 in April to $80 in June!?”
A small number of reviews mention serious health concerns, including pancreatitis, kidney issues, and DCM. However, these reports lack clinical evidence linking the food directly to the condition, and they’re rare compared to the overall volume of positive feedback. It’s worth noting that ANP’s legume-free formulas address some DCM concerns related to grain-free diets.
American Natural Premium competes in a crowded mid-premium segment. Here’s how it stacks up against key rivals:
Blue Buffalo is a household name with wider distribution and more flavor variety. Both brands emphasize natural ingredients and avoid artificial additives, but Blue Buffalo has faced multiple recalls over the years, while ANP has none. Blue Buffalo is slightly more expensive per pound and has a larger marketing budget, but ANP’s smaller, family-owned operation appeals to owners who prefer independent brands.
Wellness CORE is a premium grain-free brand with higher protein (34–38%) and fat content. It’s more expensive than ANP and targets active, high-energy dogs. ANP’s grain-inclusive formulas offer a middle ground for owners who want quality without the extreme protein of Wellness CORE. Wellness also publishes more detailed sourcing information and feeding trial data, giving it an edge in transparency.
Merrick offers a similar price point and ingredient quality, with a wider range of recipes including raw-inspired and limited-ingredient options. Both brands have loyal followings, but Merrick has faced occasional recalls, while ANP’s clean record is a differentiator. Merrick’s distribution is slightly broader, making it easier to find in big-box stores.
Victor is a Texas-based brand popular among working and sporting dog owners. It’s priced similarly to ANP and offers high-protein, high-fat formulas for active dogs. Victor’s ingredient quality is comparable, but ANP’s focus on sensitive-stomach options gives it an edge for dogs with digestive issues. Victor also lacks the grain-inclusive variety that ANP provides.
As mentioned earlier, dog food from Inukshuk is a niche competitor for high-energy dogs. Inukshuk’s calorie density (up to 650 kcal/cup) and protein (32–34%) are higher than ANP’s Endurance Plus, making it better for working dogs or extreme athletes. However, Inukshuk is less suitable for average pet dogs, as the high fat can lead to weight gain. ANP offers more versatility across activity levels.
American Natural Premium is a versatile brand that works well for a broad range of dogs, but it’s especially suited to:
ANP is less ideal for dogs requiring prescription diets, very large breeds prone to bloat, or owners on a tight budget. If cost is a primary concern, there are more affordable options that still meet AAFCO standards.
Here’s my honest take: American Natural Premium is a solid, reliable mid-premium dog food with a lot to like—named meat meals, whole grains, functional supplements, and a spotless recall history. For dogs with sensitivities, active lifestyles, or owners who prioritize USA-made products, it’s a thoughtful choice that delivers on its promises.
That said, it’s not perfect. The recent price increases and reported formula inconsistencies are concerning, especially when the brand hasn’t clearly communicated what’s changed or why. At $3.00–$3.50 per pound, ANP is priced competitively with brands like Blue Buffalo and Merrick, but it lacks the transparency and innovation of ultra-premium options like Wellness or Orijen. If you’re paying mid-premium prices, you should expect mid-premium consistency—and right now, some customers aren’t getting that.
Would I buy this for my dog? If I had a dog with food sensitivities or an active lifestyle, yes—I’d give the Market Fresh or Endurance Plus formulas a try. The ingredient quality is strong, and the lack of recalls gives me confidence in safety. But if I had an average adult dog with no special needs, I’d probably compare ANP to Victor or Diamond Naturals to see if I could get similar quality at a lower price.
Would I recommend it to a friend? It depends. If they value USA-made products, transparent ingredients, and have the budget for a mid-premium food, absolutely. If they’re looking for the best value or need a prescription diet, I’d point them elsewhere. American Natural Premium isn’t a game-changer, but it’s a dependable, well-formulated option that works for a lot of dogs. Just keep an eye on batch consistency and be prepared for occasional price fluctuations.
No, American Natural Premium has a spotless recall history. As of October 2025, there have been no recalls, FDA warnings, or USDA violations on record. This is a significant achievement in an industry where even premium brands occasionally face quality control issues. The brand’s small-batch processing and USDA-inspected facilities help maintain this strong safety record.
Yes, all American Natural Premium dog food is manufactured in the USA, specifically in USDA-inspected facilities in Wisconsin. The brand also sources ingredients primarily from American farms, making it a truly domestic product. This is part of their core philosophy since launching in 1998—to create American-made dog food without relying on overseas production.
The Original Recipe includes whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and barley, which provide steady energy and fiber for digestive health. The grain-free options use potatoes and peas as carbohydrate sources instead. However, ANP has also introduced legume-free formulas that avoid both grains and legumes, using vegetables like carrots and cauliflower instead. The choice depends on your dog’s sensitivities and dietary needs.
Many customers have reported significant price increases and smaller bag sizes in recent years. Some report bags going from 30 lbs to 23 lbs while prices increased from around $64 to $80. ANP hasn’t publicly explained these changes, but they likely reflect rising ingredient costs, supply chain pressures, and inflation affecting the entire pet food industry. This has unfortunately eroded the value proposition for some long-term customers.
Yes, ANP offers several formulas specifically designed for sensitive dogs. The Market Fresh Beef Recipe is formulated for sensitive stomachs and avoids chicken (a common allergen). It’s both grain-free and legume-free, using easily digestible ingredients. The Sensitive Care line also includes probiotics and lower protein/fat content for gentler digestion. Many owners report firmer stools and less digestive upset after switching to these formulas.
Both brands target the mid-premium market and avoid artificial additives, but there are key differences. ANP has zero recalls while Blue Buffalo has faced multiple recalls over the years. ANP is family-owned and emphasizes USA sourcing, while Blue Buffalo is owned by General Mills and has wider distribution. Blue Buffalo offers more flavor variety and has a larger marketing presence, but ANP’s clean safety record and smaller-batch approach appeal to owners who prefer independent brands.
Yes, ANP offers puppy-specific formulas that meet the higher nutritional requirements for growing dogs. These formulas provide elevated protein, fat, and calcium needed for healthy development, plus DHA from fish oil to support brain and eye development. The puppy formulas are designed to meet AAFCO nutritional profiles for growth and reproduction.
Recent reviews mention batch inconsistencies—darker, smaller kibble pieces or different smells between bags. Some customers even report a rancid odor in newer batches. ANP hasn’t officially addressed these concerns, but they could reflect changes in sourcing, processing adjustments, or natural seasonal variations in ingredients. If you notice significant changes in your dog’s food, it’s worth contacting the manufacturer directly.
ANP formulas are nutritionally balanced for most dogs, but they’re not specifically designed as large-breed formulas. The kibble size is standard to medium, and there are no specific large-breed puppy formulas with controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios. For giant breeds prone to bloat or joint issues, you might want to consider brands that offer large-breed-specific formulations with slower-eating kibble sizes.
ANP has responded to DCM concerns by creating legume-free formulas that avoid peas, lentils, and other legumes that were investigated by the FDA. Their Market Fresh line is both grain-free and legume-free, while their grain-inclusive formulas use traditional whole grains instead of legumes. This gives owners options regardless of their stance on the grain-free/DCM debate.
ANP is distributed through 800+ retail locations across the continental US, primarily independent pet stores and specialty retailers. It’s not typically found in big-box stores like PetSmart or Petco. You can use their website’s store locator to find retailers near you, or check with local independent pet stores. Limited national distribution can make it harder to find outside the Midwest and Northeast regions.
Use a gradual transition over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing 25% ANP with 75% of your current food for 2-3 days, then move to 50/50, then 75% ANP with 25% old food, before switching completely. For dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs, consider starting with the Market Fresh or Sensitive Care lines, which include probiotics to help stabilize digestion during the switch.
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