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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Blackwood maintains a spotless 40+ year zero-recall record in an industry where contamination issues are common, setting it apart from competitors like Blue Buffalo that have faced multiple recalls.
• The brand uses slow-cooked, small-batch production in three U.S. facilities with domestic ingredient sourcing, though it relies primarily on meat meals rather than fresh meat as protein sources.
• Nutritional profile averages 27-29% protein and 15-17% fat with functional ingredients like probiotics, glucosamine, and omega-3s, enhanced in 2024 with ProPath Performance Minerals for better nutrient absorption.
• Pricing ranges $3-5 per pound, positioning it as mid-premium – more expensive than brands like Diamond Naturals but less costly than ultra-premium options like Orijen or fresh food brands.
• Customer satisfaction runs 82% positive with particular success for dogs with digestive sensitivities, though palatability can be inconsistent, especially with fish-based formulas that some dogs refuse or lose interest in.
Blackwood positions itself in the premium dog food segment with a story that starts in 1978, when Jim Golladay founded what would become a lasting name in pet nutrition. The brand has stayed family-operated for decades and now operates under the BrightPet Nutrition Group, manufacturing food in Ohio, New York, and Wisconsin. What sets Blackwood apart is its slow-cooking process in small batches, a method the company claims preserves nutrients better than standard extrusion. The brand’s core values revolve around quality ingredients, transparency, and a no-shortcuts philosophy that’s backed by a spotless recall history.
In my opinion, Blackwood’s commitment to U.S. production and ingredient sourcing gives it credibility in a market where many brands outsource manufacturing or use vague sourcing language. The company sources most ingredients domestically, with some specialty nutrients from trusted international suppliers, and explicitly avoids Chinese-sourced ingredients. That level of transparency matters when you’re trying to make an informed choice about what goes into your dog’s bowl.
The brand refresh in 2024 brought enhanced formulas with 82% to 90% animal-sourced protein and the addition of ProPath Performance Minerals from Zinpro, targeting brain health, digestion, joint support, and immunity. Blackwood also introduced resealable bags with QR codes for detailed recipe information, which is a practical touch for owners who want to verify what they’re feeding. The new tagline—”good things take time”—reinforces the slow-cooked heritage while signaling a science-backed future.
Blackwood’s reputation in the market is solid but niche. It doesn’t have the household recognition of Hill’s or Blue Buffalo, but among holistic and ingredient-focused dog owners, it’s respected. The brand’s zero-recall record over 40+ years is a standout achievement that builds trust, especially for owners who’ve been burned by contamination issues with other brands. That said, Blackwood isn’t as widely available in big-box stores, so you’ll mostly find it online or in specialty pet retailers.
Still deciding between premium brands? Check out our Halo dog food review to see how another holistic option stacks up.
Blackwood relies heavily on named meat meals—chicken meal, salmon meal, whitefish meal, lamb meal, catfish meal, and turkey. Meat meals are concentrated protein sources because they’ve had moisture removed, which means more protein per pound compared to fresh meat. The upside is a higher protein density; the downside is that you’re not getting the fresh meat appeal some owners prefer. Blackwood rarely uses fresh meat as the first ingredient, which is a trade-off for protein concentration but might disappoint those looking for “real chicken” at the top of the list.
The brand does use single-source protein options in its Sensitive Skin & Stomach line, with catfish and salmon formulas that avoid chicken entirely. This is helpful for dogs with poultry allergies or sensitivities. The grain-free lines feature turkey or chicken meal with peas and lentils as secondary protein sources, which adds plant-based amino acids but also brings up the legume question I’ll address shortly.
Blackwood’s grain-inclusive recipes use brown rice, oat groats, millet, and sorghum—whole grains that provide fiber, B vitamins, and steady energy. These are quality carbohydrate sources, and the inclusion of ancient grains like millet and sorghum is a nice touch for digestibility. The grain-free options swap these for peas, lentils, and potatoes, which are common grain replacements but come with some baggage.
The FDA’s investigation into dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and grain-free diets has raised concerns about high legume content. Blackwood addresses this by ensuring that at least 60% of protein comes from meat sources, not peas or lentils, and formulas include up to 0.15% taurine to reduce DCM risk. This is a responsible approach, but if your dog doesn’t have a confirmed grain allergy, I’d lean toward the grain-inclusive recipes for peace of mind and better long-term data.
Blackwood uses chicken fat and fish oil as primary fat sources, preserved with mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) rather than synthetic preservatives like BHA or BHT. Chicken fat is a high-quality, palatable fat source rich in omega-6 fatty acids, while fish oil provides omega-3s for skin, coat, and joint health. The fish-based recipes (whitefish, salmon) naturally contain more omega-3s, making them better choices for dogs with joint issues or skin conditions.
The wet food line has notably higher fat content—averaging around 39.8% on a dry matter basis—which is significantly more than the dry food’s 15-16%. This makes the wet food more calorie-dense and potentially better for picky eaters or dogs needing to gain weight, but you’ll want to adjust portions carefully to avoid overfeeding.
Blackwood includes probiotics and prebiotics in all dry formulas, which support gut health and immune function. The specific strains aren’t always detailed, but the inclusion itself is a positive. The brand also adds glucosamine and chondroitin to dry recipes for joint support, which is particularly valuable for large breeds and senior dogs. The wet food features green mussels, a natural source of glucosamine and omega-3s with anti-inflammatory properties.
Other functional ingredients include pumpkin meal (digestive support), blueberries and cranberries (antioxidants), dried kelp (trace minerals), and spinach (vitamins and fiber). These are all beneficial additions that contribute to overall health without being gimmicky. The brand uses chelated minerals—minerals bound to amino acids for better absorption—which is a sign of quality formulation.
What Blackwood doesn’t use is equally important: no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and no ingredients sourced from China. The brand is transparent about this, which builds trust.
| Price per pound | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Primary protein | Chicken meal, salmon meal, whitefish meal, lamb meal, catfish meal, turkey meal |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulation method) |
| Formula options | Multiple lines (Puppy & Performance, Adult, Sensitive Skin & Stomach, Large Breed, Small Breed, Lean Senior) |
| Availability | Online and specialty pet retailers |
The main concern is pea protein in some grain-free formulas. Peas aren’t inherently bad, but when they’re used in high amounts as a cheap protein booster, they can dilute the meat content and potentially contribute to DCM risk. Blackwood’s commitment to keeping at least 60% of protein from meat mitigates this, but it’s still something to be aware of if you’re choosing a grain-free recipe.
Another point is the reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat. Meals are nutritionally sound and provide concentrated protein, but they lack the marketing appeal and moisture content of fresh meat. If you’re comparing Blackwood to brands that lead with “real chicken” or “fresh beef,” this difference might matter to you, even if the nutritional outcome is similar.
Blackwood’s dry food averages 27-29% protein and 15-17% fat on a dry matter basis, which is above average for dog food and appropriate for active adults, puppies, and performance dogs. The grain-free formulas push protein higher, with some recipes hitting 29.9%, while the Lean Senior formula drops to 20% protein and 8% fat for weight management. The wet food is even richer, averaging 43-44% protein and 30-40% fat on a dry matter basis, making it a calorie-dense option for palatability and weight gain.
Carbohydrate content varies by formula, with grain-inclusive recipes averaging around 42-44% and grain-free options dropping to 39-40%. Fiber sits at 3-4% for most dry foods and 6-8% for wet, which is moderate and supports healthy digestion without being excessive. All Blackwood formulas are AAFCO-compliant for the life stages they claim, meaning they meet minimum nutritional standards, though the brand doesn’t specify which products undergo feeding trials versus formulation-only approval.
The addition of ProPath Performance Minerals in 2024 is designed to optimize nutrient absorption and metabolism, particularly for amino acids that support mobility and immunity. This is a science-backed enhancement, though Blackwood hasn’t published independent clinical trials on its formulas to verify these benefits in real-world feeding. The brand’s nutritional adequacy is solid, but the lack of peer-reviewed studies means you’re relying on ingredient quality and AAFCO compliance rather than proven health outcomes.
Blackwood works well for adult dogs with normal activity levels who need a balanced, digestible diet without extreme protein or fat levels. The grain-inclusive recipes are particularly suited to dogs without sensitivities, offering steady energy from whole grains and quality meat meals. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or mild food sensitivities, the Sensitive Skin & Stomach line with catfish or salmon is a good choice, especially if chicken is a known trigger.
Large breed owners will appreciate the Large Breed Adult formulas, which include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support and are designed with larger kibble to encourage chewing. The whitefish-based recipes are especially high in omega-3s, which support joint health and coat quality. For senior dogs, the Lean Senior formula offers reduced calories and fat while maintaining joint support, making it easier to manage weight without sacrificing nutrition.
Puppies and active dogs benefit from the Puppy & Performance formula, which provides higher protein (27%) and fat (16%) for growth and energy. The inclusion of DHA supports brain and eye development in puppies, and the calorie density is appropriate for working or highly active dogs. Small breed owners can turn to the Small Breed Grain-Free Turkey & Lentils, which features smaller kibble and a nutrient-dense formula tailored to faster metabolisms.
Blackwood isn’t ideal for dogs with diagnosed medical conditions requiring prescription diets. The brand doesn’t offer veterinary formulas for kidney disease, liver issues, or specific gastrointestinal disorders, so you’ll need to stick with Hill’s, Royal Canin, or Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets for those needs. Dogs with severe food allergies may also struggle with Blackwood, as even the limited ingredient lines still include multiple ingredients and aren’t hydrolyzed.
If your dog is a picky eater, Blackwood’s reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat might be a hurdle. Some dogs prefer the aroma and texture of fresh meat, and the meal-based formulas can be less enticing for fussy dogs. The wet food line offers better palatability, but it’s a small selection compared to other brands.
Budget-conscious owners should also consider alternatives. Blackwood’s pricing—typically $3 to $5 per pound—places it in the premium category, and while the quality justifies the cost for many, you can find comparable nutrition at lower prices from brands like Diamond Naturals or Victor if cost is a primary concern.
Blackwood’s flavor lineup is focused rather than sprawling. The dry food line includes chicken, lamb, whitefish, salmon, catfish, and turkey, with grain-inclusive and grain-free options for most proteins. The wet food offers turkey, chicken with salmon, and chicken with chicken liver, all featuring pumpkin and green mussels. This isn’t the most extensive flavor variety on the market, but it covers the bases for common preferences and sensitivities.
Customer feedback on palatability is generally positive, with 70-75% of reviews mentioning high acceptance, especially for the chicken and salmon formulas. Dogs seem to transition well after a gradual switch, and many owners report success with picky eaters who refused other brands. That said, about 8-10% of reviews mention dogs refusing the food or losing interest after an initial period, particularly with the fish-based recipes. Palatability can be hit-or-miss, as with any brand, so a small bag trial is a smart first step.
The kibble size is medium for most formulas, with the Large Breed recipes offering larger pieces to encourage chewing and slow down fast eaters. The Small Breed formula has appropriately smaller kibble, which is easier for tiny mouths. The wet food has a pate-style texture with visible chunks, and the smell is more like real food than standard canned dog food, which many dogs find appealing.
Feeding Blackwood is straightforward. The bags are resealable, which helps keep the food fresh, and the QR codes provide detailed feeding guidelines tailored to your dog’s weight and activity level. Most owners report that their dogs eat Blackwood enthusiastically, with firm stools and steady energy as common positive outcomes.
Blackwood’s pricing averages $3 to $5 per pound for dry food, depending on the formula and retailer. The grain-free and specialty recipes trend toward the higher end, while the grain-inclusive adult formulas are more affordable. A 30-pound bag of the Everyday Chicken & Brown Rice formula typically runs $65 to $90, which translates to roughly $2.10 per day for a 60-pound dog or $3.50 per day for a 100-pound dog. The wet food is pricier at around $3.50 to $4 per 13-ounce can, making full wet feeding expensive for medium and large dogs.
Compared to other premium brands, Blackwood is on par with or slightly less expensive than Orijen, Acana, or Blue Buffalo Wilderness. It’s more expensive than mid-tier brands like Nutro or Wellness Core but less than ultra-premium options like The Farmer’s Dog or Nom Nom. The quality of ingredients—named meat meals, whole grains, probiotics, joint support—justifies the price for owners who prioritize ingredient transparency and a clean safety record.
That said, the reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat and the moderate protein levels mean you’re not getting the same nutrient density as some higher-priced competitors. If you’re comparing Blackwood to brands with fresh meat and higher protein, the value proposition is less clear. However, the zero-recall history and small-batch production add intangible value that’s hard to quantify but matters to many owners.
For budget-conscious owners, Blackwood isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s a reasonable middle ground between mass-market and ultra-premium. If cost is a major concern, you might find better value with brands like Diamond Naturals or Victor, which offer similar nutritional profiles at lower prices, though without Blackwood’s artisan production story.
Blackwood manufactures its food in three U.S. facilities: Lisbon, Ohio; Sherburne, New York; and Kiel, Wisconsin. The brand emphasizes slow-cooking in small batches, a process that cooks food at lower temperatures over a longer time compared to standard extrusion. The company claims this preserves nutrients and improves digestibility, though no peer-reviewed studies on Blackwood’s specific process are publicly available. A non-peer-reviewed study by Kansas State University evaluated the slow-cooking method, but details on methodology and results aren’t published in scientific journals.
The production process includes rigorous ingredient testing, in-process monitoring, and final product analysis, with third-party lab verification for quality and safety. Blackwood sources most ingredients domestically, with some specialty nutrients from New Zealand and Canada during supply shortages, and explicitly avoids Chinese-sourced ingredients. This level of transparency is reassuring, though the brand doesn’t specify certifications like HACCP, ISO 22000, or SQF, which are common in premium pet food manufacturing.
The packaging includes resealable bags with QR codes that link to detailed product information, which is a practical touch for traceability and consumer education. However, Blackwood hasn’t published detailed sustainability goals or environmental impact reports, and the packaging isn’t explicitly marketed as recyclable or eco-friendly, which is a gap for environmentally conscious buyers.
The brand’s zero-recall record over 40+ years is the strongest indicator of quality control. Recalls are common in the pet food industry, even among reputable brands, so Blackwood’s spotless history suggests effective safety protocols and consistent ingredient sourcing. That said, the lack of independent audits or publicly available quality certifications means you’re relying on the brand’s claims rather than third-party verification.
Blackwood’s commitment to U.S. sourcing and small-batch production reduces the environmental footprint compared to brands that outsource manufacturing overseas. The company partners with reputable suppliers and conducts enhanced ingredient testing, but it doesn’t provide detailed information on animal welfare standards, sustainable farming practices, or carbon footprint reduction. The brand introduced an Eco Venture product line with sustainable considerations, but specifics on what makes it eco-friendly aren’t clearly communicated.
The packaging is functional but not marketed as sustainable. The resealable bags are convenient for freshness, but there’s no mention of recyclable materials or a take-back program. For owners prioritizing environmental impact, this is an area where Blackwood lags behind brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Halo, which emphasize sustainability more prominently.
Blackwood doesn’t publish corporate social responsibility reports or transparency scores, and there’s no evidence of partnerships with animal welfare organizations or environmental initiatives. The brand’s ethical focus seems centered on ingredient quality and safety rather than broader social or environmental commitments. This isn’t necessarily a negative, but it’s a consideration if sustainability and ethics are high priorities for you.
I work at a dog shelter, where we regularly rotate foods to see how different dogs respond, and I had the chance to test Blackwood with one of our longer-term residents, a four-year-old mixed breed named Duke. Duke came to us with a history of mild digestive sensitivity—nothing severe, but he’d occasionally have soft stools or seem less enthusiastic about eating. He’d been doing fine on our standard shelter kibble, but I wanted to see if a premium option like Blackwood would make a noticeable difference.
We transitioned Duke gradually over about a week, mixing Blackwood’s Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Brown Rice formula with his previous food. The first few days, he didn’t seem particularly interested—he ate it, but without the excitement some dogs show with new food. By the end of the transition, though, he was finishing his meals more quickly and seemed to look forward to feeding time. His stools firmed up within the first week, which was a positive sign, and they stayed consistent throughout the test.
Over the next few weeks, I noticed Duke’s coat looked a bit shinier, though it’s hard to say if that was the food or just regular grooming catching up. His energy level stayed about the same—he was already a moderately active dog, and Blackwood didn’t turn him into a marathon runner or anything. He didn’t have any digestive upsets, gas, or itching, which was the main goal given his sensitivity history. Overall, it was a smooth, uneventful experience, which is exactly what you want with a food switch.
Duke didn’t act like Blackwood was the best thing he’d ever tasted, but he ate it consistently and without issue, which is more important than enthusiasm in a shelter setting. If I were adopting him out, I’d feel comfortable recommending Blackwood to his new family, especially if they were looking for a premium food with a clean ingredient list and solid digestibility. It’s not a miracle food, but it did what it was supposed to do without drama.
Blackwood’s customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.6 to 4.8 out of 5 across major platforms like Chewy and Amazon. About 82% of reviews are positive, 8% neutral, and 10% negative, which is a strong satisfaction rate. The most common praise centers on digestibility, coat quality, and visible health improvements, with many owners reporting firmer stools, shinier coats, and increased energy within a few weeks of switching.
Success stories often mention dogs with chronic skin issues or digestive problems improving on Blackwood’s Sensitive Skin & Stomach formulas. One Chewy reviewer wrote, “After switching to Blackwood, Benny’s coat is shinier and he seems so much happier—even his vet commented!” Another noted, “Two years on Blackwood Large Breed and our Lab has amazing muscle tone and less itching. We pay a bit more but the results are worth it.” These kinds of long-term, real-world outcomes are what matter most when evaluating a food.
On the negative side, about 8-10% of reviews mention palatability issues, with some dogs refusing the food or losing interest after an initial period. This seems more common with the fish-based recipes, which isn’t surprising given that fish can be polarizing for dogs. A smaller percentage—around 5-7%—report digestive problems like loose stools or gas, usually during the transition period. These issues typically resolve with a slower switch or by trying a different formula.
Price complaints are frequent, with 10-12% of reviews mentioning that Blackwood is expensive compared to other brands. Some owners feel the cost isn’t justified given the reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat, while others argue the quality and safety record make it worth the premium. There are also occasional mentions of formula changes in 2023-2024, with a few owners noting their dogs became less interested in the food after the reformulation.
Quality concerns are rare but present, with isolated reports of bags smelling off or having inconsistent texture. These seem to be fulfillment issues rather than widespread manufacturing problems, and most retailers—especially Chewy—respond quickly with refunds or replacements. Overall, Blackwood’s customer service is praised for being responsive and willing to make things right when issues arise.
Blackwood operates in the premium dog food segment, competing with brands like Halo, Orijen, Blue Buffalo, and Wellness. Compared to Orijen, Blackwood is less expensive and more accessible, but Orijen offers higher protein (38-40% vs. 27-29%) and uses more fresh meat. Orijen is the better choice for owners prioritizing maximum protein and fresh ingredients, while Blackwood appeals to those wanting quality at a slightly lower price point with a proven safety record.
Against Blue Buffalo, Blackwood offers similar nutritional profiles but with a cleaner recall history. Blue Buffalo has had several recalls over the years, mostly for minor issues, but Blackwood’s zero-recall record is a clear advantage. Blue Buffalo is more widely available in big-box stores, which makes it more convenient for some buyers, but Blackwood’s small-batch production and ingredient transparency give it an edge for discerning owners.
Compared to Halo, Blackwood is more traditional, focusing on meat meals and whole grains, while Halo emphasizes fresh, whole-food ingredients and offers plant-based options. Halo’s nutritional profile is nearly identical to Blackwood’s—28% protein and 16% fat on average—but Halo’s wet food has less fat (30% vs. 40%), making it a lighter option. Halo’s sustainability focus and plant-based innovations appeal to ethically minded owners, while Blackwood’s slow-cooked heritage and recall-free history attract those prioritizing safety and consistency.
For owners considering fresh food options like The Farmer’s Dog, Blackwood is a more affordable alternative that still offers quality ingredients and digestibility, though it lacks the fresh, human-grade appeal and personalized meal plans. Fresh food brands deliver visible health benefits for many dogs, but Blackwood provides a middle ground between kibble and fresh without the freezer space and higher cost.
Blackwood is best suited for adult dogs with normal to high activity levels who don’t have severe medical conditions or extreme dietary needs. The grain-inclusive recipes work well for dogs without sensitivities, offering balanced nutrition from quality meat meals and whole grains. If your dog has mild food sensitivities, particularly to chicken, the Sensitive Skin & Stomach formulas with catfish or salmon are solid options that avoid common allergens without going full limited-ingredient.
Large breed owners will find value in the Large Breed Adult formulas, which include joint support and omega-3-rich fish proteins. The larger kibble size encourages chewing and slows down fast eaters, which is helpful for breeds prone to bloat. Senior dogs benefit from the Lean Senior formula, which offers reduced calories and fat while maintaining glucosamine and chondroitin for aging joints.
Puppies and active dogs do well on the Puppy & Performance formula, which provides higher protein and fat for growth and energy. The inclusion of DHA supports brain development in puppies, and the calorie density is appropriate for working or highly active dogs. Small breed owners can choose the Small Breed Grain-Free Turkey & Lentils, which features smaller kibble and a nutrient-dense formula for faster metabolisms.
Blackwood isn’t the right choice for dogs with diagnosed medical conditions requiring prescription diets, as the brand doesn’t offer veterinary formulas. Dogs with severe food allergies may also struggle, as even the limited ingredient lines aren’t hydrolyzed. If your dog is extremely picky, the reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat might be a hurdle, though the wet food line offers better palatability for fussy eaters.
Blackwood is a solid, reliable choice for owners who prioritize ingredient transparency, U.S. production, and a proven safety record. The brand’s zero-recall history over 40+ years is a standout achievement that sets it apart in an industry where contamination issues are common. The slow-cooked, small-batch production method is a genuine differentiator, and while there’s no peer-reviewed research to prove it’s superior to standard extrusion, the quality of ingredients and consistent customer feedback suggest it’s working.
The nutritional profile is strong—above-average protein and fat, quality meat meals, whole grains or grain-free options, and functional ingredients like probiotics, glucosamine, and omega-3s. The 2024 formula enhancements with ProPath Performance Minerals show the brand is investing in science-backed improvements rather than cutting corners. The variety of formulas covers most life stages and dietary needs, from puppies to seniors, small breeds to large, and sensitive stomachs to active performance dogs.
That said, Blackwood isn’t perfect. The reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat might disappoint owners who want to see “real chicken” at the top of the ingredient list, even though meals are nutritionally sound. The flavor variety is focused but not extensive, and palatability can be hit-or-miss, especially with the fish-based recipes. The price point—$3 to $5 per pound—is premium but not ultra-premium, which means you’re paying more than mid-tier brands without getting the fresh meat or higher protein levels of top-tier competitors like Orijen.
The lack of independent clinical studies is another gap. Blackwood’s formulas meet AAFCO standards and use quality ingredients, but the brand hasn’t published peer-reviewed research on health outcomes, so you’re relying on customer reviews and ingredient analysis rather than proven results. The sustainability and ethics side is also underdeveloped—Blackwood focuses on ingredient quality and safety but doesn’t communicate environmental initiatives or animal welfare standards as clearly as some competitors.
Would I buy this for my dog? If I had an adult dog with normal activity levels and no severe medical issues, yes—especially if I valued a clean safety record and wanted to support U.S. manufacturing. I’d likely choose one of the grain-inclusive recipes for the peace of mind around DCM concerns and the digestibility of whole grains. If my dog had chicken sensitivities, I’d try the Sensitive Skin & Stomach Catfish formula, and for a senior dog, the Lean Senior recipe would be a smart pick.
Would I recommend it to a friend? It depends on their priorities. If they want a premium food with a proven track record and are willing to pay a bit more for quality ingredients and small-batch production, absolutely. If they’re looking for the highest protein levels, fresh meat, or the most extensive flavor variety, I’d point them toward Orijen or a fresh food brand. If budget is tight, I’d suggest Diamond Naturals or Victor as more affordable alternatives with similar nutritional profiles.
Overall, Blackwood is a well-made, trustworthy food that delivers on its promises without overhyping or cutting corners. It’s not the most exciting or innovative brand on the market, but it’s a safe, consistent choice that works well for a wide range of dogs. In a crowded premium market, that’s a valuable position to hold.
No, Blackwood has maintained a zero-recall record for over 40 years, which is impressive in an industry where contamination issues are common. This spotless safety history is one of the brand’s strongest selling points and reflects consistent quality control and ingredient sourcing practices.
Yes, all Blackwood dog food is manufactured in three U.S. facilities located in Ohio, New York, and Wisconsin. The company sources most ingredients domestically and explicitly avoids Chinese-sourced ingredients, providing full transparency about their supply chain.
Blackwood uses a slow-cooking method in small batches that cooks food at lower temperatures over longer periods compared to standard extrusion. The company claims this preserves nutrients better and improves digestibility, though peer-reviewed studies on their specific process aren’t publicly available.
Blackwood relies on named meat meals like chicken meal and salmon meal because they’re concentrated protein sources with moisture removed, providing more protein per pound than fresh meat. While this doesn’t have the marketing appeal of “real chicken,” meat meals are nutritionally sound and allow for higher protein density in the final product.
Blackwood addresses DCM concerns by ensuring at least 60% of protein comes from meat sources rather than legumes, and their formulas include up to 0.15% taurine. However, if your dog doesn’t have a confirmed grain allergy, the grain-inclusive recipes may be a safer long-term choice given ongoing FDA investigations into grain-free diets.
Blackwood typically costs $3 to $5 per pound for dry food, with grain-free and specialty formulas on the higher end. A 30-pound bag usually runs $65 to $90, translating to roughly $2.10 per day for a 60-pound dog. The wet food is more expensive at around $3.50 to $4 per 13-ounce can.
Blackwood’s dry food averages 27-29% protein and 15-17% fat on a dry matter basis, which is above average for dog food. The wet food is even richer, averaging 43-44% protein and 30-40% fat, making it a calorie-dense option for palatability and weight gain.
The Sensitive Skin & Stomach line offers catfish and salmon formulas that avoid chicken entirely, making them good choices for dogs with poultry allergies or digestive sensitivities. These single-source protein options are easier to digest and help identify potential allergens.
Yes, Blackwood offers a Puppy & Performance formula with higher protein (27%) and fat (16%) for growth and energy, plus DHA for brain development. For seniors, the Lean Senior formula provides reduced calories and fat while maintaining joint support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin.
Blackwood isn’t as widely available in big-box stores as some brands, so you’ll mostly find it online or in specialty pet retailers. This limited availability can be inconvenient but reflects the brand’s focus on quality over mass distribution.
Blackwood can work for dogs with mild sensitivities, especially the single-source protein formulas, but it’s not ideal for severe food allergies. Even the limited ingredient lines include multiple ingredients and aren’t hydrolyzed, so dogs with diagnosed severe allergies should stick with prescription veterinary diets.
Blackwood offers similar nutrition to Blue Buffalo but with a cleaner recall history. Compared to Orijen, Blackwood is less expensive and more accessible but has lower protein levels (27-29% vs. 38-40%) and uses meat meals instead of fresh meat. It’s positioned as a middle-ground premium option.
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