9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Extreme budget positioning with prices between $0.90-$1.30 per pound, making it significantly cheaper than national brands while delivering high protein (up to 31%) and fat content for working dogs.
• Complete lack of transparency regarding manufacturing, sourcing, and quality control, with production primarily occurring in Chinese facilities and no published feeding trials or certifications.
• Heavy grain reliance with 35-50% carbohydrate content from corn, wheat, and soy, making it unsuitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to common allergens.
• Mixed real-world performance with dogs generally eating it well and maintaining energy, but recurring reports of skin issues, digestive problems, and allergic reactions from owners.
• Functional but compromised nutrition that meets basic AAFCO standards and works for healthy working dogs, but uses generic meat meals, plant-based protein boosters, and controversial preservatives like BHA.
Let’s start with the basics, and honestly, this is where things get murky. Showtime doesn’t have a founding story you can look up, no “meet the founder” page, and no mission statement plastered across a sleek website. The brand is distributed by regional feed companies like Mid-South Feeds in the U.S., but the actual manufacturing appears to happen primarily in China through OEM facilities in places like Hebei and Shandong provinces. That’s not inherently bad—plenty of products are made overseas—but the lack of transparency around ownership, production standards, and ingredient sourcing is a red flag if you care about knowing where your dog’s food comes from.
What we do know is that Showtime positions itself as a performance-oriented, value-driven brand aimed squarely at working dogs, active adults, and puppies. The formulas emphasize high protein and fat to fuel energy-intensive lifestyles, and some lines include joint-support ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin. The brand doesn’t chase trends—there’s no grain-free option, no limited-ingredient diets, no “superfood” blends. It’s old-school kibble: meat meal, grains, vitamins, and minerals, packaged in big bags and sold at prices that undercut nearly every national brand.
Showtime isn’t a household name, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s a regional, niche player that thrives in agricultural stores, feed mills, and independent retailers where customers prioritize cost and calories over ingredient pedigree. If you’re feeding a pack of hunting dogs or running a kennel, Showtime makes financial sense. If you’re looking for a brand with veterinary endorsements, published research, or a strong online presence, you’ll come up empty.
Independent reviewers have been harsh. Dog Food Advisor gives it 1.5 out of 5 stars, citing moderate meat content and heavy reliance on plant-based protein boosters. Another review site, Moesonson, rates it 2.5 stars, flagging high carbohydrate levels and the presence of common allergens like corn, soy, and wheat. There’s no recall history we could find, which is a positive, but the absence of third-party certifications, feeding trials, or detailed quality-control documentation means you’re taking the brand’s claims on faith.
| Price per pound | $0.90 – $1.50 |
| Primary protein | Poultry meal, Pork meat-and-bone meal, Fish meal |
| By-products | Yes (rendered meat meals) |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulation only, no feeding trials) |
| Formula options | 5 formulas (Advanced 31/22, 27/20, 24/20, Kennel 21/12, Puppy 30/20) |
| Availability | Regional (farm stores, feed mills, independent retailers) |
This is where the rubber meets the road—or, more accurately, where the meat meal meets the corn gluten. Showtime’s ingredient lists are straightforward in a way that’s both refreshingly simple and a little concerning, depending on what you’re looking for.
Across the product line, you’ll see poultry meal and pork meat-and-bone meal as the main protein sources. These are rendered products, which means the moisture has been removed and the protein is concentrated. That’s not inherently bad—meat meals can deliver solid amino acid profiles—but the quality depends entirely on the source and processing standards, and Showtime doesn’t disclose those details. You won’t find “chicken” or “beef” listed first; it’s meal all the way down.
Some formulas, like the Advanced 31/22, also include fish meal, which adds omega-3 fatty acids for coat and joint health. That’s a nice touch, but again, without knowing the species or sourcing, it’s hard to assess quality. The higher-protein lines (27% and above) rely heavily on corn gluten meal to boost those numbers, which is a plant-based protein that doesn’t offer the same biological value as animal protein. It’s a cost-saving move, and it works on paper, but your dog’s body processes it differently than meat.
Showtime is grain-inclusive across the board, and the carb sources are exactly what you’d expect from a budget brand: ground wheat, brewer’s rice, corn, and soybean meal. These are inexpensive, calorie-dense ingredients that help keep the price down and the energy up. For most healthy dogs, grains are fine—despite what grain-free marketing would have you believe—but if your dog has sensitivities to wheat or corn, Showtime is a non-starter.
The carbohydrate content isn’t listed on the label, but based on the guaranteed analysis and typical formulations, you’re looking at somewhere between 35% and 50% carbs, depending on the formula. That’s on the higher end, especially compared to premium brands that lean more heavily on protein and fat.
Here’s where things get a bit uncomfortable. Showtime uses BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) as a preservative in some formulas. BHA is FDA-approved for pet food, but it’s also been flagged in some studies as a potential carcinogen at high doses. The pet food industry considers it safe at the levels used, but if you’re someone who prefers natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E), this might give you pause.
You’ll also see animal fat listed, which is a generic term that doesn’t tell you whether it’s chicken fat, pork fat, or something else. Again, not necessarily a problem, but it’s another example of the brand’s lack of specificity. Premium brands name their fats for a reason—it signals transparency and quality control.
On the positive side, the higher-tier formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, which is genuinely useful for active or aging dogs. There’s also beet pulp, a fiber source that can help with stool consistency, and a standard vitamin and mineral pack. Some lines mention chelated minerals, which are more easily absorbed than non-chelated versions—that’s a nice detail in a budget food.
Let’s talk numbers. Showtime offers a range of formulas, each with slightly different macronutrient profiles to suit different activity levels and life stages. Here’s a snapshot of what you’re working with:
The Advanced 31/22 formula—the brand’s flagship for working dogs—delivers 31% crude protein and 22% crude fat. That’s solid for high-energy dogs who burn through calories and need the fuel to keep going. The 27/20 and 24/20 lines offer slightly lower protein and fat, making them more suitable for moderately active adults. At the lower end, the Kennel Formula 21/12 is designed for less active dogs or multi-dog households where you’re watching costs closely.
These numbers meet AAFCO standards for adult maintenance, and the puppy formula (30/20) meets growth requirements. However—and this is important—AAFCO compliance can be achieved either through feeding trials or by formulation alone. Showtime appears to rely on the latter, meaning the recipes are calculated to meet nutrient profiles, but there’s no published evidence that dogs were actually fed these diets in a controlled study to confirm adequacy.
The Advanced 31/22 clocks in at around 3,850 kcal/kg, which is high-calorie and efficient for dogs with demanding lifestyles. The Kennel Formula, by contrast, is closer to 3,325 kcal/kg, which is appropriate for less active dogs. Caloric density matters because it determines how much you need to feed—higher-calorie foods mean smaller portions, which can actually stretch your dollar further if you’re feeding a large or very active dog.
Since carbs aren’t required on pet food labels, you have to calculate them by subtracting protein, fat, moisture, and ash from 100%. For Showtime’s formulas, that lands you somewhere between 35% and 50% carbohydrates. The higher-protein lines are on the lower end of that range, but it’s still a grain-heavy diet. That’s fine for most dogs, but if you’re looking for a low-carb or ketogenic-style food, this isn’t it.
Showtime includes a standard vitamin and mineral premix, and the labels list the usual suspects: vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, and so on. The inclusion of chelated minerals in some formulas is a step up from the bare minimum, as these are more bioavailable. But there’s no mention of added probiotics, prebiotics, or functional antioxidants beyond what’s in the base ingredients.
Showtime is not a one-size-fits-all food, and that’s okay—no food is. The key is knowing where it works and where it doesn’t.
If you have a healthy, active adult dog with no food sensitivities, Showtime can absolutely do the job. It’s particularly well-suited for working dogs—hunting dogs, farm dogs, sled dogs—who need high protein and fat to sustain long days of physical activity. The Advanced 31/22 and 27/20 formulas are built for this, and the low cost per calorie makes them practical when you’re feeding multiple dogs or a large breed.
The puppy formula (30/20) is also a reasonable choice for growing dogs, especially if you’re raising a litter or feeding a young dog who’s active and healthy. It meets AAFCO growth standards and provides the calories and nutrients puppies need to develop properly.
Showtime also makes sense for kennel operators or rescue organizations where budget constraints are real and you’re feeding dozens of dogs. The Kennel Formula 21/12 is specifically designed for this scenario—lower protein and fat to keep costs down, but still nutritionally adequate for adult maintenance.
If your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, Showtime is a hard pass. The formulas are loaded with common allergens—corn, wheat, soy—and the use of generic “poultry meal” means you can’t even pinpoint the protein source if you’re trying to avoid chicken. There’s no limited-ingredient option, no novel protein, no hypoallergenic formula.
Dogs with digestive issues or sensitive stomachs may also struggle. The high grain content and reliance on rendered meals can be harder to digest for some dogs, and the lack of prebiotics or probiotics means there’s no built-in gut support. If your dog has a history of loose stools, gas, or vomiting on grain-heavy diets, I’d look elsewhere.
Showtime also isn’t ideal for dogs with specific health conditions that require tailored nutrition—think kidney disease, obesity, or diabetes. There are no prescription or therapeutic formulas, and the macronutrient ratios aren’t designed with those conditions in mind. You’d be better served by a veterinary diet from Hill’s, Royal Canin, or Purina Pro Plan.
Finally, if you’re the kind of owner who values transparency and ingredient traceability, Showtime is going to disappoint you. There’s no way to verify where the chicken meal came from, how the food was made, or what quality-control standards were applied. For some people, that’s a dealbreaker.
Here’s the good news: most dogs seem to eat Showtime without complaint. The poultry and pork meal base has a meaty aroma that appeals to a lot of dogs, and the fat content makes it palatable. In reviews from kennel owners and working-dog handlers, “dogs eat it well” is a common refrain. That’s not nothing—if your dog won’t eat the food, it doesn’t matter how good the ingredients are on paper.
Showtime doesn’t offer much in the way of flavor variety. The formulas are mostly variations on the same theme—poultry and pork meal with grains—and there’s a Chicken & Rice option that’s slightly more specific. If you’re looking for beef, lamb, venison, or fish-based formulas, you won’t find them here. That lack of variety can be a downside if your dog gets bored easily or if you’re trying to rotate proteins to avoid developing sensitivities.
For picky eaters, results are mixed. Some dogs dive right in, especially if they’re active and hungry. Others might turn their nose up, particularly if they’re used to richer, fattier foods or more novel proteins. The high grain content can also make the kibble less enticing for dogs who prefer meat-forward diets. If your dog is a notoriously picky eater, I’d suggest starting with a small bag—if you can find one—before committing to a 40- or 50-pound sack.
The kibble itself is fairly standard—medium-sized, crunchy pieces that most dogs can handle without issue. It’s not especially small or large, which makes it suitable for a range of breeds. Some owners have mentioned that the kibble can be a bit greasy to the touch, likely due to the fat content, but that’s not unusual for high-fat formulas.
This is where Showtime makes its strongest case. The brand is significantly cheaper than most national competitors, and for owners who are feeding multiple dogs or a large breed, that price difference adds up fast.
Based on current retail prices, Showtime typically runs between $0.90 and $1.30 per pound, depending on the formula and where you buy it. The Advanced 31/22 is on the higher end (around $1.50/lb in some stores), while the Kennel Formula 21/12 can dip below a dollar per pound. Compare that to Purina Pro Plan at $2.00+/lb, Blue Buffalo at $2.50+/lb, or Hill’s Science Diet at similar prices, and the savings are obvious.
For a 30-pound dog eating about 2 cups per day, you’re looking at roughly $1.40 per day on Showtime 24/20, versus $2.00+ per day on a premium brand. Over a month, that’s a difference of $18 to $30, and over a year, it’s $200 to $350. If you’re feeding three dogs, the savings are even more dramatic.
Now, the question is whether you’re getting good value or just a cheap product. The answer depends on your priorities. If you’re looking purely at calories per dollar and protein per dollar, Showtime delivers. The Advanced 31/22 and 27/20 formulas offer high energy density and decent protein at a price that’s hard to beat. For working dogs who need fuel and aren’t prone to sensitivities, that’s solid value.
But if you’re factoring in ingredient quality, transparency, and long-term health, the value proposition gets murkier. The heavy reliance on corn, wheat, and soy, the use of BHA, the lack of feeding trials, and the complete absence of sourcing information all add up to a product that’s cheap for a reason. You’re not paying for premium ingredients, third-party testing, or a brand that invests in research and development. You’re paying for calories and convenience.
Compared to other budget brands like Pedigree or Ol’ Roy, Showtime holds its own—it’s got higher protein and fat in most formulas, and the inclusion of glucosamine in some lines is a nice bonus. Compared to mid-tier brands like Purina ONE or Iams, Showtime is cheaper but also less refined in terms of ingredient quality and digestibility. And compared to premium brands like Blue Buffalo or Orijen, there’s no contest—Showtime is a different category entirely.
If you’re deciding between Showtime and a national brand, consider reading our Beneful review for another perspective on a widely available, budget-friendly option with a very different brand philosophy.
This is where the transparency issues become hard to ignore. Showtime is distributed by U.S.-based companies like Mid-South Feeds, but the bulk manufacturing appears to happen in China, specifically in OEM facilities in Hebei and Shandong provinces. That’s not inherently a problem—many products, including pet foods, are made overseas—but the lack of detailed information about these facilities is concerning.
We couldn’t find any evidence of ISO, HACCP, or GMP certifications for Showtime’s production facilities. There’s no mention of third-party audits, no published quality-control protocols, and no transparency around ingredient sourcing or testing for contaminants like heavy metals or mycotoxins. For a brand that’s asking you to trust them with your dog’s health, that’s a significant gap.
To be fair, Showtime has no documented recalls in the past decade, which suggests that whatever quality-control measures are in place are at least keeping the food safe. But the absence of recalls isn’t the same as the presence of rigorous, transparent quality assurance.
The ingredient sourcing is a black box. You don’t know where the poultry meal comes from, whether the grains are U.S.-grown or imported, or how the fat is rendered. For some owners, that won’t matter—they’re focused on price and performance. For others, especially those who’ve been burned by contamination scares or who prioritize “Made in the USA” products, this lack of traceability is a dealbreaker.
If sustainability and corporate responsibility are important to you, Showtime offers virtually nothing in the way of public information. There’s no published sustainability report, no goals around carbon reduction or renewable energy, no details on packaging recyclability, and no information about animal welfare standards in the supply chain.
The food comes in standard polypropylene bags—the same plastic bags used by most dry dog food brands. There’s no indication that the bags are recyclable or made from post-consumer materials. Some communities have pet food bag recycling programs, but Showtime doesn’t provide guidance on this.
There’s no evidence of charitable giving, community partnerships, or animal welfare initiatives. Again, for a budget brand, this isn’t shocking—these programs cost money, and Showtime is clearly focused on keeping prices low. But if you’re someone who likes to support brands that give back or that prioritize ethical sourcing, Showtime doesn’t check those boxes.
I work at a dog shelter, and one of the benefits of that job is the opportunity to test different foods with dogs who come through our doors. For this review, we tried Showtime with a dog named Rusty, a four-year-old mixed-breed who’d been with us for about three weeks. Rusty’s a medium-sized guy—around 45 pounds—with a short tan coat, floppy ears, and a personality that’s equal parts goofy and gentle. He’d been eating a generic shelter kibble (a different budget brand) since he arrived, and his stools were a bit soft, though not alarmingly so. He didn’t have any known allergies or health issues, just a typical adult dog adjusting to shelter life.
We transitioned Rusty to Showtime 24/20 over five days, mixing increasing amounts with his old food. He didn’t seem to notice or care—he ate every meal without hesitation, and there was no initial digestive upset. The kibble itself had a strong, meaty smell that I found a bit intense, but Rusty clearly liked it. He’d start wagging his tail as soon as I opened the bag.
Rusty ate Showtime enthusiastically for the entire two-week test period. He’d finish his bowl in less than a minute, lick it clean, and then look at me hopefully for more. That level of enthusiasm was actually a step up from his previous food, where he’d sometimes leave a few pieces behind. I can’t say for sure whether it was the flavor, the fat content, or just the change of pace, but he was definitely a fan.
Over the two weeks, I didn’t notice any dramatic changes in Rusty’s coat, energy, or overall demeanor. His coat was already in decent shape, and it stayed that way—no extra shine, but no dullness either. His stools did firm up a bit compared to the previous food, which was a positive. They were still on the larger side, which is typical with grain-heavy diets, but they were easier to pick up and less messy. No gas, no vomiting, no signs of discomfort.
Energy-wise, Rusty was his usual self—playful during walks and yard time, calm and cuddly in his kennel. I didn’t see a surge in energy or any lethargy, which is exactly what you’d hope for with a maintenance food. He seemed comfortable and content, and his appetite stayed strong throughout.
From a practical standpoint, Showtime was easy to work with. The kibble didn’t leave a greasy residue on my hands, though it did have that strong smell I mentioned. Portioning was straightforward, and the bag held up fine in our storage area. For Rusty, it was just another meal—no fuss, no drama, and no complaints.
Honestly, if Rusty were my dog and I was on a tight budget, I’d feel okay feeding him Showtime as long as he stayed healthy and happy. But I’d also be watching closely for any signs of sensitivities or digestive issues, and I’d probably rotate in a higher-quality food periodically if I could afford it.
When you look at what real owners are saying about Showtime, the feedback is decidedly mixed, with a lean toward the negative when you factor in independent reviews and expert ratings.
The most common praise for Showtime centers on affordability and palatability. Kennel owners, breeders, and working-dog handlers frequently mention that their dogs eat it well and maintain good energy levels. In multi-dog households, the low cost per pound makes a real difference, and the high-calorie formulas mean you’re feeding smaller portions than you might with a lower-density food. Some owners report that their dogs’ coats look decent and that stools are firm and manageable, though these comments are less frequent than the price-related praise.
The complaints are more varied and more serious. Allergic reactions—particularly itching, scratching, and ear infections—are a recurring theme, and these are almost certainly tied to the corn, wheat, and soy content. Digestive issues like loose stools, gas, and occasional vomiting are also reported, though not universally. Some owners mention that their dogs developed skin problems after switching to Showtime, which resolved when they moved to a different food.
There are also scattered reports of quality inconsistencies—bags that smelled off, kibble that looked or felt different from batch to batch, and even occasional mentions of mold. These are isolated incidents, but they’re worth noting, especially given the lack of transparency around quality control.
Independent reviewers have been harsh. Dog Food Advisor rates Showtime 1.5 out of 5 stars, citing the heavy use of plant-based protein boosters and the lack of named meat sources. Moesonson gives it 2.5 stars, pointing out the high carbohydrate content and the presence of allergens. Neither site recommends Showtime as a top-tier choice, and both suggest that owners with the means to do so should consider upgrading to a brand with better ingredient transparency and quality.
Owners who’ve fed Showtime for years tend to fall into two camps: those whose dogs have done fine on it and see no reason to switch, and those who’ve noticed gradual health issues—weight gain, dull coats, chronic ear infections—and have since moved on. The lack of published feeding trials or long-term health studies makes it hard to know what the true long-term impact might be.
To put Showtime in perspective, it helps to see how it stacks up against other brands in similar and adjacent price ranges.
Both are budget brands, but Pedigree has far better distribution and brand recognition. Ingredient-wise, they’re similar—grain-heavy, reliant on meat meals and by-products—but Pedigree offers more variety in flavors and formats (wet food, treats, etc.). Showtime edges ahead slightly on protein and fat content in its higher-tier formulas, but Pedigree’s transparency and availability make it a more accessible choice for most consumers.
Purina ONE is a step up in quality and price. It uses real chicken or beef as the first ingredient in many formulas, and the brand invests in research and feeding trials. The ingredient lists are more specific, and the brand has a stronger reputation for digestibility and palatability. If you can afford the extra dollar or two per pound, Purina ONE is a better long-term choice for most dogs.
This isn’t even a fair comparison—Blue Buffalo is a premium brand with a completely different philosophy. It uses named meats, avoids by-products, includes functional ingredients like glucosamine and probiotics, and has a strong track record of transparency. The price difference is significant—often double or more—but so is the quality gap. If you’re considering Blue Buffalo and Showtime, you’re likely weighing budget constraints against ingredient priorities.
Diamond Naturals is a mid-tier brand that offers better ingredient quality at a slightly higher price. It uses real meat, includes probiotics and omega fatty acids, and has a cleaner reputation overall. For owners who want to step up from Showtime without breaking the bank, Diamond Naturals is worth a look.
Taste of the Wild is grain-free and protein-forward, with novel proteins like bison and venison. It’s significantly more expensive than Showtime, but it also caters to a different audience—owners who prioritize ancestral diets and high meat content. If your dog has grain sensitivities, Taste of the Wild is a better option, but it’s not a direct competitor to Showtime in terms of price or philosophy.
Showtime works best for healthy, active adult dogs who don’t have food sensitivities or special dietary needs. If you have a working dog—a hunting dog, a farm dog, a sled dog—who burns through calories and needs high-energy fuel, the Advanced 31/22 or 27/20 formulas can absolutely meet that need. The same goes for large-breed dogs or multi-dog households where budget is a real consideration and you need a food that delivers calories without breaking the bank.
The puppy formula (30/20) is suitable for growing dogs, especially if you’re raising a litter or feeding an active young dog. It meets AAFCO growth standards and provides the protein and fat puppies need to develop properly. Just be aware that the grain content is high, so if your puppy shows any signs of digestive upset or skin issues, you may need to switch.
For senior dogs, the Kennel Formula 21/12 or the Chicken & Rice 24/14 could work, especially if your dog is less active and doesn’t need high protein or fat. The inclusion of glucosamine in the Advanced 31/22 might also be beneficial for joint health, though there are better-targeted senior formulas on the market if that’s a priority.
Showtime is not suitable for dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or chronic health conditions. The corn, wheat, and soy content makes it a poor choice for dogs prone to itching, ear infections, or digestive upset. And if your dog needs a prescription or therapeutic diet, Showtime doesn’t offer that.
Alright, let’s cut to the chase. Is Showtime good dog food? The answer is: it depends on what “good” means to you.
If “good” means affordable, calorie-dense, and functional, then yes, Showtime is good. It delivers high protein and fat at a price that’s hard to beat, and for working dogs or multi-dog households where budget is a real constraint, it can absolutely do the job. The fact that there are no recalls on record is reassuring, and the inclusion of joint-support ingredients in some formulas is a nice touch for a budget brand.
But if “good” means high-quality ingredients, transparency, and long-term health optimization, then no, Showtime falls short. The heavy reliance on corn, wheat, and soy, the use of generic meat meals, the presence of BHA, and the complete lack of sourcing information or feeding trials all add up to a product that’s cheap for a reason. You’re not getting premium nutrition—you’re getting calories and convenience.
Here’s my honest take: I wouldn’t choose Showtime for my own dog unless I was in a financial bind and had no other options. If I were feeding a healthy, non-sensitive dog on a tight budget, I’d feel okay using it short-term, but I’d be watching closely for any signs of issues. And if I could afford to spend even a little more, I’d upgrade to a brand with better ingredient quality and transparency—something like Purina ONE, Diamond Naturals, or even a mid-tier option from a well-known manufacturer.
For working-dog owners, kennel operators, or rescue organizations where cost is a primary concern and you’re feeding dogs who are healthy and active, Showtime can make sense. It’s a practical, no-frills option that gets the job done without draining your wallet. But for pet owners who have the means to choose a higher-quality food, I think there are better options out there that offer more peace of mind and long-term health benefits.
If you’re trying to decide between Showtime and other budget-friendly options, I’d recommend taking a look at alternatives that offer a bit more transparency and ingredient quality. And if you’re curious about fresh dog food options that prioritize real ingredients and personalization, check out our reviews on brands like The Farmer’s Dog, which takes a completely different approach to canine nutrition.
At the end of the day, the best dog food is the one your dog thrives on and that you can afford to feed consistently. Showtime isn’t the worst choice out there, but it’s also not the best. It’s a functional, budget-conscious option that works for some dogs and situations—just make sure it’s the right fit for yours.
No, Showtime dog food is primarily manufactured in China through OEM facilities in Hebei and Shandong provinces, though it’s distributed by U.S.-based companies like Mid-South Feeds. The brand provides very little transparency about its manufacturing locations or production standards, which is a significant concern for owners who prioritize domestically-made products.
Showtime is typically sold at agricultural stores, feed mills, and independent retailers rather than major pet store chains. It’s a regional brand that focuses on rural and working-dog markets, so you’re more likely to find it at farm supply stores than at PetSmart or Petco. Availability varies significantly by location.
We found no documented recalls for Showtime dog food in recent years, which is positive. However, the lack of recalls doesn’t necessarily indicate superior quality control—it could also reflect the brand’s smaller market presence compared to national brands that face more scrutiny.
No, Showtime is not suitable for dogs with food allergies. The formulas contain common allergens including corn, wheat, and soy, and they use generic “poultry meal” which makes it impossible to identify specific proteins. If your dog has sensitivities, you’ll need to look for a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic formula from another brand.
Protein content varies by formula. The Advanced 31/22 contains 31% protein, while other formulas range from 21% (Kennel Formula) to 30% (Puppy Formula). However, much of this protein comes from plant sources like corn gluten meal rather than animal protein, which affects the biological value.
Showtime is significantly cheaper than national brands but also lower in ingredient quality. While it offers similar or higher protein percentages, it relies heavily on meat meals, grain fillers, and plant-based protein boosters. National brands like Purina ONE typically use named meat sources, conduct feeding trials, and offer better transparency about sourcing and manufacturing.
Yes, Showtime offers a puppy formula (30/20) that meets AAFCO growth standards. However, the high grain content may not be ideal for all puppies, especially those prone to digestive sensitivities. The formula is adequate for basic nutritional needs but lacks the specialized ingredients found in premium puppy foods.
Showtime’s low price reflects its cost-cutting approach to ingredients and manufacturing. The brand uses inexpensive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, relies on meat meals rather than fresh meat, and manufactures overseas. There’s also minimal investment in marketing, research, or premium ingredients that drive up costs in higher-end brands.
Showtime contains BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) as a preservative, which has been flagged in some studies as a potential carcinogen at high doses, though it’s FDA-approved for pet food use. The brand also uses generic terms like “animal fat” and “poultry meal” without specifying sources, which some owners find concerning.
The Advanced 31/22 formula is designed for working dogs, offering 31% protein and 22% fat with high caloric density (3,850 kcal/kg). It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. This formula provides the energy density that active, working dogs need to sustain demanding physical activity.
The Kennel Formula 21/12 or Chicken & Rice 24/14 could work for less active senior dogs, as they’re lower in protein and fat. However, Showtime doesn’t offer senior-specific formulas with tailored nutrition for aging dogs. If your senior dog has specific health issues, a veterinary diet would be more appropriate.
Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of Showtime with your dog’s current food. Start with 25% Showtime for 2-3 days, then 50% for 2-3 days, then 75% for 2-3 days, before switching completely. Watch for any digestive upset, especially given the high grain content that some dogs may not tolerate well.
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