Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews: A Shocking Truth
I’ve tried many dog foods over the years. But finding one that’s healthy, tasty, and affordable is tough. That’s why I’m sharing my honest thoughts after trying something new with my pup. I read lots of real reviews and gave this brand a try—Whole Hearted Dog Food (Chicken Hearts Dog Treats). What I found was a mix of good and bad surprises. I think other pet parents should know what to expect. If you’re looking for grain-free or limited-ingredient dog food, here’s what I found—and what you should think about before making a switch.
My Real Life Experience: Is Whole Hearted a Good Dog Food?
I’ve been using WholeHearted dog food and chicken heart treats for over two years. My dogs range from a food-loving puppy to a senior with tummy trouble. I’ve tried it all—dry food, wet food, and high-protein treats.
I first tried WholeHearted when my picky small dog refused to eat anything else. What shocked me? His tail wagged, his coat looked better, his digestion improved, and he had more energy. Even my fussy eater got excited at meal time. That’s when I knew—this food works.
Their grain-free and simple recipes made feeding both my indoor and outdoor dogs easy. The best part? The freeze-dried chicken hearts. They’re packed with real meat and have no fillers. These treats do more than reward—they help clean teeth, build muscle, and support the heart with zinc and taurine.
My active dog plays more and seems stronger. There’s something honest about WholeHearted. No fake stuff. Just real food that works.
Not every bag is perfect, though. Sometimes the wet food is too runny. Some treats smell strong (my dogs love that, but I don’t). Still, the food is clean, simple, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s one of the few brands I trust with both my heart and wallet.
WholeHearted Dog Food Review – Vital Essentials Chicken Hearts
These numbers explain the change I saw in my dogs:
- Protein (Min.): 65%
- Fat (Min.): 20%
- Fiber (Max.): 3%
- Moisture (Max.): 8%
- Calories: 4150 kcal/kg or 10 kcal per treat
The brand says these are for extra feeding only. Still, they work well. I use them as training rewards or crumble a few on food for my older dog.
Bottom line: If you’re asking if WholeHearted is good, yes. The grain-free and freeze-dried options really help. It’s not fancy, but it’s smart, simple, and full of love.
What I Like: Is Whole Hearted Dog Food Healthy?
I’ve tried a lot of dog foods. With an older dog and a pup with a sensitive tummy, I’ve learned that not all food works the same. I found WholeHearted by chance, but it turned out to be more than I expected. It helped my dogs feel better, inside and out. WholeHearted stands out. It has clean ingredients, smart recipes, and fair prices. Their grain-free kibble and canned food feel real and simple. When I added their freeze-dried treats, my dogs perked up. They got more playful, and I noticed better health all around. No matter your dog’s type—lazy, active, or picky—this brand has something to offer.
Can You Mix Raw Food with Kibble?
Yes—and I do it often. Mixing raw and dry food is my favorite trick. It gives my dogs great nutrition and keeps things affordable. Raw-only diets cost more, so I use a mix. I crumble freeze-dried chicken hearts or Mini Nibs over WholeHearted’s grain-free kibble. It’s like adding toppings to a plain salad. Suddenly, meals are fun—and I know my dogs are getting what they need.
Nutritious and Delicious Analysis of Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews
Dogs get bored, too. When my dogs stopped eating plain kibble, I added toppers and Mini Nibs from Vital Essentials. The flavor boost worked fast.
With meats like beef, rabbit, and turkey, even my pickiest pup ran to the bowl.
And they’re not just tasty—they help in big ways:
- Mini Nibs: Crunchy and great for teeth
- Patties: Soft and moist—perfect for older dogs
- Tripe: Supports digestion and gives a shiny coat
- Meal toppers: Boost energy and immune health
Now, meals feel like a treat, not a task.
Why I Like It – My Honest List
Here’s why I stick with WholeHearted:
- Real Food: No fillers or mystery stuff—just food I trust
- Tummy Friendly: No more stomach issues for my pup
- Great for Allergies: Fewer ingredients = fewer problems
- Joint Help: My big dog moves better with lean protein
- Better Skin & Coat: No flakes, just soft, shiny fur
- Dental Perks: Those crunchy bites clean teeth
- Low Cal, High Protein: Great for my chill indoor pup
- Immune Boost: Zinc and taurine help keep colds away
- Grain-Free That Works: Not hype—just healthy
- Clear Labels: U.S.-made, no secrets, many choices
A Little Real Talk
No food is perfect. Some wet food batches were too soft. And yes, the freeze-dried treats smell strong (my dogs love that—I don’t). But the wins matter more. WholeHearted keeps it clean, simple, and affordable.
So if you’re asking, “Is WholeHearted good dog food?” or “Can I trust these reviews?”—I say yes. It’s honest food for real dogs.
What Could Be Better: Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews (Chicken Heart Dog Treats)
Let me start by saying—I love chicken heart dog treats. They’re high in protein, full of taurine, and my dogs go nuts for them.
But even with all the good stuff, there are a few things I’d change.
- Strong Smell
Freeze-dried chicken hearts smell… strong.
My dogs love it, but I don’t.
I wish the bag had a tighter seal. A better zipper or vacuum seal would help, especially when I use them on the go.- Crumbly at the Bottom
By the end of the bag, many treats break into small bits.
Not a big deal—I use the crumbs as a meal topper.
Still, I’d prefer the treats to hold their shape better.- Mixed Sizes
Some pieces are big, some are tiny.
It adds variety, sure.
But for training, I want smaller, even pieces so I don’t have to stop and break them up.- Pricey for Big Dogs
If you have a large breed, these treats go fast.
A bulk option would help save money for those of us who use them often.- Storage Info Needs Work
These treats are shelf-stable, but the label should be clearer.
It should say to store in a cool, dry place and seal the bag after opening. That would help keep them fresh longer.
Even with those small issues, I’m sticking with them. They’re real meat, and my dogs beg for more every time. Whether you’re making your own or buying dried chicken hearts for dogs, these are a solid win, with room to improve.
Feeding Guidelines: Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews
Chicken hearts are rich, so small amounts go far.
Here’s how I feed freeze-dried chicken heart treats:
- Give as a treat, not a meal
- Best for training, toppers, or daily rewards
- Watch your dog while feeding
- Keep water nearby
- Wash hands, bowls, and surfaces
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Use within 30 days of opening
- Not for people
- Keep away from kids and pets
This isn’t a “pour it in the bowl” treat.
It works best when used with care, as a reward or a boost for picky eaters.
Is It Required to Store Freeze-Dried Pet Food in the Refrigerator?
No—and that’s a big win for me.
Freeze-dried treats, like chicken hearts, don’t need the fridge. You get raw food perks with zero mess.
Just keep them sealed and in a cool, dark place like a pantry. No need to make room in the fridge or freezer.
That ease is why I keep coming back to WholeHearted. Their kibble, toppers, and freeze-dried treats make feeding simple—and smart.
Pros and Cons of Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews
I’ve tried a lot of dog treats over the years, but Vital Essentials freeze-dried raw treats hold a special spot in my pantry. They’re simple, clean, and my dogs go crazy for them. But like everything, they come with a few trade-offs. Here’s my honest take.
These treats are made with one ingredient—real meat. That means no fillers, no grains, and no mystery stuff. It’s great if your dog has allergies or if you follow a limited-ingredient diet.
Freeze-drying keeps the nutrients from raw meat without needing a freezer. It’s a great way to give your dog raw food benefits without the mess. I often use them as a meal topper with WholeHearted dry food for an extra boost.
No lie—my dogs come running when I open the bag. These make perfect training rewards, and they’re a lifesaver for picky eaters. I even use them as snack time treats or for chew motivation.
These are dry, light, and easy to carry. Whether you’re heading out for a walk or packing for a trip, they’re perfect travel companions. I keep a few in my pocket for walks or vet visits.
No added colors, flavors, or preservatives. Just clean, freeze-dried protein. That’s it. It pairs well with other natural foods, like the ones in many WholeHearted dog food recipes.
The sizes vary a bit. I’ve had to break them down for training or smaller dogs. Not a huge deal, but more consistent sizing would help.
If you have a big dog like mine, you’ll go through a bag fast. I wish there were more bulk options to make it a better deal, especially for daily treat use.
The last few pieces sometimes turn into powder. I don’t waste it, though—I sprinkle the crumbs over kibble as a healthy incentive or behavior booster.
The smell is intense, especially with organ meats like chicken hearts or beef liver. It doesn’t bother me much, but I do keep the bag sealed tight after every use.
Alternative Option: Purina Pro Plan
I’ve fed a lot of dogs over the years. I’ve also tested many dog food brands. Vital Essentials is my favorite for freeze-dried treats. But I’ve also used Purina Pro Plan for more standard dog food. It’s a brand that keeps popping up, especially when folks ask about high-protein kibble.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dog Food
When I was raising my active Labrador, I tried Purina Pro Plan high-protein dry dog food. I needed something with lots of calories that was easy to keep. Back then, I couldn’t afford freeze-dried raw all the time. So this became our go-to meal.
Comparison Table: Vital Essentials vs. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry
| Feature | Vital Essentials (Freeze-Dried) | Purina Pro Plan (High Protein Dry) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Just raw meat | Chicken, beef, or salmon blends |
| Processing | Freeze-dried to save nutrients | Baked into kibble |
| Ingredient Simplicity | One meat, no fillers | Has grains and extra stuff |
| Shelf Life | Long and easy to store | Also long-lasting and simple |
| Taste (My Dogs’ Response) | Big hit—great as a treat | Liked it, but less exciting |
| Price Point | Costs more per ounce | Cheaper for daily use |
| Usage | Best as a topper or treat | Best as the main food |
If you need daily food for big dogs on a budget, Purina Pro Plan works. But if you want clean treats, Vital Essentials is better.
Purina Pro Plan Wet Dog Food
For a while, I mixed Purina Pro Plan wet dog food with kibble. My older dogs liked the soft feel. Some had sore teeth, so it helped a lot. Even then, I used Vital Essentials on top. It added crunch and real meat flavor.
Comparison Table: Vital Essentials vs. Purina Pro Plan Wet Food
| Feature | Vital Essentials (Freeze-Dried) | Purina Pro Plan (Wet Dog Food) |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Crunchy and light | Soft and moist |
| Ideal For | Training, trips, or high-value rewards | Picky eaters or older dogs |
| Ingredients | One raw meat | A mix with gravy |
| Convenience | No mess, easy to carry | Needs a fridge after opening |
| Smell (My Experience) | Strong but fresh | Smells fine, dogs like it |
| Shelf Life (Open) | Stays good for weeks | Use in 2–3 days once opened |
If your dog likes soft food, Pro Plan wet food is fine. But for clean, dry, easy treats, Vital Essentials wins again.
Purina Pro Plan Probiotic Dog Food
One of my dogs had belly issues, so I tried Purina Pro Plan probiotic dog food. It helped her digestion a bit. But later, I added Vital Essentials. Her gut health got even better. Less gas, better poop—seriously.
Comparison Table: Vital Essentials vs. Purina Pro Plan Probiotic
| Feature | Vital Essentials (Freeze-Dried) | Purina Pro Plan (Probiotic Kibble) |
|---|---|---|
| Digestive Support | Natural from raw meat | Added good bacteria |
| Ingredient Clarity | One meat only | Mixed meats and grains |
| Ease of Digestion (My Dog’s Case) | Great—no gas or bloat | Helped, but not perfect |
| Shelf Life | Light, no spoil risk | A sealed bag keeps it fresh |
| Best Use | Toppers or healthy treats | Full meals for gut health |
Summary:
Pro Plan’s probiotic food helped. But Vital Essentials gave better results with fewer extras to worry about.
My Final Thoughts on Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews
If you want a budget-friendly dog food with decent ingredients and no fillers, WholeHearted might be just right for you. It’s a solid choice for everyday feeding, especially if you’ve got more than one dog to feed. But if you’re all about raw diets or premium, single-protein recipes, you might need to look elsewhere. For me, it worked well during tight months, but I still kept Vital Essentials on hand for high-reward treats. It’s all about balance—know your dog, and choose what fits best.
FAQs on Whole Hearted Dog Food Reviews
- Is WholeHearted dog food worth it?
Yes, if you’re looking for an affordable option with clean ingredients and no fillers. Learn more about how it compares to premium brands in real-life use.- Is WholeHearted a healthy dog food brand?
It’s a healthier pick than many store brands, thanks to its grain-free options and real meat focus. But it’s not as rich as raw or high-protein diets.- Who makes WholeHearted dog food?
WholeHearted is made by Petco. It’s their in-house brand created to offer better quality at a budget-friendly price. Learn more about what sets it apart.- Is WholeHearted good for dogs with allergies?
Some recipes are great for food sensitivities, like salmon or limited-ingredient formulas. Always check labels and talk to your vet if unsure.- How does WholeHearted compare to premium raw food brands?
It’s more affordable and easier to store, but raw brands like Vital Essentials offer higher protein and fewer carbs. See how they stack up side by side.
Whole Hearted Dog Food Recall
When I first checked out WholeHearted dog food, safety was my top worry. Like any pet parent, I asked myself, “What if the food gets recalled?” It’s a fair fear. Dog food recalls happen more than we want.
The good news? WholeHearted has had very few issues over the years. As of now, there have been no major recalls on their dry dog food. That includes recipes like chicken, lamb & rice, and grain-free blends. So if you’re asking, “Has WholeHearted lamb and rice dog food been recalled?” The answer is no, not at the time of writing.
Still, I stay alert. Many recalls catch people off guard. So I check trusted sources like the FDA and recall lists now and then. WholeHearted wasn’t listed in any dog food recall alerts recently. There was a small cat treat recall in the past due to mold. It didn’t spread, but the company acted fast. That gave me peace of mind.
From what I’ve seen, WholeHearted takes safety seriously. They don’t use mystery fillers. They stick to good sourcing rules. I feel safe feeding it, but I always check the bag, read the label, and stay updated.
Wondering what dog foods have been recalled lately? Not WholeHearted. And that’s a big relief. Still, if that ever changes, I’ll be the first to pull it from my shelf. Because when it comes to my dogs, safety beats savings—every time.
Taslima Akter Sumaiya is a passionate pet mom and founder of PetFoodHubing.com. With real-life experience and insights inspired by USDA-ARS experts like Dr. Jitender P. Dubey, she writes honest, research-backed reviews to help dog and cat parents choose the best food. Trust her to simplify pet nutrition—with love and science. Read More…
