Wild Earth Dog Food Review

Dog Food Reviews February 7, 2024
Wild Earth Dog Food Review
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Wild Earth Dog Food Review

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Wild Earth Dog Food Review

Wild Earth is a plant-based dog food that offers one type of dog food in two-size bags. What makes Wild Earth different from other dog food is they have 31% protein in their kibble, without meat.

Wild Earth claims to be free of corn, soy, rice, and all things artificial. That goes for preservatives, colors, and flavors as well.

How We Tested:

  • We purchased Wild Earth dog food directly from their website to test and review
  • We spent several weeks testing the food on our dog
  • We did not receive this product in exchange for a favorable review and purchased it with our own money

Quick Picks (Products)

  • Wild Earth Clean Protein Dog Food: This recipe is made with dried yeast, chickpeas, oats, peas, pea protein, potato protein, canola oil, sweet potato, dried Aspergillus oryzae fermentation product, flaxseed meal, sunflower oil, and other sustainable ingredients.
  • Superfood Dog Treats With Koji: These dog treats are made with sustainable koji protein, an ancient fungi superfood, and come in flavors peanut butter, strawberry and beat, banana, and cinnamon.
  • Dog Supplements: These are veterinarian-developed, science-backed supplements to provide support in the areas where your dog needs it, like the hip and joint, digestion and immunity, and skin and coat.

Wild Earth Dog Food: Top 4 Recipes Reviewed

Product NameFood TypeProtein (as fed)kcal/kg/kcal ME/kg
Wild Earth Clean Protein Dog FoodDry dog food31%3557 kcal/kg, 333 kcal/cup
Superfood Dog Treats With Koji: Peanut Butter FlavorDry dog food20%3770 kcal ME/kg, 15 kcal ME/treat
Superfood Dog Treats With Koji: Banana Cinnamon FlavorDry dog food20%3745 kcal ME/kg, 15 kcal ME/treat
Superfood Dog Treats With Koji: Strawberry Beet FlavorDry dog food20%3610 kcal ME/kg, 14.5 kcal ME/treat

Brand Score

Wild Earth Dog Food Review
Brand
Overall Score
Pros
  • No fillers, preservatives, colors, flavors or corn
  • Offers 10 essential amino acids
  • Contains 31% complete protein, sourced from yeast
Cons
  • Price on the high side
  • No grain free options
  • Only one dog food recipe
Pros
  • No fillers, preservatives, colors, flavors or corn
  • Offers 10 essential amino acids
  • Contains 31% complete protein, sourced from yeast
Cons
  • Price on the high side
  • No grain free options
  • Only one dog food recipe
Ingredients
Pricing
Customization
Quality
Customer Reviews
Recall History
Recipe Variety

About

Wild Earth founder and CEO, Ryan Bethencourt considers himself a vegan biohacker and is on a mission to provide cruelty-free solutions to our everyday lives. It all began in 2017, when the founders developed and created sustainable pet foods with a low carbon footprint and no animal cruelty. They were tired of the unhealthy additives and unnatural supplements in factory-produced dog food.

After being inspired by a study from UCLA that stated 64 million tons of carbon dioxide permeate into the atmosphere because of meat-based pet food production, Wild Earth assembled a team of veterinarians, nutritionists, and scientists. They went on to create cruelty-free and sustainable vegan dog food.

The company gained notoriety when it was featured on Shark Tank, where they received a $550,000 investment for a 10% stake in the company.

Sourcing And Manufacturing

Wild Earth doesn’t provide a lot of information on its manufacturing process or the sourcing of its ingredients. From what we could find, they manufacture their products in a facility located in Kansas City, Missouri.

Wild Earth is headquartered in Berkley, California, and the dog food will be distributed by United Pacific Pet (UPP) in California, Nevada, Arizona, and Hawaii. It will also be available direct-to-consumer on Wild Earth’s website.

According to Dr. Ernie Ward, chief veterinary officer at Wild Earth, each serving of their kibble contains 31% complete protein, of which the main source is yeast. The diet contains other ingredients such as oats, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, blueberries, pumpkin, and spinach. Wild Earth dog food does not contain corn, soy, or rice and is free from artificial flavors or preservatives. It does include added taurine, DHC, and carnitine.

The dried yeast cultures incorporated in Wild Earth dog food are an Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)-approved pet food ingredient and are classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The formula is designed specifically for adult dogs.

How Does Wild Earth Dog Food Work?

You have the option of buying Wild Earth dog food by the bag or by signing up for a subscription, which saves you 50% on your first order and 10% on repeat orders. Shipping is free and you can change or cancel your subscription at any time.

There is only one flavor of dog food to choose from and two size bags: 4 pounds and 18 pounds. They also offer additional items like dog treats and supplements. If you are unsure how much food your dog needs, you can customize your dog’s meal plan by clicking on “How much do I need?” under the Add to Cart button.

Wild Earth Dog Food Review
Wild Earth’s website and selection process

You are also able to choose how often you would like to receive your dog food and you can choose from 2 weeks up to 6 weeks between deliveries.

Once you place your order, you will receive an email confirmation. Orders ship out the same day (unless you order on a weekend) and are expected to arrive at your home anywhere between 2 and 8 days, depending on your location.

If your dog is not satisfied with Wild Earth dog food, they will provide a full refund on any item within 30 days of purchase, no questions asked.

Unboxing

I received a bag of Wild Earth Clean Protein Dog Food kibbles in a recyclable box directly from Wild Earth. However, the bag is made of multi-layer laminate plastic to allow for package integrity and product freshness over time. Unfortunately, it is not recyclable. There is a resealable tab at the top of the bag for easy storage, which is a plus.

Wild Earth dog food arrives in a box

Analysis/Review

1.

Wild Earth Clean Protein Formula Vegan Dry Adult Dog Food

Product Info

  • Protein: 31% Min
  • Fat: 10.5% Min
  • Fiber: 5% Max
  • Moisture: 10% Max
Here’s a look at the ingredients in this food: Dried Yeast, Chickpeas, Oats, Peas, Pea Protein, Potato Protein, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Sweet Potato, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Flaxseed Meal, Sunflower Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Dicalcium Phosphate, Calcium Carbonate, Natural Flavor, Marine Microalgae, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Salt, Inulin (from chicory root), Fructooligosaccharide, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate,….

Lets look at the first 6 ingredients in Wild Earth Clean Protein Dog Food.

Dried Yeast is a sustainable plant-based energy source and protein that contains 10 different amino acids. Dried yeast produces a savory taste similar to umami that your dog will enjoy.

Chickpeas are a legume that provide an additional source of plant-based protein. They also have a high fiber content, which is good for your dog’s digestion.

Oats are a complex carbohydrate that are very high in fiber. They help keep your dog’s blood sugar levels stable and promote better digestion. Oats also contain vitamin B, which supports a healthy coat, and linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid for better skin.

Peas are a plant-based source of energy, vitamins, and minerals. They contain iron, zinc, potassium and magnesium.

Pea Protein is a fantastic vegan protein supplement for your dog. The pea plant also provides the following vitamins and minerals: vitamins A, B, and K, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and iron.

Sweet Potato is a starchy root veggie often enjoyed by humans and is also a good source of carbohydrate for your dog. Sweet potatoes contain fiber, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and B6.
2.

Wild Earth Good Protein Dog Snacks with Koji Peanut Butter Flavor Crunchy Dog Treats

Product Info

  • Protein: 20% Min
  • Fat: 17% Min
  • Fiber: 4.5% Max
  • Moisture: 9% Max
Here’s a look at the ingredients in this food: Oat Flour, Peanut Butter, Peanut Flour, Flaxseed, Pumpkin, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Natural Flavor, Dried Chicory Root (source of Inulin), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Green Tea Extract and Rosemary Extract.

These peanut butter treats are good source of protein, vitamins, iron, fiber and healthy fats. Lets look at the top 5 ingredients listed.

Oat flour is a rich source of healthy dietary fibers and energy. Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they curb blood sugar spikes and promote heart health. Lastly, they’re an excellent source of healthy fats, and supply B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, iron, and selenium.

Peanut butter that is made specifically for pets is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.

Peanut Flour is produced from shelled peanuts. It is a very good source of protein and healthy fats, and packed with healthy vitamins and nutrients.

Flaxseeds are a rich source of healthy dietary fiber and also contain abundant omega-3 (in the form of ALA) which supports skin and coat health.

Pumkin is well-known to help a dog’s digestion. It is a fiber-rich food that also contains important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A, E, and C, and potassium and iron.
3.

Wild Earth Good Protein Dog Snacks with Koji Banana & Cinnamon Flavor Crunchy Dog Treats

Product Info

  • Protein: 20% Min
  • Fat: 17% Min
  • Fiber: 4.5% Max
  • Moisture: 9% Max
Here’s a look at the ingredients in this food: Oat Flour, Banana , Peanut Butter, Flaxseed, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Dried Chicory Root (source of Inulin), Cinnamon, Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Green Tea Extract, Rosemary Extract.

These banana cinnamon dog treats are good source of potassium and magnesium, niacin and vitamins B6, E and C.

Lets take a look at the top 5 ingredients listed.

Oat flour is a rich source of healthy dietary fibers and energy. Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they curb blood sugar spikes and promote heart health. Lastly, they’re an excellent source of healthy fats, and supply B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, iron, and selenium.

Bananas are a great source of potassium and magnesium, and vitamins B6 and C.

Peanut butter that is made specifically for pets is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.

Flaxseeds are a rich source of healthy dietary fiber and also contain abundant omega-3 (in the form of ALA) which supports skin and coat health.

Dried Aspergillus oryzae is designed to provide the highest levels of fungal alpha-amylase and a source of Unidentified Growth Factors (UGF’s) for animal feed applications.
4.

Wild Earth Good Protein Dog Snacks with Koji Strawberry & Beet Flavor Crunchy Dog Treats

Product Info

  • Protein: 20% Min
  • Fat: 17% Min
  • Fiber: 4.5% Max
  • Moisture: 9% Max
Here’s a look at the ingredients in this food: Oat Flour, Strawberry, Peanut Butter, Flaxseed, Dried Aspergillus oryzae Fermentation Product, Beet Powder, Natural Flavor, Dried Chicory Root (source of Inulin), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Green Tea Extract and Rosemary Extract.

These strawberry beet flavor dog treats are good source of folate, manganese, potassium, fiber, vitamin C and copper.

Lets check out the top 5 ingredients listed in detail.

Oat flour is a rich source of healthy dietary fibers and energy. Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they curb blood sugar spikes and promote heart health. Lastly, they’re an excellent source of healthy fats, and supply B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, iron, and selenium.

Strawberries are full of antioxidants, boast high fiber and have a lot of vitamin C. They also help strengthen the immune system and may slow issues related to aging.

Peanut butter that is made specifically for pets is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.

Flaxseeds are a rich source of healthy dietary fiber and also contain abundant omega-3 (in the form of ALA) which supports skin and coat health.

Dried Aspergillus oryzae is designed to provide the highest levels of fungal alpha-amylase and a source of Unidentified Growth Factors (UGF’s) for animal feed applications.

Lets check out the top 5 ingredients listed in detail.
  • Oat flour is a rich source of healthy dietary fibers and energy. Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they curb blood sugar spikes and promote heart health. Lastly, they’re an excellent source of healthy fats, and supply B vitamins, vitamin E, zinc, iron, and selenium.
  • Strawberries are full of antioxidants, boast high fiber and have a lot of vitamin C. They also help strengthen the immune system and may slow issues related to aging.
  • Peanut butter that is made specifically for pets is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.
  • Flaxseeds are a rich source of healthy dietary fiber and also contain abundant omega-3 (in the form of ALA) which supports skin and coat health.
  • Dried Aspergillus oryzae is designed to provide the highest levels of fungal alpha-amylase and a source of Unidentified Growth Factors (UGF's) for animal feed applications.

Taste Test

Sampson tried the Wild Earth dog food on a rotation and mixed it with his current kibble. Wild Earth recommends adding 25% of their kibble to your dog’s current food for the first 2 days. By days 3 and 4, you should be giving your dog a 50/50 mix and increasing to 75% Wild Earth food by days 6 and 7. On day 8, your dog can eat Wild Earth dog food completely.

Wild Earth dog food looks like regular dog kibble

Opening the bag of Wild Earth dog food was simple due to the easy-to-tear top. But even better is the resealable closure on the top of the bag for easy opening and closing. This makes mealtime so quick and easy and it means there is no need to store the kibble in a container.

The food looks like a typical dog kibble and feels the same, texture-wise. It did feel a little bit lighter than regular dog kibble.

The chart on the side of the bags says I should be giving my dog 3 to 3 1/2 cups because he weighs around 60 pounds.

My dog usually eats a combination of kibble and fresh dog food but for the sake of this taste test, he ate strictly kibble for two weeks. I should add that my dog will eat just about anything and is not very picky, especially when he is hungry.

Sampson trying Wild Earth dog food

My dog did not love Wild Earth dog food. While I can say he did eat it, he refused it until he was most likely starving. When I put it in his bowl at mealtime, he would sniff it and walk away. Even when mixing it with his old kibble, he picked at it and ate the piece he liked. I am not saying he hated it, but he probably wouldn’t consider this dog food one of his top ten favorites.

The Downside of Wild Earth Dog Food

Wild Earth dog food is not a cheap dog kibble and is available in only one flavor. A 4-pound bag will cost you around $30 without a subscription and 10% less with one. An 18-pound bag will cost $70 for a one-time purchase and around $63 with a subscription.

While the ingredients consist of complete protein, superfood ingredients, and zero “meat junk,” some dogs (like mine) will just not find it appealing. Another downside is that the dog food is not considered grain-free, which may cause issues for some dogs.

Wild Earth Monthly Cost Comparison

DOG FOOD BRANDDOG SIZEMONTHLY COST
Hungry Bark50 to 60 Pounds$ 95.00 to $ 107.00
Spot and Tango Unkibble 50 to 60 Pounds$ 87.90 to $ 97.50
Heed Foods50 To 60 Pounds$ 160.00 to $ 185.00
Wild Earth50 To 60 Pounds$ 85.00 to $ 95.00

Is Wild Earth Good Dog Food?

Yes. After reading the studies about vegan diets for dogs, it seems like a high-quality, cruelty-free, and sustainable source of dog food. The recipes are formulated for pet owners who are concerned with the negative health, safety, and environmental impacts of conventional pet foods.

Wild Earth’s products are free of corn, soy, rice, artificial flavors and colors, as well as preservatives. They also offer several flavors of dog treats and supplements.

Would I Subscribe to Wild Earth Dog Food?

I would have to say I would not. My dog did not love the food and only ate it when he had no other choice. For the price of this dog food and the fact that my dog didn’t love it, it would not be ideal for me. However, Wild Earth is working on a wet food product for dogs that I would be willing to try out on my dog.

Check All Wild Earth Good Dog Food

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Wild Earth dog food cost?

A 4 pound bag will cost you around $30 without a subscription and 10% less with one. An 18 pound bag will cost $70 for a one time purchase and around $63 with a subscription. 

Does Wild Earth dog food need to be refrigerated?

No, it is a dry kibble and can be stored in the resealable bag is come in.

What are the benefits of feeding my dog Wild Earth dog food?

Vegan pet food has a higher protein content than steak, which has 24 percent protein by weight. Wild Earth’s product has over 45 percent. It is also made from koji, a fungi, and has all the ten essential amino acids that dogs need. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.

Is Wild Earth dog food grain free?

No. It contains small amounts of grains like wheat germ.

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Amy Towry is a Certified NAVC Pet Nutritionist and pet lover. She is the proud owner of two rescue cats and a rescue dog and her love for animals has led her to a successful career as a freelance writer specializing in pet care, nutrition, and product reviews.
2 Comments
  1. leonora Pharr

    Can I give Wild Earth to my 5 month old pup

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      Amy

      Hi Leonora According to the Wild Earth Dog Food website: AAFCO (the governing body in the US for dog nutrition) has different guidelines for different life stage claims. We chose our first food to meet and exceed adult dog nutritional requirements. Puppies have a different set of AAFCO nutritional standards. This is why you see “puppy foods” and “adult dog foods.”

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