Instinct Raw Boost Whole Grain Real Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food, 3.5 lbs.
Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dog food contains several high-quality ingredients such as lamb, oatmeal, and barley, which provide essential nutrients and support digestive health. However, the presence of canola oil, a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, is a concern due to its potential to promote inflammation. The product is processed, which limits its score, but the overall ingredient quality remains relatively strong.
Key ingredients 17
LambVery Good
Lamb is a high-quality source of protein and essential amino acids. It provides important nutrients like vitamin B12, zinc, and iron. Grass-fed lamb is particularly beneficial due to higher omega-3 fatty acid content.
Benefits
Rich in protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health.
OatmealGood
Oatmeal is a whole grain that provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides a steady release of energy. The presence of beta-glucans in oatmeal can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and provides a source of slow-releasing energy.
BarleyGood
Barley is a nutritious whole grain rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It aids in digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Barley also contains antioxidants that support overall health.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and metabolic stability.
MilletGood
Millet is a gluten-free grain that offers a good source of magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants. It supports heart health and provides a steady energy source. Millet is easily digestible and suitable for sensitive diets.
Benefits
Rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, supporting heart health and energy levels.
Turkey MealGood
Turkey meal is a concentrated source of protein and essential amino acids. It provides important nutrients like selenium and phosphorus. The processing of turkey meal retains its nutritional value while reducing moisture content.
Benefits
Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health.
Mixed TocopherolsGood
Mixed tocopherols are a form of vitamin E used as a natural preservative. They help prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of products. Tocopherols also provide antioxidant benefits, supporting cellular health.
Benefits
Acts as a natural preservative and provides antioxidant benefits, supporting cellular health.
Menhaden Fish MealGood
Menhaden fish meal is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. It supports cardiovascular health and provides essential nutrients. The processing retains its nutritional value while reducing moisture content.
Benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting cardiovascular health and overall nutrition.
Chicken MealGood
Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein and essential amino acids. It provides important nutrients like selenium and phosphorus. The processing of chicken meal retains its nutritional value while reducing moisture content.
Benefits
Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle maintenance and overall health.
SorghumGood
Sorghum is a whole grain that provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides a steady release of energy. Sorghum is also gluten-free, making it suitable for sensitive diets.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and provides a source of slow-releasing energy.
Brown RiceGood
Brown rice is a whole grain rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It supports digestive health and provides a steady energy source. Brown rice is less processed than white rice, retaining more nutrients.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and energy levels.
Chicken FatGood
Chicken fat is a source of healthy fats and provides energy. It enhances flavor and palatability in pet foods. Chicken fat is also a source of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid for skin and coat health.
Benefits
Provides healthy fats and essential fatty acids, supporting skin and coat health.
Fish MealGood
Fish meal is a concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It supports cardiovascular health and provides essential nutrients. The processing retains its nutritional value while reducing moisture content.
Benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, supporting cardiovascular health and overall nutrition.
CarrotsGood
Carrots are a source of beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. They support eye health and provide essential nutrients. Carrots are low in calories and high in vitamins, making them a nutritious addition.
Benefits
Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, supporting eye health and providing essential nutrients.
ApplesGood
Apples are a source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They support digestive health and provide a natural source of sweetness. Apples are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a healthy addition.
Benefits
Provides fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and overall nutrition.
BlueberriesGood
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They support brain health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Blueberries are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a nutritious addition.
Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, supporting brain health and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is commonly used to maintain freshness and enhance flavor profiles. While generally safe, excessive consumption can lead to dental erosion.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to dental erosion.
Benefits
Helps preserve freshness and enhance flavor profiles.
Canola OilVery Bad
Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed and may contain trans fats. The extraction process can involve chemical solvents, reducing its nutritional quality.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and negatively impact heart health.
Processing
Processed Foods
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