Instinct Be Natural Real Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food by Nature s Variety 24 lb. Bag
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This dog food contains high-quality protein sources like lamb, chicken meal, and turkey meal, which provide essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. It also includes beneficial whole grains such as oatmeal and barley, which support digestive health. However, the presence of 'natural flavor' as an ingredient raises concerns due to its lack of transparency, and the product's processing level limits its score potential.
Key ingredients 13
LambVery Good
Lamb is a high-quality source of protein and essential amino acids. It provides necessary nutrients for muscle maintenance and energy. Grass-fed lamb is often richer in omega-3 fatty acids.
Benefits
Rich in protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle health and energy levels.
Chicken MealGood
Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein and nutrients. It is made by rendering chicken to remove moisture and fat, resulting in a nutrient-dense ingredient. Provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
Benefits
Provides a concentrated source of protein and essential nutrients for muscle maintenance.
OatmealGood
Oatmeal is a whole grain that provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides a slow-release energy source. Oats are minimally processed, retaining their nutritional value.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and provides a steady energy source due to its fiber content.
BarleyGood
Barley is a whole grain rich in fiber and essential nutrients. It aids in digestion and provides a steady energy source. Barley is minimally processed, preserving its nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Rich in fiber, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.
Brown RiceGood
Brown rice is a whole grain that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides a steady energy source. Brown rice is minimally processed, retaining its nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and provides sustained energy due to its fiber content.
Turkey MealGood
Turkey meal is a concentrated source of protein and nutrients. It is made by rendering turkey to remove moisture and fat, resulting in a nutrient-dense ingredient. Provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
Benefits
Provides a concentrated source of protein and essential nutrients for muscle maintenance.
Fish MealGood
Fish meal is a concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It supports muscle maintenance and provides anti-inflammatory benefits. Fish meal is made by rendering fish to remove moisture and fat.
Benefits
Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting muscle health and reducing inflammation.
Ground FlaxseedsGood
Ground flaxseeds are a source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. They support heart health and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Flaxseeds are minimally processed, retaining their nutritional value.
Benefits
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
SorghumNeutral
Sorghum is a gluten-free grain that provides carbohydrates and some nutrients. It is less processed than refined grains, retaining more nutritional value. Sorghum is a good alternative for dogs with gluten sensitivities.
Benefits
Provides carbohydrates and is suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Chicken FatNeutral
Chicken fat is a source of energy and essential fatty acids. It is preserved with mixed tocopherols, a natural antioxidant. Provides palatability and supports skin and coat health.
Benefits
Provides essential fatty acids and energy, supporting skin and coat health.
MilletNeutral
Millet is a gluten-free grain that provides carbohydrates and some nutrients. It is less processed than refined grains, retaining more nutritional value. Millet is a good alternative for dogs with gluten sensitivities.
Benefits
Provides carbohydrates and is suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a necessary mineral for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues, but it is essential in moderation.
Risks
Excessive salt intake can lead to hypertension and other health issues.
Benefits
Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in moderation.
Natural FlavorBad
Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. It lacks transparency and can include a variety of substances. The processing and source of these flavors are often unclear.
Risks
Potential for allergic reactions or sensitivities due to unknown components.
Processing
Processed Foods
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