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Instinct Dog Food – Natural Pet Nutrition & Grain-Free Diet

Dogs thrive on nutrient-rich, natural diets that mirror their ancestral eating habits. Instinct Dog Food leads this trend by combining high-quality animal proteins with minimal processing, boosting overall health. Its recipes emphasize raw pieces and nutrient-packed ingredients to support digestion, skin and coat, and immune health. Instinct’s grain-free formulas (no wheat, corn, or artificial preservatives) align with a dog’s evolutionary diet.

In parallel, brands like Badlands Ranch have emerged with similarly dedicated approaches. Badlands Ranch Superfood diets are air-dried to lock in freshness and nutrition. They use responsibly-raised meats (beef, chicken, salmon) plus superfood veggies and fruits – and promise zero fillers or added grains. In this article, we explore Instinct Dog Food and Badlands Ranch in depth, along with other top natural pet foods (Zignature, Farmina, Gentle Giants). We explain how these high-protein, grain-free diets benefit dogs, what to watch for, and how to choose the right natural nutrition for your pup.

The Appeal of Natural Dog Food

Natural dog foods mimic a dog’s evolutionary diet by focusing on whole-food ingredients and avoiding fillers. They typically deliver higher protein and healthy fats than ordinary kibbles. For example, Badlands Ranch Superfood diets contain “above-average protein, below-average carbohydrates, and above-average fat” compared to typical dry food. Many are rich in antioxidants and fiber from vegetables and fruits. Key benefits include:

• High-Protein, Low-Carb: These diets often replace grain carbs with protein sources. Badlands Ranch and Instinct formulas, for instance, may exceed 35–40% protein (dry matter). This supports muscle health and satiety.
• Whole-Food Ingredients: Top brands use real meat (chicken, beef, salmon), organ meats, and plant superfoods. Badlands Ranch ingredients include chicken, heart, gizzard, liver and salmon (high in amino acids and omega-3s), along with vegetables like sweet potato, pumpkin, carrots and broccoli. These provide natural vitamins and fiber.
• No Fillers or Artificials: Leaders in this category explicitly exclude common fillers. For example, Badlands Ranch labels boast “ZERO Fillers or added grain” and no artificial flavors or preservatives. Instinct likewise commits to “No Grain, No Corn, No Wheat, No Artificial Colors, No Artificial Preservatives”. The result is food that looks and smells like real meat.

These features can lead to tangible results: many pet parents report shinier coats, better energy levels, and improved digestion on natural diets. The gentle processing (air-drying or freeze-drying) preserves nutrients that cooking can destroy. In fact, the Badlands Ranch website highlights that its air-drying “ensur[es] maximum freshness and nutritional content”.

Badlands Ranch Dog Food (Air-Dried Superfood)

Badlands Ranch is an air-dried dog food line founded by actress Katherine Heigl. It offers Superfood Complete formulas for all life stages. According to Dog Food Advisor, Badlands Ranch is built on high-quality, whole-food ingredients and gentle processing. It is “gently air-dried to retain nutrients” and contains essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, making it a “very good quality choice”. Badlands Ranch is also based on Heigl’s Utah ranch, aiming to give dogs “unmatched, exceptional nutrition”.

Key features of Badlands Ranch Superfood include:

• Air-Dried for Freshness: The food is low-temperature cooked and dried, so the nuggets retain the look, smell and nutritional quality of meat.
• Rich Protein Sources: The first ingredients are named meats. For example, a chicken formula lists chicken, chicken heart, gizzard and liver at the top. These organ meats supply protein, B vitamins and minerals naturally. A beef formula similarly uses responsibly-raised beef along with omega-rich salmon. Dog Food Advisor notes that such recipes yield ~44% protein and ~26% fat (dry matter) in one analysis – higher than most kibbles.
• Superfood Mix: The recipes include dog-friendly superfoods for extra nutrition. Typical add-ins are pumpkin, sweet potato, carrots, broccoli, chia and blueberries. These provide fiber, beta-carotene, antioxidants and omega-3s. Badlands Ranch even includes turmeric and lion’s mane mushroom in small amounts for anti-inflammatory and cognitive benefits.
• No Grain or Junk: All Badlands Ranch foods are grain-free and free of fillers, by-products, artificial flavors or preservatives. The company boldly lists “ZERO Fillers or added grain, Artificial flavors, Unnecessary additives, Artificial preservatives” on its site. This means every nutrient comes from real food and supplements, not cheap ingredients.

Badlands Ranch uses high-quality whole-food ingredients, free of preservatives and fillers. It is gently air-dried to retain nutrients… making it a very good quality choice.

The Superfood Complete Beef and Chicken formulas are marketed to support overall health: they are “precisely-crafted with hand-selected ingredients to support [your] dog’s skin and coat, digestion, immune function, and energy”. In reviews, many dog owners praise Badlands Ranch for being palatable even to picky or allergy-sensitive dogs. (On the official site, one reviewer notes her grain-allergic dog “could not get enough” of it.)

In summary, Badlands Ranch offers a clean, nutrient-dense diet. It stands out by combining human-grade meats and produce in a convenient dry (air-dried) format. Studies or vet endorsements are limited (it’s a small brand), but expert reviewers recommend it based on ingredients and nutrition. Importantly, DogFoodAdvisor reports no recalls on Badlands Ranch products to date, suggesting good quality control.

Instinct Dog Food: Raw + Kibble Nutrition

Instinct (made by Nature’s Variety) is known for its raw and minimally processed pet foods. Its Raw Boost and Raw + Kibble lines combine high-protein kibble with freeze-dried raw morsels. According to Instinct’s site, these recipes feature “100% RAW pieces” – real meat pieces that have been gently freeze-dried. The marketing emphasizes that the added raw bites provide “boosted nutrition” for every bowl. Specifically, Instinct claims these diets support healthy digestion, skin & coat, and immune health.

Key points about Instinct Dog Food:

• Freeze-Dried Raw Bites: Each Instinct Raw + Kibble bag has crunchy kibble plus freeze-dried meat. This means every serving has pieces of raw freeze-dried meat (chicken, beef, salmon, etc.), giving a concentrated protein punch. This aims to make the food more “meaty” and closer to a raw diet.
• Grain-Free Formulas: Instinct’s Raw Boost (and most of its lines) are grain-free. The packaging explicitly states “No Grain, No Corn, No Wheat” and no artificial colors or preservatives. Dog owners with grain allergies or sensitivities often turn to Instinct as an alternative to grain-inclusive brands.
• Probiotics and Omegas: Instinct also adds functional ingredients. For example, they tout a probiotic boost and higher omega-3 fatty acids compared to their original formulas. These ingredients aim to aid gut health and skin/coat condition.
• All Life Stages: Instinct offers formulas for puppies, adults, small breeds, large breeds, and even weight management. Each is tailored slightly (e.g. smaller kibble for tiny dogs or lighter fat content for seniors), but all use the raw-boost concept.

Many reviews note that dogs eat Instinct enthusiastically. The freeze-dried pieces are essentially air-dried meat, so the aroma and taste can be very appealing. Because there are no grains or artificial chemicals, pet owners see Instinct as a natural kibble upgrade. Of course, it is still a processed dry food (with many ingredients and supplements), so it’s important to read labels. Overall, Instinct is often recommended by holistic pet bloggers and some vets as a way to introduce raw nutrition safely.

Other Top Natural Dog Food Brands

• Zignature Dog Food: A leader in limited-ingredient diets, Zignature offers hypoallergenic, grain-free foods. Each recipe uses a single animal protein (like lamb, kangaroo or trout) and a handful of plant ingredients. Common allergens (chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy) are deliberately excluded. For instance, Zignature Lamb features lamb and lamb meal as the sole meat source, supplemented with peas, chickpeas and flaxseed for fiber and nutrition. The brand’s philosophy is “built on nature”: it aims for simplicity and quality. A summary of Zignature’s approach is: “By prioritizing high-quality proteins, simple ingredients, and superior nutrition, Zignature delivers a pet food that supports both health and longevity”. Owners choose Zignature when avoiding multiple ingredients is crucial (e.g. for food-sensitive pups).
• Farmina Dog Food: Farmina is an Italian pet food company with a science-driven approach. Its main line, Natural & Delicious (N&D), emphasizes high animal protein, low glycemic carbs, and non-GMO ingredients. Farmina uses only named meat sources (no “meat by-products”) and partners with veterinary nutritionists to formulate balanced diets. They offer grain-free and grain-inclusive ranges (the latter uses spelt, oats or quinoa) but all formulas follow AAFCO guidelines. Reviews note Farmina’s recipes often exceed 30% protein and include novel ingredients like pomegranate, pumpkin or kiwifruit for antioxidants. Pet parents pick Farmina for its premium positioning – it’s commonly sold in vet offices – and its global research.
• Gentle Giants Dog Food: Founded by animal rescuers Burt and Tracy Ward, Gentle Giants focuses on natural, non-GMO nutrition at an affordable price. Its foods are 100% poultry-free and use hearty ingredients. For example, the “Quality of Life Feast for Meat Lovers” (beef & bacon) formula blends beef and bacon with barley, brown rice and oatmeal, plus 8 fruits/veggies (pumpkin, peas, spinach, cranberries, etc.). Notably, Gentle Giants adds New Zealand green-lipped mussels for joint support – a unique superfood choice. The company highlights that its diets contain no fillers or toxins: no corn, wheat, soy, gluten, BHA/BHT, artificial colors or flavors. Veterinarian Dr. Ronald Bowen even points out Gentle Giants’ low fat (9%) compared to typical 12–22% in other foods, arguing this promotes longer lifespan. In short, Gentle Giants aims to offer “world-class canine nutrition” that has helped their rescue dogs live into their mid-20s.

Each of these brands uses high-quality meats and minimal processing. They cater to specific needs (e.g. grain allergies or breed size) but share the trend of moving away from traditional kibble. When comparing them: Zignature is best for highly sensitive dogs; Farmina for science-backed premium blends; Gentle Giants for holistic rescue backgrounds and value; Instinct and Badlands for raw-forward diets. Always read product details – even natural foods can differ in fat content, added supplements, and feeding guidelines.

Grain-Free Dog Food: Benefits and Cautions

Most natural pet diets today are grain-free, meaning they omit cereal grains (corn, wheat, rice, etc.). The idea is to mimic a dog’s ancestral prey diet or to avoid grain allergens. Grain-free foods typically use potatoes, peas, lentils or chickpeas as carb sources, along with high meat percentages. Many Instinct and Badlands Ranch recipes are grain-free by design.

Benefits: Grain-free formulas can help dogs with gluten or grain sensitivities. Removing grains can improve skin allergies and digestion for some pets. Additionally, grain-free kibbles often have more meat and vegetables (for nutrients) instead of filler grains, boosting overall protein content. Superfood ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, blueberries and flax are common replacements for grains, providing antioxidants and fiber. Many pet owners also prefer the term “grain-free” for perceived cleanliness and premium quality.

Cautions: In recent years, grain-free diets have been scrutinized by veterinarians. The FDA studied cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM, a heart condition) and found that 91% of reported diets were grain-free. While this statistic is notable, it’s not proof that grains are the problem. Those diets also tended to be high in peas and lentils. To date, no direct cause-effect has been proven. Still, pet owners should be aware of the discussion. If using a grain-free diet, ensure it meets all nutritional needs (including sufficient taurine and amino acids) and monitor your dog’s health. Some balanced brands offer both grain-free and grain-inclusive lines (for example, Farmina’s “Ancestral Grain” range) so you can choose based on your dog’s tolerance.

In short, grain-free dog food can be a healthy choice if it’s high-quality and complete. Look for formulas like Instinct or Badlands Ranch that specify nutrient content. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has a pre-existing heart condition or other health issues. Always prioritize an AAFCO-validated, balanced food whether it contains grains or not.

Choosing the Right Natural Dog Food

With so many options, how do you pick the best natural diet? Consider these factors:

• Life Stage & Breed: Puppies, adults and seniors have different nutrient needs. Select an appropriate formula (many brands, including Instinct and Gentle Giants, offer life-stage products). Large breeds or small breeds may do better on kibble sized for them.
• Ingredients List: Check that a named meat (chicken, beef, lamb, etc.) is the first ingredient. Avoid vague by-products or excessive grains if you want a holistic diet. Look for recognizable ingredients you trust. For example, Farmina lists non-GMO grains or potatoes explicitly, while Zignature lists novel proteins like kangaroo.
• Nutritional Balance: Ensure the food is AAFCO-complete for your dog’s life stage. Many natural foods have high protein and fat (to emulate a carnivore diet). This is good for active dogs, but may be too rich for a sedentary pet. Check the guaranteed analysis (protein, fat, fiber) and tailor portions. A 40% protein formula will require feeding less volume than a 20% protein one.
• Health Needs: If your dog has allergies or sensitive digestion, look at limited-ingredient diets like Zignature or fish-based Farmina recipes. Badlands Ranch and Instinct are popular for picky eaters due to taste. Gentle Giants may suit dogs needing weight management (lower fat). Always transition diets slowly over a week or two to avoid GI upset.
• Brand Reputation: Research reviews and recall history. For example, DogFoodAdvisor gives Badlands Ranch an overall recommended rating and notes no recalls to date. Check third-party analyses if available. Brands that involve veterinarians or have transparent sourcing (like Farmina, Instinct, Zignature) often inspire more confidence.
• Price & Availability: Natural pet foods often cost more than standard kibble. Budget accordingly. Some (like Gentle Giants) aim to be affordable. Also consider where you can buy the food (local pet stores, online retailers) and whether shipping/freshness is an issue.

Top Tips: Read labels carefully, compare portion sizes (calories) and consult your vet or a pet nutritionist with any concerns. Ultimately, the best dog food for your pet is one that meets their nutritional needs and that your dog will eat happily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Instinct Dog Food?
A: Instinct Dog Food is a brand of premium pet diets (by Nature’s Variety) that incorporates raw nutrition. Its products include freeze-dried raw pieces in kibble (Raw Boost) or fully raw meals. These grain-free foods focus on real meat ingredients. Instinct emphasizes 100% raw freeze-dried meat pieces and added probiotics/omegas to support canine health.

Q: What makes Badlands Ranch Dog Food different?
A: Badlands Ranch is an air-dried superfood dog food created by Katherine Heigl. It uses human-grade ingredients: whole meat (chicken, beef, etc.), organ meats, fruits and veggies. The air-drying process gently cooks the food to retain nutrients. Badlands Ranch recipes have no grains, fillers or artificial additives – the label explicitly claims “ZERO fillers or added grain”. Independent reviewers note its high protein and fiber content as very beneficial.

Q: Are grain-free dog foods safe?
A: Grain-free diets can be healthy if formulated well. They are especially useful for dogs with grain allergies. However, there has been attention on possible links between some grain-free diets and heart issues (DCM) in dogs. For context, a FDA analysis found 91% of reported DCM cases involved grain-free foods. This doesn’t prove grain-free diets are inherently bad; it may highlight other ingredient imbalances (like taurine deficiency or too many peas). The key is to ensure any dog food, grain-free or not, is complete and balanced. Choose trusted brands, and consult a vet if concerned.

Q: Do vets recommend raw or air-dried diets?
A: Opinions vary. Many veterinary nutritionists acknowledge that raw/air-dried diets (like Instinct or Badlands Ranch) are closer to a dog’s natural diet and can be very nutritious. These foods often meet AAFCO standards (Instinct and Farmina do). However, raw feeding requires careful handling to avoid bacterial contamination. Always follow safety guidelines (wash hands, keep food refrigerated if fresh, etc.). Some vets prefer cooked diets for safety, but Instinct and similar brands strike a middle ground with freeze-drying. It’s best to discuss your dog’s specific needs with your vet.

Q: Can I mix Badlands Ranch with my dog’s current food?
A: Yes. Many owners use Badlands Ranch as a topper or partial substitute. Because it’s nutrient-dense, start slowly: mix a small amount with your dog’s usual kibble and gradually increase over 7–10 days. This helps your dog adjust to the new food and prevents digestive upset. Badlands Ranch also makes treat toppers and dried nuggets, so you can introduce it in snacks too. Always adjust portion sizes so your dog’s total calorie intake stays appropriate.

Q: How should I store and serve air-dried or raw dog food?
A: Air-dried foods like Badlands Ranch and freeze-dried foods like Instinct come shelf-stable (no refrigeration needed) but keep them in a cool, dry place. Seal the bag tightly after opening. Serve according to package guidelines; often you can feed them dry or rehydrate with water (some dogs prefer it wet, some dry). Check “best by” dates and use within a few months of opening to ensure freshness. If you switch to refrigerated raw (like Instinct FreshRaw), follow on-pack instructions for thawing and storage.

Conclusion

Feeding your dog a natural, high-protein diet can promote better health and vitality. Brands like Instinct Dog Food and Badlands Ranch harness real meats and superfoods, avoiding unnecessary carbs and chemicals. By choosing top-quality, grain-free formulas from trusted brands (Instinct, Badlands, Zignature, Farmina, Gentle Giants, etc.), pet owners ensure their dogs get a balanced, nutrient-rich diet. Remember to match the food to your dog’s age, health and activity level, and transition gradually. We encourage you to consult your veterinarian and look at ingredient lists when selecting food.

Instinct Dog Food and similar natural diets represent a modern approach to pet nutrition – one that values transparency and quality. Share your experiences: has your dog benefited from a raw or air-dried diet? Let us know in the comments below. If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow dog lovers on social media. Together, we can raise healthier pups with the power of natural nutrition!

Sources: Insight and data in this article are drawn from expert reviews and brand information, including Dog Food Advisor, official Instinct and Badlands Ranch materials, and brand/product resources. Always refer to the original sources for complete details.