Available at: PetCo and Unleashed by PetCo locations
Product range: Grain-free and grain-inclusive wet/canned food, dry dog good, dog treats, and food toppers for all breeds, puppies, seniors, and all life stages
You might be familiar with the pet retail giant PetCo, boasting over 1,400 locations across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. One of their exclusive offerings is WholeHearted Dog Food.
PetCo, with a history spanning over 50 years of serving pets and their owners, provides a diverse range of pet products and services to promote the well-being of furry companions. Among these offerings is WholeHearted.
Introduced to the market on August 22, 2016, WholeHearted is a product line developed in-house by PetCo's team of product innovation and nutrition experts. This budget-friendly line includes cat and dog meals, treats, and dental care chews made from wholesome, high-quality ingredients tailored to all breeds and ages.
In response to discerning customers, PetCo ensures a broad array of options within the WholeHearted dog food range, offering wet and dry varieties, as well as grain-free, grain inclusive, active performance and weight management recipes, totaling over 50 selections.
Made for all life stages, this dry kibble claims to provide complete and balanced nutrition.
Its ingredient list puts salmon and salmon meal as the first items – both being a good source of protein and Omega 3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
Since this is a grain-inclusive, all life stages formula, it contains wholesome grains like brown rice and grain sorghum instead of corn or wheat fillers. Brown rice is easy to digest and provides steady energy for active and growing dogs, while grain sorghum is rich in antioxidants, fiber and essential nutrients that support gut health and sustained vitality. Together, these grains help fuel your doggo with balanced carbohydrates while being gentle on the stomach and supportive of overall wellness.
It is noteworthy that this dry food also includes canine probiotics and antioxidants. The former helps improve your dog’s digestive health, while the latter promotes healthy immunity.
Select dog foods in WholeHearted’s product line (this one excluded) contain lentils, peas and chickpeas. Yes, legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and other vitamins.
However, a dog meal with high-quality animal protein sources in its first three ingredients is considered a better choice.
You may have also heard about FDA’s investigations on the possible link between legumes and potatoes to DCM or canine dilated cardiomyopathy – an enlargement of the heart caused by a disease in the dog’s heart muscles.
Since the connection between the heart condition and legumes/potatoes is not yet fully understood, we don’t suggest throwing away bags of food that contain these in their ingredient list.
However, to be safe, we recommend looking for dry dog food brands that do not include legumes and sweet potatoes as their first three ingredients.
Another favorite from PetCo, is this meal that is specifically made for a growing puppy. This dry puppy food contains high-quality food items, canine probiotics (like dried chicory root), and Omega 3 fatty acids. Plus, it boasts real chicken and the second ingredient is chicken meal.
This chicken and pea formula dry dog food contains legumes (which makes this similar to other dry pet foods when it comes to their amount of carbs). Legumes are commonly used as replacements for grains and are usually found in grain-free dry dog food.
While we don’t often recommend foods with peas or other legumes in the first three spots of the primary ingredients list, we can’t ignore the good things that pet parents have been saying about this chicken and pea formula.
Compared to expensive grain-free dog food products, this formula comes with an affordable price tag. Fur moms and dads also vouch for this recipe’s quality and benefits.
A pet food formula that mentions the specific types of meat and fat ingredients used in its recipe (like this one) gets a plus in our books. With this, you are assured that your dog is eating real meat and not just animal by-products.
3. Plus Beef & Brown Rice Recipe with Whole Grains
Created for dogs of all ages, this beef and brown rice recipe dry food also contains Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and canine probiotics. Instead of salmon, its first ingredients are beef and beef meal – a high-quality source of protein.
We thought it was good to add another grain-inclusive option to the list since some pet parents prefer this type. Grains also contain a chunk of nutrients that reduce the risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
It is also a good source of insoluble fiber, which helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Grain-inclusive pet food recipes like this one are an excellent choice, especially if your dog is not suffering from any type of grain allergy.
Ph.D. pet nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Adolphe once mentioned that grains are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals like Selenium, Magnesiu, and Iron that support digestive health.
This dry dog food also gets plus points for using high-quality whole grains (like brown rice, rice bran and sorghum) that contain dietary fiber, B vitamin, and iron (natural nutrients that are not commonly found in refined grains). Corn, a type of whole grain that provides empty calories, is also excluded from the formula.
This recipe is loaded with natural ingredients (like menhaden fish oil and flaxseed). It’s also worth mentioning that this formula does not include lentils in its first 3 ingredients.
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight doesn’t have to be complicated. This weight control recipe is specially made for adult dogs who need a little extra support staying fit and feeling full.
This grain-free formula delivers two times more fiber and 50% less fat than the regular WholeHearted Lamb and Lentil Recipe, helping manage calories without sacrificing flavor. Real, high-quality lamb meal is the first ingredient, providing the protein your pup needs to maintain strong, lean muscles while staying satisfied between meals.
To help your dog use fat more efficiently, this recipe includes L-carnitine, which supports healthy metabolism and energy use. Added vitamins and minerals round out the formula to keep adult dogs nourished and balanced every day.
Best of all, it’s made with no corn, wheat or grains of any kind, making it a great choice for pups with sensitivities — and perfect for pet parents who want clean, purposeful nutrition in every bowl.
Because staying healthy should still taste amazing.
Fun fact: Any dog prefers canned or wet dog food. A high-quality canned food that offers adequate amounts of protein and fat? Even better! This healthy dog food for adults is filled with easily digestible protein that promotes healthy digestion.
Beneficial ingredients (minus grains) and vitamins and minerals are also blended into the concoction to help your dog achieve a balanced nutrition.
Despite the fillers, this healthy food is still a solid choice for adult dogs since it has real meat and vegetables listed as its top-five ingredients.
Chicken, as we know by now, is a good protein source and is loaded with Omega 6 fatty acids. These essential nutrients supply dogs with the energy they need for the day ahead and help them develop healthy bones, skin, and coats.
Carrots and pumpkin are also blended into this formula. You’ve probably heard your mom say that these veggies are good for your eyesight. The same goes for your dogs.
Specially made for growing pups, this wet food is created with an irresistible flavor that both large and small breed dogs will like. It also states that it contains protein levels that are ideal for this life stage.
A puppy recipe that got high independent reviews from fur babies and pet owners alike for its reasonable price tag, delectable taste, and health benefits, this quality dog food deserves a second look.
Aside from having protein-rich meat primary sources, this recipe includes various vitamins and supplements that promote balanced nutrition.
The downside about this product is that it contains certain ingredients such as peas, potato starch, and pea protein. Since they are not included in the top items in its ingredient list, you can be assured that you’ll only find small amounts of these.
However, it’s still best if you can speak to your vet in case you plan to change your dog’s diet or anything about what your dog needs.
6. Chicken and Vegetable Puppy Recipe
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Fish Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Product
Specially made for growing pups, this grain-free meal with chicken and veggies is created with an irresistible flavor that all dog breeds and even picky eaters will like.
This puppy formula provides your young canine with the necessary energy crucial for their growth phase, thanks to its optimal protein content.
Crafted for puppies of all breeds, this canned food boasts a delectable flavor and enticing texture, allowing you to express your affection with every mouthful.
In addition to featuring protein-packed meats among its initial five components, this puppy food incorporates a blend of vitamins and supplements to enhance overall nutritional balance.
However, it's worth noting that this product also contains peas, potato starch, and pea protein. Since these ingredients are not among the first 5 listed, their presence in the formula is guaranteed minimal.
Fuel your dog’s adventures with this tasty, high-protein meal made for pups who never slow down.
Active dogs need serious fuel, and this recipe delivers with high-quality protein from real turkey (the first ingredient), whitefish, turkey liver and salmon to support strong muscles and lasting energy. Whether your dog is hiking, training or just zooming around the backyard, every bite helps keep them performing at their best.
For that healthy glow, omega-3 fatty acids from fish help nourish skin and promote a shiny, soft coat. This formula also uses ancient grains like barley and quinoa, giving your dog a highly digestible, steady source of energy without the crash.
It’s rounded out with superfood extras like chia seeds, blueberries and cranberries, which add fiber and antioxidants for overall wellness and immune support.
In short, it’s a delicious, power-packed wet food that keeps active pups energized, healthy, and ready for the next adventure.
Treats
1. Grain Free Blueberry/Yogurt
First 5 ingredients:
Pea Flour, Tapioca Starch, Chickpeas, Blueberries, Yogurt
Treat time just got way more fun with this fruity delight: a crunchy snack that mixes creamy goodness with fruity flavor in every bite.
These treats stir up a delicious blueberry-and-yogurt medley baked into a satisfyingly crispy texture your pup will love to chomp on. Made with real blueberries, they add natural flavor while giving your dog something exciting to crunch into.
You can break them apart to stretch out those love-filled treating moments, or serve them whole when your dog really nails that good behavior. Either way, they’re perfect for training, rewarding, or just showing some extra affection.
They’re grain-free, made for dogs of all sizes, and crafted with no artificial flavors or colors, so you can feel good about every treat you give.
Smile-worthy treats are here with these treats: an easy, tasty way to support your pup’s dental health every day.
It comes in various sizes, so every dog — from tiny chewers to big chompers — gets the right fit for safer, more effective chewing. They’re clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar, helping keep teeth cleaner and gums healthier with every bite.
The unique, flexible design bends as your dog chews, letting the treat reach more tooth surfaces for better cleaning action. Plus, a touch of peppermint helps freshen breath, so dog kisses stay pleasant.
Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, Smart Smiles are crafted with care and purpose. They include a prebiotic to support healthy digestion and are made with no artificial colors or flavors and no corn, wheat or grains of any kind.
It’s a simple, delicious way to keep your dog’s smile bright and their tail wagging.
3. Grain Free Soft and Chewy Bacon Sticks
First 5 ingredients:
Chicken, Bacon, Vegetable Glycerin, Pea Protein, Bacon Fat
Turn treat time into something your pup truly looks forward to with these grain-free soft and chewy bacon recipe dog sticks.
Made with real bacon and chicken, each stick delivers rich, meaty flavor in a tender texture dogs can’t resist. The soft chew makes them easy to enjoy for dogs of all ages, whether you’re rewarding a puppy or spoiling a senior.
You can serve each stick whole for a satisfying snack, or break it into smaller pieces to help make every treating moment last a little longer during training or playtime. Either way, they’re perfect for indulging your dog’s taste buds without overdoing it.
Proudly made in the USA and grain-free, these treats keep things simple, delicious, and tail-wag worthy every time.
Is WholeHearted Made in the USA?
Yes, but when it comes to their dog food's ingredients, PetCo provides limited information about their sources. The pack simply mentions that the ingredients are globally-sourced.
It’s good, though, that the brand made it a point to name the types of meat they use on their recipes instead of just saying generic names like meat meal and animal by-products. With this, you know that their dog food range is made of quality meats, oils and fats.
Apart from the protein sources, you’ll probably find unfamiliar ingredients. Here are a few found in some of their recipes. We’ve also included their benefits and drawbacks as a bonus.
Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product and Lactobacillus reuteri fermentation product. Both are types of probiotics or good bacteria added in select recipes. These promote healthy digestion.
Beet Pulp. Found in sugar beets, this is added as a dietary fiber supplement. This ingredient promotes digestive health.
Chicory root. A plant rich in simple sugars, this ingredient promotes the regeneration of good bacteria in the gut.
Tomato pomace. This ingredient comes from ripe tomato fruits and includes the skin, seeds, and pulp. Tomato pomace and tomatoes, in general, are not toxic to dogs. On the other hand, tomato and tomato pomace contain tons of insoluble and soluble fiber that aids digestion. It also contains vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants.
L-carnitine. Select formulas like their weight control recipe contain this to keep active dogs alert.
Potassium Iodide. This is used in veterinary medicine to treat chronic skin and select bacterial infections in dogs.
Thiamine Mononitrate. Simply known as Thiamine or Vitamin B, this supplement helps in the conversion of fat and carbohydrates into usable energy. It also supports normal growth and development and aids in the proper functioning of the heart, digestive and nervous system.
Choline Chloride. Brain development, heart health, and proper muscle and liver function are achieved with the help of this essential nutrient.
Sodium Selenite. An ingredient used in pet food products, this one is full of controversy. High doses of this ingredient can be toxic. However, for a dog food to be considered complete, some selenium needs to be added since its absence can also be damaging.
Other minerals like Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, and Manganese Proteinate.These are commonly seen in pet foods. Correct amounts of these mineral supplements provide essential nutrients for dogs. Some are needed to be included for a recipe to meet AAFCO’s nutrient profiles. However, some of these can be toxic when consumed in high doses.
Most of the recipes from this dog food brand are already reasonably priced, ranging from $6 to $53. PetCo also gives discounts for repeat deliveries.
Recall History
With products that meet AAFCO’s nutrient profiles, it is reassuring to know that the brand, as of this writing, has no record of products being recalled. Take note, though, that this is a relatively new brand / product line.
Hopefully, PetCo will be able to maintain a recall-free record for the years to come.
Where to buy?
Wholehearted dog food can be conveniently purchased through various channels. You can buy via links provided on the PetCo website or other online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) offering pet supplies.
Additionally, if you prefer shopping in person, their products are available at your local PetCo store. Whether you choose to buy using links online or visit a nearby PetCo, purchasing their nutritious and affordable dog food, treats, and dental care chews is now made convenient.
Parting Words
Wholehearted dog food stands out as a top choice for pet owners seeking premium nutrition at an affordable price point. By carefully selecting and utilizing high-quality ingredients to create both dry kibble and canned options, Wholehearted dog food earns high marks for its nutritional value and palatability.
The inclusion of chelated minerals are usually used to enhance its overall quality. When PetCo launched Wholehearted, it represents its commitment to offering the best products in the line, and the brand's dedication to providing wholesome meals for dogs exemplifies its ethos.
As with any dog food, individual preferences and specific dietary needs may affect the overall rating, but the brand consistently proves to be a reliable option that represents the excellence expected from PetCo's range of pet supplies.
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An individual with a profound affection for animals, who was brought up in an environment surrounded by dogs, cats, and chickens. A self-taught enthusiast in the realm of pet care. At present, the proud caretaker of two rescued felines and two lovely mixed-breed canines.
