Dr. Tim’s Dog Food Review: A Vet-Formulated Diet for Peak Canine Health

Dr. Tim’s Dog Food is a premium, meat-based protein sources for all kinds of dogs, from active pups to couch potatoes. The creator, the real Dr. Tim, formulated the meals to be 87% meat protein derived and free of artificial ingredients that can cause poor reactions and digestion problems.

The foods are high quality and created by a veterinarian, but should one of the recipes be the one you choose for your special dog?

Let’s break down everything that goes into Dr. Tim’s foods to see if this is the one. Read on for our comprehensive Dr. Tim's Dog Food Review.

Brand Quick Look

• Parent Company: Dr. Tim’s Pets LLC
• Founded in: 2004
• Made in: USA
• Available at:  Chewy, Amazon
• Types of Food: Freeze-dried raw, dehydrated raw
• Real Meat in First 5 Ingredients? : Yes
• Recalled in Past? : No

Behind the Brand

Dr. Tim is a veterinarian and accomplished musher who understood that his dog’s energy and stamina depended on quality food that contained all the ingredients to build health and well being. He used a cement mixer in his garage to create a food that deviated from standard kibble recipes by using only naturally sourced, premium ingredients.

Dr. Tim believed that while companies can achieve recommended protein levels using a variety of ingredients, only meat-based proteins were effective. The proteins in his food are predominately derived from meat based sources and use no antibiotics.

Omega fatty acids are another critical part of a dog’s diet, but many foods offer those sources from only plant-based sources as well. The recipes from Dr. Tim’s only use omega fatty acids from fish source, creating better bioavailability.

Dr. Tim is still practicing veterinary medicine at the same hospital that he opened two decades ago, and is a volunteer veterinarian for races across North American and Europe.

 

Dr. Tim's Dog Food Reviews

1. All Life Stages Kinesis

This grain inclusive dog food is formulated to meet all nutrient profiles for all life stages, breeds and sizes. The recipe starts with a protein-dense meal from antibiotic-free, sustainably sourced chickens.

It offers balanced nutrition and energy throughout the day, using brown rice and pearled barley for fiber and chicken fat for energy.

This formula excludes cheap fillers, peas, and potatoes, reducing the risk of heart issues. Instead, it includes fruits, vegetables, and a proprietary probiotic blend for immune support and digestion. Suitable for house dogs and moderately active dogs, it may not be ideal for highly active working dogs.

While potentially more expensive, it can be cost-effective by reducing vet visits for weight and allergy issues, and requiring smaller servings compared to cheaper kibbles.

Product reviews report that dogs love this food, maintain healthy weights, and develop glossy coats. Overall, it's a nutritious, long-term option for your dog's health and happiness.

2. Highly Athletic Momentum Formula

This a specialized dry dog food designed primarily for highly active adult or senior dogs, suitable for all breeds and sizes except large breed puppies. Formulated to support endurance and recovery in athletic dogs, it features raw meat for enhanced kibble digestibility and calorie absorption.

With a high protein content of 35%, sourced mainly from chicken meal and ocean herring meal, it supports strong muscles and includes vitamin A for skin, coat and overall health.

Additional protein sources like dried chicken liver meal and dried egg product contribute to the formula's nutritional profile, though the grains here may not suit dogs with sensitivities.

This active dog food includes the brand's exclusive BC30 probiotic and OVN vitamin blend for optimal nutrition, supporting skin, gut, coat and paw pad health under strenuous conditions.

Feedback indicates positive results in maintaining healthy weight and energy levels in dogs who are active, improving digestion for those with sensitive stomachs, though taste preferences vary among dogs.

Overall, this is highly recommended for athletic and hard-working dogs due to its nutrient-rich ingredients and benefits for performance and digestion.

3. Weight Management Metabolite Formula

This food is formulated to meet the needs for adult and senior dogs of all breeds and sizes. It offers a high-protein diet with moderate fat levels, designed to help overweight dogs shed excess pounds while feeling satisfied.

The main protein source is chicken meal, providing essential amino acids for lean muscle mass. Supplementary proteins include salmon meal, dried egg product, chicken liver meal, and porcine plasma, rich in vitamins and minerals. These ingredients enhance palatability crucial for maintaining a special diet like weight management.

Brown rice, whole oat groats, and dried field peas offer fiber-rich carbohydrates to promote satiety and aid digestion. Additional insoluble fiber from powdered cellulose and soluble fiber from dried beet pulp further support digestive health.

The recipe includes natural fruits and vegetables like dried celery, carrots, and kelp, rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Customer feedback indicates successful weight loss for dogs enjoying the kibble, with many owners continuing its use even after reaching target weights due to its palatability.

Overall, this is recommended for overweight dogs or those needing weight maintenance, though its high protein content means higher calorie density compared to low-calorie alternatives.

4. Heirloom Ancient Grains Fish Formula

This thoughtfully crafted kibble is designed to meet the nutritional needs of sedentary to moderately active dogs, supporting a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Formulated to work with your dog’s metabolism, it provides sustained energy without unnecessary fillers.

The recipe features wild-caught Alaskan Pollock as its primary ingredient, a highly digestible protein source rich in amino acids crucial for muscle development. Additional protein sources include salmon meal, egg product, whitefish and catfish meal, providing both quality protein and appealing flavors.

Organic animal fats (pork fat) supply essential acids, supporting immune function, skin health, and energy needs. Omega-3 from fish sources promote cognitive health and reduce inflammation.

At the heart of this recipe is a carefully selected blend of ancient grains—millet, quinoa, spelt and chia—which deliver essential nutrients, fiber and slow-burning carbohydrates to keep your pup energized throughout the day. These grains are unmodified, making this formula a fantastic option for both grain-free and grain-inclusive diets.

Formulated by experts in canine nutrition, the formula includes antioxidants like selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E to combat oxidative stress during strenuous activities.

Feedback from users highlights improved digestion, weight management and enhanced coat condition in dogs enjoying the formula. However, the strong aroma and small kibble size have been noted as minor considerations for some pet owners.

5. Kinesis Senior Formula

This dog food has been formulated to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs of all breeds and sizes. Tailored with a high-protein, moderate-fat content, it supports older dogs with reduced activity levels while helping them maintain healthy weights.

The primary protein source is chicken meal, known for its palatability and ease of digestion, crucial for sensitive stomachs in aging dogs. Additional sources like salmon meal, dried egg product, ocean herring meal, dried chicken liver meal, and catfish meal contribute to the rich flavors that appeal to picky senior dogs.

Poultry fat provides essential omega-6 for skin, coat, and immune health, enhancing the kibble's flavor appeal. Coconut oil and menhaden oil enrich the formula with omega-3 and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), supporting cognitive function and overall health in aging dogs.

Carbohydrates from brown rice, pearled barley, and whole oat groats offer dietary fiber for digestion and satiety without excessive calories. A unique fiber blend including rice bran, dried plain beet pulp, and psyllium husks further aids digestion and improves stool quality.

Fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, taurine for heart and eye health, and glucosamine/chondroitin for joint support, this recipe is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. Probiotics and prebiotics promote gut health by supporting beneficial gut bacteria.

Feedback from pet owners highlights improved health outcomes such as shinier coats, increased activity levels, and satisfied appetites among senior dogs enjoying the formula. While some feedback noted packaging issues, the brand is addressing this with new resealable bags.

All in all, this comes highly recommended for its taste, high-quality ingredients, and positive health effects observed in aging dogs.

6. Active Dog Pursuit Formula

This is a versatile performance food suitable for all breeds, sizes, and life stages, with a focus on working and athletic dogs leading active lifestyles. It features a high-protein, high-fat composition designed to sustain energy levels and aid in recovery from strenuous activities.

This pursuit active formula dog food derives 93% of its protein from premium animal sources, primarily chicken meal, known for its rich amino acid profile and digestibility. Additional protein sources like dried egg product, ocean herring meal, catfish meal, chicken liver meal, and salmon meal contribute to muscle development and provide savory flavors.

Chicken fat, a significant ingredient, supports energy needs with omega-6 crucial for cell function, immune health, and skin and coat quality. Menhaden fish oil enriches the formula with omega-3, promoting brain function, eye health, and joint support.

Brown rice and whole oat groats serve as main carbohydrate sources, rich in fiber for digestive health. Supplementary ingredients like dried beet pulp, rice bran, and ground whole flaxseed meal further enhance digestive function and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

The inclusion of probiotics and prebiotics supports gut health, aiding nutrient absorption and bolstering the immune system. Fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, taurine for heart and eye health, and L-carnitine for metabolism, this formula ensures comprehensive nutrition.

Feedback from pet owners underscores its palatability and positive effects on dogs' overall health, including improved digestion, healthy skin, and glossy coats. While praised for its high-protein content combined with wholesome grains, some noted that the kibble's aroma and size might not suit all preferences, particularly for smaller breeds.

This may be one of the best foods for sporting, herding, police, or farm dogs due to its tailored protein and fat levels ideal for energetic dogs needing sustained energy and nutritional balance.

7. Salmon & Pork Grain-Free RPM Formula

This is a grain free dry kibble that is designed for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and life stages except large breed puppies, catering specifically to those with low to moderate activity levels and sensitivities to grains, chicken, and beef proteins.

The main protein source is salmon meal, renowned for its digestibility and rich omegas, promoting overall health. Pork meal follows, offering flavorful protein rich in thiamine essential for energy metabolism.

Carbohydrates from dried white potatoes, dried field peas, and tapioca replace grains, providing highly digestible complex carbs with additional nutrients.

The formula includes nutritious vegetables like garbanzo beans, carrots, spinach, beets, watercress, and kelp, each chosen for their nutritional value.

Fat from chicken serves as the primary source of healthy fats, rich in omega-6 vital for growth, immune support, and skin health. Menhaden fish oil supplies essential omega-3, including DHA and EPA, which enhance brain function, reduce inflammation, and support joint health.

Prebiotics and probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. The formula is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, with no unnamed animal ingredients.

Feedback highlights the formula's palatability among picky eaters and its benefits for overall health. While generally well-received, some owners noted preferences for recipes without peas.

Overall, this formula is praised for its high-quality ingredients, palatability, and nutritional benefits, making it a great food for dogs with moderate energy needs and dietary sensitivities.

8. Grain-Free Kinesis Formula

Designed for dogs with sedentary to moderate activity levels, suitable for all breeds and sizes except large breed puppies. It supports a casual lifestyle by aligning with natural metabolism.

High in protein at 32%, the recipe features chicken meal, a concentrated source with essential amino acids for lean muscle maintenance. Additional proteins include dried egg product, catfish meal, ocean herring meal, chicken liver meal, and salmon meal, offering palatability and nutrient density.

Chicken fat provides omega-6 fatty acids for cellular health, skin, coat, and immune support. Menhaden fish oil contributes omega-3 fatty acids, enhancing cognitive function and reducing inflammation.

Carbohydrates from dried white potatoes and dried field peas, alongside fiber-rich ingredients like dried beet pulp and ground whole flaxseeds, ensure digestibility and nutritional balance.

Superfoods such as dried celery, carrots, spinach, lettuce, watercress, and kelp provide antioxidants for cellular health and immune support. Prebiotics and probiotics foster a healthy gut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.

Free from grains, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives, this formula has garnered positive feedback for resolving health issues like anal gland problems and improving skin and coat quality in many dogs. However, a few owners noted increased paw licking in their pets.

Overall, it offers high-quality ingredients and proven health benefits, making it a recommended choice for dogs needing a grain-free diet with moderate protein and fat levels. 

9. Beef Taurine Supplement

This grain-free meal enhancer designed for dogs and cats. It's a highly palatable topper that can be sprinkled on kibble or wet food, or given as healthy treats. However, due to its high fat content, it's not meant to replace a full meal.

The supplement has a minimal ingredient list, primarily freeze-dried beef and beef organs, ensuring nutritional value is retained through a gentle processing method. Ingredients like beef heart, liver, and tripe provide protein for lean muscle mass, with tripe particularly noted for boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.

Enriched with taurine and omega fatty acids from salmon oil, the topper supports heart health, eye function, and overall immune system strength. It's free from fillers, sugars, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a healthy choice.

Feedback from pet owners is positive, especially for picky eaters, as dogs of all ages enjoy the supplement. It's recommended for sensitive pets due to its high-quality ingredients and health benefits. Dogs love this food supplement.

10. Breakables Small Dog Dental Chews

Banish bad breath and support your pup’s dental health with these rawhide dental chews! This innovative dental treats are specially designed to promote cleaner teeth and fresher breath while satisfying your furry friend’s natural urge to chew.

Unlike traditional rawhide, these chews are made from compressed, shredded rawhide pieces that are heat-dried to create a durable yet breakable texture.

As your dog chews, the sticks gradually break apart, ensuring a safer and more effective chewing experience. Each piece is coated with a specialized enzyme formula that enhances its cleaning power, helping to combat plaque and tartar buildup with every bite.

The natural abrasive action of chewing works like a toothbrush, gently scraping away food particles and debris from your dog’s teeth. This not only reduces the risk of dental issues like gingivitis and bad breath but also promotes overall oral hygiene. Infused with an irresistible poultry flavor, these chews keep your pup coming back for more—making dental care a treat rather than a chore!

With it your dog gets a delicious, long-lasting chew that supports a sparkling smile and fresh breath, all in one bite!

What types of dog food do They offer?

Dr. Tim’s offers kibbles in a range of protein sources. He has all-purpose and situation specific blends, mainly concentrated around the needs of active and working dogs although that isn’t the only type of dog that could benefit.

The formulas are free of artificial ingredients including colors and flavors. It uses no cheap fillers such as corn or soy because these offer only empty calories and no nutritional benefit. Together, these ingredients form a lot of the allergies and discomfort dogs experience with poorly formulated, cheap foods.

They’re best suited for an adult dog, but could potentially be suitable for older puppies. Check with your veterinarian before you use it for your puppy’s meals.

Dr. Tim’s Recipes

• Kinesis
• Kinesis Senior
• Kinesis Grain-Free
• Heirloom Ancient Grains – Fish
• Heirloom Ancient Grains – Chicken
• Pursuit
• Metabolite
• Metabolite Grain-Free
• Momentum
• Fusion
• Glacier
• RPM Salmon and Pork Grain-Free

 

Is Dr. Tim's dog food AAFCO approved?

Indeed, their foods not only meet but also surpass the minimum nutritional levels established by the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles (and cats too!)

Food Recalls History

Dr. Tim’s has never been recalled over 20 years and counting. The attention to detail, premium ingredients, and the right recipes ensure that all Dr. Tim’s foods are safe for your dog and never compromised. It’s an excellent and impressive record.

Customer Reviews

Dr. Tim’s has a dedicated following. His foods have transformed more than their fair share of dog’s lives, and customers are frequently pleased with the way their dog’s health and weight improved after switching. The food isn’t cheap, but for many, that’s a good trade.

It’s well rated on Chewy and Amazon with many recipes receiving the highest ratings of five stars. It’s also reviewed highly favorably from trusted reviewers.

What Customers Like and Dislike?

Customers appreciate the quality and care in the ingredients, which use wholesome sources and primarily animal-based proteins and fats, leading to a reduction in allergy symptoms for many dogs.

The weight management recipe is particularly popular, as it's the only food some dogs will eat and helps them lose weight healthily without feeling hungry. The lack of cheap fillers and artificial ingredients makes it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, providing all-day energy without aggravating allergies or sensitivities.

However, some complaints include the higher cost compared to standard kibbles, certain dogs disliking specific recipes, and increased gas in some dogs after eating the athletic formulas. Gradually transitioning to the new food can help minimize digestive issues.

Top Positive Review

“We have been on a quest to find a good quality dog food that our male English Setter would eat…this one met with his approval with no GI issues!” Peggy, chewy.com

Top Critical Review

“I really wanted this to work out well for my dog due to the low ash level and purported quality of ingredients but I just could not get a solid stool, even if the quantity was reduced… One dog wound up with soft stools and the other with stools that will have to be hosed down because I can't pick them all the way up.” NancyJ, chewy.com

Final Say

This brand stands out as a premium dog food option due to its commitment to high-quality ingredients and natural flavor, which many customers find beneficial for their pets' health and well-being.

It's best to always feed your dog according to the specific feeding directions provided, taking into account your dog's environment and age to ensure optimal nutrition.

While the cost may be higher than standard kibbles, the benefits of reduced allergies, sustained energy, and support for weight management make it a worthwhile investment for discerning pet owners.

Transitioning gradually can help your dog adjust to this superior diet, maximizing its positive impact on their health.