Victor Dog Food Review: A Balanced Blend of Quality Nutrition for Active Dogs

Meet VICTOR Dog Food

Victor bills itself as a super premium dog food brand. It was originally founded by a family in 1950 and since has expanded to offer a range of dog foods manufactured in the United States.

Victor dog food don’t include cheap fillers like corn or soy and don’t use gluten or grain byproducts.

The company has a good reputation online, but it could be a bit tougher to find this food than some other big box stores.

However, if you’re looking for a good mid-range food that uses quality ingredients without common food allergens, this could be the way to go.

Just do some homework ahead of time, so you always know where to get a supply. To find our more about this brand, you can read our in-depth Victor Dog Food reviews below.

Brand Quick Look

• Parent Company: MidAmerica Pet Food
• Founded in: 1950
• Made in: the United States
• Made by: Victor facilities
• Available at:  Chewy, Amazon, local stores
• Types of Food: Dry, Wet
• Real Meat in First 5 Ingredients? : Yes
• Recalled in Past? : No

Behind the Brand

This is a small, family-owned company that’s been acquired for distribution, but still retains some of the trappings of an intimate company. It sources ingredients only from reliable dealers and never from places like China. It manufactures all foods at facilities owned by the company itself right in the United States.

It’s somewhat exclusive still with very few on the shelves of any stores. Online distribution is limited to Chewy and Amazon though whether this is by design isn’t clear. The company claims to be a super-premium brand, and fans swear by the formulas.

The parent company was founded in 2007 and acquired Victor sometime around then. The founders originally built facilities on their own, pitching along the way to food companies who slowly began to come on board. Now, the company manufactures all dog foods in house employing over 90 people in the East Texas area.

More than 80% of their ingredients come from within a 200-mile radius because this makes it easier for the company to track those ingredients and their original sources. Because they’ve cut down on transportation for those ingredients, they can pass on some saving to the consumer without having to sacrifice quality.

VICTOR Dog Food Review

 

1. Performance Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Beef Meal, Grain Sorghum, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Whole Grain Millet

The Performance recipe is fantastic for those really active dogs who struggle to keep on the right amount of weight while balancing their nutritional needs.

It features multiple sources of protein in the form of meals, which offer a much higher percentage of proteins than whole meats. It supports healthy muscle development and tone and allows dogs to maintain energy levels without empty calories.

It also boasts Omega fatty acids for healthy coat and skin plus other supplements to support digestion and the immune system. The formula also has glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and prevent heavy wear and tear often seen in active dogs.

These supplements work together to maintain joint cushioning and to help relieve the symptoms of common genetic issues such as dysplasia.

It contains no cheap fillers like corn or soy and uses only natural preservatives to maintain freshness. It’s gluten and grain free, which tends to work better for large breed dogs and uses no processed grain by-products for fillers either.

Picky dogs may not be such big fans of the taste, and if you’re looking for complete proteins, this formula isn’t it. However, for those of you who need higher levels of protein for more efficient energy levels, this style of the recipe could finally help your athletic dog put on the right amounts of weight.

2. Hi-Pro Plus Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Beef meal, Grain sorghum, Chicken fat, Pork meal, Chicken meal

This is a grain-inclusive dry dog food specially made for active dogs and puppies. Made with gluten-free grains, this high protein dry food is also ideal for dogs that need more protein, as well as pregnant and lactating females.

30% of this kibble is protein. 88% of its entire protein content is sourced from animal ingredients, 10% from grains, and 2% from veggies. Made of beef, pork, chicken, and fish meals, your dog gets high-quality protein sources in every meal.

This nutrient-dense recipe is ideal for sporting and working dogs as it provides the sustained energy that they need. Hi-Pro Plus is also highly digestible, which according to the brand means less food intake for a better pound-for pound value.

Every formula from them has the brand’s core ingredients. This formula has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. Prebiotics and probiotics both aid digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

All VICTOR formulas contain Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism. Hi-Pro Plus Formula is fortified with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that ensure complete and balanced nutrition with every serving.

As one of their best-selling products, Hi-Pro Plus has received a lot of positive reviews from dog parents. According to their comments, some active dogs who have had trouble keeping ideal weights were able to gain healthy weights with this recipe, and maintain them too.

Many have commented that their dogs have become very healthy since switching to the brand. They have high energy levels, and healthy skin and coats. It has also been great for some dogs who previously had digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting.

3. Active Dog & Puppy Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Beef meal, Peas, Sweet potato, Chicken fat, and Menhaden fish meal (source of DHA)

A grain-free dry dog food suitable for dogs of all life stages. This is another high-protein formula ideal for active dogs, growing pups, pregnant and lactating females.

With 33% protein, this dog & puppy formula provides the protein needed by highly active dogs to develop strong and lean muscles. Made of beef meal, fish meal, and pork meal, you can rest assured that your working or sporting dog is served only high-quality protein sources with every meal.

As it is free from grains, corn, and soy, it is great for sensitive pups. Peas, sweet potato, garbanzo beans, and dehydrated alfalfa meal are the main sources of carbohydrates and fiber in this formula.

Chicken fat is included as a source of healthy fats. It also adds more flavor to this multi-protein formula. Aside from sustaining the energy requirements of hard-working pups, this recipe also has VICTOR’s core ingredients.

This has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. It has prebiotics and probiotics that support good gut health, which is essential for better nutrient absorption.

Like their other formulas, this recipe contains Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism. L-carnitine is included as an additional support for a healthy metabolism.

According to reviews, this product has helped improve the digestion of numerous dogs. Since switching to this formula, they now have better stool quality.

Many dog parents attribute their pups’ overall good health and weights to this kibble. Puppies are able to gain healthy weights and maintain them with this high-protein formula. Active adult dogs’ energies are also adequately sustained according to their owners.

If you have a dog in need of a high-protein diet but is also sensitive to grains, it may be the one for him. However, if your dog is sensitive to certain animal proteins, this grain-free formula may not be the perfect food. It has beef, fish, and pork meals, as well as chicken fat. It also has blood meal which is typically made from cattle or hog blood.

4. Hero Grain-Free Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Beef meal, peas, Sweet potato, Chicken fat, and Menhaden fish meal

This is a dry dog food from VICTOR’s Purpose range. It is another product made for active dogs. Hero Grain-free is made specifically for active adult dogs who need additional joint health support.

Aside from being high in protein with 33%, it is enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin that promote long-term joint health. This makes this formula perfect for sporting or working adult dogs that are susceptible to joint issues later in life.

79% of its total protein content comes from animal sources. Hero recipe is made of beef meal, menhaden fish meal, and pork meal. Healthy fats are provided by chicken fat. While this is not a limited ingredient formula, it is free from all kinds of grains, corn, and soy. It contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Peas, sweet potato, and garbanzo beans provide carbohydrates needed to sustain active dogs’ high energy levels. This highly digestible formula is gentle on sensitive stomachs. According to the company, it also aids in lesser food intake.

It has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. It also contains Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism. Prebiotics and probiotics aid digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

This product has received numerous positive reviews on the overall good health it has given dogs. The dogs have healthier skin and coat, higher energy levels, and better digestion.

This formula is gentle on sensitive stomachs. It has also improved the stool quality of many dogs.

5. High Energy Formula

First 5 Ingredients: Beef meal, Grain sorghum, Whole grain millet, Chicken fat and Chicken meal

This is a grain-inclusive dry dog food suitable for active dogs in all life stages. Made of gluten-free grains, this highly digestible dry food promotes stamina and endurance with sustained energy.

This High Energy formula has 24% protein. 79% of its protein content come from animal ingredients like beef meal, chicken meal, and pork meal. These ingredients also give his recipe a rich, savory flavor. Chicken fat gives it an added boost of flavor.

Gluten-free grains like grain sorghum and whole grain millet provide carbohydrates that active dogs need to sustain their high energy levels. Other plant-based ingredients such as dehydrated alfalfa meal, carrot powder, tomato pomace, and dried seaweed meal provide additional sources of carbs, fiber, and nutrients.

Fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein and amino acids, this formula provides complete and balanced nutrition with every serving.

It has selenium yeast, which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. Prebiotics and probiotics promote healthy digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

All VICTOR recipes contain Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism.

This is another recipe from the brand that gets many positive reviews. This formula has been credited for keeping numerous dogs healthy and active. The probiotics and prebiotics seem to be working quite well for these dogs. They have healthier digestion, which in turn makes the dogs feel much better.

Some owners have noticed that their dogs are shedding less since being started on this kibble. This formula also keeps dogs’ bellies full for much longer. It has helped dogs maintain healthy weights.

6. Lamb Meal & Brown Rice

First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Whole Grain Millet, Chicken Fat, Peas

Another grain-inclusive dry dog food that features lamb meal as the only animal protein source. The single-source protein formula makes it perfect for dogs who are allergic to other meat proteins. This formula is recommended for dogs in all life stages with normal activity levels.

With lamb meal as its only animal protein source, you can be assured that your dog gets only high-quality protein with every meal. While it does not contain meats from other animals, it does contain chicken fat. Chicken fat is a healthy fat source and provides a lot of flavor to the food as well.

Whole grain brown rice, whole grain millet, and peas are this formula’s main sources of carbohydrates for this formula. Dehydrated alfalfa meal, tomato pomace, carrot powder, and dried seaweed meal are included as additional sources of fiber, carbohydrates, and nutrients.

Like all VICTOR recipes, this lamb meal and rice recipe is free from wheat, corn, and soy. All grains used are gluten-free as well. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives are used

This select recipe has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. It contains prebiotics and probiotics that aid digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism are also included.

According to reviews, this kibble satisfy dogs’ hunger, and keep them full for much longer compared to most brands. The dogs do not feel the need to gorge and eat a huge amount of this food to be satisfied.

This formula is also gentle even on sensitive stomachs. The fogs are able to keep this food down without upsetting their tummies. Many dogs’ stool quality have also improved since switching to this formula.

7. Yukon River Salmon & Sweet Potato

First 5 Ingredients: Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat, Garbanzo Bean, Dehydrated Salmon

This is a grain-free dry dog food that provides complete and balanced nutrition to dogs in all life stages. It is a formula that is recommended for dogs with normal activity levels.

Made of menhaden fish meal and dehydrated salmon, it is ideal for dogs that are sensitive to other meat proteins. However, it does contain chicken fat. With 33% protein from fish, this recipe is sure to delight canine fish fans.

While it is called a salmon and sweet potato recipe, these ingredients actually take the 6th and 7th positions on its list of ingredients.

The more plentiful carbohydrate sources are peas and garbanzo bean. Dehydrated alfalfa meal, tomato pomace, carrot powder, and dried seaweed meal are included as additional sources of fiber, carbohydrates, and nutrients.

Fortified with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, protein and amino acids; this grain-free formula provides complete and balanced nutrition in every serving. It is free from the common allergy triggers such as wheat, corn, or soy. It contains no artificial enhancers like flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Yukon River Canine has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. Prebiotics and probiotics both aid digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

It has been great for lots of dogs with allergies and sensitive digestive systems. According to reviews, this fish recipe has helped relieve pups of their itchy skin and paws. The formula does not trigger their allergies, and their skin condition have significantly improved since switching.

Dog owners also find that this grain-free formula does not cause digestive issues in their dogs. They are able to keep this down without having issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.

8. Beef & Vegetables Stew Cuts in Gravy

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Beef Broth, Chicken Broth, Beef, Chicken Liver

A grain-free wet dog food suitable for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. It is a tasty meal when served on its own, and can also be used as a kibble-topper for an extra yummy and nutritious meal.

While it is called a beef and veggie stew, the most plentiful ingredient is actually chicken. This highly palatable stew is made even richer with the inclusion of chicken liver. Beef and chicken broth make this food extra hydrating and full of flavor.

Dried egg whites and dried egg product are included as additional sources of protein. Carrots, peas, and potatoes are the main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe. Fish oil is used as a highly nutritious source of fat.

This beef & vegetables stew contains selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. It has prebiotics and probiotics that help improve digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

Based on client feedback, it is a hit among pups of all ages. The super tasty stew is loved by a lot of dogs. Their owners find that this food smells good, unlike most commercially available dog food.

The dogs love the texture of the meaty cuts, and the owners find the consistency of the sauce to be just right.

9. Chicken & Vegetables Stew Cuts in Gravy

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Beef Broth, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg Whites

This is a highly palatable grain-free wet dog food. It can be served on its own as a meal, or on top of kibbles to stimulate your pups’ appetites. This stew is suitable for all breeds and life stages.

With real chicken as the most plentiful ingredient, this stew is sure to give a savory and satisfying meal to your dog. Chicken liver makes this recipe extra rich. Chicken broth and beef broth makes this a delicious way to add more hydration to your pup’s diet.

Aside from high quality, easily digested protein from chicken, dried egg whites and dried egg product are included as additional sources of protein. Carrots, peas, and potato starch are the main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe. Fish oil is used as a highly nutritious source of fat.

Enriched with vitamins and mineral supplements, it provides complete and balanced nutrition in every serving. It has none of the common allergy triggers such as wheat, corn, or soy. It contains no artificial enhancers like flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Dog parents love the visibly real ingredients in this particular product. It gives them the confidence that they are providing their pups with a high quality, nutritious meal.

Dogs just love this tasty chicken and veggies stew. Many pet parents also use this as a meal-topper to get their picky pups to eat their kibbles. They also love that it does not have an overpowering “dog food” smell.

10. Lamb & Rice Formula Paté

First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Vegetable Broth, Lamb Liver, Brown Rice, Dried Egg Product

This is a grain-inclusive wet dog food formulated for dogs of all breeds and life stages with normal activity levels. This tasty pate can be served on its own, or as a kibble-topper.

Made of real lamb, this pate gives dogs only high-quality protein. Lamb liver gives it more nutrients and a rich savory flavor. Vegetable broth gives it moisture and an added boost of flavor. The smooth texture of this pate makes it easy to chew and digest. It can be enjoyed by little puppies, adults, and even senior pups who no longer have all of their teeth.

Brown rice and barley are its main sources of carbohydrates. Healthy fats are provided by sunflower oil. It is free from artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

However, this canned dog food contains carrageenan as an additive. Some experts claim that carrageenan may potentially contribute to certain conditions in dogs.

It has selenium yeast which promotes healthy metabolic function, cellular regeneration, and a strong immune system. It has prebiotics and probiotics that help improve digestion, and also contribute to overall immune system health.

This pate contains Mineral Complexes which support healthy skin and coat, paw pad integrity, immune response and efficient metabolism.

Based on review comments for this one, numerous dogs have been relieved of itchy skin and other skin issues due to allergies since being switched to this formula. They now have healthy skin, and their coats are thick and shiny. This formula does not contain any of the common allergy triggers for dogs.

The dogs also love the rich lamb flavor of this hydrating pate. Pups who stopped eating their kibbles were enticed to continue eating them once they were topped with this pate. This recipe is a great way to stimulate dogs’ appetite and incorporate more moisture into their diet.

 

What Types of Dog Food Do They Offer?

Victor manufactures mostly dry foods, but it has added a few wet foods to the line recently. All food recipes are free of cheap fillers such as corn or soy and don’t use any artificial colors or flavors. They use only plant-based preservatives so that there’s less chance of an allergic reaction and to ensure food quality.

The brand uses four core ingredients in every pet food recipe to ensure a quality standard and that your pet has the best chance of healthy, effective digestion. These four core ingredients are prebiotics for better absorption, complex minerals for metabolic functions, selenium yeast for metabolic function, and probiotics for digestion and immune support.

The foods are arranged in a few different categories. Let’s take a look at their categories to give you a better idea of your choices.

Classic Multigrain

Multigrain offers a blend of multiple proteins plus complex carbohydrates for even nutrition. It’s excellent for dogs with high energy needs who have trouble finding food that can keep up.

• Hi-Pro Plus
• Hi-Energy
• MultiPro
• Performance
• Professional

Select Protein

If your dog suffers from allergies, this can be a way to limit ingredients and find protein sources that won’t trigger an allergic response. The recipes are single protein sources and free of gluten.

• Ocean Fish Formula
• Lamb Meal and Brown Rice
• Chicken Meal and Brown Rice
• Beef Meal and Brown Rice
• Senior Healthy Weight
• Nutra Pro

Grain Free

The Grain Free recipes are suited to all life stages and help alleviate common gluten allergies associated with many grain-based ingredients. if your dog is continuously itchy or has trouble with weight, this could be a good option

• Grain Free Yukon River
• Grain Free Prairie Land
• Grain Free Countryside
• Grain Free Ultra Pro
• Grain Free Hero
• Grain Free Active Dog and Puppy

Canned Food

Canned formulas offer you the chance to give your puppy or senior a softer option without sacrificing any balanced nutrition. They’re still free from all unwanted fillers and common allergens.

• Grain Free Cuts in Gravy with Chicken and Vegetables
• Grain Free Cuts in Gravy with Beef and Vegetables
• Grain Free Turkey and Sweet Potato
• Lamb and Rice Formula Pate
• Chicken and Rice Formula Pate

Recall History

Their facilities and recipes maintain a high standard of quality, but regrettably, they recently experienced a recall, which is an unusual occurrence for them.

Just last September 4, 2023, a recall has been initiated for a specific batch of Victor Super Premium Dog Food, Hi-Pro Plus, due to the possibility of salmonella contamination. This particular batch was manufactured at the Mid America Pet Food facility located in Mount Pleasant, Texas, and was distributed to multiple retailers across the United States.

The affected lot comprises 644 cases, identifiable by the lot code 1000016385 and the Best By Date of 4/30/2024. You can locate the lot code information on the rear side of the bag.

It's important to note that this product was exclusively available in 5-pound bags, and as of now, there have been no reported cases of illness in humans or pets associated with this issue.

Best Victor Dog Food Recipes

Here are a few of our favorite recipes that should help get you started. They cover a range of scenarios and should offer at least a few solutions to some of your dog’s dietary issues.

1. Victor Active Dog and Puppy

This formula uses chicken, beef, and pork meals for a high protein diet intended for athletic dogs. The use of meal instead of whole proteins is intentional. Meals have a lot more concentrated protein than regular meats, and this allows Victor to pack in a much denser protein count in their kibble. It mixes antioxidant-rich sweet potatoes for complex carbohydrates, and the formula contains DHA which is critical for growing puppies.

2. Victor Hero Grain Free Formula

This option is specially formulated for breeds that are susceptible to joint problems. It includes multiple protein sources from beef, fish, and chicken meals plus glucosamine and chondroitin for complete joint support. Sweet Potatoes provide dietary fiber and supplements help support long term digestive and immune health.

3. Victor High Energy Formula

The high energy formula is specifically for sporting dogs that need to pack in protein and carbs for all-day energy without packing on pounds. It can be challenging to find a food with the type of caloric content sporting dogs need to maintain energy levels, but this formula uses multiple sources of protein with a balance of complex carbohydrates for better energy and focus. It requires less intake, so it’s easier to maintain weight, but you never sacrifice your dog’s energy support.

Customer Reviews

Customers are usually dedicated fans once they stumble on Victor. It may not be the most well-known brand, but it does have some of the most dedicated followers out there. Most like that the formulas are tailored to specific issues such as sporting dogs or dogs with potential joint problems. They also cite the premium ingredients on the list and the fact that Victor makes everything in house.

What Do People Like And Dislike About Victor Foods?

Meat meals instead of whole proteins aren’t the first on most people’s list. That may dissuade you from purchasing Victor, and it certainly turns off its fair share of people. However, others appreciate the dense protein levels the food provides along with the gluten free and grain free options.

Positive

• “I have tried a lot of different foods for my high energy GSD, and without fail, she always looks skin and bones! At one point, I was using another Victor kibble, wet food, and Dyne calorie supplement, and still couldn’t keep her weight up. Now, not only does she eat this food without the additions, without prompting or bribery. But she is FINALLY KEEPING HER WEIGHT ON!!! She does eat more than the recommended amount sometimes, so I’m not sure this would work as directed because we free feed because of her size. But I imagine it would just because it’s been the only food in over a year that has kept her healthy!!! Super impressed! And it’s a great price point!” Carly, chewy.com
• “I had been feeding my two dogs (German Shepherd and GSD-husky mix) Victor hi pro plus and decided to switch to this version since it has glucosamine since their breed is prone to hip dysplasia. One will eat literally anything so I wasn’t worried about him not liking it, but my female is very picky and I was glad to see she LOVES this and will eat all her portion as soon as her bowl is served. It makes me feel good feeding my pooches this high quality food with the added benefit of being great for their joints.” Martha, chewy.com

Negative

• “When I first was ordered the food I was trying to find an adult food for my now 1yr old dog (German Shepard husky mix) when she first started eating it she loved it (realizing now it was because it was mixed with her puppy food) once it was given to her on its own she stopped eating aside from a kibble here and there. I went the store and bought a different kind of food and she gobbled it down like never before…she may be a picky dog who knows, regardless she was not a fan of this food” Remi, chewy.com.

Final Say

Victor offers a well-rounded selection of formulas that cater to the nutritional needs of active dogs, particularly those with high energy levels.

The brand prides itself on using quality ingredients, including premium proteins like beef, chicken, and fish, with a focus on supporting overall health through balanced nutrition.

While the brand avoids artificial additives, it does include grains in some formulas, which may not suit dogs with specific dietary sensitivities.

Overall, Victor provides a solid option for pet owners looking for a nutrient-dense, reliable dog food, especially for working or highly active dogs.