Zignature Dog Food Reviews 2024: Best Limited Ingredient Food?

Zignature brand, produced by Pets Global in North America, offers premium ingredient formulas specifically designed for dogs with allergies to many commercial dog food ingredients. 

They avoid cheap fillers or by-product meals and source their ingredients from trusted suppliers, primarily in the US.

If your dog has severe allergies that make nutrition difficult, Zignature may provide relief with its limited ingredient recipes. These carefully crafted formulas aim to improve your pet's overall health and alleviate allergy symptoms.

For a comprehensive look at how Zignature Limited Ingredient recipes might benefit your dog, check out our detailed Zignature Dog Food Review below.

Zignature Quick Look

• Parent Company: Pets Global
• Founded in: 2010
• Made in: USA
• Made by: Tuffy’s/KLN Perham, Minnesota (dry), Performance Pet, South Dakota (wet)
• Available at:  Chewy.com, Amazon.com, Petsmart.com
• Types of Food: Dry, wet
• Real Meat in First 5 Ingredients?: Yes
• Recalled in Past?: No

 

Zignature Dog Food Reviews

1. Kangaroo LID Formula

This dry dog food recipe receives positive reviews for its high-quality, limited ingredients tailored for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. 

The first ingredient is kangaroo, a novel and lean red meat that offers essential nutrients like zinc and iron. Kangaroo meat is complemented by kangaroo meal, which is more nutrient-dense due to reduced moisture content.

Zignature kangaroo also includes plant-based proteins and carbohydrates such as chickpeas, peas, and alfalfa meal, which support digestion and overall health. The addition of sunflower oil and flaxseed provides essential fatty acids that promote a healthy coat and skin.

Despite its many benefits, some concerns are raised regarding the inclusion of a controversial item like peas, which have been linked to canine heart disease in some studies. It is recommended to consult with a veterinarian before switching to this formula, especially for breeds predisposed to heart conditions.

Overall, this is well-regarded for its nutritional quality and suitability for dogs with specific dietary needs, though it may be on the pricier side and may not appeal to all dogs in terms of taste.

2. Zssential Multi-Protein Formula

A well-rounded and nutrient-packed recipe ideal for dogs with particular diet requirements. This blend boasts a mix of top-notch proteins such as turkey, lamb, duck, and salmon offering a wide range of protein sources to boost muscle health and overall energy.

This grain-free dry dog food mix contains chickpeas, peas, and flaxseed, delivering plant-based protein and key fiber to aid digestion. The addition of sunflower oil and salmon oil provides essential fatty acids that enhance coat and skin health.

The recipe excludes common allergy triggers like chicken, corn, wheat, and soy making it a solid choice for dogs with food allergies. Plus, the multi-protein approach allows for protein rotation helping to prevent new allergies from developing.

Even with its top-notch ingredients and positive effects, there are some worries about the use of peas. Some research has linked peas to heart problems in dogs. It's a good idea to check with a vet if your dog's breed is prone to heart issues.

All in all, pet owners love this formula which is high in protein which is also rich in vitamins and minerals. It offers well-rounded nutrition and works well for dogs with food sensitivities. However, it might be a bit pricey, and fussy eaters may not find it too tasty.

3. Select Cuts Trout & Salmon Meal Formula

This Zignature dry food stands out due to its top-notch ingredients and health perks. This dog food relies on trout and salmon meal as its main protein content giving dogs the omega fatty acids they need for healthy skin and a glossy coat.

This food doesn't have grains but does include good stuff like millet, oats, and quinoa. These ingredients are full of fiber and help keep a dog's gut working well. The recipe also throws in flaxseed for more omega-3s, while sunflower oil adds linoleic acid to keep skin and fur in good shape.

Dogs with food issues can eat this formula because it doesn't have common problem foods like chicken, corn, wheat, or soy. The trout and salmon are new protein sources for many dogs, which means they're less likely to cause allergy problems and can boost overall health.

But the recipe contains peas, which some research has linked to heart problems in dogs. It's a good idea to check with your vet if your dog's breed is prone to heart issues, before you change to this food.

Overall, this limited-ingredient meal is praised for its balanced nutrition and suitability for dogs with dietary restrictions, though it may come at a higher price point and may not be favored by all dogs in terms of taste.

4. Turkey Formula Small Bites

Small Bites is a Zignature range designed specifically for small and extra small breed dogs of all ages. The kibbles are made in a small size to make eating and chewier easier for little pups, and the nutritional content is a little bit higher than average to reflect the fast metabolism of small dogs.

The recipe begins with turkey and turkey meal (a dehydrated form of turkey). While turkey is not as unique as other Zignature meats, it is still not as common as the usual beef and chicken that dog foods usually contain.

Plus, turkey is rich in protein, phosphorus, and riboflavin. It is also quite leaner and has slightly fewer calories compared to chicken.

This Zignature turkey formula is also grain-free, so it makes use of alternatives to provide the carbohydrates and fiber that every doggie diet needs. The chickpeas, peas, and flaxseed provide the carbs, while the dried beet pulp lends the meal most of its fiber content.

Since every meal must also contain fat, there’s sunflower oil to the rescue. Sunflower oil is 100% fat, contains vitamin E, is rich in monounsaturated fat that can be beneficial to heart health, and can improve the palatability and taste of food.

Because it is still a limited ingredient diet, the recipe is quite short. The rest of the ingredients aren’t food products but rather supplemental nutrition to help your li’l pets reach the full nutrition that the AAFCO has established for smaller dogs.

5. Duck LID Canned Formula

Zignature specializes in creating hypoallergenic and low-glycemic meals that are ideal for pups that are picky eaters or with many sensitivities.

Every recipe the brand creates is free of the usual top allergens in pups, such as corn, chicken, soy, wheat, or potatoes. It also tries to make each formula short to keep it as simple as possible.

All of Zignature recipes have short and limited ingredients, but its wet food line has an even shorter read for remarkably clean recipes.

For this specific formula, your dog will enjoy premium and globally-sourced food as the farm-raised duck that leads it comes all the way from Western France.

Duck is a novel protein that hosts a veritable army of powerful nutrients, such as B vitamins, iron, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Together, these nutrients help improve a canine’s energy levels, build a stronger immune system, support improved kidney and heart functions, and provide better cognitive function in senior pups.

Because it's wet food, the second ingredient is duck broth. This lends the meal its 78% moisture, which is excellent for hydrating dogs who are not fond of water. The third (peas) and fifth (chickpeas) ingredients provide the carbohydrates that will act as one source of energy for your furry friend.

If you check the label, the recipe also lists down sun-cured alfalfa meal and agar-agar. Sun-cured means that the alfalfa has been dried out (and is free of molds). It has an exceptional nutritional value because the herb is one of the richest sources of vitamins A, B12, C, D, and E. It also contains considerable amounts of protein and trace minerals.

The agar-agar is simply a safe alternative to carrageenan in gelling food together. It gives wet food a consistent texture. Even though it’s placed in the food mainly for consistency, agar-agar also has the benefit of containing calcium, folate, manganese, fiber, and iron.

Overall, we find this Zignature product a wholesome one that combines all the necessary nutrition pets need for a completely balanced and well-rounded meal.

Behind the Brand

Zignature dog food brand began not too long ago in the search for clean kibble. The North American based company wanted to transform the kibble we feed our dogs, replacing cheap fillers and artificial ingredients with premium quality components to elevate what we think of as kibble. If you’re used to the cheap kibbles of big box stores, you may be pleasantly surprised.

The company prefers to think of itself as a pet health company rather than a pet food company. They believe that good health begins with nutrition and so the foundational aspect of pet health must be in feeding your pet correctly. They refuse to compromise quality in the name of profit and continually searches for the best ingredients.

There hasn’t been a recall for any of Zignature’s recipes and all of their recipes trend towards clean, low glycemic options with no known allergens or common food triggers.

They use only quality sources of protein and other ingredients for their kibble and aims to be the number one holistic pet food company in the nation.

Because of their unique protein blends, they offer consumers the chance to find a food that both satisfies allergy requirements and may even satisfy your picky puppy.

Zignature also uses ingredients from sources that have the least environmental impact. The duck comes from small farms in France, for example, while trout is responsibly raised in the Northwest United States. The company chooses these ingredients because a holistic approach to food and sustainability is best and they know that for some customers, this seals the deal.

They came on the scene in 2010 and haven’t experienced much negative press for the most part or recalls. This responsibility gives owners the reassurance that what they’re paying good money for gets them a truly premium product.

What Types of Do They Offer?

Zignature’s dry kibbles are limited ingredient and use clean, while protein sources with plenty of options. They’ve banned all chicken products, a not well known but still widespread allergen, but you still have plenty of protein sources including some exotic ones for dogs with more uncommon allergies.

Zignature’s foods are designed to be the first step in your dog’s overall health. By eliminating common food allergens, including chicken, your dog’s system can begin to heal. Your dog may experience less sickness and better stools as digestion continues to improve.

Foods are available in wet and dry options. They’re formulated for all life stages so you won’t find specific life stage formulas. Instead, you can choose a kibble for dogs who ware able to chew kibbles and softer, wet foods that could be more suitable to puppies or seniors. They also have a small bites option more suited to small breeds.

Wet Food

Multi-Protein

• Zssential

Limited Ingredient

• Turkey
• Kangaroo
• Duck
• Goat
• Guinea Fowl
• Pork
• Lamb
• Trout & Salmon
• Salmon
• Whitefish
• Catfish
• Venison

Dry Food

Limited Ingredient

• Kangaroo
• Turkey
• Lamb
• Trout & Salmon Meal
• Duck
• Pork
• Salmon
• Catfish
• Whitefish
• Venison
• Goat
• Guinea Fowl

Multi-Protein

• Zssential
• Zssential Small Bites

Small Bites

• Turkey
• Kangaroo
• Trout & Salmon
• Lamb

Select Cuts

• Lamb & Lamb Meal
• Trout & Salmon Meal
• Turkey

Recall History

Zignature hasn’t had a recall yet, which is partly a testament to their foods and recipes and partly that they haven’t been in business that long.

As the company gets older, things tend to happen, and accidents may occur. At this point in the game, their record is completely clean.

Customer Reviews

People typically like Zignature and are pleased with how their previously difficult dogs respond to the formula. If you’ve struggled with allergies for a number of years, it could be a real relief to find something that doesn’t make those allergies worse.

 

What do people like and dislike about Zignature dog food?

Customers like that Zignature offers truly limited ingredient options for their dogs and that it isn’t just one or two recipes either. With more than enough choices, you should be able to find something that eases your pet's allergies while also being something they actually like. No more forcing them to eat something just because it’s your only limited ingredient option.

It’s on the expensive side although, for many of you, money isn’t the issue. If you’re on a tight budget, it could push your comfort level a bit. However, for dogs that can’t seem to settle digestion, it could be money well spent.

Also, some studies have come out recently about using peas and legumes in dog food. There’s a possible link now between dog foods with these ingredients and a condition called Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy. It could be correlation, not causation, but talk to your vet about Zignature before switching.

Positive

• “Our Dog is 8 years old and has had food allergies forever. We narrowed down his protein source to be Venison only. He eats a mixture of Purina HA and this Venison. Dues to Venison shortages the previous brand went out of business recently, and we SWITCHED to Zingnature. OMG, in 8 years I have never seen my dog eat ANYTHING with so much joy and gusto. He runs downstairs to eat breakfast now. With the other venison, we had to hand feed our dog. Amazing food. And he is happy healthy, high energy etc. I cannot recommend this more highly !” – Rufus, chewy.com

Negative

• “I fed this food for almost two years before learning about dietary DCM. Unfortunately, Zignature is one of the worst offenders for dogs testing low in blood taurine and positive for DCM. It has nothing to do with taurine in the food, and (research is ongoing) most likely to do with the legume ingredients. Vets have advised to stay away from all potatoes, peas, legumes. I was one of the lucky ones in that my dog was negative for DCM on echo, but I have switched to a vet-approved food and encourage other customers to consult with their vets and have honest conversations about canine nutrition, and why feeding trials are an extremely important part of recommended foods…” Siren, chewy.com

Final Words

All in all, this brand offers a complete and balanced diet for pets, particularly beneficial for those needing a limited-ingredient dog food. 

This premium dog food is made with high-quality primary ingredients, ensuring optimal nutrition. Available in both dry and wet forms, Zignature provides versatile options to feed your dog according to their preferences and needs.