Instinct Original Dog Food: The Ultimate Guide & Review

Is Instinct Original dog food right for your furry friend? Our comprehensive review breaks down everything you need to know about this popular premium pet food option.

Introduction

In the ever-expanding world of premium dog nutrition, Instinct Original dog food stands out as a leader in the raw-inspired, high-protein category. This protein-rich, grain-free line of dog food is designed for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with nutrition that closely resembles what their ancestors ate in the wild, but with the convenience of dry kibble.

Instinct Original is formulated for dog owners seeking high-quality protein sources, minimal processing, and ingredients that support overall canine health without fillers or artificial additives. Whether you have an active breed that needs sustained energy or a dog with sensitivities to common ingredients, this food aims to provide balanced nutrition with animal protein at its core.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll analyze everything from ingredients to value, helping you determine if Instinct Original dog food is the right choice for your canine companion. Our evaluation is based on ingredient quality, nutritional analysis, customer experiences, and how it compares to other premium options on the market.

Brand Overview: Nature’s Variety Instinct

Company History & Philosophy

Nature’s variety Instinct began with a simple but powerful belief: pets thrive when they eat the way nature intended. Founded in 2002, the company pioneered raw pet food in the commercial space, making it more accessible to everyday pet owners. The brand operates under the parent company, General Mills, after being acquired in 2020, but maintains its original commitment to raw-inspired nutrition.

The core philosophy behind Nature’s variety Instinct centers on the idea that raw ingredients deliver optimal nutrition. They believe minimally processed, protein-rich diets more closely mirror what dogs would naturally eat in the wild, potentially leading to better digestion, healthier skin and coat, and improved overall wellness.

Manufacturing Standards & Sourcing

Instinct manufactures its products in company-owned facilities in Lincoln, Nebraska. They pride themselves on rigorous safety protocols that exceed FDA, USDA, and AAFCO standards. Their ingredients are sourced primarily from the USA, with some specialized ingredients coming from trusted global suppliers.

What sets Instinct apart is their commitment to keeping raw ingredients raw. They use cold-pressure technology (high-pressure processing) rather than heat to naturally preserve their raw products—a method that helps maintain nutritional integrity while eliminating harmful bacteria.

Recall History

Transparency about recalls is essential for establishing trust with pet parents. Nature’s variety Instinct has had a few recalls over its history:

• In 2015, they voluntarily recalled some chicken formula raw frozen diets due to potential Salmonella contamination
• In 2013, they recalled specific batches of chicken formula due to small plastic pieces found in some packages

It’s worth noting that these recalls were voluntary and addressed promptly. No recalls have affected the Instinct Original dry kibble line specifically in recent years, which speaks to their quality control measures.

Instinct Original Line In-Depth

Key Features & Philosophy

What makes Instinct Original stand out in the crowded premium dog food market? Several distinctive features set this line apart:

• High Animal Protein Content: Each formula contains at least 70% real animal ingredients and nutritious oils, with 30% fruits, vegetables, and other wholesome ingredients.
• Raw Coating Process: Every piece of kibble is coated with freeze-dried raw ingredients, adding flavor and nutritional benefits.
• Grain-Free Formulation: All recipes exclude grains, focusing instead on more protein-rich ingredients.
• Probiotics & Antioxidants: Added to support digestive health and immune system function.
• No Fillers or Artificial Ingredients: Free from potato, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

This combination creates what Instinct calls “raw-inspired nutrition”—conventional dry food with the nutritional benefits and taste appeal of raw ingredients.

Available Formulas

The Instinct Original line includes various formulas catering to different protein preferences and specific dog needs:

Let’s take a closer look at three of their most popular formulas:

Real Chicken Formula

Top 5 Ingredients:

1. Chicken meal (concentrated source of protein)
2. Chicken (fresh meat source)
3. Peas (plant protein and fiber)
4. Chicken fat (energy source)
5. Tapioca (binding agent)

Guaranteed Analysis:

• Protein: 41.0% minimum
• Fat: 19.0% minimum
• Fiber: 4.0% maximum
• Moisture: 10.0% maximum

Key Benefits:

• High protein supports lean muscle mass
• Omega fatty acids from chicken fat promote healthy skin and coat
• Added probiotics support digestive health

Potential Drawbacks:

• High protein may be too rich for sedentary dogs
• Some dogs may be sensitive to chicken protein

Real Beef Formula

Top 5 Ingredients:

1. Beef meal (concentrated protein source)
2. Peas (plant protein and fiber)
3. Beef (fresh meat source)
4. Canola oil (omega fatty acids)
5. Tapioca (binding agent)

Guaranteed Analysis:

• Protein: 37.0% minimum
• Fat: 20.0% minimum
• Fiber: 3.0% maximum
• Moisture: 10.0% maximum

Key Benefits:

• Red meat source for dogs who prefer strong flavors
• Higher fat content for sustained energy
• Iron-rich for healthy blood cells

Potential Drawbacks:

• Higher fat content may not suit less active dogs
• More expensive than chicken formula

Real Salmon (For Skin & Coat Health)

Top 5 Ingredients:

1. Salmon meal (concentrated omega-rich protein)
2. Salmon (fresh fish protein)
3. Menhaden fish meal (additional marine protein)
4. Peas (plant protein and fiber)
5. Canola oil (omega fatty acids)

Guaranteed Analysis:

• Protein: 37.0% minimum
• Fat: 17.0% minimum
• Fiber: 5.0% maximum
• Moisture: 10.0% maximum

Key Benefits:

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Fish proteins often well-tolerated by dogs with meat sensitivities
• Anti-inflammatory properties may help joint health

Potential Drawbacks:

• Stronger fishy aroma may put off some pet owners
• Some dogs dislike fish flavor

Ingredient Deep Dive

Protein Sources

The star ingredients in Instinct Original dog food are its high-quality animal proteins:

Chicken and Chicken Meal: The chicken used is real, cage-free poultry. Chicken meal is simply chicken that’s been rendered (cooked down) to remove moisture, creating a more concentrated protein source pound-for-pound than fresh chicken.

Beef and Beef Meal: Sourced from ranch-raised cattle, providing complete amino acid profiles that dogs need. Red meat is particularly rich in iron and B vitamins.

Salmon and Fish Meals: Wild-caught or responsibly farmed fish provides not just protein but essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which support brain function, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin and coat.

Other Notable Ingredients

Beyond the primary protein sources, Instinct Original includes several functional ingredients:

Fruits and Vegetables: Carrots, apples, cranberries, and blueberries provide natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Montmorillonite Clay: Acts as a natural detoxifier that can bind to certain toxins in the digestive tract.

Freeze-Dried Organ Meats: Ingredients like freeze-dried liver enhance flavor naturally while providing concentrated nutrients like vitamin A.

Probiotics: Specifically, Bacillus coagulans is added to support healthy digestion and immune function.

What’s Not Included

Sometimes what’s excluded is just as important as what’s included:

• No grains (corn, wheat, rice, barley)
• No soy protein
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• No by-product meals
• No rendered meat meals from unspecified sources (like “animal meal”)

Pros & Cons of Instinct Original

Pros

• High-Quality Protein Sources: Named meats and meat meals from specific animals.
• Raw Coating Technology: Adds nutritional benefits and palatability without the hassle of raw feeding.
• Grain-Free Formulation: Beneficial for dogs with certain grain sensitivities.
• Varied Protein Options: Multiple protein sources available for rotation or addressing specific allergies.
• Probiotics Included: Supports digestive and immune health.
• No Artificial Additives: Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
• Widely Available: Found in pet specialty stores and online retailers.

Cons

• Premium Price Point: Significantly more expensive than grocery store brands.
• High Protein May Not Suit All Dogs: Some less active or senior dogs may not need such protein-rich diets.
• Grain-Free Controversy: Some veterinarians have concerns about grain-free diets and DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy).
• Calorie-Dense: Portion control is important to prevent weight gain.
• Contains Peas/Legumes: Though common in grain-free foods, there are ongoing studies about legumes in dog food.

Who is Instinct Original Best Suited For?

Instinct Original dog food is particularly well-suited for:

• Active Dogs: The high protein content provides sustained energy for working dogs, sport dogs, and highly active breeds.
• Dogs with Grain Sensitivities: While true grain allergies are rare, dogs with sensitivities may benefit from grain-free formulation.
• Picky Eaters: The raw coating often enhances palatability for finicky dogs.
• Adult Dogs: While suitable for all life stages, the protein content is particularly appropriate for adult maintenance.
• Dogs Needing Skin & Coat Support: Especially the salmon formula with its high omega-3 content.

It may be less ideal for:

• Very Sedentary Dogs: The high protein and fat content could contribute to weight gain in inactive dogs.
• Dogs with Certain Kidney Issues: High-protein diets are sometimes contraindicated for specific kidney conditions.
• Budget-Conscious Pet Parents: The premium price point may be prohibitive for some.

Comparison to Alternatives

Other Instinct Lines

Instinct Original vs. Instinct Raw Boost: Raw Boost includes the same high-quality kibble but with freeze-dried raw pieces mixed in, offering more raw nutrition but at a higher price point.

Instinct Original vs. Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet: The Limited Ingredient line offers simplified recipes with fewer components, making it easier to identify and avoid potential allergens for sensitive dogs.

Competitor Comparisons

Differentiators: What truly sets Instinct Original dog food apart is its raw coating process, which infuses each kibble with the nutritional benefits and taste of raw ingredients without requiring full raw feeding.

Feeding Guidelines & Transitioning

General Feeding Guidelines

While specific feeding amounts vary based on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level, here’s a general guideline:

• Small dogs (up to 25 lbs): 1/2 to 1-1/4 cups daily
• Medium dogs (25-50 lbs): 1-1/4 to 2 cups daily
• Large dogs (50-75 lbs): 2 to 3 cups daily
• Giant breeds (75+ lbs): 3+ cups daily

Always check the specific guidelines on your product packaging, as formulations may vary. Divide the daily amount into two meals to help with digestion and maintain stable energy levels.

Transitioning Tips

When switching to Nature’s variety Instinct or any premium food, a gradual transition is crucial to avoid digestive upset:

• Days 1-3: Mix 25% new food with 75% old food
• Days 4-6: Mix 50% new food with 50% old food
• Days 7-9: Mix 75% new food with 25% old food
• Day 10: 100% new food

For dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs, extend this transition over 14-21 days instead. Adding a probiotic supplement during the transition can also help minimize digestive issues.

Where to Buy & Price Range

Instinct Original dog food is widely available at:

• Pet specialty retailers (Petco, PetSmart)
• Online pet supply stores (Chewy, Amazon)
• Independent pet boutiques
• The official Instinct website

Price Range:

• Small bags (4-5 lbs): $18-25
• Medium bags (10-11 lbs): $35-45
• Large bags (20-22.5 lbs): $60-75

Prices may vary based on formula (chicken typically costs less than salmon or exotic proteins) and retailer. Many retailers offer subscription discounts of 5-10% for regular deliveries.

User Reviews & Testimonials

After analyzing hundreds of customer reviews across multiple platforms, several consistent themes emerge:

Positive Feedback

“My dog’s coat has never looked better since switching to Instinct Original Salmon. The flaking and itching are completely gone.” – Sarah T.

“Our picky Yorkie actually eats his food now! We’ve tried dozens of premium brands, and Instinct is the only one he consistently finishes.” – Mark L.

“After switching from a grocery brand, our Lab’s energy level has noticeably increased, and her stool is much more consistent.” – Jennifer R.

Common Positive Themes:

• Improved skin and coat health
• Increased palatability for picky eaters
• Better digestion and stool quality
• Sustained energy levels

Critical Feedback

“Great quality food but too rich for my senior Beagle. Had to switch to something with less protein.” – David M.

“My dog loves it but my budget doesn’t! Had to switch to something more affordable after price increases.” – Alyssa K.

“Started well but my dog developed gas issues after a few months. Might be the pea content.” – Robert T.

Common Critical Themes:

• Too rich for some dogs, especially seniors or less active breeds
• Price concerns, especially with recent inflation
• Some dogs experience gas or soft stool (possibly from protein richness or legume content)

Our Verdict & Recommendation

After thoroughly analyzing Instinct Original dog food across multiple dimensions—ingredients, nutritional profile, manufacturing practices, and real-world results—we confidently give it a 4.5/5 star rating.

This premium dog food delivers on its promises of high-quality animal protein, minimally processed ingredients, and nutrition inspired by a dog’s natural diet. The raw coating technology genuinely seems to enhance both nutritional value and palatability, giving dogs the benefits of raw ingredients without the hassle or safety concerns of a fully raw diet.

We recommend Instinct Original for:

• Pet parents willing to invest in premium nutrition
• Dogs that thrive on high-protein diets
• Active breeds that need sustained energy
• Dogs with specific grain sensitivities
• Pet owners concerned about artificial additives

However, it’s not necessarily the perfect choice for every dog. Those on tight budgets, dogs with certain health conditions requiring specific nutritional profiles, or very sedentary pets might be better served by other options.

As with any dietary change, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian before switching to Instinct Original, especially if your dog has existing health concerns.

FAQ Section

Is Instinct Original dog food grain-free?

Yes, all formulas in the Instinct Original line are 100% grain-free, containing no corn, wheat, soy, rice, or barley.

Is Instinct Original good for puppies?

While Instinct Original is formulated for all life stages, Instinct also offers specific puppy formulas with adjusted calcium and phosphorus levels optimal for growing dogs.

How does Instinct Original compare to Instinct Raw?

Instinct Original is conventional kibble with a raw coating, while Instinct Raw is 100% raw frozen food. Original offers convenience with some raw benefits, while Raw provides maximum raw nutrition but requires freezer storage and different handling.

Does Instinct Original help with allergies?

Many pet owners report improvement in allergy symptoms after switching to Instinct Original, particularly with the single-protein formulas like Duck or Lamb that can help identify and avoid specific allergens.

Is the high protein content in Instinct Original bad for dogs?

High protein is beneficial for most healthy adult dogs, particularly active ones. However, dogs with certain kidney or liver conditions may need moderate protein levels—consult your veterinarian if your dog has these issues.

Has Instinct Original ever been recalled?

While the parent company has had recalls of some raw frozen products years ago, the Instinct Original kibble line specifically has not been subject to recent recalls.

Can Instinct Original cause loose stools?

Some dogs may experience loose stools initially due to the rich protein content. A slow transition and possibly slightly smaller portions than recommended can help address this issue.

Is Instinct Original worth the higher price?

For many pet owners, the quality ingredients and health benefits justify the premium price, but this is ultimately a personal decision based on your budget and your dog’s specific needs.