FAQs
What are the differences between NDF2, Rescue, and the AM/PM?
All of our base mixes are thoughtfully formulated, with each ingredient selected for its specific nutritional contribution to your dog’s vitality. Additionally, we believe that natural, unaltered nutrition is the key to promoting optimal health for dogs. Thus we choose to use only non-GMO ingredients, to prioritize purity and quality. We believe in supporting your dog’s ability to THRIVE, not just survive.
NDF2 is a popular option for many puppies and adult dogs. NDF2 is a grain containing base mix that utilizes wholesome ingredients like oats, wheat germ, and buckwheat. NDF2 is designed to be paired with protein and water to create a fresh and hydrating bowl for your pup. NDF2 is offered in three flavors: NDF2 Beef, NDF2 Pork, and NDF2 Chicken. The only difference between each flavor is the liver ingredient used (i.e. beef liver, pork liver, or chicken liver). With this in mind, many pup owners choose to rotate between these flavors.
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Rescue is an option for sensitive dogs or puppies who cannot tolerate grains. Formulated as a lower carbohydrate alternative to NDF2 under the guidance of a Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist, Rescue is a premium grain-free dehydrated base mix.
AM Porridge/PM Crumble is a two-part dehydrated foundation mix plan which eliminates prep work and allows maximum control over ingredient freshness and vegetable choice. AM Porridge is designed to be fed with yogurt and seasonal vegetables in the morning. PM Crumble is to be fed with protein in the evening. The separation diet allows the dog’s body to digest similar nutrients at a time making digestion easier because there is little competition from enzymes at the time of feeding.
Which base mix should I feed my puppy?
NDF2, Rescue, or AM/PM can all be fed to puppies. NDF2 is the most popular choice among dog breeders that feed Volhard base mixes to their puppies.
Which base mix should I feed for a dog with allergies or sensitivities?
Rescue is an option for sensitive canines. The Rescue base mix is composed of generally well-tolerated ingredients carefully chosen for their traditional uses in promoting gentle relaxation and healing of the body.
What protein do you recommend pairing with the base mix?
We recommend starting with neutral or cooling proteins such as 80/20 ground beef, turkey, pork, bison, whitefish, duck, or rabbit. These proteins are generally well-tolerated and balance well with the base mix.
Proteins like lamb, venison, and goat are considered "warming" or "hot" in Traditional Chinese Medicine and may not be the best long-term staples for dogs that are prone to sensitivities, allergies, or inflammatory conditions. These proteins can still be rotated into the diet occasionally, depending on your dog’s individual constitution and health.
What is the ratio of protein to NDF2 or Rescue base mix?
The ratio of protein to NDF2 or Rescue base mix is 1:1 in measured cup form. Meaning when using NDF2 or Rescue, you would pair 1 cup of raw or lightly cooked protein to 1 cup of dry NDF2 or Rescue.
How much should I feed my dog?
The feeding guidelines for each product we carry can be found beneath the product picture under the Feeding Guide tab. Keep in mind, each dog is an individual with varying metabolisms and activity levels. The amounts suggested are only guidelines.
Do I need to add oil like some other companies’ base mixes require?
No! Adding oil is not necessary with Volhard base mixes.
Our base mixes include balanced high-quality fats and oils that support energy, metabolism, and vitality. These healthy fats provide essential fatty acids to promote joint comfort, skin and coat health, immune function, and proper mineral balance. Easily digestible and rich in beneficial nutrients, they help maintain healthy digestion, support metabolic function, and deliver sustained energy.
Where does the name “Volhard” come from?
Our humble beginning started in 1973, when our founder Wendy Volhard, a well-known dog trainer, breeder, and educator, was motivated to create a fresh, natural diet in her kitchen to save her beloved Landseer Newfoundland, Heidi, UD, who at the age of five, was diagnosed with severe liver and kidney disease and given a mere six months to live. Wendy gave up her career at the Wall Street Journal and dedicated herself to pioneering a biologically appropriate diet. Wendy explained, “It all starts with nutrition.” As a result of Wendy’s fresh diet, Heidi lived another seven years.
With the help of her veterinarian, she began a protocol of periodic clinical tests to see if the diet was balanced for the dogs. For over twelve years, she took blood, feces, and urine from as many dogs as she could from her students, from different areas of the country, different breeds, and different ages. She adjusted the formula as necessary to make sure that she was getting the results from the recipe that she wanted. Once satisfied, she finally published the recipe in 1984.
In the early 1990’s her work came to the attention of Howell Book House, a division of Wiley Publishing, and she was asked to write a textbook. She accepted the invitation and, together with Kerry Brown, DVM, wrote The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog, published in 1995. The book was such a success that she was asked to write a second edition which included case histories, which was published in 2000 under the same title. Wendy has published 25+ books on various canine topics. Her books have been published in multiple languages and distributed throughout the world and are still available.
In 1999, she formulated a dehydrated formula to allow her recipe to reach those who were not able to cook for their pets. Realizing that not everyone could offer fresh diets to their dogs, she also developed a supplement called Endurance which, when sprinkled over kibble, supplies nutrients often lost in the extrusion process of kibble creation.
Wendy Volhard was one of the first to formulate a natural diet in the United States. As a hidden figure in the industry, she has often been copied, but never successfully. Wendy began the natural, raw food wave that is now sweeping the country.
Do you offer discounts or a rewards program?
We offer a one time 10% off coupon when you opt into receiving emails and text messages. This is shared in the form of a pop-up on the main page of our website. After entering your information, you will be sent that discount code shortly after.
We offer a 5% discount on all AutoShip orders!
What is Volhard’s Return Policy?
> All returns must be initiated within 5 calendar days of the product being marked as "delivered" by the shipping carrier.
> The product must be in its original, factory-sealed condition, completely unused and unopened.
> The item must be returned in its original packaging, including all labels, seals, and any protective materials.
> Missing or damaged original packaging may result in the refusal of a return.
How do I initiate a return?
> Reach out to our customer service team at 888-571-2245 or email us at info@volharddognutrition.com within the 5-day window.
> Have your order number and the reason for your return ready.
> Our team will provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed with your return, including any necessary return authorization. Please do not send items back without prior authorization.
> All returned items will undergo a thorough inspection upon receipt to ensure they meet the stated conditions.
> If approved, a refund will be processed to your original method of payment.
> All returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee – No Exceptions.
Where is my order?
Once your order has shipped, you'll receive an email containing your tracking number and a direct link to monitor its progress. If the link is not clickable, or you prefer to track manually:
> Copy the UPS or FedEx tracking number from your email.
> Visit the official UPS or FedEx website.
> Look for the "Track" or "Track a Package" section.
> Paste your tracking number into the designated field and click "Track" to see all shipping activity and details.
Do you ship outside of the United States?
At this time, we currently only fulfill orders within the United States.