Ingredients - In Depth
REAL INGREDIENTS. REAL NUTRITION.
Responsibly sourced ingredients
PROTEINS (already within the base mixes prior to the addition of fresh protein):
LIVER:
Liver is a key ingredient in our NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble diets as it is a nutrient-dense organ meat, rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly high in B vitamins and trace minerals such as iron, selenium, and choline, nutrients often lacking in other foods.
Beef liver is utilized in our NDF2 Beef recipe. Beef liver is one of the most concentrated sources of vitamin A, iron, and B12, making it especially effective for supporting red blood cell production and proper system function. It is particularly rich in zinc and choline, nutrients that support immune health, brain function, and cellular repair.
Pork Liver is found in our NDF2 Pork formula and our Rescue diet as a rich source of thiamine (vitamin B1), which is essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. It is also a great source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that aids in thyroid function and protects against cellular damage.
Chicken liver was chosen for our NDF2 Chicken recipe and our PM Crumble diet. It is used as a gentle, easily digestible source of high-quality protein with essential nutrients like B12 and folate, which support energy metabolism, cellular function, and immune health. Its mild flavor and palatability make it ideal for picky canines.
EGGS:
Eggs are a highly valuable dietary component within NDF2 and AM Porridge, offering complete protein along with essential nutrients that support overall health. They are rich in lecithin, choline, B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium, the nutrients that contribute to metabolic function, cardiovascular health, and immune support. The yolk is particularly high in vitamin A and plays a role in maintaining vision and skin health. Lecithin and choline also assist in breaking down low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), supporting healthy cholesterol levels and arterial function. Additionally, eggs provide sulfur-containing amino acids such as cysteine, cystine, and methionine, which are critical for cell and tissue regeneration.
FATS AND OILS:
Our diets 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.
Cod Liver Oil - (Omega 3) Cod liver oil is used in NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble as a rich source of vitamins A and D, supporting bone growth, calcium absorption, and proper mineral balance. Its omega-3 content also aids in joint health, mobility, and skin and coat condition. Together with omega-6 and 9, these fatty acids provide antioxidant and antifungal benefits that support your pup’s body inside and out.
Coconut Oil is included in our Rescue diet for its high content of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide a readily available source of energy and support metabolic health. Composed of over 90% saturated fats, coconut oil contains approximately 64% medium-chain fatty acids, primarily lauric, caprylic, and capric acids, each known for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Lauric acid, in particular, has been studied for its ability to support immune function. Coconut oil also supplies small amounts of beneficial unsaturated fats such as oleic and linoleic acid. These fats are valued for their digestibility and quick conversion into energy, which may help support vitality and activity levels in dogs.
Flaxseed Oil is utilized in Rescue as a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid known to support cardiovascular health, comparable in some respects to the benefits of marine-derived omega-3s. It can also help improve mobility in dogs with arthritis and support healthy blood pressure and kidney function.
Safflower Oil is used in NDF2, Rescue, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble. It is a rich source of linoleic acid (LA), an essential omega-6 fatty acid that helps in maintaining skin hydration, promoting a soft healthy coat, and supporting immune function. Its high content of polyunsaturated fats also contributes to metabolic health and may assist in managing inflammation when balanced with omega-3s. Safflower oil offers broad wellness benefits, including joint comfort, cellular health, and coat quality.
Coconut Meal was chosen for our Rescue diet as a nutrient-dense, grain-free ingredient rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Its exceptionally high fiber content supports digestive health, promotes detoxification, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. With a low glycemic index and minimal impact on blood sugar, it’s an excellent choice for dogs managing weight or diabetes. Coconut meal also supports a healthy metabolism and provides sustained energy.
CARBOHYDRATES:
Our carbohydrate sources are selected for their digestibility, nutritional value, and broad tolerance among dogs. They contribute to healthy digestion, circulation, immune support, and provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These ingredients also supply energy-supporting nutrients and promote metabolic and reproductive health.
Oats
NDF2 and AM Porridge contain oats as a nourishing, easily digestible grain known for its calming effects on the nervous and reproductive systems. Oats have been traditionally used to support the spleen, pancreas, immune function, and help maintain heart health. Naturally rich in silicon, oats contribute to strong bones and connective tissue. With low allergenic potential and gentle acidity, they are generally well tolerated by most dogs.
Buckwheat
Chosen for NDF2 and AM Porridge, buckwheat is a naturally gluten-free, nutrient-rich seed that is well tolerated by most dogs. It supports digestive health, may help stimulate appetite, and contains rutin, a bioflavonoid known to strengthen blood vessels and capillaries, which can help inhibit hemorrhaging and support circulatory health.
Wheat Germ
Wheat germ is a highly nutritious, nutrient-dense ingredient found in NDF2 and AM Porridge that provides vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, and essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Its antioxidant properties support healthy skin and coat, immune function, and play a vital role in reproductive health. The B vitamins aid energy metabolism and neurological function, while its fiber content promotes healthy digestion. Wheat germ also offers plant-based protein that contributes to a balanced amino acid profile.
Tapioca
Tapioca was chosen for Rescue as a hypoallergenic, easily digestible carbohydrate to provide gentle dietary fiber. It is naturally free from gluten, grains, and nuts, making it suitable for dogs with dietary sensitivities. Tapioca is low in sodium and cholesterol, and provides trace nutrients such as calcium, iron, manganese, and folate.
VEGETABLES:
The vegetables carefully chosen for our diets deliver a diverse array of nutrients, including dietary fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals that support multiple physiological functions in dogs. These ingredients help promote healthy digestion, immune resilience, and antioxidant defense.
Carrots
The carrots in NDF2 provide dogs with a natural source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A to support vision, immune function, and skin health. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which aids in healthy digestion and promotes regular bowel movements.
Zucchini
Zucchini is a low-fat vegetable used in Rescue that provides dietary fiber and key nutrients such as vitamins B6, C, K, riboflavin, folate, potassium, and manganese. These nutrients support healthy digestion, blood sugar regulation, circulation, and organ function, including the thyroid and adrenal glands. Zucchini’s antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress, which may support cellular health and contribute to greater longevity.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is included in Rescue as a low-calorie vegetable that provides dogs with beneficial nutrients, including vitamins C and K, folate, and fiber. Its antioxidant content supports cellular health and may help reduce inflammation. The fiber in cauliflower can also promote healthy digestion.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense ingredient in Rescue that provides a rich source of vitamin A, along with potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Its high antioxidant content, including lutein and zeaxanthin, may support immune health, promote healthy skin, and help protect vision. The fiber content supports digestive health, while its antioxidants and phytonutrients may contribute to cardiovascular and cellular function.
Beet/ Beet Root
Beets are a root vegetable used in Rescue that are a valuable source of key vitamins and minerals, including fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. In canine nutrition, they may support healthy digestion, cardiovascular function, and cognitive health, largely due to their natural antioxidant and nitrate content. Beets may also contribute to reduced inflammation and improved circulation.
Spinach
Spinach is utilized in safe amounts within the Rescue diet. It provides dogs with vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals such as iron and calcium. Vitamin A supports healthy vision, vitamin C contributes antioxidant properties, and vitamin K plays a role in normal blood clotting. Iron helps carry oxygen through the bloodstream, while calcium contributes to healthy bone and muscle function.
HERBS:
Our carefully crafted diets include herbs that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can aid digestion, joint mobility, immune function, and healthy circulation. Together, they can contribute to improved gastrointestinal comfort and act as a natural defense against oxidative stress and environmental challenges.
Parsley
Parsley is utilized in NDF2, Rescue and PM Crumble as it provides vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, along with minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Parsley can support urinary tract health and may assist in managing mild inflammation, such as that associated with arthritis. It also contains fiber and natural compounds that may aid digestion and help reduce gas formation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is found in NDF2 and PM Crumble. It provides a natural source of protein, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. It also contains chlorophyll and phytonutrients that contribute to its antioxidant properties.
Dandelion Root
Dandelion root, used in NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble provides beneficial compounds such as inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health and beneficial gut bacteria. It also contains vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and iron, which contribute to overall nutritional support. Its natural antioxidant properties may help protect cells from oxidative stress and support immune function.
Garlic
Garlic is utilized in safe amounts within NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. It can also aid in cardiovascular health by improving circulation and supporting healthy cholesterol levels. Garlic has long since been traditionally used to help repel fleas and other parasites.
Yucca
Yucca is used in NDF2 and AM Porridge for its natural content of vitamins, minerals, and saponins, compounds that may support nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It can also help reduce stool and urine odor.
Rosemary
Rosemary is utilized in NDF2, Rescue, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble for its antioxidant properties, which help support cellular health and may increase longevity. It can contribute to easing digestive comfort.
Ginger
Ginger is found in NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble. Ginger has been traditionally used in TCVM to support digestive function by promoting gastric motility and helping ease occasional indigestion. Some evidence suggests ginger may help alleviate nausea associated with motion sensitivity. Ginger can also contribute to gastrointestinal comfort by helping reduce bloating and excess gas.
Turmeric
Turmeric is included in our Rescue diet for its natural antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative stress. Turmeric has traditionally been used in TCVM to support healthy joint function and mobility, especially in senior dogs, and promote circulatory flow.
VITAMINS:
Vitamins are essential to life and they contribute to good health by regulating the metabolism.
Essential to the break down and utilization of protein, vitamins are part of a chemical process
in the body that releases nutrients from ingested food and provides energy.
Some vitamins are fat soluble - Vitamins A, D, E and K, and others, Vitamin B, C are water-soluble.
Vitamins that are fat soluble are stored by the body in fatty tissue and the liver.
Water-soluble vitamins are excreted daily and cannot be stored.
Both types of vitamins are needed for a healthy body.
Vitamins are classified as either fat-soluble or water-soluble.
Fat-soluble Vitamins:
Vitamins absorbed with dietary fats and stored in the body’s fat tissues and liver.
Vitamins A, D, E, and K
Water-soluble Vitamins:
Vitamins that are not stored in significant amounts and must be replenished regularly through the diet.
B-complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) and C
Destruction of Vitamins
Many essential vitamins, including B-complex vitamins and vitamin C, are sensitive to heat and begin to degrade at temperatures above 120°F. Commercial kibble and canned pet foods are processed at much higher temperatures. Extrusion is the process of turning ingredients into pelleted food/ kibble through high heat and pressure often reaching temperatures of 250–300°F. Canned foods undergo retort sterilization at temperatures exceeding 250°F. These high-heat methods can significantly reduce the natural vitamin content of ingredients.
Volhard Dog Nutrition uses a single-step cold dehydration process to gently remove moisture from raw ingredients while preserving their natural nutritional value. Unlike traditional multi-step heating methods that can degrade essential vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, this approach retains the integrity of whole-food nutrients, flavor, and texture. The low-temperature technique ensures that beneficial compounds remain bioavailable to support healthy digestion and overall well-being.
Many vitamins are sensitive to environmental factors such as oxygen, heat, light, and moisture, and can degrade or become inactive if food is improperly stored. Prior to opening, we recommend our diets to be stored in a cool, dry place protected from moisture and direct UV exposition. After opening, we recommend our diets to be refrigerated to maintain optimal freshness.
OTHER INGREDIENTS USED IN NDF PRODUCTS:
Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium thermophilum, Enterococcus faecium, and Bifidobacterium longum are utilized in NDF2 and AM Porridge. These ingredients are beneficial probiotic strains that support a balanced gut microbiome in dogs. These microorganisms may help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and yeasts by creating a more favorable environment for beneficial bacteria colonization in the digestive tract. These can also assist with the production of certain B vitamins and can aid nutrient absorption. Probiotics contribute to healthy digestion and may help maintain gastrointestinal comfort during dietary changes, stress, or travel.
Inactive Brewer’s Dried Yeast
Used in NDF2, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble, inactive brewer’s yeast is protein-rich along with being a source of B-complex vitamins that support energy metabolism, skin health, and nervous system function. It contains trace minerals like chromium, which may help regulate blood sugar, and selenium, an antioxidant that supports immune function and cellular protection.
Kelp
Kelp was chosen for NDF2, Rescue, and PM Crumble as a natural source of iodine, an essential mineral that supports proper thyroid function, which plays a key role in regulating metabolism, skin and coat health, and energy balance in dogs. Kelp also provides important nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and trace amounts of B vitamins, along with vitamins A, E, and D. Kelp contributes to overall nutritional support and may help maintain healthy skin, coat condition, and pigmentation.
Blackstrap Molasses
Blackstrap molasses is a mineral-rich ingredient that provides potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, and small amounts of B vitamins, including B6. Historically, it has been used in combination with kelp by some breeders to help support healthy skin and maintain dark pigmentation in areas such as the nose, eye rims, and paw pads.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Found in NDF2, Rescue, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is believed to support digestive function, enhance mineral absorption, and help maintain balanced pH levels in dogs. In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), ACV is used to support liver function and help address signs of stagnation or internal imbalance. Its natural antibacterial properties may also benefit oral health and skin condition.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is used in NDF2, Rescue, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble. It is a naturally occurring powder made from the fossilized remains of microscopic algae called diatoms. Holistic veterinarians often use food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) as a natural aid for parasite control in dogs, as its particles can damage the outer coatings of parasites.
Sunflower Seeds
The sunflower seeds in Rescue provide essential fatty acids like linoleic acid to support healthy skin and coat in dogs. They are a source of vitamin E and minerals such as magnesium, selenium, and iron, which contribute to immune health and metabolism.
PRESERVATIVES:
Rosemary Extract with Mixed Tocopherols
Rosemary extract with mixed tocopherols is a natural preservative in NDF2, Rescue, AM Porridge, and PM Crumble to maintain freshness. Tocopherols, a form of vitamin E, offer antioxidant properties that help support cellular health and immune function.
TESTING
Before our products are mixed together at the factory, each individual ingredient from our suppliers must have a certificate that it is free from bacteria, mold and fungus. After the food is mixed together, it is sent to a laboratory for further testing of bacteria, mold and fungus before it is bagged. We believe that Volhard Dog Nutrition is unique in the industry for these safeguards.
