What are the side effects of Hill s dog food

Hills Prescription Diet C/D Canine Dog Food Review (Dry)

The Hills Prescription Diet C/D Canine product line includes the 2 dry dog foods listed below. Each recipe is designed to help in the treatment and prevention of urinary tract stones especially those of calcium oxalate or struvite origin.

Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile: Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.

Recipe and Label Analysis

Hills Prescription Diet C/D Multicare Urinary Care was selected to represent both products in the line for this detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.

Ingredients Analysis

The first ingredient in this dog food is corn. Corn is an inexpensive and controversial cereal grain. And aside from its energy content, this grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The second ingredient is brewers rice. Brewers rice is a cereal grain by-product consisting of the small fragments left over after milling whole rice. Aside from the caloric energy it contains, this item is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

The third ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.

The fourth ingredient is chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.

Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.

The fifth item is corn gluten meal. Gluten is the rubbery residue remaining once corn has had most of its starchy carbohydrate washed out of it.

Although corn gluten meal contains 60% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.

And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The sixth ingredient is soybean meal, a by-product of soybean oil production more commonly found in farm animal feeds.

Although soybean meal contains 48% protein, this ingredient would be expected to have a lower biological value than meat.

And less costly plant-based products like this can notably boost the total protein reported on the label a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

The seventh ingredient is egg product, an unspecified (wet or dry?) form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries from eggs that have failed to hatch.

In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.

After the chicken liver flavor, we find soybean oil. Soybean oil is red flagged here only due to its rumored (yet unlikely) link to canine food allergies.

However, since soybean oil is high in omega-6 fatty acids and contains no omega-3s, its considered less nutritious than flaxseed oil or a named animal fat.

From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.

But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this Hills product.

With 5 notable exceptions

First, flaxseed is one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.

However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.

Next, we note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.

In addition, the minerals listed here do not appear to be chelated. And that can make them more difficult to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually associated with higher quality dog foods.

Next, we find no mention of probiotics, friendly bacteria applied to the surface of the kibble after processing to help with digestion.

And lastly, this recipe contains sodium selenite, a controversial form of the mineral selenium. Sodium selenite appears to be nutritionally inferior to the more natural source of selenium found in selenium yeast.

Nutrient Analysis

Although this is a prescription product, our review has nothing to do with the accuracy of claims made by the manufacturer as to the products ability to treat or cure a specific health condition.

So, to find out whether or not this dog food is appropriate for your particular pet, its important to consult your veterinarian.

With that understanding

Based on its ingredients alone, Hills Prescription Diet C/D Multicare Canine Dog Food appears to be a below-average dry product.

The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 22%, a fat level of 17% and estimated carbohydrates of about 53%.

As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 25% and a mean fat level of 15%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 52% for the overall product line.

And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 61%.

Near-average protein. Near-average fat. And above-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

When you consider the protein-boosting effect of the corn gluten meal, soybean meal and flaxseed, this looks like the profile of a dry product containing a modest amount of meat.

Hill's Dog Food Recall History

The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to Hill's through April 2024.

No recalls noted.

You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.

Our Rating of Hill's Dog Food

Hills Prescription Diet C/D Canine is a grain-inclusive dry dog food using a modest amount of named meat meal as its dominant source of animal protein.

However, due to its intentional therapeutic design, this dog food is not rated.

Hills Science Diet Dog Food Review 2024: Pros, Cons, Recalls & FAQ

Review Summary

Our Final Verdict

We give Hills Science Diet Dog Food a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars.

Most people are somewhat familiar with Hills Science Diet dog food, which has been around since the 1930s. Thats when Morris Franka man promoting the concept of using dogs to enable the blindmet Dr. Mark Morris, Sr.

Franks dog was suffering from kidney failure, and Frank was desperate for a way to save him. Dr. Morris discovered that the issue was a lack of proper nutrition and that the fix was a dog food he and his wife created in their kitchen. This dog food led Franks dog to recovery, and thats when Dr. Morris realized that the idea of how nutrition affects health issues in dogs was one to explore further. So, in 1948, he decided to partner with Burton Hill to mass-market the dog food recipe he created for Franks dog.

In 1976, the Colgate-Palmolive Company (which you are also likely familiar with) purchased the company but carried on the tradition of nutritious dog food for pups with health issues. Each recipe is created with the help of nutritionists, vets, and scientists to ensure the best quality possible. Although Hills benefits dogs with specific health issues, the brand has a few downsides.

At a Glance: The Best Hills Science Diet Dog Food Recipes:

Hills Science Diet Dog Food Reviewed

Hills Science Diet dog food has been around for a bit, so youre probably familiar with the brand (or have at least heard of it). Its always a good idea to learn more about a formula before buying it. Hills focuses on making dog food recipes according to common health issues dogs face, so while it may be suitable for most dogs, it may not be ideal for every dog.

Also, several of Hills formulas contain peas and legumes (which have been linked to heart disease in dogs) and grains that dont necessarily add a lot of fiber.

Who Makes Hills Science Diet, and Where Is It Produced?

Hills Science Diet is made in Topeka, Kansas. They have a food processing plant, animal hospital, and nutrition center where they test and study how their food affects dogs. Their Global Pet Nutrition Center employs around 200 scientists who research the best foods for dogs dietary needs.

Which Type of Dog Is Hills Science Diet Best Suited For?

Hills is suitable for pretty much any dog. They make food for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors, and for all breeds. Their recipes are particularly good for dogs with health issues, and they carry a range of recipes meant to help with common health problems such as obesity, joint issues, food sensitivities, digestive issues, and more.

Which Type of Dog Might Do Better with a Different Brand?

While most dogs should do well on Hills, those that are overweight might do better with a different brand, if only because many Hills recipes contain grains, which can equal extra calories. If thats your pup, they might do better with food such as Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Dog Food, which is grain-free.

Dogs that dont have health issues that need to be addressed might do well with healthier regular dog food, such as the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food.

Discussion of the Primary Ingredients (Good and Bad)

Knowing whats going into your pets food is vital, as some companies use less than stellar ingredients, so heres a look at the good and bad of Hills Science Diet dog food.

Proteins

Most Hills Science Diet dog food recipes use real meat as the first ingredient, which means your pup is getting an excellent source of protein. Thats always a plus! However, dogs with food sensitivities may have problems eating formulas with common protein sources such as chicken. Several of Hills recipes for dogs with sensitivities contain chicken. There are a handful of other options, such as turkey and lamb, to choose from.

While most of Hills recipes list meat as the first ingredient, a few list meat meal (such as lamb meal) as the first ingredient instead. Meat meal is also a good protein source for your dog, but some dog owners prefer recipes with whole meats.

Peas & Legumes

A downside to Hills Science Diet dog food is that many recipes contain ingredients such as yellow peas, pea fiber, soybean meal, and other legumes. Peas and legumes have been linked to heart disease in dogs. More research is needed to determine how large of a link it is, but you should be aware of it when purchasing food for your pet.

Grains

After the main ingredient of meat or meat meal, grains are the most common ingredients in Hills recipes. However, they arent necessarily the best grains that provide fiber. While several are whole grain ingredients such as whole grain wheat, there are also others such as sorghum and corn gluten meal. While not necessarily harmful, they provide more empty calories than fiber, so these ingredients could be improved. However, many recipes contain dried beet pulp, which will boost the fiber your dog receives.

Targeted Recipes

While targeted recipes for specific health and nutritional issues can be good, if your dog is generally healthy, they may not benefit from these recipes. Pups that dont have specific health issues may find themselves better off with food with better grains and fewer legumes. However, dogs with digestive or urinary issues may benefit from Hills Science Diet dog foods.

A Quick Look at Hills Science Diet Dog Food

Pros

• Good for dogs with specific health issues
• Most recipes use real meat as the first ingredient for quality protein
• Wide range of recipes

Cons

• Contains peas & legumes
• Not the best grains are used
• Healthy or overweight dogs may not fare well on Hills

Recall History

Hills Science Diet dog food has been around for a while, which means it has also had a few recalls in its history.

In March 2007, Hills was part of the melamine scare that caused multiple recalls. Thousands of animals died from eating pet foods containing this chemical found in plastic, but its unknown how many consumed Hills formulas.

The next recall came in June 2014, when 62 bags of Adult Small & Toy Breed Dry Recipe were recalled due to potential salmonella contamination (only in Nevada, California, and Hawaii). Though it wasnt a true recall, Hills did do a market withdrawal in 2015, where they pulled a few canned recipes. The reason is unknown, but its thought to have been because of a labeling issue.

Hills Science Diets most recent recall was in 2019. Over 30 canned recipes were recalled due to the massive (and toxic) amounts of vitamin D in them. Hills company blamed the amount of vitamin D on a supplier. Though an exact number is unknown, it is believed that hundreds of pets died due to this, and a lawsuit soon followed.

Reviews of the Best 3 Hills Science Diet Dog Food Recipes

Here, well take a more in-depth look at the three best Hills Science Diet Dog Food recipes.

1. Hills Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

This Hills Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Dry Dog Food is for adult pups who have digestive issues or problems with dry, itchy skin. It promises to deliver easier digestibility for your dog by featuring real chicken as the first ingredient and added fiber from beetroot pulp.Theres also a wealth of omega fatty acids and vitamin E to improve the look and feel of your pets skin and coat.

Yellow peas are listed as the third ingredient, so you should weigh the implications of peas and heart disease when making your decision.

Pros

• Designed for pups with sensitive stomachs and skin
• Real chicken as first ingredient
• Added fiber for digestibility

Cons

• Contains peas
• May not be suitable for dogs without digestive or skin issues

2. Hills Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Dry Dog Food

If you have a doggo that needs a little help getting their weight under control, this might be the food for you! Hills designed the Hills Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken Dry Dog Food to be lower in calories and higher in protein to help your furry friend stay at a healthy weight while maintaining lean muscle mass.

Real chicken and chicken meal provide the protein boost, while fiber keeps your pup feeling fuller for longer. However, the formula contains pea fiber and green peas, so take that into consideration before purchasing.

Pros

• Should help dogs maintain a healthy weight
• More protein to promote lean muscle mass
• Added fiber

3. Hills Science Diet Large Breed Dry Dog Food

If you have a large dog, the Hills Science Diet Large Breed Chicken & Barley Dry Dog Food could be the perfect fit. As with most of Hills recipes, it features chicken as the main ingredient for a quality protein. It also provides an antioxidant blend proven to support your pets immune system and general health.

Since its designed for large breeds, this large-breed recipe also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support the strength and health of joints and cartilage so your dog can stay mobile for a lifetime. Italso contains green peas, soybean meal, and soybean oil.

Pros

• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints
• Antioxidant blend supports the immune system

Cons

• Not suitable for small breeds
• Contains legumes

What Other Users Are Saying

The previous information should help you decide whether Hills Science Diet Dog Food is best for your dog, but nothing beats hearing what other pet parents say. Here are some examples of what people think of Hills Science Diet.

• Chewy: This food has changed my 9-year-old lab back into a puppy. Previously, he was on really cheap food and just moped around and ignored my 5-year-old heeler, but now he plays with her (and they play hard). I cant believe the difference that this food has made, not only in his demeanor but also in his coat, which is so smooth and shiny. I get compliments on how good he looks now, and I cant help but respond with, Thank you. I feed him Hills Science. Its expensive but totally worth it.
• Hills Pet: I have two bulldogs, one with moderate allergies (what we think is environmental after testing). My French bulldog came from a puppy mill, and she had urinary issues (crystals) when she was first adopted. Both girls have to watch their weight as well. This food has helped my Frenchie lose a few pounds and have no further urinary issues. It also has seemed to help with my dogs allergies (which I assume has to do with the high-quality ingredients). We use the chicken flavor. I think this food is an important choice, especially with a breed such as the bulldog, which has the potential for several health problems.
• Amazon: Amazon is always an excellent source of pet owners reviews. You can check out what others think of Hills here.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we give Hills Science Diet dog food four out of five stars for its nutritious formulas, which target dogs with health issues such as joint problems, digestive troubles, and more. However, Hills may not be best for dogs that are already healthy or those that are overweight. Many recipes have nutritious ingredients, such as real meat as the main ingredient, but they also contain peas, legumes, and grains that dont provide much fiber.

We recommend reading reviews from other pet parents to see how their dogs fared on Hills, weighing your decisions carefully, and consulting your veterinarian if your dog has any health conditions before making changes to their diet.