Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Puppy Food, 12-Pound Bag

In this review the focus is on whether Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Puppy Food delivers the nutrition and growth support a young dog needs. The bottom line: this kibble is aimed at puppy owners who want a high-protein, grain-free formula made primarily from meat-based ingredients and fortified for developing brains and bones. The reviewer found the guaranteed DHA from salmon oil, balanced calcium and phosphorus, and a high proportion of quality protein ingredients to be the single biggest reason to choose this bag for a growing puppy that tolerates grain-free diets.

Key Features

• Grain-free formula: The recipe omits corn, wheat and soy to reduce common grain-related fillers and focuses on meat-forward nutrition for puppies.
• High protein content: Made with 49% high quality protein ingredients to support leaner body mass and proper muscle tone during growth.
• DHA for development: Guaranteed levels of DHA from salmon oil support brain and eye development in young dogs.
• Bone and muscle support: Balanced calcium and phosphorus are included to help healthy bone and muscle development as puppies grow.
• No artificial additives: The recipe contains no poultry by-products, artificial colors, or preservatives for a cleaner ingredient profile.
• Manufactured in USA: Prepared in the brand's facility using globally sourced ingredients chosen for nutritional benefits.

Who It's For

This food is best for owners of puppies who need a meat-focused, grain-free dry diet with added DHA and a high percentage of protein ingredients. It suits breeders, active puppy households, and owners who prioritize muscle tone and brain development during the first year.

Owners whose puppies have specific grain-tolerances, veterinary-prescribed diets, or who prefer limited-ingredient single-protein recipes should consult their veterinarian or consider other formulas tailored to medical or allergy needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High protein formulation supports lean muscle and active growth.
• Includes guaranteed DHA from salmon oil for brain and eye development.
• Free from corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors and preservatives for a cleaner profile.

Cons

• Grain-free approach may not be necessary for all puppies and some owners may prefer grain-inclusive options.
• Manufactured in a facility that also processes grains, which may be a consideration for dogs with severe grain allergies.

Specifications

Product type	Grain-free dry puppy food
Bag size	12-Pound bag
Main protein source	Responsibly sourced chicken (plus salmon oil for DHA)
Protein ingredients percentage	49% high quality protein ingredients
Free from	No corn, wheat, soy, poultry by-products, artificial colors or preservatives
Manufactured	Made in USA in brand facility

Our Verdict

Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Puppy Food is a solid choice for puppy owners seeking a high-protein, meat-forward kibble with added DHA for development. It offers good value for dogs that benefit from grain-free, protein-rich nutrition, though owners with strict grain allergy concerns or different veterinary needs may prefer alternative specialized diets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this food suitable for all puppy breeds?
It is formulated for growing puppies generally, but portion sizes and energy needs vary by breed so feeding should be adjusted to your puppy's size and activity.

Does it contain added vitamins and minerals?
Yes, the formula includes guaranteed nutrient levels including calcium, phosphorus and antioxidants to support healthy growth and immune function.

Are there artificial preservatives or colors?
No, the recipe does not contain artificial colors or preservatives, and avoids poultry by-products, corn, wheat and soy.