Arden Grange Dog Food

Arden Grange receive many enquiries wanting to know more about the ingredients in their pet foods. For this reason, they have put together a menu that summarises the nutrients in their diets and outlines the benefits to the health and well-being of your much loved canine companions. For ease of reference, the ingredients are listed in alphabetical order.

Hypoallergenic
Free from wheat gluten, beef*, soya & dairy products
Premium quality human grade ingredients
Made in the UK
No genetically modified ingredients
No artificial colourings or flavourings
Naturally preserved No added salt or sugar
No growth hormones
Natural healthcare supplements in every recipe
Cruelty-free and not tested on animals

Ash - Ash is not added as an ingredient, it is an indicator of mineral content and is legally required to be listed within the analysis on pet food packaging. Ash is measured by heating the food to a very high temperature and burning off all the organic components to leave just the inorganic residue. A well formulated pet food such as Arden Grange will contain a moderate ash level reflecting sufficient mineral content. A food that has a very low ash level is likely to be mineral deficient, whilst very high levels indicate excessive mineral content.

Beet Pulp - A small proportion of beet pulp is added to Arden Grange pet foods as it is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fibre. The soluble fibre is a good food source for the friendly bacteria in the large intestine. It also slows the rate of food passage through the gut ensuring a preferential transit time of food, leading to maximum digestion and absorption of nutrients. The insoluble fibre increases peristalsis, helps an animal to feel satisfactorily full and provides a crunchy texture to the kibbles to aid oral hygiene. Fibre is important for maintaining normal gastrointestinal transit time and motility and cats and dogs with stomach upsets can be found eating grass or other vegetation, possibly in the attempt to soothe their gut with increased fibre. A quality fibre source in the correct proportion may help to reduce the incidence of conditions such as diabetes mellitus and obesity. It may also help to prevent constipation and diarrhoea.
See also Cellulose, Prebiotics FOS / MOS

Brewers Yeast - Dried brewers yeast is included in the Arden Grange recipes as it is an excellent source of B-complex vitamins and amino acids. It is also considered by many to be an effective natural flea repellent.

Carrots - Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene (which acts as an antioxidant and natural source of vitamin A), B vitamins, minerals and trace elements, and are included in the Arden Grange Partners range of canned food.

Cellulose - Cellulose is a form of fibre derived from plants. An added natural source of cellulose is incorporated into our cat products to help stimulate the production of saliva, thus assisting the passage of hairballs.
See also Beet Pulp.

Chicken (Fresh) - Fresh chicken is highly palatable, highly digestible and is an excellent protein source for cats and dogs. It has an extremely high biological value meaning that it is easily broken down into its constituent amino acids (the building blocks of protein) necessary for a variety of structural and metabolic functions within the body. Arden Grange use only meat from chickens reared in the UK. These chickens are pen-kept, and are not battery reared like egg laying hens. The chicken that we use does not contain any growth hormones.
See also Chicken (Meal)

Chicken (Meal) - Like fresh chicken, chicken meal is an excellent protein source. Arden Grange chicken meal is of the highest quality, and comprises the clean parts of the carcass ground up into a fine calcium rich flour. It does not include heads, feet or feathers. See also Chicken (Fresh)

Chicken Fat / Oil - Arden Grange use pure chicken oil purchased from a supplier to the human food industry. Its digestibility is superior over the cheaper beef tallow, lamb, vegetable and blended fats used in many other pet foods, and it is an excellent source of energy. Chicken oil has a high and consistent level of the essential fatty acids that are necessary for a healthy skin and coat, and is considered to be the highest quality fat source available. The chicken fat/oil in the Arden Grange recipes is filtered and purified to remove protein molecules and therefore is safe to feed to cats and dogs with a chicken allergy (a true food allergy is an immune response to a protein).

Chondroitin Sulphate - The marine chondroitin in the Arden Grange recipes is derived from shark cartilage. It is added to all of the products because of its benefits to the skeletal system. Chondroitin blocks destructive enzymes that break down cartilage in the joint. There is always a low level of these destructive enzymes in the joint, but when injury or abnormal wear occurs the enzymes multiply. Chondroitin is a safe and natural ingredient, and any excess that is not required by the body is simply excreted in the urine. Shark cartilage was chosen because it is the most effective and best absorbed. There are sources from cattle, pigs, and chickens but these are less bioavailable. The sharks that are used for the material are sustainably farmed fish (not Great Whites) and they are reared for their meat for human food, so the cartilage is a by-product. If it were not used for this it would be disposed of or added to fish meal.
See also Glucosamine Sulphate

Corn - Corn (or maize as it is also known) is a member of the starch family of carbohydrates. Arden Grange use a combination of carbohydrates in the majority of the complete dry recipes (i.e. rice and corn) to help to ensure a steady release of energy throughout the day and stable blood sugar levels. Many customers consider corn as indigestible, but when it is properly cooked within an extruded pet food it is very highly digestible. True food allergies to corn gluten are rare, but the Premium, Sensitive and Partners recipes provide an alternative carbohydrate source for those animals requiring a corn-free diet.
See also Rice (Wholegrain White)

Cranberry Extract - Cranberry extract may aid in maintaining urinary tract health. It contains a sugar substance (D-mannose), which has the special ability of being able to prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the mucosal walls. Cranberry also contains arbutin, which is effective against certain bacteria and fungi, including Candida. By limiting these harmful bacteria, conditions such as cystitis and bladder stones are less likely to affect your pet. Cranberry's antioxidant properties may also help to safeguard against the potentially harmful effects of free radicals. It also has antiviral properties.

Egg - Dried whole egg powder is a versatile ingredient. The yolk is a good fat source, whilst egg whites contain the purest form of protein found in whole foods. Eggs are also a valuable source of vitamins and minerals.

Fish Meal - Arden Grange fish meal is composed primarily of whiting (white fish), and herring (oily fish). Fish meal is a natural balanced feed ingredient that is high in protein, minerals, vitamins and micronutrients. It contain 6 - 10% fish oil, which is high in the health promoting omega-3 very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids EPA and DHA, often simply referred to as 'omega- 3s'. Like chicken, fish protein is of a high biological value and is easily broken down into its constituent amino acids.
See also Fish Oil/Haddock Meal

Fish Oil - Fish oil (from salmon) is included in the recipes for energy, as a source of essential fatty acids and for the transport of the fat-soluble vitamins. Fish oil provides an excellent supply of the omega-3 fatty acids, and in the human health context their benefits are well documented. They may prevent or reduce the chance of developing coronary heart disease and may also help to reduce high blood pressure. Omega-3s are of special benefit to those suffering from kidney disorders, inflammatory bowel syndrome and autoimmune disease due to their natural anti-inflammatory properties. These health benefits are now gaining better recognition in the nutrition of our canine and feline companions.
See also Fish Meal

Glucosamine Sulphate - Glucosamine is derived from the shells of crustaceans. It is added to all of the Arden Grange products because if its benefits to the skeletal system. Glucosamine provides the building blocks to synthesise new joint cartilage and together with chondroitin and MSM promotes joint mobility and longevity, and has been shown to aid conditions such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Glucosamine is a safe and natural ingredient, and any excess that is not required by the body is simply excreted in the urine.
See also Chondroitin (Marine) & MSM

Grape Seed Extract - Grape seed extract is derived from red wine grapes. It is a source of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), which are a category of bioflavenoids. These are water soluble plant pigments that may support health by strengthening the blood capillaries and other connective tissue. Grape seed extract is an extremely powerful antioxidant, and is possibly the only antioxidant with the capacity to cross into the brain, thus improving mental alertness. Grape seed extract is included in Arden Grange Performance for these reasons.
Note: Whilst grapes in a large volume may be toxic to dogs, grape seed extract is included at a safe level and will not have any harmful side effects.

Green Tea Extract - Green tea extract is derived from the plant Camellia sinesis. Unlike black tea, green tea is not fermented, allowing the active constituents to remain unaltered in the herb. It is a powerful antioxidant that supports the cardiovascular system, and traditional Chinese medicine has recommended green tea to aid digestion, enhance immunity and improve energy levels. Green tea extract is included in Arden Grange Performance for these reasons.

Haddock Meal - Haddock meal is the primary protein source in the Arden Grange Sensitive food for both cats and dogs. It is exceptionally easy to digest and like salmon, has a low antigenicity, meaning that it is unlikely to provoke an allergic reaction. It contains high levels of the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids which have natural anti-inflammatory properties, and may therefore help in cases where the skin or digestive tract has become irritated . With longterm use, omega-3s may also improve allergy thresholds, and can be helpful in cases of both dietary allergies and atopic reactions (environmental inhalant allergies; e.g. to dust mites, grass pollen). Arden Grange use fish from sustainable sources, and the haddock is obtained from the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean.
See fish meal

Lamb (Fresh) - The fresh lamb used in the Arden Grange Partners canned food (Lamb variety) is grass-fed British lamb. Lamb meat is easily digestible and highly palatable. It is an excellent source of protein, zinc and the B vitamins.

Lamb Meal- The lamb meal used in the Arden Grange complete dry Adult Lamb & Rice recipe is made from imported, grass-fed lamb. Lamb meal is rich in calcium, and is produced from meat trimmings and the clean parts of the carcass cooked, dried and ground into a fine flour. It does not include the wool, blood, head, hooves and specified risk material such as the spinal cord.

L-Carnitine - L-Carnitine is produced in small quantities in the body by the liver and testes. It is naturally present in meat, yeasts, egg and milk and is added to selected Arden Grange products for its benefits. L-Carnitine increases fat metabolism in the skeletal and cardiac muscle, and may improve endurance and stamina. It is also may be of benefit to the overweight or less active dog since it helps to increase the conversion of fat to energy and helps maintain lean body mass.

Linseed - Linseed is also known as flax. This plant is a good source of dietary fibre, Omega-3 fatty acids and lignans (which have antioxidant properties). Linseed oil contains linolenic acid and alpha linolenic acid. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid used in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins and cell membranes.

MSM - The methyl-sulphonyl-methane (MSM) contained within Arden Grange diets is an all natural, ultra-pure MSM derived from pine bark. MSM is a naturally ocurring form of organic sulphur. Its beneficial properties include the relief of pain and inflammation. It is also thought that MSM may improve mental alertness and relieve stress.

Nucleotides - These natural short-chain proteins (derived from yeast) are able to enhance metabolic function and have particular benefits to the digestive and immune systems. Nucleotides allow optimum levels of nutrients to be absorbed by the body, as well as facilitating a more rapid cell replication in response to an outside challenge.

Peas - Peas are a good source of vitamin K1, folic acid and vitamin 86, and are included in the Arden Grange Partners canned foods.

Potato - Potato is probably the most digestible source of carbohydrate that is commercially available for pet food production. It is used in the Sensitive and Premium recipes and provides an alternative carbohydrate source for dogs with special dietary needs. Potato is an excellent source of the vitamins C & 86 as well as potassium which is good for immunity and energy production

Prebiotic FOS - FOS (or fructo-oligosaccharides) are derived from the chicory plant. This type of prebiotic promotes the beneficial intestinal flora, and helps to limit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It may also aid in enhancing the immunity within the gastrointestinal tract and improve the utilisation of the nutrients.

Prebiotic MOS - MOS (or manno-oligosaccharides) are derived from yeast. This prebiotic limits pathogenic bacterial development. It has a positive effect on nutrient digestibility, improves faecal quality and assists with natural immune defences.

Pumpkin Meal - Pumpkins are a very healthy food and contain high levels of antioxidants and carotenes, notably vitamin C and E. Pumpkin meal is included in all of the Arden Grange Partners canned food.

Quercitin - Quercitin is a water soluble plant pigment. It is a powerful antioxidant and thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is included in Arden Grange Performance for these reasons.

Rice - Arden Grange pet foods contain whole grain white rice. Brown rice is often perceived as the healthier option, but white rice is simply brown rice with the husk removed. Rice husks are not of particular nutritional value to cats and dogs, and are therefore not included in our recipes. Also, it is easier for us to assess the quality of the raw product without the husks. Rice is a very digestible energy source and is used in combination with corn to promote a steady energy release throughout the day and to help stabilise blood sugar levels. The rice used in the Arden Grange recipes is sourced from European countries rather than from the Far East.

Rosemary Extract - Arden Grange pet foods are stabilised naturally using mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) and rosemary. Rosemary is a natural antioxidant and is used to prevent the oxidisation of the fat components of the diets.
See also Tocopherols

Salmon (Fresh) - Arden Grange fresh salmon is sourced from the Scottish Highlands. We use only salmon products which are fully traceable, derived entirely from materials fit for human consumption and which are acceptable to the very stringent control measures imposed by the quality UK supermarket chains. Salmon is an excellent protein source, and is high in omega-3 fatty acids. Our Arden Grange Salmon & Rice diet is especially good for animals with sensitive skins and digestions.

Seaweed Extract - Seaweed contains many phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals. Seaweed is used mainly as a source of iodine, which is an important trace mineral with many functions. Iodine is necessary for efficient cell respiration, nerve and muscle functioning, the growth and repair of tissues, and helps to promote healthy skin, hair, teeth, and nails. Seaweed extract is included in the Arden Grange Partners canned food range.

Taurine - Taurine is an essential nutrient for cats, and is therefore added to our all of our feline products. Our Arden Grange Performance diet also contains added taurine, as it has benefits to the heart muscle.

Tocopherols - Arden Grange pet foods are preserved naturally using a combination of mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E) and rosemary extract. All dry pet foods require an antioxidant in order to prevent the fat components in the diet from becoming rancid on exposure to air. Arden Grange do not use any artifical colourings, flavourings or preservatives. See also Rosemary Extract.

*Tripe - Although Arden Grange do not use beef in the recipes, there is one exception; beef tripe is included in the Arden Grange Partners canned food. Tripe has a lower antigenicity than red beef (muscle tissue) and is less likely to provoke an allergic reaction. Tripe is highly palatable and an excellent appetite stimulant. It contains a very diverse profile of nutrients including enzymes, essential fatty acids, probiotics, and phytonutrients. It is also an excellent source of protein, fibre, fat and delivers equal calcium to phosphorus ratios. The tripe used in the Arden Grange Partners Tripe variety is unbleached, and is obtained from a UK meadow-reared source.

Yucca Extract - All Arden Grange diets are supplemented with naturally extracted and dried sap from the yucca schidigera cactus. Yucca has antioxidant properties, and may also help to reduce faecal and body odour. It may even help to reduce lawn staining from urine.