Blue Buffalo vs. Diamond Naturals: Who Wins? [2023]

Blue Buffalo and Diamond Naturals are both prominent names in the dog food industry, each with its unique offerings and loyal customer base. In this comparison, we will delve deep into the aspects of ingredients, quality of those ingredients, protein content, the value proposition in terms of pricing, and the brands’ histories regarding recalls. Making an informed choice between these two brands will be easier once these critical areas are dissected.

Blue Buffalo Vs. Diamond Naturals: An In-Depth Ingredient Comparison

Blue Buffalo Ingredients Pros:

1. Whole Meat as Primary Ingredient: Blue Buffalo often lists real meat (like deboned chicken, lamb, or fish) as the primary ingredient, ensuring that the protein source is of high quality and beneficial for dogs.
2. LifeSource Bits: A unique feature of Blue Buffalo products is the inclusion of “LifeSource Bits.” These are kibble pieces loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which are cold-formed to retain their nutritional potency.
3. Natural Dietary Supplements: Blue Buffalo incorporates beneficial supplements such as glucosamine and omega fatty acids. These promote joint health and a shiny coat, respectively.
4. No Corn, Wheat, or Soy: Their recipes avoid some of the common allergens and fillers that can be problematic for some dogs.

Blue Buffalo Ingredients Cons:

1. Price Point: The emphasis on high-quality ingredients often means that Blue Buffalo comes in at a higher price point compared to some other brands.
2. Variability in Formulas: While they have a wide range of products to cater to different dog needs, this can also mean that ingredient quality varies between their product lines.

Diamond Naturals Ingredients Pros:

1. Quality Protein Sources: Like Blue Buffalo, Diamond Naturals often leads with quality protein sources like real lamb meat, chicken, or salmon. Their grain-free formulas also include fish, providing omega fatty acids.
2. Probiotics: Diamond Naturals dog foods contain proprietary probiotics for digestive support. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
3. Superfoods: Their recipes often incorporate superfoods like kale, chia seeds, pumpkin, quinoa, blueberries, and coconut. These not only provide essential nutrients but also have antioxidant properties.
4. No Artificial Flavors, Colors, or Preservatives: This ensures the natural taste of the food and reduces the risk of potential allergens or irritants.

Diamond Naturals Ingredients Cons:

1. Grain-Inclusive Formulas: While grains can be a valuable source of nutrients for many dogs, some of Diamond Naturals’ formulas include grains like corn and wheat, which might not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or sensitivities.
2. Fewer Specialized Formulas: Compared to Blue Buffalo, Diamond Naturals has fewer specialized diets, which might make it a bit challenging for pet parents with dogs having specific dietary needs.

Side-by-Side Analysis:

1. Protein Content: Both brands prioritize high-quality protein sources, making them both an excellent choice for ensuring your dog gets sufficient protein. The difference may lie in the actual protein percentage, which can vary by specific product lines and life stages.
2. Carbohydrates: Blue Buffalo’s avoidance of common allergens like corn, wheat, or soy may be preferable for dogs with sensitivities. On the other hand, Diamond Naturals, while having grain-free options, also offers grain-inclusive formulas which can be suitable for dogs that don’t have grain allergies and might benefit from the energy grains provide.
3. Supplemental Additions: Blue Buffalo’s LifeSource Bits provide a unique blend of vitamins and minerals. In contrast, Diamond Naturals stands out with its proprietary probiotics and inclusion of superfoods. Depending on your dog’s needs – be it additional vitamin supplementation or digestive support – one might be more suitable than the other.
4. Potential Allergens and Fillers: While Blue Buffalo generally avoids using potential allergens, some formulas of Diamond Naturals may contain grains. It’s essential to read the ingredient list, especially if your dog is known to have food allergies.
5. Natural Ingredients: Both brands emphasize the use of natural ingredients and steer clear of artificial additives. This common ground is reassuring for pet parents who prioritize natural nutrition for their furry friends.

In summary, both Blue Buffalo and Diamond Naturals offer high-quality ingredients, and their pros and cons often balance each other out. The choice between them would primarily boil down to specific dog needs, any known allergies, and dietary preferences. As always, it’s advised to gradually transition between dog foods and monitor your pet for any adverse reactions.