Volhard Dog Food Reviews

Choosing the right food for your dog isn’t just about feeding it’s about nourishing. With a rising interest in natural and holistic pet nutrition, more pet parents are steering away from processed kibble and leaning toward whole food-based diets. Among the few brands truly dedicated to a holistic approach, Volhard Dog Nutrition stands out with its unique formulas, natural ingredients, and raw-based feeding philosophy. In this detailed review, we’ll dive into what makes Volhard different, explore its most popular products, and evaluate whether it’s the right choice for your furry friend.

Brand Background: The Legacy of Volhard Dog Nutrition

Volhard Dog Nutrition (VDN) was founded by Wendy Volhard, a respected dog trainer and nutritionist known for her groundbreaking work in canine health and holistic care. The brand was born out of Wendy’s dedication to improving the quality of life for dogs through natural diets tailored to their biological needs. Her research and development over decades led to the creation of Volhard’s signature diets, including the Natural Diet Foundation 2 (NDF2) and the AM/PM feeding system.

Unlike most mainstream pet foods, Volhard’s philosophy doesn’t rely on mass production or synthetic additives. Instead, the focus is on whole, human-grade ingredients, minimal processing, and supporting dogs’ health at every stage of life.

Product Line Overview

Volhard offers a range of specialized diets, each developed with a specific health goal in mind. Here’s a quick overview of the key offerings:

1. NDF2 (Natural Diet Foundation 2)

A dehydrated base mix that becomes a complete meal when rehydrated and mixed with raw or lightly cooked protein. This is Volhard’s flagship product.

2. AM/PM Diet

A two-part daily feeding system designed to provide balanced nutrition over the course of a day. AM is lighter, focusing on energy, while PM delivers denser nutrients for recovery.

3. Weight Management Diet

Formulated for overweight dogs or those with low activity levels, this blend helps manage weight without sacrificing essential nutrients.

4. Recovery Diet

Created for dogs recovering from illness or surgery, this diet focuses on easily digestible ingredients and high bioavailability.

Each product is backed by scientific principles, designed by veterinary nutritionists, and often recommended by holistic veterinarians.

Key Ingredients and Nutritional Philosophy

Volhard’s approach to canine nutrition is built around raw feeding principles, combined with dehydrated whole foods for convenience and safety.

• Human-grade proteins: Beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb sourced from reputable farms.
• Fresh vegetables and fruits: Like carrots, kale, blueberries, and sweet potatoes.
• Digestive support: With natural probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes.
• No artificial ingredients: Zero fillers, preservatives, or chemical additives.

A unique aspect of Volhard’s nutritional philosophy is rotational feeding, which encourages variety to promote a balanced gut microbiome and reduce food sensitivities.

Popular Volhard Products Reviewed

Let’s take a deeper look at some of Volhard’s top-selling products:

1. Volhard NDF2 (Natural Diet Foundation 2)

Key Features:

• A base mix of dehydrated veggies, fruits, grains, and supplements
• Requires adding fresh protein and water
• Developed to mimic the benefits of a raw diet in a more practical form

Pros:

• Excellent for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies
• Encourages healthy digestion and nutrient absorption
• Long shelf life due to dehydration

Cons:

• Requires daily prep with protein (not as simple as kibble)
• Slightly more expensive than mid-tier dry foods

NDF2 is ideal for adult dogs and active breeds that benefit from customized protein intake. Many users report shinier coats, better energy, and improved stool quality after transitioning.

2. Volhard AM/PM Diet

This two-meal system is designed to match dogs’ natural metabolic rhythms.

• AM Formula: Light, energizing, and packed with complex carbs and vitamins
• PM Formula: Higher in fat and protein to support overnight muscle repair

This plan is great for working dogs or those with demanding physical needs. It requires a bit more planning but delivers exceptional results for dogs with high energy demands.

3. Weight Management & Recovery Diets

Dogs with specific health challenges benefit from these specialized diets:

• Weight Management Diet: Lower in fat and calories, yet satisfying and complete
• Recovery Diet: Rich in nutrients, easy to digest, and promotes healing

These blends are often recommended post-surgery or during weight loss programs. They’re not available in every store, but can be ordered directly from Volhard’s website or through holistic vets.

Feeding Guide and Ease of Use

Volhard’s products are not “scoop and serve” like commercial kibble. Most require rehydration and mixing with fresh proteins. However, the brand offers clear feeding charts and transition guides.

Feeding Steps (for NDF2 as an example):

1. Scoop the base mix
2. Add water and wait a few minutes for hydration
3. Mix in raw or cooked protein (based on your dog’s needs)
4. Serve immediately

While not as convenient as kibble, many users find the routine manageable especially when preparing multiple meals at once.

Pros and Cons of Volhard Dog Food

✅ Pros:

• 100% natural and human-grade ingredients
• Holistic formulas for specific health conditions
• Supports better coat health, digestion, and energy
• Designed by dog nutrition experts and trainers
• Great for allergy-prone or picky dogs

❌ Cons:

• Requires meal prep (not ideal for rushed mornings)
• Higher price point than standard brands
• Limited availability in local pet stores
• Not grain-free (may matter for dogs with grain allergies)

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

🌟 Positive Feedback:

Many dog owners rave about noticeable improvements in their pet’s health after switching to Volhard. Common themes include:

• Reduction in chronic allergies and skin conditions
• Healthier stools and less bloating
• Increased vitality and shinier coats

One user wrote:

“My golden retriever suffered from terrible allergies on every kibble we tried. After switching to NDF2 and adding fresh turkey, his itching stopped in a week!”

⚠️ Common Complaints:

• Some find the preparation time inconvenient
• Others note that the price can be a barrier for multi-dog households
• A few picky eaters may not adapt immediately to the textures or tastes

However, overall satisfaction remains high, particularly among owners who prioritize holistic wellness and raw feeding.

Where to Buy Volhard Dog Food

Volhard Dog Nutrition products are not typically found in chain pet stores. You can purchase them from:

• Volhard’s official website (best for deals and subscription options)
• Select holistic pet retailers
• Some veterinarian offices or dog training centers
• Online retailers (limited selection on Amazon or Chewy)

Always ensure you’re buying from an authorized seller to avoid counterfeit or expired products.

Is Volhard Dog Food Right for Your Pet?

Volhard isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it excels in several key areas. It’s a top choice for:

Best for:

• Dogs with digestive issues, allergies, or skin problems
• Active breeds that need high-quality fuel
• Owners looking for a raw-style diet with convenience
• Those who believe in holistic and rotational feeding

Not Ideal for:

• Budget-conscious households
• Owners with little time for food prep
• Dogs requiring very specific veterinary diets not compatible with raw or whole food

If you’re looking to optimize your dog’s long-term health, Volhard offers a premium, trusted alternative to kibble.

Final Verdict

Volhard Dog Nutrition lives up to its reputation as a pioneer in holistic dog food. With thoughtfully crafted formulas, whole food ingredients, and a deep respect for canine physiology, it provides a genuinely healthy option for pet parents who want the best.

While it does require a bit more effort than commercial kibble, the payoff is in your dog’s health, energy, and happiness. If you’re ready to make a change and are committed to quality nutrition, Volhard is a brand worth trying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I feed Volhard to puppies?
Yes, but it’s best to consult your vet for proper protein ratios and feeding amounts. NDF2 is adaptable for all life stages when used correctly.

Q2: How do I transition from kibble to Volhard?
Start by mixing small amounts of Volhard into your dog’s current food and gradually increase over 7–10 days. Monitor your dog’s digestion and energy during the transition.

Q3: Is Volhard AAFCO approved?
Volhard diets meet or exceed AAFCO nutrient profiles when prepared as directed with protein. They are also used and recommended by holistic veterinarians across the U.S.