Grain Free Red Meat Recipe Water Buffalo & Lamb Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 14, 2026
This is a grain-free, high-protein dry dog food featuring water buffalo and lamb meals as the main animal protein sources. It uses lentils, peas, and chickpeas as the primary carbohydrates, and includes added taurine, omega fatty acids, probiotics, and joint-supporting ingredients. The formula is designed to be complete and balanced for dogs of all ages and sizes, including large-breed puppies.
Nutritionally, this is a fairly high-protein, moderate-fat dry food that should suit many healthy dogs who do well on grain-free formulas. It offers a less common red-meat base (water buffalo and lamb) with added omega-3s, probiotics, and several whole-food ingredients. Because legumes are prominent in the recipe, it’s best used with some caution in breeds where diet-associated heart issues are a concern, and under veterinary guidance for large-breed puppies.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Water buffalo meal and lamb meal provide concentrated animal protein for muscle maintenance.
- Protein and fat levels are appropriate for most active dogs and all life stages, including large-breed growth.
- Fish oil and ground flaxseed provide omega-3 fatty acids to support skin, coat, and overall health.
- Includes added probiotics and a variety of fruits, vegetables, and kelp for digestive and antioxidant support.
Considerations
- Red lentils, peas, and chickpeas are major ingredients; legume-heavy, grain-free diets have been linked to heart issues in some dogs.
- The calorie density is quite high at 450 kcal per cup, so portions need to be measured carefully to avoid unwanted weight gain.
- Contains red meat proteins; dogs with sensitivities to novel red meats like lamb or buffalo should avoid it.
- Formulated by AAFCO nutrient profiles rather than feeding trials, so real-world digestibility has not been confirmed through trials.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Water Buffalo
Water buffalo (buffalo meat) is used in pet foods as a novel animal protein source, supplying high-quality amino acids—including taurine for cats—and is typically leaner and lower in fat than beef. It can be a useful alternative for pets with food sensitivities and provides iron and B vitamins, but owners should ensure products are from reputable sources and properly processed to avoid pathogens, and consult a veterinarian to confirm the diet is complete and appropriate.
02
Red Lentil
Red lentils are a plant-based source of digestible protein, complex carbohydrates, and soluble and insoluble fiber that are used in pet foods to boost protein and fiber content and provide micronutrients such as folate and iron. They can support digestive health and weight management, but are lower in some essential amino acids compared with animal proteins, may contain antinutrients that are reduced by cooking/processing, and because high-legume diets have been scrutinized in relation to diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs and lack certain nutrients (e.g., taurine) important for cats, they should be included only as part of a complete, balanced formulation.
03
Green Pea
Green peas are used in pet foods as a plant-based source of protein, starch and both soluble and insoluble fiber, often serving as a carbohydrate ingredient and binder that adds energy, texture and satiety. They supply fermentable fiber and modest vitamins and minerals that can support gut health, but their protein is less bioavailable than animal sources (important for obligate-carnivore cats), may contribute excess carbohydrate if overused, and high pea-heavy or grain-free formulations have been scrutinized—though not definitively proven—as a potential factor in canine dilated cardiomyopathy, so peas are best included in moderated, properly balanced and processed complete diets.
04
Chickpea
Chickpeas are a legume commonly used in pet foods as a plant-based protein, source of digestible carbohydrates, and supply of soluble and insoluble fiber that helps with stool quality and satiety. They can be a useful ingredient for dogs but are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and may cause gas or digestive upset if underprocessed; additionally, high inclusion of legumes in some grain‑free diets has been discussed as a potential factor in canine dilated cardiomyopathy so diets should be balanced and any concerns discussed with your veterinarian.
05
Lamb
Lamb is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a high-quality animal protein that supplies essential amino acids, iron and B vitamins and is often chosen for its palatability or as a “novel” protein in elimination diets. It can be higher in fat and calories than some other meats and may still cause allergic reactions in sensitive animals, so owners of overweight pets or those with food sensitivities should consult a veterinarian and use proper handling/cooking practices if feeding raw or homemade lamb.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional
adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.Brand
Best Breed is a premium holistic pet food brand focusing on naturally formulated diets for dogs and cats. The brand highlights its veterinarian-developed recipes, use of high-quality animal proteins, and exclusion of artificial preservatives or ingredients. It targets pet owners seeking vet-formulated, natural, holistic nutrition options.
Visit Best BreedManufacturer
Products are made in the United States with a focus on small-batch production to ensure freshness and quality. Best Breed maintains rigorous ingredient sourcing and safety protocols and follows AAFCO nutritional guidelines.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Best Breed Grain Free Red Meat Recipe Water Buffalo & Lamb Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Best Breed ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Best Breed. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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