First-Five Kibble Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 6, 2026
This is a grain-free dry food formulated for large-breed dogs at all life stages, including growing puppies. It uses multiple animal proteins (beef, lamb, salmon meal, and fish meal) along with potatoes, chickpeas, peas, and sweet potatoes as the main carbohydrate sources. The recipe includes added omega fatty acids, taurine, L-carnitine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and probiotics to support joints, heart health, skin and coat, and digestion in big, active dogs.
Nutritionally, this is a solid grain-free option for large-breed dogs, including large-breed puppies, with a moderate protein and fat level that should suit many dogs well. I like the mix of animal proteins, added joint-supporting glucosamine and chondroitin, and probiotics for gut health. The main nutritional caveat is the heavy use of legumes and potatoes in a grain-free formula, which is something to weigh carefully given emerging information about legume-rich diets and heart disease risk in some dogs.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Multiple animal proteins (beef, lamb, salmon meal, fish meal) provide a good range of amino acids for growth and maintenance.
- Formulated to meet AAFCO profiles for all life stages, including growth of large-breed puppies, which is a critical safety point for big breeds.
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health in large and giant breed dogs over time.
- Added probiotics, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, taurine, and L-carnitine offer extra support for digestion, skin, coat, and heart function.
Considerations
- This is a grain-free, legume-heavy diet with peas, lentils, and garbanzo beans high on the list; such formulas have been linked to heart issues (DCM) in some dogs.
- Beef, lamb, and fish are common food allergens, so this diet is not ideal for dogs with protein-sensitive skin or gut issues.
- At 25% protein and 14% fat, it is moderate rather than high in protein, which may be lower than ideal for very athletic or working dogs without adjusting portions.
- Brewers dried yeast and multiple fermentation products may not suit dogs that are sensitive to yeast-derived ingredients.
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
Beef
Beef is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a primary animal protein and palatability enhancer, supplying high-quality essential amino acids, B vitamins, iron, and zinc that support muscle maintenance and overall health. Owners should note beef can be calorie- and fat-dense and is a relatively common allergen, and raw or improperly handled beef carries microbial risks, so formulation, fat content, and sourcing/processing are important considerations.
02
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.
03
Beef
Beef is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a primary animal protein and palatability enhancer, supplying high-quality essential amino acids, B vitamins, iron, and zinc that support muscle maintenance and overall health. Owners should note beef can be calorie- and fat-dense and is a relatively common allergen, and raw or improperly handled beef carries microbial risks, so formulation, fat content, and sourcing/processing are important considerations.
04
Salmon
Salmon is commonly used as a high-quality animal protein and rich source of omega‑3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) in dog and cat foods, supporting skin and coat condition, joint and cognitive health, and overall muscle maintenance. While very nutritious, salmon can be an allergen for some pets and raw salmon may pose risks from parasites, thiaminase-related thiamine loss, and region-specific pathogens (e.g., salmon poisoning); owners should avoid feeding uncooked bones and consider sourcing to minimize contaminant and sustainability concerns.
05
Menhaden Fish
Menhaden fish is used in pet foods primarily as a high-quality animal protein and as a concentrated source of fish oil rich in omega‑3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support healthy skin and coat, joint mobility, and anti‑inflammatory benefits for dogs and cats. It enhances palatability and provides essential micronutrients like iodine and selenium, but owners should be aware of possible fish allergies, caloric density and oil oxidation, and prefer products from reputable, sustainably sourced suppliers to reduce contamination risks.
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
Redbarn is the flagship brand of Redbarn Pet Products, offering natural pet foods, treats, and chews made with simple, wholesome ingredients. The brand targets pet owners seeking high-quality, transparent nutrition options for their pets, focusing on safety, palatability, and nutritional balance.
Visit RedbarnManufacturer
Redbarn maintains its own manufacturing facilities in the United States and Paraguay, utilizing in-house quality assurance programs that include extensive product testing, adherence to FDA and USDA regulations, and HACCP-based food safety procedures. The company’s facilities meet or exceed industry standards for safety and traceability.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Redbarn First-Five Kibble Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Redbarn ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Redbarn. 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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