VFS Low Phosphorus Formula Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 11, 2026
This is a veterinary-formulated dry dog food designed for adult dogs who need a lower protein, phosphorus, and sodium diet, such as those with certain kidney concerns, but it is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding rather than as a sole diet. It uses brown and white rice as the main carbohydrate sources, with whole egg and turkey providing highly digestible animal protein, and includes added omega-3s from salmon oil plus antioxidants like vitamins C and E. The recipe also supplies taurine, L-carnitine, and a probiotic (Bacillus coagulans) to support overall wellness and digestion.
Nutritionally, this is a thoughtfully designed, lower-protein, low-phosphorus, and low-sodium dry food tailored for dogs who need kidney-friendly support, but it is not complete and balanced for long-term sole feeding. The protein comes from high-quality sources like whole egg and turkey, while rice-based carbohydrates help keep phosphorus levels down. It’s best used under veterinary guidance alongside other appropriate foods to make sure your dog’s overall diet meets all daily nutrient needs.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Formulated specifically with reduced protein (14%), phosphorus (max 0.45%), and sodium (0.1–0.4%) to help support dogs that benefit from a gentler kidney-friendly profile.
- High-quality, highly digestible animal proteins from whole egg and turkey, with moderate fat (15%) for energy and palatability.
- Beneficial extras including omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA from salmon oil), taurine, L-carnitine, and added antioxidants (vitamins C and E).
- Includes a probiotic (Bacillus coagulans) to help support healthy digestion.
Considerations
- Labeled for intermittent or supplemental feeding only, so it should not be the sole diet long term and is best used under veterinary supervision.
- The relatively low protein level, while helpful for certain dogs, may be too low for healthy adult dogs that do not require a restricted-protein diet.
- Main carbohydrate sources are grains (brown rice, white rice, tapioca), which is fine for most dogs but may not suit those with rice-specific allergies.
- Energy density is fairly high (about 462 kcal per cup), so portions need to be measured carefully, especially for less active or smaller dogs.
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
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a whole-grain carbohydrate and fiber ingredient commonly used in dog and cat foods to provide digestible energy, dietary fiber, and modest amounts of B‑vitamins and minerals; it typically offers more nutrients and fiber than white rice. It’s generally well tolerated and can help with sensitive stomachs, but because it is high in carbohydrates (not a primary protein source) and can contain trace inorganic arsenic depending on sourcing, it should be included in balanced formulations and monitored in overweight or diabetic pets.
02
Whole Egg
Whole egg is a highly digestible, nutrient-dense ingredient commonly used in dog and cat foods as a complete protein and source of healthy fats, essential amino acids, fat‑soluble vitamins (A, D), B vitamins including B12 and choline, and other micronutrients. It enhances palatability and supports muscle, skin and coat health, but should be cooked to reduce salmonella risk and deactivate avidin in raw egg white (which can impair biotin absorption if fed frequently), and may be allergenic or calorie-dense for some pets.
03
Turkey
Turkey is commonly used as a primary animal protein in dog and cat foods, offering highly digestible, high‑quality protein and supplying essential amino acids along with B vitamins, phosphorus and zinc to support muscle maintenance and metabolism. Its fat level varies by cut so products can be lean or richer; some pets may develop allergies to poultry, cooked bones are hazardous, raw meat carries bacterial risk, and owners should rely on balanced commercial formulations (and ensure adequate taurine for cats) if turkey is a main ingredient.
04
White Rice
White rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate commonly used in pet foods as an energy source, binder or filler and is often included in bland diets to help manage gastrointestinal upset. It supplies readily available calories but contains little protein, fat, fiber or micronutrients (so complete diets must be balanced), and should be used judiciously in overweight or diabetic pets due to its high glycemic index; prolonged exclusive feeding is not recommended.
05
Turkey Fat
Turkey fat is used in dog and cat foods as a concentrated animal fat and flavor enhancer, providing a dense energy source, aiding absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins, and supplying essential fatty acids (primarily omega‑6) that support skin and coat health. Because it is calorie‑dense and can oxidize if not properly rendered or preserved, it should be used in balanced amounts to avoid weight gain or pancreatitis in susceptible pets, and may be a concern for animals with poultry sensitivities.
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
SquarePet is a premium pet food brand offering veterinarian-formulated diets for dogs and cats. The brand focuses on functional nutrition with high-protein formulas, limited-ingredient diets, and solutions-based recipes, such as those for gastrointestinal and skin sensitivities. Their formulas often use cage-free meats and responsibly sourced animal proteins.
Visit SquarePetManufacturer
SquarePet partners with U.S.-based manufacturers that meet stringent food safety and quality control standards, including adherence to FDA and AAFCO regulations. The company ensures that ingredient sourcing and production processes are closely monitored for safety and nutritional integrity.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has SquarePet ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for SquarePet. 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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