VFS Powerhound Red Meat Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 16, 2026
This is a very high-protein, energy-dense dry dog food based on red meats like beef, pork, and lamb, with potatoes as the main carbohydrate source. It provides ultra-low starch, added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, joint-supporting glucosamine, and probiotics. The formula is designed for most dogs at all life stages, including active adults, puppies, and pregnant or nursing females, but not for large-breed puppies.
Nutritionally, this is a high-meat, low-carbohydrate kibble that suits active dogs who do well on rich, protein-dense diets. The protein and fat levels are on the higher end for a dry food, which can support lean muscle and higher energy needs. It’s complete and balanced for all life stages except large-breed growth, so it works for most puppies and adults as long as they tolerate red meats and a higher-calorie food well.
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
What "not formulated for" means
Life stages this food isn't certified complete and balanced for, based on its AAFCO statement.KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Very high protein (40%) with the vast majority coming from animal sources like beef, pork, lamb meal, and pork meal, which supports muscle maintenance and active dogs’ needs.
- Ultra-low starch and sugar (≤10% dietary starch, 1% sugars max), which can help dogs that do better on lower-carbohydrate diets.
- Good fatty acid profile with herring oil, flaxseed, and sunflower oil providing omega-3 and omega-6 fats, plus added vitamin E and vitamin C for antioxidant support.
- Includes glucosamine and a probiotic (Bacillus coagulans), which may support joint health and digestive health, and is AAFCO complete and balanced for all life stages except large-breed puppies.
Considerations
- Calorie density is quite high (about 525 kcal per cup), so portions need to be measured carefully to avoid unwanted weight gain, especially in less active dogs.
- Uses multiple red meat proteins (beef, pork, lamb) and fish, so it would not be appropriate for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to any of these common animal proteins.
- Formulated for all life stages except the growth of large-breed puppies, so it should not be used as the primary food for pups expected to be 70 lbs or more as adults.
- High protein and fat levels may be too rich for some dogs with a history of pancreatitis or certain metabolic conditions, depending on your veterinarian’s guidance.
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
Pork
Pork is used in pet foods primarily as a high-quality animal protein and flavor enhancer, supplying essential amino acids, B vitamins (especially B12 and niacin), iron and zinc, plus fat for calorie-dense energy; it can be suitable for both dogs and cats when balanced in a complete diet. Because pork can be relatively high in fat, it may be inappropriate for pets requiring low‑fat diets or those prone to pancreatitis, some animals may have sensitivities to pork, and raw or undercooked pork can carry parasites or pathogens so it should be properly processed or cooked.
03
Potato
Potato is commonly used in pet foods as a digestible carbohydrate source and functional binder, supplying starch, fiber, and modest amounts of vitamins (B6, C) and potassium—often included as cooked or dehydrated flakes, starch, or protein concentrates. While it provides energy and helps formulate grain‑free recipes, potatoes are not a primary protein for dogs or cats (and are not nutritionally required for obligate‑carnivore cats), can contribute to excess calories or affect blood glucose in diabetic animals, and must be cooked and free of green skins or sprouts to avoid solanine toxicity; allergies are uncommon but possible.
04
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.
05
Pork
Pork is used in pet foods primarily as a high-quality animal protein and flavor enhancer, supplying essential amino acids, B vitamins (especially B12 and niacin), iron and zinc, plus fat for calorie-dense energy; it can be suitable for both dogs and cats when balanced in a complete diet. Because pork can be relatively high in fat, it may be inappropriate for pets requiring low‑fat diets or those prone to pancreatitis, some animals may have sensitivities to pork, and raw or undercooked pork can carry parasites or pathogens so it should be properly processed or cooked.
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 Powerhound Red Meat 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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