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Limited Ingredient Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Pate Wet Dog Food
Natural Balance

Limited Ingredient Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Pate Wet Dog Food

Verified May 21, 2026

Dog · Wet Adult All Breed Sizes

A limited-ingredient canned diet for adult dogs, this pate uses lamb as the primary animal protein with lamb liver for added nutrient density. Brown rice supplies digestible carbohydrates and fiber, while canola oil and ground flaxseed contribute essential fatty acids. It’s designed as a complete and balanced meal or as a topper for dogs needing a simpler ingredient list, including those with some food sensitivities.

Over-the-counter AAFCO No recalls
Official product page
KibbleLab Score
8.4 out of 10

This is a high-quality limited-ingredient wet food for adult dogs that centers on lamb and brown rice, which can work well for many dogs with sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef. The formula is straightforward, with a single main animal protein source, moderate fat, and added taurine. It’s a solid choice for owners looking for a simple, palatable canned food to feed alone or mix with kibble, as long as their dog tolerates lamb and rice well.

The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.

Ingredient composition Quality, beneficial additions, absence of artificial colors/flavors
Nutritional profile Protein, fat, fiber evaluated for stated life stage and food type
AAFCO compliance Complete and balanced certification; feeding trials valued higher
Health considerations Sensitivity profile, DCM risk, processing method
9.0 – 10 Top Pick
8.0 – 8.9 Strong Choice
7.0 – 7.9 Solid Option
6.0 – 6.9 Worth a Conversation
Below 6 Not Recommended

KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.


At a Glance

Health Benefits
Digestive Health Allergy Support
Diet & Compliance
Limited Ingredient
Suitable For
Adult All Breed Sizes
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Nutritional Perspective

KibbleLab Review

Strengths

  • Single primary animal protein source (lamb and lamb liver), which can be helpful for dogs with sensitivities to more common proteins.
  • Brown rice provides a gentle, digestible source of carbohydrates and fiber to support gut health.
  • Includes canola oil and ground flaxseed, which supply essential fatty acids that support skin, coat, and overall health.
  • Complete and balanced for adult maintenance according to AAFCO profiles, so it can be fed as a sole diet for adult dogs.

Considerations

  • Formulated only for adult maintenance, so it is not appropriate as the main diet for puppies or pregnant/nursing dogs.
  • Lamb is a common allergen for some sensitive dogs; if your dog has reacted to lamb before, this would not be suitable.
  • Wet foods are more calorie-dense per can than many owners realize (565 kcal per can), so portions should be measured carefully to avoid weight gain.
Scored using the rubric of an NAVC Certified Pet Nutrition Coach (PNCC). This is informational, not veterinary advice.

Full Ingredient List

LAMB, LAMB BROTH, BROWN RICE, LAMB LIVER, CANOLA OIL, GROUND FLAXSEED, NATURAL FLAVOR, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, SALT, AGAR-AGAR, NATURAL SMOKE FLAVOR, MINERALS (ZINC PROTEINATE, IRON PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, COBALT PROTEINATE, MANGANESE PROTEINATE, SODIUM SELENITE, POTASSIUM IODIDE), DRIED KELP, VITAMINS (VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID), TAURINE, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, PARSLEY, SODIUM CARBONATE, YUCCA SHIDIGERA EXTRACT, MAGNESIUM SULFATE

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
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.
02
Lamb Broth
Lamb broth is used in pet foods and toppers primarily as a flavorful, moisture-rich base or gravy to boost palatability and hydration, and it can contribute small amounts of animal protein, amino acids, and electrolytes. Pet parents should be aware that broths can be high in sodium or fat and may contain allergens or toxic seasonings (e.g., onion, garlic, xylitol), so choose low‑sodium, pet-safe formulations and consult a veterinarian for pets with dietary restrictions or sensitive stomachs.
03
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.
04
Lamb Liver
Lamb liver is an organ meat used as a nutrient-dense protein and flavor enhancer in pet foods and treats, supplying concentrated vitamins (especially vitamin A and B12), iron, copper and high-quality amino acids important for both dogs and cats. It is highly palatable and can help prevent nutrient deficiencies, but should be fed in moderation because excessive liver intake can lead to vitamin A toxicity and digestive upset, and proper sourcing/handling is important to avoid foodborne pathogens.
05
Canola Oil
Canola oil is used in pet foods as a concentrated fat source and palatability enhancer that supplies energy and essential fatty acids—mainly omega‑6 (linoleic acid) and some omega‑3 (ALA)—and aids absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins. It can support skin and coat condition when balanced with animal fats or supplemental omega‑3s, but is calorie‑dense so must be portioned to avoid weight gain, does not provide species‑specific fats such as arachidonic acid for cats, and must be kept fresh to prevent oxidation.

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.
As Fed
Crude Protein (min)
8.00%
Low High
Crude Fat (min)
8.00%
Low High
Crude Fiber (max)
1.50%
Low High
Moisture (max)
78.00%
Low High
1530
kcal / Kg
565
kcal / Can
High
Calorie density category
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

Lifestage Adult
Breed size All Breed Sizes
Texture Pate
Processing method Canned
Food type Wet

AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.

Complete & balanced Yes
AAFCO life stages Adult Maintenance
Substantiation Formulation
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe canned dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for maintenance.

Brand

Natural Balance

Natural Balance is a premium pet food brand focused on delivering nutritionally balanced diets made with high-quality ingredients. It is best known for its Limited Ingredient Diets, which feature simple ingredient lists designed for pets with food sensitivities. The brand also offers targeted formulas for different life stages and dietary needs. Natural Balance markets itself as a transparent and science-informed brand catering to pet owners seeking reliable, health-conscious nutrition for their pets.

Visit Natural Balance
Price tier $$$$

Manufacturer

Company name Natural Balance Pet Foods
Parent company Ethos Pet Brands (L Catterton / Nexus Capital)
Founded 1989
Headquarters Burbank, California, USA
Manufacturing type Co Packer
Manufacturing country United States
Manufacturing region California
Manufacturing oversight

Natural Balance sources and manufactures its products primarily in the United States. Its manufacturing facilities adhere to FDA and AAFCO regulations for pet food production, with quality control protocols that include routine testing for contaminants and nutritional accuracy. Production oversight includes partnerships with certified and audited co-packers to ensure consistency and safety.

Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.

Recall History

No recalls on record

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Pate Wet Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.

Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily

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KibbleLab food report
GREAT BOWL.
8.4 /10 Grade A
Limited Ingredient Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Pate Wet Dog Food
Natural Balance · kibblelab.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Has Natural Balance ever been recalled?

We have no recalls on record for Natural Balance. 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.

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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.