Are you trying to find out if Ol’Roy dog food is a good choice for your furry friend? Ol’ Roy, a wallet-friendly brand under Walmart, has been around since 1983. It offers various dry and wet dog food options, but does it really provide good nutrition for your dog?
Let’s dig into the quality and safety of Ol’ Roy products and see if they truly meet your pet’s needs.
Ol’ Roy uses cornmeal as its main ingredient, with additional meat and bone meal, and chicken byproduct. Some people raise eyebrows about its quality, especially since the brand has faced recalls before. On the other hand, its low price and wide availability make it a popular choice among budget-conscious pet owners.
We’ll look at customer experiences, nutritional content, and pricing to give you a complete picture. Is Ol’ Roy the best bang for your buck, or should you look for a better option? Stick around to find out.
Key Takeaways
- Ol’ Roy offers a budget-friendly option under the Walmart brand, popular since 1983.
- Main ingredients include cornmeal and poultry by-products, with concerns over ingredient quality.
- Customer reviews and past recalls highlight mixed reactions about its safety and nutrition.
History and Brand Overview
Ol’ Roy dog food has an interesting backstory. Named after Sam Walton’s bird dog, Ol’ Roy, this brand is a private label dog food created specifically for Walmart. It has been around since 1983 and has made a significant impact in the pet food market in the United States.
Did you know that Ol’ Roy is the top-selling dog food in the U.S.? According to a 2004 article from The New York Times, it outsold its nearest competitor by 20%, with over 214,000 tons sold in 2003 alone. That’s a lot of kibble!
Ol’ Roy offers a variety of flavors to cater to different dog preferences. For example, the Complete Nutrition T-Bone & Bacon Flavor and the Puppy Complete Chicken & Oatmeal Flavor are popular choices. These options aim to provide balanced nutrition while keeping your furry friend happy.
One thing to note is that Ol’ Roy has had its share of recalls. It’s always a good idea to stay updated on such matters to ensure your pet’s safety. Brands like Petful provide reliable information on pet food recalls.
In terms of availability, you can find Ol’ Roy products at Walmart. This convenience makes it a popular choice for many dog owners across the country. The price point is also appealing, with products like the 46 lb. bag of T-Bone & Bacon Flavor priced at $31.94.
With Mars owning more than 50 pet food brands, you might find similarities between Ol’ Roy and other brands. So, even if you think you’re avoiding big brands, chances are your dog has tasted something similar.
Product Range
Ol’ Roy offers a wide variety of dog food products to meet the needs of different dogs and their preferences.
Dry Dog Food
Ol’ Roy Complete Nutrition T-Bone & Bacon Flavor Dry Dog Food:
- Weight: 46 lb
- Price: $31.94 ($0.69/lb)
- Features: Known for its affordability and appeal to dogs who love the T-Bone and bacon flavors.
50 lb bags of dry food options include flavors like chicken and beef, catering to different taste buds.
Wet Dog Food
Cuts in Gravy products provide tasty options that many dogs enjoy. The wet foods are typically packed with rich flavors and can be more palatable for picky eaters. These wet foods often come in cans that display a high protein content and balanced nutrition.
Dog Treats
Ol’ Roy Munchy Bones Dog Chew Treats With Real Chicken Flavor:
- Weight: 20 oz
- Price: $14.99 ($11.99/lb)
- Features: Chewy and flavorful, these treats are popular for training and rewarding your furry friend.
Variety Packs
Ol’ Roy also offers variety packs, allowing you to try different flavors and forms of their products. These packs can include a mix of dry and wet dog foods, as well as treats, to give your dog a balanced diet and something new every day.
The Ol’ Roy brand has a product for every dog, whether they prefer dry food, wet food, or delicious treats. With many choices, you can find the perfect meal plan to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Nutritional Analysis
Ol’ Roy Dog Food offers a range of products with varying nutritional profiles. It’s important to look closely at the protein content, sources, and the types of additives and fillers used in the food.
Protein Content and Sources
The protein content in Ol’ Roy Dog Food varies between products. For example, the dry formula generally has a dry matter protein reading of about 24% to 31%. This is decent but not exceptional.
Protein Sources:
- Meat and Bone Meal
- Soybean Meal
- Corn Gluten Meal
These ingredients provide protein but are sometimes considered lower quality compared to whole meat sources. Meat and Bone Meal, while rich in protein, can vary in nutrient quality. Meanwhile, Soybean Meal and Corn Gluten Meal are plant-based proteins, which are less digestible for dogs.
If your dog is very active or part of a working breed, you need to ensure they get enough high-quality protein.
Additives and Fillers
Ol’ Roy uses various additives and fillers to balance its nutrition profile and achieve cost-effectiveness. Common fillers include corn gluten meal and soybean meal. These are used to bulk up the food and provide carbohydrates and protein.
Additives:
- Vitamins and Minerals: Added to balance the food nutritionally.
- Preservatives: Often included to extend shelf life but can include synthetic options.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: These are present in some products and can cause allergies or sensitivities in some dogs.
While these fillers and additives make the food more affordable, they don’t always provide the best nutrition compared to whole, natural ingredients. If you notice digestion issues or allergies in your dog, you might want to review the additives included.
In summary, Ol’ Roy balances affordability with meeting basic nutritional needs, but the inclusion of lower-quality protein sources and various fillers may not suit all dogs, especially those with specific dietary requirements.
Pricing and Value
Ol’ Roy dog food is known for being an inexpensive choice for dog owners. It is available exclusively from Walmart, making it a convenient option for many. By analyzing its pricing and value compared to other brands, we can determine how it stands in the market.
Comparison with Other Brands
When you look at Ol’ Roy dog food, its primary appeal is its low cost. Compared to Purina and Cesar, Ol’ Roy stands out as a budget-friendly option.
For instance, a 50-pound bag of Ol’ Roy typically costs around $20-$25, whereas a similar-sized bag of Purina or Cesar can cost significantly more.
Ol’ Roy uses ingredients like cornmeal and meat byproducts, keeping its formula basic but cost-effective. Other brands might use higher-quality ingredients, but Ol’ Roy aims to offer a solution for those looking to save money.
Dog owners who prioritize budget over premium ingredients may find Ol’ Roy to be adequate for their pets.
Cost-Effectiveness
Ol’ Roy is marketed as a private label dog food under the Walmart brand. Its main advantage is the price point.
For budget-conscious pet owners, this can mean considerable savings. However, what you save in cost, sometimes you might compromise on quality.
Ol’ Roy’s ingredients include cornmeal, meat, and bone meal – components that keep the price low. While not the top tier in nutrition, they offer a basic level of sustenance for your dog.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive food option without worrying much about high nutritional content, Ol’ Roy offers that balance.
Your savings from choosing Ol’ Roy over more premium brands can be significant, but it’s essential to weigh the cost against the nutritional values you want for your pet.
Taste and Flavor Varieties
Looking for a variety of flavors to keep your dog interested? Ol’ Roy Dog Food offers quite a selection that might just hit the spot for your furry friend.
Meaty Loaf
If your dog loves meat, the Meaty Loaf variety serves as a hearty option. It’s designed to be tasty and nutritious, making it a satisfying meal for your dog.
Gravy Wet Dog Food
For those pups who enjoy their food with a bit more moisture, the Gravy Wet Dog Food is a solid choice. This adds a rich texture and is often easier for dogs to chew.
Filet Mignon Flavor
Want to treat your dog to something fancy? The Filet Mignon Flavor brings a touch of gourmet to their bowl. It’s crafted to mimic the taste of premium steak, making meal times something special.
Poultry By-product Meal
A more budget-friendly option is the Poultry By-product Meal. This ingredient provides essential proteins and can be found in many of the brand’s formulas, making it a reliable source of nutrition.
Ol’ Roy uses a mix of these flavors across their product line. From Meaty Loaf to Gravy Wet Food, there’s something for every dog. The brand’s variety ensures that even picky eaters find something they love. No plain old boring meals here!
Dog Food Safety and Recalls
Dog safety is crucial, and recalling harmful products is a big part of this. Knowing the history of recalls and understanding worrisome ingredients can help keep your pet safe.
Incidence of Recalls
Dog food recalls happen when there are potential hazards. For Ol’ Roy, there have been several recalls over the years.
Notably, in 2018, there was a recall due to pentobarbital contamination, a drug used for euthanasia.
Recalls typically involve contamination or unwanted substances. It’s essential to keep up with recall news to ensure your dog’s food is safe.
Pay attention to:
- Dates of recall
- Reasons for recall
- Affected batches or lots
Ingredients to Watch Out For
Certain ingredients in dog food can be concerning. Ol’ Roy has had issues with some controversial components.
Ingredients of note:
- Pentobarbital: Found during a 2018 recall.
- BHA/BHT: Synthetic antioxidants that could harm your dog over time.
- Menadione (Vitamin K3): An artificial form of Vitamin K, which some experts believe can be harmful.
Always read labels and be skeptical of ingredients you don’t recognize. Being informed helps you make better choices for your pet’s diet.
Customer Experience
Understanding the customer experience with Ol’ Roy Dog Food involves examining consumer ratings and feedback as well as availability and purchase options.
Consumer Ratings and Feedback
Pet owners have mixed feelings about Ol’ Roy Dog Food. On a popular review site, the brand has 582 reviews with an average rating of 1.1 out of 5 stars. Just 3% of the reviewers gave a 5-star rating. This low score is often due to concerns about ingredients and pet health.
Common complaints include low-quality ingredients such as cornmeal and byproducts. Some pet owners claim their dogs became sick after eating it. Others notice their pets do not enjoy the taste compared to other brands.
Pros:
- Affordable: Attractive pricing for pet owners on a budget.
- Convenient: Available at Walmart, which many people frequent.
Cons:
- Quality Concerns: Ingredients raise questions about the nutritional value.
- Health Issues: Reports of pets experiencing negative health effects.
Availability and Purchase Options
Ol’ Roy Dog Food is a private label brand sold exclusively at Walmart. This wide availability makes it easy for pet owners to purchase while doing other shopping. You can find different types of Ol’ Roy Dog Food at nearly any Walmart location.
If you’re shopping online, Walmart’s website offers delivery or store pickup options. However, you won’t find it on platforms like Chewy or Amazon, limiting where you can buy the brand.
Pros:
- Easy Access: Widely available in Walmart stores.
- Online Purchasing: Options for home delivery or store pickup through Walmart.
Cons:
- Limited Platforms: Not available on Chewy or Amazon.
- Exclusive to Walmart: Must shop at Walmart to get this brand.
Conclusion
Ol’Roy dog food, named after the Walmart founder’s dog, is a budget-friendly choice. It includes various products such as dry food, meaty loaf wet dog food, and dog treats. The brand is popular for its affordability, but it’s important to look at the ingredients and reviews before deciding.
Ingredients
- The main ingredients are cornmeal, chicken by-product meal, and soybean meal.
- Some products, like the filet mignon flavor, use flavor additives and preservatives.
- Protein sources also include meat and bone meal.
Pros
- Affordable: Best for pet owners on a tight budget.
- Variety: Offers both dry and wet options.
Cons
- Quality Concerns: Uses lower quality ingredients like by-products and fillers.
- Some products have been linked to various health issues in dogs.
Recall Alerts
- Ol’ Roy has had multiple recalls in past years due to contamination and mislabeling issues.
- Always check latest recall news to ensure you’re feeding safe products to your dog.
Review Ratings
- Mixed reviews from users and experts.
- Some pet owners report their dogs like the taste.
- Others caution about potential health risks due to ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common concerns and questions about Ol’ Roy dog food. We’ll discuss complaints, recalls, ratings, the manufacturer, ingredients, and comparisons with other brands.
Q. What are common customer complaints about Ol’ Roy dog food?
Many customers have voiced complaints about the quality of ingredients in Ol’ Roy dog food. There are reports of dogs experiencing digestive issues and some refusing to eat the food. Consistency in product quality is also a noted concern.
Q. Has there been a recall on Ol’ Roy dog food products recently?
Yes, Ol’ Roy has experienced recalls in the past. It’s crucial to stay updated on recent recall information to ensure the safety of your pet. Always check the latest updates from reliable sources like the FDA or pet food watchdog organizations.
Q. What is the overall consumer rating for Ol’ Roy dog food?
Ol’ Roy dog food generally receives mixed reviews. On various pet food review sites, it tends to hover around 2.5 to 3 stars out of 5. Some customers find it affordable and adequate, while others criticize its nutritional value and ingredient quality.
Q. Which manufacturer is behind Ol’ Roy dog food, and are they reputable?
Ol’ Roy dog food is manufactured by Mars, Inc., a large and well-known company that owns more than 50 pet food brands. While Mars is reputable in the industry, the quality of specific brands like Ol’ Roy can vary.
Q. What are the ingredients typically found in Ol’ Roy dog food?
Ingredients in Ol’ Roy dog food commonly include corn, soybean meal, and animal fat. The first ingredient in their canned food is water, followed by chicken. These ingredients provide basic nutrition but may not be as premium as other brands.
Q. How does Ol’ Roy dog food compare with other leading dog food brands in terms of quality?
Ol’ Roy dog food is often considered a budget option. Compared to leading brands that use higher quality ingredients and offer more balanced nutrition, Ol’ Roy may fall short.
However, it remains a popular choice for its affordability.
