Choosing the right food for a small breed dog can feel like a big task. These little companions, with their unique personalities and often discerning palates, also have specific dietary needs. Many pet parents seek high-quality, natural options that not only nourish but also entice their furry friends. One product aiming to fill this niche is the Blue Buffalo Delights Natural Adult Small Breed Wet Dog Food, particularly their Filet Mignon & New York Strip Recipe in Hearty Gravy Variety Pack.
This review will take a close look at this popular small breed wet dog food, examining everything from its ingredient panel and nutritional adequacy to what real pet owners are saying. For those seeking a natural dog food for small dogs, understanding the brand’s philosophy and how this product stacks up is crucial. Does this gourmet-sounding Blue Buffalo Delights offering truly deliver a “delightful” dining experience?
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This Blue Buffalo dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the #1 ingredient
- EASY TO SERVE: These adult wet dog food cups are easy and convenient for single-serve meals
- FEED THREE WAYS: Mix this wet dog food into dry dog food, serve alone for a complete and balanced meal, or give as a tas…
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Why Small Breed Dogs Have Big Nutritional Needs
Don’t let their diminutive size fool you; small breed dogs have mighty nutritional requirements. Their metabolisms are often faster than large breed dogs, meaning they burn through calories more quickly. This necessitates more calorie-dense meals to provide sustained energy. Because their stomachs are smaller, these meals must pack a nutritional punch in every bite, rich in high-quality proteins and fats.
Sufficient protein is vital for muscle development and maintenance, while fats are a concentrated energy source and essential for absorbing certain vitamins, as well as promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat. Small breed dogs may also benefit from diets with antioxidants to support their typically longer lifespans. Furthermore, the kibble size in dry foods, or texture in wet foods, needs to be appropriate for their smaller mouths and jaws. Feeding them appropriately isn’t just about quantity; it’s about the quality and concentration of nutrients tailored to their unique physiological makeup.
Introducing Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip Variety Pack
The product under the microscope is the Blue Buffalo Delights Natural Adult Small Breed Wet Dog Food, specifically the variety pack featuring Filet Mignon Recipe in Hearty Gravy and New York Strip Recipe in Hearty Gravy. Each pack contains twelve 3.5-oz single-serving cups, with six of each flavor.
Blue Buffalo positions this product with several key claims: real, high-quality beef as the #1 ingredient, “Made with Natural Ingredients,” and an assurance that it contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. These single-serve cups are designed for convenience and can be fed in three ways: as a complete and balanced meal, mixed with dry dog food, or given as a tasty treat. The “hearty gravy” formulation aims to enhance palatability. The variety pack itself caters to the desire to offer different tastes, potentially preventing flavor boredom. This small breed wet dog food aims to please.
The Blue Buffalo Brand: Understanding Their Philosophy
Blue Buffalo has built its brand around the “True BLUE Promise,” a commitment to feeding pets like family. This philosophy emphasizes real meat as the first ingredient, the use of fine natural ingredients, and the explicit exclusion of poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives. “Natural ingredients” in pet food generally refers to components derived solely from plant, animal, or mined sources.
The company was founded by the Bishop family, inspired by their Airedale, Blue. In 2018, Blue Buffalo was acquired by General Mills. All Blue Buffalo dog food products are produced in the United States.
Despite its popularity, Blue Buffalo has faced controversies, including involvement in the 2007 melamine recalls. More recently, in June 2019, the FDA named Blue Buffalo among 16 pet food brands potentially linked to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain diets, many labeled “grain-free.” The Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip recipes are grain-free. The FDA has stated it has not found a definitive causal scientific link between these diets and DCM. Blue Buffalo is actively working with the FDA on this issue.
Unpacking the Ingredients: What’s Really in Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip?
When evaluating any pet food, the ingredient list is paramount. For this review of the Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip variety pack, the ingredient list for both the Filet Mignon and New York Strip recipes appears identical on some retail listings. This suggests the distinction may come down to “Natural New York Strip Flavor” rather than fundamental component differences.
Key Blue Buffalo Delights ingredients Analysis:
- Real Beef First: Beef is the leading ingredient, providing high-quality protein.
- Other Animal Proteins: Includes chicken liver, chicken, and dried egg product.
- Vegetables: Carrots and peas are included.
- Carbohydrate Sources: Potatoes, pea flour, and potato starch.
- No Undesirables: True to their promise, these Blue Buffalo Delights ingredients do not include chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. This is a significant part of their appeal as a natural dog food for small dogs.
- Thickeners/Gums: Guar gum and xanthan gum are used.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Includes chelated minerals for better absorption.
- Carrageenan Status: Carrageenan is not listed in the ingredients for this specific ASIN on some major retail sites, but it is listed in other Blue Buffalo Delights flavors and in ingredient lists for this product from other retailers. Consumers should always verify ingredients on the specific package.
The use of “Pea Flour” and “Potato Starch” is consistent with many grain-free formulations. The FDA’s investigation into diets containing a high proportion of these ingredients and a potential link to DCM is ongoing.
Nutritional Profile: Is Blue Buffalo Delights Tailored for Your Tiny Companion’s Needs?
Small breed dogs require nutrient-dense food. Let’s examine the guaranteed analysis for the Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip variety pack.
Guaranteed Analysis Highlights (may vary by source/batch):
- Crude Protein: Both recipes typically list around 8.0% minimum. On a dry matter basis (DMB), this is well above AAFCO’s minimum.
- Crude Fat: Some sources show a difference: Filet Mignon around 3.0% min crude fat (approx. 16.7% DMB), while New York Strip may show 6.0% min crude fat (approx. 27.3% DMB). Fat is critical for active small dogs. This discrepancy is notable if ingredient lists are identical. Always check the packaging.
- Fiber and Moisture: Crude fiber is typically around 1.5% max. High moisture content (78-82%) is beneficial.
Calorie Content: Specific calorie information for this exact variety pack is not consistently provided. Other Blue Buffalo Delights 3.5 oz cups range from approximately 86 to 111 Kcals/bowl. Check packaging for precise details. Blue Buffalo states their Delights recipes meet AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance.
What Are Pet Parents Saying? Real Reviews of Blue Buffalo Delights
Customer reviews offer valuable real-world perspectives. The Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip variety pack generally receives positive feedback. On Amazon, the product holds a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 14,500 ratings.
Common Praises (The Paws-itives):
- High Palatability: Many owners report their dogs, particularly picky eaters, love the taste. This makes it a contender for the best wet food for picky small dogs.
- Convenient Portion Sizes: The 3.5-oz single-serve cups are praised for small dogs.
- Real Meat Appeal: Owners appreciate real beef as the first ingredient.
Common Concerns (The Paw-blems):
- Inconsistent Quality/Texture: Some customers received cups that were “runny” or seemed “spoiled.”
- Unpleasant Smell: Some described an “odd smell” from certain cups.
- Digestive Upset: Some dogs experienced vomiting and diarrhea.
- Price: Positioned as a premium offering, some find it expensive.
The contrast in experiences suggests potential batch variability or that the formulation isn’t universally tolerated.
Feeding Blue Buffalo Delights: Serving Suggestions and Practical Tips
Blue Buffalo suggests feeding 2 to 3 (3.5-oz) cups per 6 to 8 lbs. of body weight per day. Individual needs vary. This small breed wet dog food can be served as a complete meal, mixed with dry food, or as a treat.
When introducing Blue Buffalo Delights, a gradual transition over 7 to 14 days is recommended. Refrigerate unused portions and always provide fresh water.
Weighing the Paws-itives and Negatives: A Balanced Look at Blue Buffalo Delights
Pros:
- Real beef is the #1 ingredient.
- Formulated with natural dog food for small dogs principles.
- Free from chicken/poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- No artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Highly palatable for many dogs, a potential best wet food for picky small dogs.
- Convenient single-serve cups.
- Grain-free formulation.
- Manufactured in the USA.
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on product consistency.
- Some dogs experience digestive upset.
- Unpleasant smell reported by some.
- Ingredient list for “Filet Mignon” and “New York Strip” can be identical, questioning true variety.
- Brand history of recalls and named in FDA DCM investigation (no causal link proven).
- Pricier than some alternatives.
- Specific calorie information not always clear.
The primary appeal is its premium ingredient claims and palatability. However, inconsistency and digestive upset reports are drawbacks.
Is Blue Buffalo Delights the Right Gourmet Choice for YOUR Small Dog?
Blue Buffalo Delights can be a very good option for many adult small breed dogs, especially picky eaters who like beefy, gravy-rich foods and whose owners prioritize real meat and no artificial additives or common fillers.
This food might be a good fit for:
- Owners seeking convenient, pre-portioned meals.
- Dogs who are selective eaters and prefer beef recipes in gravy.
- Dogs without known sensitivities to the Blue Buffalo Delights ingredients.
Caution is advised for:
- Dogs with extremely sensitive stomachs.
- Pet parents concerned about past recalls or the FDA DCM investigation.
- Budget-conscious shoppers.
Always consult your veterinarian before significantly changing your dog’s diet, especially if they have health conditions.
Where to Buy Blue Buffalo Delights
You can typically find the Blue Buffalo Delights Natural Adult Small Breed Wet Dog Food, a popular option is Amazon
Flavor Name:
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This Blue Buffalo dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the #1 ingredient
- EASY TO SERVE: These adult wet dog food cups are easy and convenient for single-serve meals
- FEED THREE WAYS: Mix this wet dog food into dry dog food, serve alone for a complete and balanced meal, or give as a tas…
- REAL CHICKEN FIRST: This Blue Buffalo wet dog food is made with real, high-quality chicken as the first ingredient
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPE: This grain-free wet food for dogs features more of the ingredients they love, such as carrots, potato…
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Blue Buffalo dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is free from corn, wh…
- REAL BEEF FIRST: This Blue Buffalo wet dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the first ingredient
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPE: This grain-free wet food for dogs features more of the ingredients they love, such as carrots, potato…
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Blue Buffalo dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is free from corn, wh…
- REAL BEEF FIRST: This Blue Buffalo wet dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the first ingredient
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPE: This grain-free wet food for dogs features more of the ingredients they love, such as carrots, potato…
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Blue Buffalo dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is free from corn, wh…
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This deliciously healthy wet dog food is made with real, high-quality chicken or beef as the #1 ingredi…
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPES: BLUE Delights Chicken and Prime Rib recipes are grain-free and contain complex carbohydrates like po…
- EASY TO SERVE: Mealtime is easy with these single-serve wet dog food cups; feed 2 to 3 cups per 6 to 8 lbs of body weigh…
- REAL BEEF FIRST: This Blue Buffalo wet dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the first ingredient
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPE: This grain-free wet food for dogs features more of the ingredients they love, such as carrots, potato…
- WHOLESOME INGREDIENTS: Blue Buffalo dog food contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and is free from corn, wh…
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This deliciously healthy wet dog food is made with real, high-quality chicken or beef as the #1 ingredi…
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPES: BLUE Delights Chicken, Prime Rib, and New York Strip recipes are grain-free and contain complex carb…
- EASY TO SERVE: Mealtime is easy with these single-serve wet dog food cups; feed 2 to 3 cups per 6 to 8 lbs of body weigh…
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This deliciously healthy wet dog food is made with real, high-quality chicken or beef as the #1 ingredi…
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPES: BLUE Delights Chicken, Top Sirloin, and Filet Mignon recipes are grain-free and contain complex carb…
- EASY TO SERVE: Mealtime is easy with these single-serve wet dog food cups; feed 2 to 3 cups per 6 to 8 lbs. of body weig…
- REAL MEAT FIRST: This deliciously healthy wet dog food is made with real, high-quality beef as the #1 ingredient
- GRAIN-FREE RECIPES: BLUE Delights Prime Rib, New York Strip, and Filet Mignon recipes are grain-free and contain complex…
- EASY TO SERVE: Mealtime is easy with these single-serve wet dog food cups; feed 2 to 3 cups per 6 to 8 lbs of body weigh…
(Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support our work in bringing you helpful content.)
Our Final Verdict: Are Blue Buffalo Delights a Five-Star Treat for Your Small Dog?
The Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon New York Strip variety pack offers an appealing choice with real beef first, convenient cups, and a taste many dogs love. It aligns with natural dog food for small dogs principles.
However, concerns about consistency, digestive tolerance, and the identical nature of “variety” flavors in some packs are valid. The brand’s history and the ongoing FDA DCM investigation (though inconclusive) are points to consider. It’s a premium-priced product.
Blue Buffalo Delights can be worthwhile if your small dog enjoys and tolerates it well, and if you’re comfortable with the brand and price. It’s a strong contender for the best wet food for picky small dogs when it suits them. Try a smaller quantity first and always consult your vet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Blue Buffalo Delights good for picky eaters?
Yes, many owners report that Blue Buffalo Delights is highly palatable and that their picky small dogs love the taste, especially the meaty chunks in gravy. This makes it a popular choice for fussy eaters. - Is Blue Buffalo Delights grain-free?
Yes, the Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip recipes, along with many other flavors in the Delights line, are grain-free. They do not contain corn, wheat, or soy. - What are the main ingredients in Blue Buffalo Delights Filet Mignon & New York Strip?
For the Blue Buffalo Delights ingredients in these recipes, real beef is listed as the #1 ingredient. Other components typically include beef broth, water, chicken liver, carrots, chicken, potatoes, dried egg, and peas, along with various vitamins and minerals. However, it’s always best to check the specific packaging, as formulations can sometimes vary. - What are the serving sizes for Blue Buffalo Delights?
The food comes in 3.5-oz single-serving cups. Blue Buffalo generally recommends feeding 2 to 3 of these cups per 6 to 8 pounds of body weight per day. However, individual needs can vary based on your dog’s age, activity level, and overall health, so it’s good to adjust as needed or consult your vet. - Can I mix Blue Buffalo Delights with my dog’s dry food?
Absolutely. Blue Buffalo Delights can be served as a complete meal on its own, mixed in with your dog’s regular dry kibble to enhance flavor and moisture, or even given as an occasional tasty treat.
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