Wellness CORE Original vs Forthglade Cold Pressed Duck

Pros

• ✓Fresh turkey and chicken named as primary ingredients — no generic meat derivatives or by-products
• ✓Strong palatability: dogs consistently finish bowls, multiple owners report high enthusiasm
• ✓Coat and skin improvements widely reported by long-term feeders
• ✓Digestive benefits noted: better stool quality, reduced sensitivity — supported by inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics

Cons

• ✗One review alleges worm contamination across five consecutive bags — unverified but worth monitoring
• ✗Packaging fragility reported: bags arriving burst on multiple Amazon deliveries, raising contamination concerns
• ✗Premium price point may be a barrier for multi-dog households despite competitive value within its tier
• ✗Grain-free formulation with legume-based carbohydrates warrants monitoring given ongoing DCM research debate in dogs

Best For

Pros

• ✓Named duck as primary protein — an excellent novel protein for hypoallergenic and elimination diets
• ✓Cold-pressed manufacturing preserves more nutrients and enzymes than high-heat extrusion
• ✓Thoughtful gut health stack: chicory root (inulin), MOS, and brewer's yeast as prebiotics
• ✓Reviewers across multiple breeds report improved digestion, firmer stools, and less flatulence

Cons

• ✗Pellets are notably hard and elongated — soaking strongly recommended for small breeds, toy dogs, and seniors with dental wear
• ✗Premium price point; some owners consider cost high relative to portion yield
• ✗All-life-stages formulation may not be fully optimised for large-breed puppies with specific calcium-to-phosphorus ratio requirements
• ✗Grain-free diets remain under FDA and WSAVA scrutiny for a potential association with dilated cardiomyopathy in certain breeds

Best For