Description
The synergy of land and sea proteins in this entree represents a peak in ancestral canine nutrition. Vital Essentials doesn't just use "fish meal"; they incorporate wild-caught salmon with bone, providing a direct source of collagen and calcified minerals that are often missing in terrestrial-only diets. By pairing this with butcher-cut beef, they’ve created a protein profile that hits the full spectrum of essential amino acids required for cellular repair.
Technically, the Soft Nib format is a masterstroke for nutrient preservation. Most salmon-based kibbles are extruded at high temperatures, which oxidizes the delicate long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), rendering them useless for anti-inflammatory purposes. The 48-hour freeze-drying process locks these oils in their native state. This means the fats your dog is eating are biologically active, supporting cognitive function and joint lubrication.
The inclusion of beef tripe further elevates this formula. Tripe is a digestive powerhouse, rich in naturally occurring chlorophyll and L. Acidophilus. For dogs with "touchy" stomachs or those transitioning from high-carb kibble, the tripe acts as a natural bridge, stabilizing the microbiome while the body adapts to the 99% protein load. It’s a clean-burning fuel. No legume fillers. Pure predatory power.
| Product Spec | Current Detail | Pet-Parent Value |
| Primary Proteins | Beef & Wild Salmon | Balanced energy plus high-level brain support. |
| Caloric Density | 4,540 kcal/kg | Nutrient-dense; a 14oz bag goes a long way. |
| Guaranteed Analysis | 42% Protein / 26% Fat | High-fat, low-carb profile mimics the "Wild Prey" diet. |
Benefits
| Technical Spec | Benefit |
| Wild-Caught Salmon | Eliminates dull coats and reduces seasonal skin flaking. |
| 99% Butcher Cut Protein | High bioavailability means less "output" in the backyard. |
| "Soft-Set" Freeze Drying | Easy to crumble for seniors; no "rock-hard" nuggets. |
| Whole Animal Organs | Natural source of Taurine and CoQ10 for heart health. |
Ingredients
Beef with bone, beef lung, beef liver, beef kidney, salmon with bone, beef heart, beef tripe, tricalcium phosphate, fish oil, mixed tocopherols (preservative), vitamin E supplement, zinc amino acid complex, iron amino acid complex, copper amino acid complex, manganese amino acid complex
Guaranteed Analysis
| Crude Protein / Protéines brutes (min) | 42% |
| Crude Fat / Matières grasses brutes (min) | 26% |
| Crude Fiber / Fibres brutes (max) | 6% |
| Moisture / Humidité (max) | 8% |
| Energy / Énergie | 4540 kcal/kg |
Feeding Guideline
Every dog is unique, and their raw feeding plan should be too. Factors like age, weight, and activity level all play a role in how much to feed. Puppies, pregnant, and nursing dogs may need up to twice as much as an adult dog. Dogs can be more selective eaters than cats, so transitioning to raw often takes extra patience and time. A gradual approach is the best way to help your dog adjust to new flavors and textures while supporting healthy digestion.
Full Raw Feeding
When transitioning completely to raw, start with 25% raw and 75% current food. Increase the raw portion gradually each day until you reach 100% raw over 7–10 days. This slow transition helps your dog's digestive system adjust comfortably.
Mixed Feeding (Raw + Kibble or Canned)
You can also feed raw alongside your dog’s current diet. Begin with a small amount of raw (such as a spoonful mixed in) and slowly increase the portion at a pace your dog accepts. Some dogs adjust quickly, while others may need more time.
Picky Eater or Sensitive Stomach?
Choose a single protein and extend the transition period to 2–3 weeks or longer. This slower approach helps with digestion and allows your dog to get comfortable with the taste, smell, and texture of raw food.
Not Sure Where To Start?
Use our Nutrition Calculator to get personalized feeding amounts based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and current diet.
| Pet Weight | Full Raw Feeding | Mixed Feeding |
|---|---|---|
| XX-Small (6 lbs) | 1 cup | 1/4 cup |
| X-Small (12 lbs) | 1 2/3 cups | 3/8 cup |
| Small (18 lbs) | 2 1/4cups | 1/2 cup |
| Medium (25 lbs) | 2 3/4 cups | 2/3 cup |
| Large (50 lbs) | 4 2/3 cups | 1 1/8 cups |
| X-Large (100 lbs) | 7 1/3 cups | 2 cups |
A 14oz bag contains about 8 cups of food.
Pro-Tip
The "Salmon-Tea" Hydration Hack: For dogs that are reluctant to drink water during the dry Canadian winter, take three Beef & Salmon Soft Nibs and crush them into a fine silt. Whisk this into a bowl of lukewarm water. The salmon oils will create an iridescent "scent slick" on the surface that triggers a dog's natural lap-reflex, ensuring they stay hydrated while getting a raw snack.
Frequent Asked Questions
Is Vital Essentials Beef & Salmon good for dogs with skin allergies?
Yes. The wild-caught salmon provides high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids which are naturally anti-inflammatory. This helps soothe itchy skin and promotes a thicker, shinier coat.
Can I use these Soft Nibs as a meal topper?
Absolutely. You can mix in 20% Soft Nibs with your dog's current kibble to provide a "raw boost" of vitamins and minerals without a full dietary overhaul.
Does this food need to be rehydrated?
While you can feed them dry, rehydrating with warm water or bone broth is recommended to help with digestion and to ensure your dog is getting enough moisture in their diet.
What Pet Parents Are Saying About This Product
Canadian pet parents in drier climates (think Calgary or Saskatoon) are reporting a "60-day coat transformation." The combination of raw beef organs and wild-caught salmon oil is effectively curing the "winter itch" without the need for additional supplements.
The "Sea-Scent" is real. Because this formula uses 99% raw animal protein including salmon skin and bone, the aroma is quite industrial when the bag is first opened. Pro-tip: It’s olfactory gold to your dog, but you might want to store the bag in a sealed container if your kitchen ventilation is subpar.