You are here:

※ by PetsCareLab.com

Kibbles 'n Bits Bacon & Steak Review: Budget Dog Food?

Kibbles ‘n Bits Bacon & Steak Flavor dry dog food is a budget-friendly option with a 3.6/5 star rating, featuring a dual-texture loved by picky adult dogs of all breeds. It’s best for healthy adults without dietary sensitivities.

Key Features:

✔️ This 16 lb. bag contains Kibbles ‘n Bits dry dog food, a complete and balanced diet for adult dogs.
✔️ It features a mix of crunchy kibbles and chewy bits made with real meat, delivering dog-approved bacon and steak flavors in every bite.

Comprehensive Review:

Table of Contents

Kibbles 'n Bits Bacon & Steak Flavor Review: A Budget-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser

PetsCareLab's conclusion: This budget-conscious dry food offers a unique dual-texture experience that picky adult dogs of all breeds absolutely love, though the grain-heavy recipe and artificial additives are better for pups without specific dietary sensitivities.

Product Formula and Label Analysis

When you look at a bag of Kibbles 'n Bits Bacon & Steak Flavor dry dog food, the first thing you notice is the variety. Unlike standard brown pellets, this bag is a mix of crunchy kibble and soft, meaty pieces. Our team at Petscarelab analyzed the label to see what's actually fueling your dog's energy. This formula is strictly for adult dogs—it doesn't have the high-calorie punch needed for growing puppies or the specific support required for pregnant moms. It’s designed as a maintenance diet for the everyday pet.

Nutrient Estimated Value (As Fed)
Crude Protein 19.0%
Crude Fat 8.0%
Crude Fiber 4.0%
Moisture 18.0%
Main Protein Source Beef & Bone Meal
Caloric Content ~3100 kcal/kg

Ingredient Analysis: What’s Really in the Bowl?

We took a deep dive into the bag to see what makes up those "chewy bits" and "crunchy kibbles." Here’s the breakdown of the heavy hitters in this recipe:

  • Whole Corn: This is the primary ingredient. While it's a great source of quick energy, it's a heavy grain filler that might not sit well with dogs who have sensitive stomachs.
  • Soybean Meal: This helps boost the protein percentage using plant-based sources.
  • Beef & Bone Meal: This provides the essential amino acids and minerals your dog needs. It’s a standard processed protein found in many affordable brands.
  • Animal Fat: Preserved with BHA, this fat makes the food smell and taste irresistible to dogs.
  • Corn Syrup & Propylene Glycol: These are the "secret sauce" that keeps the chewy bits soft. They add sweetness and maintain moisture so the food doesn't turn into a rock.
  • Bacon Juice & Beef Broth: These are added purely for flavor, ensuring your pup doesn't turn their nose up at dinner time.

Nutritional Analysis: Energy and Health

The protein levels in Kibbles 'n Bits Bacon & Steak Flavor dry dog food sit at around 19%, which meets the basic requirements for adult dogs but is on the lower end compared to premium, meat-first brands. The 8% fat content is also relatively low, which might actually be a plus if you have a dog that tends to pack on the pounds easily.

One thing that stands out to our research team is the moisture content. At 18%, it's much higher than typical dry kibble (which usually sits around 10%). This is what gives the food that "meaty" texture. However, it also means you need to be extra careful about sealing the bag tight to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out or attracting pests.

The Good and The Not-So-Good

Every dog food has its trade-offs. If you're looking for a meal that won't break the bank and will actually get eaten, this is a strong contender. If you're looking for an all-natural, "clean" label, you might want to keep looking.

Pros Cons
Extremely high palatability; great for picky eaters. Contains artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 2).
Very affordable price point for large 16 lb bags. Uses BHA, a controversial preservative.
Dual texture (crunchy and soft) is fun for dogs. High grain content (Corn and Wheat).
100% complete and balanced for adult maintenance. Not suitable for puppies or nursing dogs.

PetsCareLab's Rating for Kibbles 'n Bits Bacon & Steak

We've spent years looking at what goes into pet bowls, and we've given this product a score based on performance in the real world for real pet parents.

Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.6/5)
Ingredient Quality: ★★½☆☆ (2.5/5)
Taste/Palatability: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Value for Money: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Nutritional Density: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

If your dog is a healthy adult and you need a reliable food that fits the budget, Kibbles 'n Bits is a classic choice. Just make sure to keep that water bowl sparkling and fresh so your pup stays hydrated while they enjoy those savory, crunchy bites.