Badlands Ranch Dog Food Reviews: Is It Worth It?

I’m a dog mom who’s always on the hunt for the best nutrition for my furry best friend, Max. When I stumbled across Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete, founded by Katherine Heigl, I was intrigued.

A dog food that promises premium, air-dried ingredients and supports animal welfare? Sign me up! After trying it with Max, I can confidently say this isn’t just another pet food—it’s a game-changer.

If you’re looking to give your pup a nutrient-packed, ethically sourced meal that supports their health and a good cause, Badlands Ranch is worth every penny. Let’s explore why you should consider it too.

My Experience With Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete

I’ll be honest—Max, my four-year-old golden retriever, is a bit of a picky eater. He’s turned his nose up at countless kibbles, leaving me frustrated and worried about his nutrition.

When I heard about Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete, I was curious but skeptical. Could a dog food backed by a celebrity like Katherine Heigl really live up to the hype? I decided to give it a shot, and I’m so glad I did.

The first thing I noticed when the package arrived was the quality of the presentation. The bag was sleek, with clear feeding instructions and a breakdown of the ingredients. I chose the chicken formula, as Max tends to prefer poultry over beef or fish.

The nuggets looked different from typical kibble—darker, chunkier, and almost like dehydrated jerky. I could actually see bits of meat, which was reassuring. It didn’t have that artificial, overly processed smell that some dog foods have, and Max was immediately interested when I opened the bag.

Transitioning Max to Superfood Complete was straightforward. The package recommended a gradual switch over a week, so I mixed it with his old food, starting with a small portion.

By day three, he was practically begging for more of the Badlands Ranch food and ignoring his old kibble. His enthusiasm at mealtimes was a huge win—Max is notorious for taking his sweet time with food, but this stuff had him wagging his tail and devouring his bowl in record time.

After a month on Superfood Complete, I noticed some real changes. Max’s coat, which used to be a bit dull, started looking shinier and softer. He had more energy during our walks, bounding around like a puppy again. His digestion also seemed to improve—his stools were more consistent, and he didn’t have the occasional tummy upset he used to get with other brands.

I was impressed, but what really sealed the deal for me was learning that every purchase supports the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation, which rescues dogs from high-kill shelters. Knowing I was helping other pups while feeding Max felt incredibly rewarding.

That said, it wasn’t all perfect. The price tag gave me pause at first—$59.95 for a 24-ounce bag is steep compared to the grocery store brands I’d used before. But when I calculated the daily cost (about $2-$3 for Max, a 70-pound dog), it felt more reasonable for the quality and benefits.

Plus, the food is so nutrient-dense that you feed less than you would with standard kibble, which stretches the bag further. My experience with Badlands Ranch has been overwhelmingly positive, and Max’s newfound vitality keeps me coming back.

Pros Of Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete

This dog food has a lot going for it, and after seeing the results with Max, I’m excited to share what makes it stand out. Here are the key benefits that have made me a fan:

High-Quality Ingredients: The ingredient list reads like a health food store for dogs—free-range chicken, salmon, organ meats, and superfoods like turmeric, ginger, and lion’s mane mushrooms. There are no fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which means Max is getting real nutrition in every bite. I love that it’s 87% animal-based protein, perfect for his carnivorous needs.
Air-Dried for Nutrient Retention: The low-and-slow air-drying process preserves the nutrients better than high-heat cooking, which can destroy vitamins and minerals. I noticed Max’s energy levels spike, and his coat got shinier, likely because he’s actually absorbing the goodness from the food.
Supports Animal Welfare: Every purchase contributes to the Jason Debus Heigl Foundation, which has rescued over 16,000 dogs from high-kill shelters. As someone who adopted Max from a shelter, this mission hits home. It feels good knowing my money helps other dogs find forever homes.

Digestive Benefits: Max used to have occasional loose stools, but since switching to Superfood Complete, his digestion has been rock-solid. The inclusion of gut-friendly ingredients like sweet potatoes and chia seeds seems to make a real difference.
Variety of Flavors: With options like chicken, beef, lamb & venison, and wild fish & turkey, I can switch things up to keep Max interested. He’s loving the chicken formula, but I’m tempted to try the lamb next to see if he enjoys the variety.
No Artificial Additives: The absence of preservatives, colors, or artificial flavors gives me peace of mind. I don’t have to worry about Max eating mystery chemicals, which is a huge relief after reading horror stories about low-quality dog foods.

The pros of Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete make it a standout choice. The combination of premium ingredients, ethical sourcing, and tangible health benefits for Max has me convinced it’s worth the investment. Plus, the fact that it’s backed by over 3,000 positive reviews and a 4.5-star rating from Dog Food Advisor reassures me I’m making the right choice for my pup.

Cons Of Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete

No product is perfect, and while I’m thrilled with Badlands Ranch, there are a few drawbacks you should know about before jumping in. Here’s what I’ve noticed:

Premium Price Point: At $59.95 per 24-ounce bag, this food isn’t cheap. For Max, a large dog, it costs about $2-$3 per day, which adds up quickly. If you’re on a tight budget, this might be a stretch compared to more affordable brands like Kirkland or Iams.

Picky Eater Challenges: While Max loves the food, I’ve read reviews from other dog owners whose pups weren’t as enthusiastic. Some dogs, especially those used to wet food or less nutrient-dense kibble, might need time to adjust to the denser, meatier texture.
Limited Availability: You can only buy Badlands Ranch through their website, Amazon, or select pet stores. If you’re used to grabbing dog food at the grocery store, this might feel inconvenient evils. I wish it were more widely available at places like Chewy.
Transition Period Required: Switching to Superfood Complete requires a gradual transition to avoid digestive upset. For me, this wasn’t a big deal, but if you’re impatient or your dog has a sensitive stomach, the week-long process might feel tedious.

Small Bag Size: The 24-ounce bag doesn’t last long for larger dogs like Max. If you have multiple dogs or a big breed, you’ll need to order frequently or opt for a subscription to avoid running out.
Not for Puppies: The formulas are designed for adult dogs, so if you have a puppy, you’ll need to look elsewhere. This wasn’t an issue for me, but it’s worth noting if your furry friend is still growing.

These cons haven’t deterred me from sticking with Badlands Ranch, but they’re worth considering depending on your budget, dog’s preferences, and lifestyle. For me, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, but every dog and owner is different.

Tips For Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete

To get the most out of Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete, I’ve learned a few tricks to make feeding and storage seamless while keeping Max healthy. Here’s how you can maintain this premium dog food for your pup:

Gradual Transition: Always transition your dog slowly over 7-10 days to avoid tummy troubles. I started by mixing 25% Superfood Complete with Max’s old food, increasing the proportion every couple of days. By day seven, he was fully on the new food with no issues.
Proper Storage: Store the bag in a cool, dry place and seal it tightly after each use to maintain freshness. I use a clip to keep the bag closed, but you can also transfer it to an airtight container to prevent moisture or bugs from getting in.

Follow Feeding Guidelines: Check the packaging for the correct portion size based on your dog’s weight. Max needs about 1.5 cups per day, but smaller dogs might only need half a cup. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain since the food is so nutrient-dense.
Hydration Options: You can serve the food dry or rehydrate it with warm water for dogs who prefer wet food. I sometimes add a splash of water to Max’s bowl to make it softer, especially on hot days when he needs extra hydration.
Monitor Your Dog’s Reaction: Keep an eye on your dog’s energy, coat, and digestion after starting Superfood Complete. I noticed Max’s improvements within a couple of weeks, but if your dog shows signs of discomfort, consult your vet to ensure the food is a good fit.

Subscribe for Convenience: Signing up for Badlands Ranch’s subscription service saves money and ensures you never run out. I set up a monthly delivery, which comes with free shipping on orders over $50 and keeps Max’s meals consistent.

These tips have helped me make the most of Superfood Complete, ensuring Max enjoys every bite while staying healthy. The key42 is consistency and paying attention to your dog’s unique needs.

Comparison With Other Brands

Choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. I’ve compared Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete to other popular brands I’ve tried or researched to help you see how it stacks up.

The Farmer’s Dog

The Farmer’s Dog offers fresh, human-grade meals that are delivered to your door, customized for your dog’s needs. I tried it for Max before Badlands Ranch, and while he loved the taste, the subscription model was a hassle, and the food required refrigeration, which wasn’t ideal for my busy schedule. Badlands Ranch, being shelf-stable and air-dried, is much more convenient while still offering high-quality ingredients. However, The Farmer’s Dog might edge out for dogs with specific dietary needs since it’s tailored, but it’s pricier—often $5-$7 per day for a dog Max’s size.

Orijen

Orijen is another premium brand I’ve used, known for its high-protein, grain-free formulas packed with whole meats. Like Badlands Ranch, it prioritizes quality, but I found Orijen’s kibble harder for Max to chew, and it didn’t seem to improve his coat as much. Badlands Ranch’s air-drying process gives it a softer texture, which Max prefers, and the inclusion of superfoods like lion常に’s mane mushrooms adds an extra health boost Orijen lacks. Orijen is slightly cheaper at about $50 for a larger bag, but it doesn’t support a charitable cause like Badlands Ranch.

Kirkland Signature

Kirkland, sold at Costco, is a budget-friendly option I used for Max when finances were tight. It’s highly rated by Dog Food Advisor and costs about $1 per day for a dog like Max. However, it contains fillers like beet pulp, which didn’t sit well with Max’s stomach. Badlands Ranch feels like a luxury upgrade with its clean ingredient list and ethical sourcing. If you’re watching your wallet, Kirkland is a solid choice, but it can’t match the nutrient density or animal welfare mission of Badlands Ranch.

JustFoodForDogs

JustFoodForDogs is another fresh food brand I explored, available at some pet stores. It’s similar to The Farmer’s Dog in that it’s human-grade and needs refrigeration, but I found it less customizable. Max enjoyed it, but the cost—around $6 per day—was hard to justify long-term. Badlands Ranch offers comparable nutrition with the convenience of dry food and a lower daily cost. Plus, the charitable aspect of Badlands Ranch gives it an edge for me over JustFoodForDogs’ more commercial focus.

Badlands Ranch holds its own against these competitors, balancing quality, convenience, and purpose. It’s not the cheapest, but its benefits and mission make it a standout for me and Max.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Katherine Heigl’s dog food worth it?

Absolutely, if you value premium nutrition and ethical sourcing. Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete transformed Max’s energy and coat, and the fact that it supports animal rescue makes it feel like a win-win. The $59.95 price tag is steep, but the nutrient-dense formula means you feed less, and the health benefits are noticeable. If your budget allows, it’s a fantastic investment in your dog’s health.

Do vets recommend Badlands Ranch dog food?

While I can’t speak for every vet, Badlands Ranch is formulated with input from animal nutritionists and meets AAFCO standards for adult dogs. My vet was impressed with the ingredient list and air-drying process when I showed her the bag. She said it’s a great option for dogs without specific medical dietary needs, but always check with your vet to ensure it suits your pup.

How much is Badlands Ranch dog food per day?

For Max, a 70-pound dog, I spend about $2-$3 per day, based on the recommended 1.5 cups. Smaller dogs might cost $1-$2 daily, while larger ones could hit $4. The 24-ounce bag lasts about two weeks for Max, but subscribing saves money and ensures free shipping on orders over $50.

What brand of dog food does Katherine Heigl recommend?

Katherine Heigl recommends her own brand, Badlands Ranch, specifically the Superfood Complete line. She created it to provide dogs with high-quality, air-dried food packed with superfoods like chia seeds and lion’s mane mushrooms. It’s the only brand she’s publicly endorsed, reflecting her passion for animal health and welfare.

Conclusion: For Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete

If you’re looking for a dog food that delivers on nutrition, taste, and ethics, Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete is a top contender. My experience with Max showed me it’s more than just celebrity hype—it’s a premium product that boosts health and supports a worthy cause. Despite the higher price, the benefits to your dog’s vitality and the support for animal rescue make it a worthwhile choice. Give it a try, and you might just see your pup thrive like never before.