Goodness Gracious Gently Cooked Chicken Recipe for Dogs

Food is medicine.

As part of Our Promise to you, we use only whole food ingredients that serve a nutritional purpose. Listed below is every ingredient and its nutritional purpose in your dog's food. We will always use whole foods - not suspect vitamin or mineral powders - so your dog gets all the goodness and vitality Mother Nature has to offer. Learn more about our Animal Welfare Commitment.

You can find our AAFCO Nutritional Profiles here.

Dark Green Vegetables (17% - 20% of our recipes):

Broccoli - is a cruciferous vegetable loaded with healthy fiber, phytonutrients, and essential vitamins and minerals like K1, B9 and potassium. It’s also rich in the powerhouse nutrient Vitamin C. Part of broccoli’s anti-cancer power comes from its richness in the plant compounds sulforaphane, indole-3-carbinol, and kaempferol. These compounds and others– like carotenoids and quercetin – found in broccoli contribute to its usefulness in treating allergies, and cardiovascular and eye health. Our broccoli is non-GMO and comes from the USA.

Kale – is a nutritional king. It comes from the same dark green vegetable family as broccoli making it a potent member of the anti-cancer arsenal. Packed with vitamins A, K, B6 and C, and minerals calcium, potassium, copper and manganese, kale is a cornerstone of a complete and balanced diet. Kale is also loaded with flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol which have powerful heart-protective, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory effects. Kale’s ability to counteract oxidative damage by fighting free radicals make it an all-around champion. Our kale is non-GMO and comes from the USA.

Swiss Chard – a member of the beet family, is one of nature’s multivitamins. It delivers 16 vitamins and important nutrients like vitamin C, K, A, E, and choline, and minerals magnesium, potassium and calcium. Swiss Chard also contains the antioxidants beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin and alpha-lipoic acid. Swiss chard’s phytonutrients are associated with multiple vascular benefits (like reduced blood pressure and endothelial cell health), with managing diabetes (through reducing glucose levels and increasing insulin sensitivity), with protecting neuromuscular health through the aging process, and in combating cancer. Our non-GMO Swiss chard comes from the USA.

Spinach – is a boatload of nutrients in one low-calorie, high-fiber package. A relative of the beet family, it is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K1, folate (B9), and E, and the minerals iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. But spinach’s unique plant compounds (carotenoids and polyphenols) are where its superpower lies. Spinach is one of the highest sources of quercetin, an antioxidant that may ward off infection and inflammation. It’s also high in lutein and zeaxanthin, which are linked to good eye health, and kaempferol an antioxidant that may lower risks of cancer and chronic disease. Spinach also contains the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid which the body uses to create glutathione (the mother antioxidant) and has been shown to protect neuromuscular health through the aging process and in diabetes management. Plus, spinach contains some of the highest amounts of SQDG and MGDG, natural compounds which have suppressed growth of cancer cells in scientific tests. Our non-GMO spinach is sourced from the USA.

Fruits and Seeds (5% - 9% of our recipes)

Blueberries – are loaded with powerful and diverse bioactive compounds that support health. Chief among them is an anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory flavonoid called anthocyanin. Other phenolic compounds such as quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin and chlorogenic acid give blueberries an antioxidant capacity no multi-vitamin could match. Large quantities of these compounds give blueberries one of the highest rankings for nutrient density on the Aggregate Nutrient Density Index (ANDI). Loaded with Vitamin C, blueberries are also packed with vitamins and minerals essential for a complete and balanced canine diet including Vitamins K, B6, B9, choline, A and E, plus potassium, magnesium, copper, phosphorus and zinc and manganese. Together, all these plant compounds make blueberries bullies for healthy bones, skin, heart, brain, and digestion and in the fight against cancer and diabetes. Our non-GMO blueberries come from the USA.

Plums – are a superfruit rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients and vitamins A, K and C. The levels of phenolics and anthocyanins in red-fleshed plums match or even exceed the amounts found in antioxidant-superstar blueberries! Plums may be helpful for reducing inflammation, cholesterol, and the risks of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. They fight bad bacteria too. We use the plum flesh only (no pits). They are non-GMO and USA sourced.

Strawberries – let’s face it – are much tastier than chalky supplements. They are loaded with nutrients only found in nature too. Strawberries are rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids are part of the polyphenol class of phytonutrients. Along with carotenoids, flavonoids are responsible for vivid colors in fruits and vegetables. Strawberries are high in flavonoids (e.g. anthocyanin, procyanidin and quercetin), and in ellagic acid (another polyphenol). These compounds possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimutagenic and anticancer properties. Strawberries are also an excellent source of vitamin C, and the essential nutrients potassium, magnesium, and folate. Our strawberries are non-GMO, USA sourced.

Apples- are just good stuff.  Hippocrates said: “all disease begins in the gut.”  The gut is a virtual organ, and the insoluble fiber in apples keeps the gut healthy and moving.  Apples also contain pectin, which is a prebiotic. Prebiotics are important because they help feed the “good” bacteria in your gut. They also boost immune function, stimulate hormone production, and aid in mineral absorb (like calcium and phosphorus). The soluble fiber in apples helps slow down digestion (including sugar digestion) making you feel full while controlling blood sugar.  Thus, apples can aid in diabetic conditions.  The soluble fiber in apples also helps prevent cholesterol buildup in the lining of blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.  We source our apples from the USA.

Sunflower Seeds – are the fruit of the sunflower. They pack a nutritious punch in a tiny package. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of manganese for joint health, and vitamin E and selenium which are highly protective against cellular free-radical damage. These seeds also contain beneficial plant compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids that are antioxidants, and linoleic acid that fights heart disease. In studies, these nutrients are associated with reductions in chronic inflammation, improved circulation, and lowering of “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. We use non-GMO USA sourced, sprouted, dried sunflower seeds which increase the presence of beneficial plant compounds.

Healthy Fats (< 1% of our recipes)

Omega-3 Fish Oil – in our recipes is a blend of Icelandic sardine, herring, anchovy and mackerel – all recognized by National Research Defense Council as the safest, cleanest and most abundant fish. Omega-3 Fish Oil contains EPA and DHA essential fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory and support healthy skin and coat, cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems and joint and cognitive function. The best pet foods have Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratios below 10:1. We use Omega-3 fish oil from Iceland – that’s tested for purity – to provide an ideal fatty acid balance in our recipes. We add the oil last so that it is never heated and retains its full potency and purity. It is a non-GMO food.

Walnut Oil – comes from the world’s healthiest nut. Walnuts contain more nutrients and antioxidants than all other nut varieties. Walnut Oil is abundant in the “good fat” alpha-linolenic acid which can help reduce cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and the risk of heart disease; and can benefit endothelial cell health. It serves this purpose in our recipes as well as being a good source of vitamins K, E and choline. Like Omega-3 Fish Oil, we never heat the walnut oil so that it retains all its health benefits. It is a non-GMO food sourced from the USA.

Boosters from the Sea (<1% of recipes)

Organic Kelp – is a sea-vegetable packed with the essential mineral iodine that all bodies (canine and human) need for health and proper thyroid function. We use the organic, non-GMO variety from Canada that’s tested for purity. Kelp is also a great source of vitamins K, A and folate, and the minerals magnesium, iron and calcium crucial for bone and cellular health. Rich in the nutrients fucoidan (a polysaccharide) and fucoxanthin (a red-orange carotenoid), kelp is one of the most effective cancer-fighting foods.

Root Vegetables (3% - 7% of our recipes)

Carrots – are a cache of phytonutrients. This little root vegetable is rich in beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A) and lutein – both of which protect eyes from the sun, cataracts, and macular degeneration. The carotenoids and anthocyanins in carrots are antioxidants that lower cancer risks and support cardiovascular health. The fiber in this non-starchy root supports GI health and helps control blood sugar making it useful in diabetes management. And the Vitamin C supports immune function and proper use of iron. The vitamins A and K and potassium in carrots make them good contributors to a complete and balanced diet. Our carrots are non-GMO and come from the USA.

Sweet Potatoes – contain anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties beyond their vitamin and mineral makeup. Science has shown the high polyphenol content of sweet potatoes and the presence of carotenoids such as beta-carotene have reduced the risk of certain cancers. Other studies have shown that sweet potato extracts are free radical scavengers capable of healing internal wounds and guarding against ulcers. The fiber in sweet potatoes is good for digestion and weight management. Sweet potatoes also are loaded with vitamins C, E, A, and B6, and magnesium and potassium, making the veggie supportive of healthy eyes, heart, joints, skin and coat. Of all the veggies we use in our recipes, sweet potatoes contain the most starch (100 g of sweet potato contains about 10 g of starch). As such, we use sweet potatoes judiciously. They make up anywhere from 0% - 6% of our recipes. Our non-GMO sweet potatoes come from the USA.

Chief Protein and Calcium Sources (61% - 76% of our recipes)

Beef Heart and Beef Liver – especially the pasture raised, grass-fed kind like we source – is a superstore of nutrition. Plus, regenerative land management practices contribute to a greener planet. Pasture raised meats are lower in total fat. They also have higher levels of vitamins, a healthier balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, and they are not prone to e-coli risks like conventionally raised cattle. In integrative veterinary medicine, beef is considered energetically warming. Our beef comes from Costa Rica. It is non-GMO.

Beef heart is rich in folate (B9), iron, zinc, selenium, B-complex vitamins, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is an antioxidant used to treat and prevent disease – particularly heart disease – and has been shown to improve energy and slow down the aging process. The B vitamins are also good for heart health as well the brain. Selenium, is a nutrient superhero, best gotten from whole foods and important in the formation of glutathione, the master antioxidant.

Beef Liver is the most nutrient dense organ meat on the planet. It is a powerful source of vitamin A, B2 and B9, iron, chromium, copper, zinc and choline (see Eggs for more on choline’s benefits). Together these nutrients support vision; immunity; cellular development; DNA formation; heart, kidney, brain, and liver function; oxygen transport; energy production; and neuromuscular health.

Pork Sirloin and Pork Liver – are lean, nutrient dense, healthy additions to a canine diet. Pork is loaded with iron, zinc, thiamine (B1), B6 and B12, and selenium. Selenium is a trace mineral with powerful anticancer capabilities, that’s also highly protective of joints from arthritis, and involved in proper thyroid function. Zinc supports a healthy immune system and is necessary for the bio-activity of over 300 enzymes. Pork proteins are complete amino acids making them the prefect building blocks for muscle.

While it might surprise you, pork liver is lean – with just 4.4 grams of fat in 100 grams of liver, and most of that fat is the healthy polyunsaturated kind. In addition to the vitamins and minerals found in pork muscle, pork liver is also a great source of vitamin A, copper, and all the B vitamins. In integrative veterinary medicine, pork is considered energetically neutral with a nourishing quality. We source our pork from the USA.

Wild Salmon – is an all-around nutritious fish high in several B vitamins, healthy Omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA), protein, selenium and potassium. It’s also a low-mercury fish. EPA and DHA have been credited with decreasing inflammation, reducing cancer risk, and improving cellular function and cardiovascular health. Selenium is supportive of healthy bones, thyroid, immunity, and is an effective warrior in the battle against cancer. Wild salmon also contains astaxanthin a member of the carotenoid family of antioxidants, astaxanthin is believed to work with Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce systemic inflammation. Our salmon comes from Alaska, USA and is non-GMO.

Wild Caught Tuna - is abundant in Omega 3 fatty acids which benefit the gut, joints, brain, and heart. These amazing polyunsaturated fatty acids support metabolic, immune, cardiovascular, neurologic and endocrine health.  Wild caught tuna is also rich in vitamins D, E, and many of the B vitamins - especially B12.  Research shows that most dogs receive insufficient vitamin D, putting them at risk for cancer, immune and metabolic dysfunction.  Vitamin E prevents damage caused by the unregulated oxidation of fats ("ALEs") in the body. B12 is critical for nerve, bone, blood, brain, and eye health, and is protective of the heart by decreasing homocysteine.  We use only the flesh of the tuna (no skin or bone) and source it frozen from Brazil.

Chicken Breast and Chicken Liver – in integrative veterinary medicine are considered energetically warming. A lean protein, chicken is an excellent source of amino acids, and promotes muscle formation and healthier bones. Chicken contains tryptophan, an amino acid that’s linked to higher levels of serotonin, the “feel good” hormone. Chicken and chicken liver are also good sources of choline, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, iron, copper and the vitamins B3 (niacin), B6, B12, A and E. We use lean, boneless, skinless chicken breast and chicken liver. We slow cook all our proteins at low temperatures sufficient for killing food borne pathogens while maintaining nutritional integrity. Our chicken is sourced from the USA.

Turkey and Turkey Liver – are considered energetically cooling in integrative veterinary medicine. It’s the perfect protein choice in warmer weather or to consider for dogs with inflammatory conditions like skin or GI distress. Turkey is an excellent source of B Vitamins, selenium, choline and zinc. It also contains tryptophan, an amino acid linked to serotonin, the “feel good” hormone. We use a combination of lean white and dark meat (all skinless and boneless); we also use turkey liver. We slow cook our proteins at low temperatures sufficient for killing food borne pathogens while maintaining nutritional integrity. Our turkey is sourced from USA farms where flocks are humanely-raised, never-ever given antibiotics, steroids, or added growth hormones.

Mackerel – from the North Atlantic is a wealth of Omega-3 essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Omega-3s support cardiovascular health, good skin and coat, cognitive function, lower triglycerides, and a wide range of anti-inflammatory actions like cancer prevention. Mackerel is rich in vitamins D and B12, and essential minerals like selenium, magnesium and potassium needed for a complete and balanced diet. These nutrients are involved in thyroid health, reducing oxidative stress, boosting immune function, and DNA replication and glutathione production. Our mackerel comes from clean Icelandic waters and is one of the most mercury-free fish on the planet. It is non-GMO.

Rabbit- is a lean and mild-flavored protein, that’s rich in B vitamins and essential trace minerals. Its low sodium and cholesterol levels make rabbit supportive of heart health.    We source our rabbit from Spain.

Eggs – behold nature’s perfect protein. Eggs contain the highest biological value for protein. It’s the gold standard – at 7 grams of high-quality protein in only 75 calories – and the complete range of amino acids. But that little egg doesn’t stop there. Eggs are powerhouses of brain-building choline, and disease-fighting carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin – which support eye health. Choline impacts liver and neuromuscular function, metabolism and cognition. Choline is needed to support the structural integrity of every cell in the body as well as cell signaling. It’s involved in the synthesis of DNA and in acetylcholine, a vital neurotransmitter involved in smooth and striated (involuntary and voluntary) muscle movement. Choline also helps remove cholesterol from the liver – making eggs supportive of good cholesterol levels. Eggs also contain all the B vitamins, high amounts of superhero selenium, and Vitamin D, among others. Our eggs come from the USA.

Ground Egg Shells – may sound like an odd ingredient but all dogs require dietary calcium and egg shells are an exceptional source of this mineral. We love the elegance of eggs. Sourced from the USA, we crack every egg by hand and use the whites, yolks and shells in our recipes. Attached to that shell is a thin membrane, rich in glucoaminoglycans and proteins essential for maintaining healthy joint and connective tissues. This is a perfect example of the beauty and benefit of sourcing nutrients from whole foods over manufactured powdered supplements; your dog gets all the perks Mother Nature intended.

An Honest To Goodness Promise From Our Kitchen To Yours

We promise to care for the nutritional well-being of your dog or cat as we would our own. We are parents of furry bundles of love, and we know that like us, these sweet souls are at the center of your heart.

Human Grade
We affirm that our ingredients are human edible, that we hand craft our treats in small batches in a licensed and inspected USA human food facility, and that we follow current Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure food safety. This is what human-grade means.

Country of Origin
We vow to source all our ingredients from the USA except when either (a.) the USA does not grow that ingredient (like bananas) or (b.) another country does a better job (as is the case with grass-fed lamb from Australia and New Zealand).

Traceability and Transparency
We dedicate ourselves to traceability of every ingredient and full transparency of sourcing. We can trace each ingredient received to the lot number of a finished product. Likewise, we can trace the lot number of each finished product back to its constituent ingredients. It's called forward and backward traceability. We also publish the country of origin for every ingredient that goes into a Goodness Gracious treat.

High-Protein
We pledge to hold ourselves to the highest nutritional standards for making species-appropriate treats. Our Hula Lula jerky and Nibbles for dogs, and our Nibbles for kitties will always be just one ingredient. This means these treats will always be high-protein, low-fat, no-carbohydrates. This makes them low-glycemic.

Sourcing Ethics
We commit to selecting humanely-raised, sustainably-grown, non-GMO, organic ingredients at every feasible opportunity.

Whole-Foods
We assure you that we will use only whole food ingredients that serve a nutritional purpose. This means our treats contain no byproducts, no meals, no preservatives, no feed-grade ingredients, no fillers, and no additives (like glycerin or rice syrup). They also contain no soy, no corn, and no gluten-containing grains (like wheat, barley, or rye). We will never use white potato or white rice either.

Minimal-Processing
We promise that our treats will be minimally-processed. We hand craft ingredients into treats using low temperature air-drying sufficient for killing food borne pathogens while retaining the fullest nutrition and flavor possible.