Brand-based dog food reviews

There are six different dog food brands from Acana that have been formulated to meet the requirements for large dogs. All of them are dry dog foods, with some being labeled as ‘premium’ or ‘limited ingredient.’

Having analyzed the ingredients of each, I found Acana’s brands to be above average in quality, but not exceptional. For example, some of their ‘large-breed adult formula’ contains 27% protein and others have 10% fat, which is a little on the low side for large dogs. However, it does contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health – all good things.

Before we review the recipes, let’s first go through some basics;

What is Acana dog food brand?

Acana is a Canadian pet food company that was founded in 1975. It is owned by Champion Petfoods, which also owns the Orijen brand. Acana’s dry dog foods are made in their own kitchens in Alberta, Canada. Champion Petfoods is a renowned pet food producer that has been operating for more than 25 years and has earned a reputation of trust throughout the globe.

What are the nutritional requirements of large-breed dogs?

• Protein: Large and giant breed pups should consume diets that contain at least 30% protein on DM basis, preferably high quality. Protein is important for lean muscle development and maintenance.
• Fat: Fat is a vital source of energy for large breed dogs. At least 9% fat in their diet is recommended.
• Calcium: Calcium is essential for proper bone development in large breeds. 1.5% or 3 grams/1,000 kcal) calcium on a dry matter basis is ideal for puppies of large-breed dogs and around 1% is sufficient for adult and senior dogs.
• Phosphorus: Phosphorus works with calcium to ensure proper bone development. A Calcium to Phosphorus ratio ranging from 1:1 to 1.3 is ideal for puppies.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Large breed dogs have increased requirements for some vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption. Puppies need higher levels of certain vitamins, such as niacin (B3) and choline (B4), to support their rapid growth. Puppies and adult dogs of large breeds need higher levels of vitamins A, C and D3 for proper development and function of different body systems. Adult dogs require at least 5 IU/kg (2,500 IU/kg) of vitamin A, 10 mg/kg (5,000 mg/kg) of choline, 200 mg/kg (100,000 mg/kg) of vitamin C and 500 IU/kg (250,000 IU/kg) of vitamin D3.
• L-Carnitine: L-carnitine is an amino acid that helps the body to use fat as an energy source. It is required in higher amounts by large breed dogs. The recommended amount is 50-100 mg/kg of dry matter.

List of 6 Acana Dog Food Brands for Giant-breed dogs:

• ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
• ACANA Light & Fit Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food
• ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
• ACANA Sea to Stream Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food
• ACANA Free-Run Poultry Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog FoodACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

Reviews:

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient – Lamb and Pumpkin

Acana Singles+ Diet is my favorite for its dense nutrients that makes them ideal for large dogs.

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains is a grain-free, protein-rich diet formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages. This recipe features an exclusive blend of single animal proteins and no plant proteins or pea protein isolates. With fresh deboned salmon, herring meal and whole eggs, these nutrient-dense ingredients supply your dog with a broad range of amino acids for building muscle tissue that’s strong and healthy. Whole pumpkin and butternut squash are added for fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, while flaxseed provides a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids. The result is a diet that’s easy to digest and nutritionally dense, perfect for large dogs with big appetites.

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food is a premium, all-natural dog food that is designed to support peak functionality. With a proprietary heart-healthy vitamin pack, this food supports the proper function of the nervous and circulatory systems. ACANA’s kitchen is 100% free from artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and the ingredients are all-natural and gluten-free.

Ingredients:

• Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Oat Groats, Whole Sorghum, Lamb Liver

Pros:

• Limited ingredient diet Grain-free
• All-natural ingredients
• No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
• Gluten-free

Cons:

None that I can think of!I would highly recommend ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet to any dog owner, but especially to those with large breed dogs. The all-natural ingredients and lack of artificial flavors, colors or preservatives make this food perfect for dogs with sensitivities or allergies. And, the limited ingredient diet makes it easier to digest for large breed dogs with big appetites.

ACANA Light & Fit Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food

ACANA Light & Fit recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages.

The first 2 ingredients in this nutrient-dense, high-protein recipe are fresh or raw chicken and turkey. The fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. ACANA Light & Fit recipe contains no grains, potatoes or peas. It features fresh or raw veggies and fruit, including whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples and pears.

ACANA Light & Fit recipe is a grain-free dog food that contains no corn, soy, wheat or tapioca. It is made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients and contains freeze dried chicken and turkey for lip smacking flavor. ACANA Light & Fit recipe provides your dog with natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint health. This formula also has omega fatty acids from fish oil to support healthy skin and coat. The fresh fruits, vegetables, botanicals and antioxidants give your dog essential nutrients in a complete and balanced recipe.

Ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Whole Red Lentils,

Pros:

1. Grain-free
2. No corn, soy, wheat or tapioca
3. Made in the USA with world’s finest ingredients
4. Freeze dried chicken and turkey for flavor
5. Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin
6. Omega fatty acids from fish oil Fresh fruits and vegetables

Cons:

1. None that I can think of!I would highly recommend ACANA Light & Fit Recipe to any dog owner, but especially to those with large breed dogs. The grain-free recipe is perfect for dogs with sensitivities or allergies and the freeze dried chicken and turkey add delicious flavor.

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pumpkin Recipe

Looking for a limited ingredient diet that provides your large canine with all the nutrient-dense diet they need? ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pumpkin is perfect! This recipe is crafted with only one animal protein source – duck – and zero peas or plant-protein isolates, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. Butternut squash and pumpkin are added for their rich fiber content and nutritional value, as well as their ability to support optimum gut health.

ACANA Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pumpkin supports peak functionality with a proprietary heart-healthy vitamin pack, which supports the proper function of the nervous and circulatory systems. Zero artificial flavors, colors or preservatives are added in ACANA’s kitchen. 100% free from legume, gluten and potato ingredients.

ACANA Sea to Stream Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food

ACANA Sea to Stream Recipe is a grain-free, gluten-free recipe that features a fresh, raw whole fish and seafood foundation. Handcrafted in our kitchens with care from the world’s best ingredients, ACANA delivers precisely balanced nutrition for your dog. The first 3 ingredients are nutrient-dense, herring, mackerel and catfish which are also high in protein. These raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness to lock in nutrients and flavor.

ACANA Sea to Stream Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food is a high-quality, nutritious food that your dog will love. Made with zero artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, this food is free from legume, gluten and potato ingredients.

ACANA Free-Run Poultry Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food

Looking for nutritious, grain-free dog food? ACANA’s Free-Run Poultry Recipe + Wholesome Grains is perfect for your pup! The first 2 ingredients are fresh or raw, nutrient-dense chicken and turkey, which are also high in protein. The fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the only method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. Crafted with wholesome grains, butternut squash and pumpkin, which are rich in fiber, highly nutritious and support optimum gut health.

ACANA Free-Run Poultry Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food is a grain-free recipe that features fresh chicken, turkey meal and whole eggs. It also has fresh Atlantic cod, wild-caught flounder and haddock. This formula is designed to support peak functionality with a proprietary heart-healthy vitamin pack, which supports the proper function of the nervous and circulatory systems. ACANA’s high quality proteins are naturally rich in essential amino acids needed by your dog for muscle development, repair and maintenance. 100% free from legume, gluten and potato ingredients.

ACANA Grass-Fed Lamb Recipe + Wholesome Grains Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food

ACANA Grass-Fed Lamb Recipe is a grain-free, gluten-free recipe that features a fresh, raw lamb foundation.

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

ACANA Puppy Recipe is a grain-free, fresh or raw dog food that provides the nutrients to support your puppy’s growth and development.

The first 2 ingredients in this nutrient-dense recipe are fresh or raw chicken and turkey. The fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. ACANA Puppy Recipe also contains whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples and pears, which are nutritious and high in fiber.

This food is made without corn, soy, wheat or tapioca, and is coated with freeze-dried chicken and turkey to give it a lip-smacking flavor. ACANA Puppy Recipe is also made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients, ensuring that your pup gets the best possible nutrition.

Ben W. Domb

Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com

ourpetshq.com

Acana recently improved the recipe for most of its dry dog food brands including the Acana Grassland dog food brand. Acana Grassland is a dry, grain-free premium dog food brand made from nutrient-dense ingredients. The recipe is designed to meet the needs of all life stages and all breeds of dogs.

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food Review

About Acana:

Acana is a Canadian pet food company that produces biologically appropriate foods for dogs and cats. The company is headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. All Acana products are made in the company’s own kitchens in Kentucky and Alberta.

Acana is owned by Champion Petfoods, a privately-held pet food company based in Edmonton, Alberta.

Champion Petfoods was founded in 1985 by brothers Peter and Andrew Milburn. The company produces several premium pet food brands, including Orijen and Acana.

Acana Grasslands Dog Food Ingredients Review

ACANA Grasslands is a delectable, high-protein recipe that combines fresh and raw ingredients with the goodness of freeze-dried raw. The first 3 ingredients are fresh or raw lamb, duck and eggs.

Fresh lamb is always the #1 ingredient in ACANA recipes, followed by fresh whole fish – never any “fish meal” or other inferior protein sources. This formula also includes free-run chicken and eggs, which provide excellent levels of amino acids for strong muscles and bones. And because this recipe has no

The first five ingredients in Acana Grasslands dog food are:

• Deboned Lamb,
• Deboned Duck,
• Eggs,
• Lamb Meal,
• Goat Meal

As you can see, the first two ingredients are meat sources. This is followed by eggs, which are an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. The fourth and fifth ingredients are lamb meal and goat meal. These are both high-quality sources of protein.

The next ingredient is Catfish Meal. Catfish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a healthy alternative to other fish meals, such as a salmon meal.

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food is a biologically appropriate diet that features fresh or raw veggies and fruit, including whole pumpkin, collard greens, butternut squash, apples and pears. This high-fiber food is nutritious and helps keep your dog healthy and fit.

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food is a grain-free food made without added corn, soy, wheat or tapioca. The food is coated with freeze-dried lamb and duck for lip-smacking flavor that your dog will love.

ACANA Grasslands Calories:

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food provides your dog with all the nutrients they need to thrive, including 3,405 kcal/kg and 388 kcal/cup. With a variety of fresh meat proteins and low-glycemic carbohydrates, this food supports healthy blood sugar levels and strong muscle growth.

ACANA also features omega-3 and -6 fatty acids to promote a healthy skin and coat, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.

Nutritional Analysis:

• Crude protein: 33%
• Crude fat:17% min
• Crude fiber:6%
• Moisture:12% max

Acana Grassland is made up of 33% protein, 17% fat and 6% fiber. The food is also 12% moisture in crude form.

The crude protein in Acana Grassland is made up of 33% animal-based proteins and 67% plant-based proteins.

The crude fat in Acana Grassland is made up of 17% animal-based fats and 83% plant-based fats.

The crude fiber in Acana Grassland is made up of 6% soluble fibers and 94% insoluble fibers.

The moisture in Acana Grassland is made up of 12% water and 88% dry matter.

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food Review: The Bottom Line

ACANA Grasslands Dog Food is a high-quality, grain-free food made with fresh and raw ingredients. The food is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for dogs who are looking to maintain their weight or build muscle mass. The food is also packed with essential nutrients, including omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin. Overall, ACANA Grasslands Dog Food is a great choice for dogs of all ages and activity levels. Check out other Acana dog food for small breeds or for puppies

If you’re looking for a grain-free food that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, then ACANA Grasslands Dog Food is a great choice for your dog. The food is also packed with essential nutrients, making it a nutritious option for dogs of all ages.

Ben W. Domb

Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com

ourpetshq.com

Acana is known for its ‘premium’ and ‘limited-ingredients’ dog food and from its 2-dozen brands, only 2 are formulated for puppies. In this post, I have reviewed the two grain-free kibble by Acana for puppies explaining the benefits including health features that your puppy will benefit from.

What Are the Best Acana Dog Foods for Puppies?

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

Our top and overall best Acana dog food for puppies has all the essential ingredients required for puppies to maintain healthy growth. Our top choice, Acana Puppy Recipe is a grain-free dry dog food brand made with nutrient-dense, high-protein recipe are fresh or raw chicken and turkey.

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best choice for your growing puppy. It features fresh or raw veggies and fruit, including whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples and pears, which are nutritious and high in fiber. ACANA Puppy Recipe contains no corn, soy, wheat or tapioca so it’s perfect for dogs with food sensitivities. The freeze-dried chicken and turkey will give your pup a tasty meal made from the world’s finest ingredients.

ACANA Wholesome Grains Puppy Recipe Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food

Our second-best Acana dog food for puppies is a gluten-free brand called Wholesome Grains Puppy Recipe. This dry food is made with fresh deboned chicken, turkey meal, and duck meal as the main sources of protein.

It also contains whole grains like oats and barley which are rich in fiber and nutrients. The addition of fruits and vegetables like carrots, apples, and sweet potatoes make this food even more nutritious.

ACANA Puppy Recipe is crafted with wholesome grains, rich in fiber and highly nutritious to support optimum gut health. With more protein, fat and omega-3 fatty acids than our Free-Run Poultry & Grains Recipe, it provides your growing puppy with the nutrients they need to develop into healthy dogs. This brand is free from legume, gluten or potato ingredients, and contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

Acana Dog food for Puppies Buying Guide

What is Acana?

Acana is a pet food company that is based in Canada and was founded in 1999. All of their foods are made in their own kitchens with ingredients from regional farms. They have a variety of different kinds of food for both dogs and cats including grain-free, limited ingredient, regional, single protein, and more.

Where is Acana Dog Food Made?

Acana has pet food manufacturing operations in Canada and in the US.

What is the Nutritional Requirement of Puppies?

Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs because they are still growing and developing. They need more calories and more protein to support their growth. Puppies also need more fat because it is a source of energy and helps them absorb certain vitamins. Puppies need certain vitamins and minerals for their bones and teeth to develop properly.

How Does Acana Dog Food Meet the Nutritional Requirements of Puppies?

Acana dog food meets the nutritional requirements of puppies in several ways.

• First, they use high-quality ingredients that are rich in nutrients. The main protein ingredient is deboned chicken which is a good source of protein for growing puppies.
• Second, they add in certain vitamins and minerals that are essential for puppies such as calcium for strong bones and teeth. They have listed that Acana puppy kibble has vitamins, and minerals ideal for good digestive health, and healthy skin & coat health.
• Third, the fat content is high enough to provide energy and help the absorption of vitamins but not so high that it would be unhealthy for puppies.
• Fourth, Acana’s brands have high-calorie content of at least 400 kcal/cup making them ideal for puppies who need more calories to support their growth.
• Fifth, Acana’s puppy food brands have the right amount of calcium and phosphorus. The right Ca:P is essential for puppies because too much phosphorus can cause problems with bone development.

What Are the Different Types of Acana Dog Food for Puppies?

There are two different types of Acana dog food that are formulated for puppies- grain-free kibble and limited ingredient kibble.

Grain-free Acana Dog food for Puppies:

The grain-free kibble is made with deboned chicken, turkey meal, and duck meal as the main protein sources.

Gluten-free Acana dog food for Puppies:

The gluten-free kibble is made with deboned chicken and is 100% free from legume, gluten, or potato ingredients.

Cost of Acana Dog food for puppies

As of this posting in July 2022, the grain-free puppy brand for puppies by Acana goes for about $70 and the gluten-free brand goes for about $41. Use the links above to check its current price.

Acana’s brands are classified as ‘premium‘ dog food brand which mean they are a little more expensive than your average kibble.

Picking the best Acana dog food for puppies really depends on your puppy’s individual needs. If your pup has any sensitivities to grains, then the grain-free option is the best way to go. If cost is a factor, then the gluten-free brand is a little cheaper. Either way, you can’t go wrong with Acana’s puppy food brands

Acana All-life-stages vs Acana Dog Food for Puppies:

On Acana’s website, you’ll find a long list of dog food formulated for ‘all-life-stages’ including puppies. As mentioned above, only two are specifically formulated to meet the requirements of pets.

So, what is all life stages in dog food?

The ‘all-life-stages’ designation on a bag of pet food means that the product has been formulated to meet the nutritional needs of puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs alike.

While all life stages food is fine to feed your puppy, it’s not as nutritionally dense as food made specifically for puppies. If you can afford it, we recommend feeding your puppy food made specifically for their life stage.

What this means:

Choose from the 2 puppy-specified dog food by Acana. Don’t fall for all-life stages brands as they are not as nutritionally dense. Read more about the pros and cons of all life stages dog food

FAQs on Acana Dog Food for Puppies

Q: What is the best Acana dog food for puppies of 0 to 10 months?

A: The best Acana dog food is the Acana Puppy Recipe grain-free dry dog food. This brand has a revised recipes that has improved formulation making it suitable for puppies of small, medium, and large-breed dogs. Read our other reviews of the best Acana dog food for small-breed dogs.

Ben W. Domb

Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com

ourpetshq.com

Out of the 24 Acana dog food brands that are currently available for sale on Chewy.com, Acana has described 20 of them as suitable for small breed dogs. A number of them are classified as ‘premium’ dog food or ‘limited-ingredients’ dog food recipes and are relatively more expensive compared to other regular dog food for small-size dogs.

What is a small-breed dog?

The term ‘small-breed dog’ is used to describe dogs that weigh 20 pounds or less at adulthood. Some of the most popular small-breed dogs include the Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Boston Terrier and Miniature Schnauzer. Small-breed dogs generally have a higher metabolism and higher energy levels than larger dogs, and they also tend to live longer.

What is Acana?

Acana is a pet food company that produces dog and cat food. It is owned by Champion Petfoods, which is based in Alberta Canada. The company was founded in 1975 and its products are sold in over 60 countries.

Aside from its original home in Alberta, Acana has expanded its manufacturing operations and now has facilities in Edmonton and Auburn, Kentucky. Read about their 85-acre farmland in Kentucky here.

You can also read more about the story of Acana on their about us website page.

Below is a snapshot of the Acana website’s homepage;

How Acana Markets itself as a quality premium dog food manufacturer:

On its website, Acana prides itself as a company that believes a diet of human-grade ingredients makes all the difference in pet food quality. They have described their commitment to providing dogd and cats with the highest quality nutrition using only whole foods and ingredients from trusted sources.

Acana’s recipes are crafted in small batches, so every recipe contains at least 50% premium animal proteins such as wild-caught fish or cage-free poultry. The remaining balance of each recipe consists of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, botanicals, and nutrients that have been selected for their nutritional value and ability to support overall health and wellness.

Acana also has a page on its website that is dedicated to explaining its feeding trials, ingredient sourcing and manufacturing process in more detail. Click here to read about AAFCO’s feeding trials.

Other helpful resources on Acan’s website;

1. Ingredients
2. Acana Guide to Dog treats
3. Palatability
4. Benefits of rotational feeding
5. Heavy metal in pet food

Acana relationship with Orijen:

Acana and Orijen are both made by the same company, Champion Petfoods. They are both premium pet food brands that use high quality ingredients sourced from Canada. Acana was launched in 1999 and Orijen in 1985.

Orijen is marketed as a biologically appropriate diet for dogs and cats, while Acana is marketed as a whole prey diet. Both brands use fresh and regional ingredients that are sustainably raised or caught.

The biggest difference between the two brands is that Orijen is grain-free, while Acana recipes do contain grains. Orijen also has a higher protein content than Acana recipes.

Is there Acana Dog Food for Small-breed dogs?

Yes, there are a number of Acana dog food brands that are suitable for small breed dogs. A number of them are classified as ‘premium’ dog food or ‘limited-ingredients’ dog food recipes and are relatively more expensive compared to other regular dog food for small-size dogs.

The following is a list of Acana dog food brands that are suitable for small breed dogs;

– Acana Small Breed Dog Food

– Acana Small Breed Puppy Food

– Acana Small Breed Senior Dog Food

– Acana Limited Ingredient Small Breed Dog Food

– Acana Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food

– Acana Regional Grasslands Small Breed Dog Food

Each of these recipes is made with high quality ingredients that have been carefully selected to provide small breeds with the nutrition they need. The recipes also contain a higher level of protein to help support the smaller dog’s metabolism.

What are the nutritional requirements of small-breed dogs?

Small-breed dogs require a diet that is high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates. This is because their metabolisms are much faster than those of larger dogs, and they need more calories to maintain their energy levels.

Small-breed dogs also have a higher risk of developing obesity, so it is important to feed them a diet that is balanced and nutritious.

Factors to consider when picking the best Acana Dog food for small dogs:

Protein source:

Luckily, Acana uses human-grade meat ingredients as their primary source of protein. This is important for small dogs as they require a higher level of protein in their diet to support their metabolism. Go for recipes that has fish.

Ingredients:

It is also important to consider the ingredients used in the recipe. Small dogs have delicate stomachs and can be more prone to allergies and sensitivities. Therefore, it is important to choose recipes that are limited ingredient or grain-free.

High-calorie diets:

Small-size dogs have higher metabolism and puppies of small-breed dogs used up to 20 times more energy than adult dogs. Therefore, they require a high-calorie diet to meet their energy needs. Go for Acana brands with at least 380 kcal for healthy weight maintenance for puppies and adult small-breed dogs including toy, miniature and teacup breeds.

Price:

Acana is a premium pet food brand and their recipes are relatively more expensive compared to other regular dog food brands. However, it is important to remember that you are paying for quality ingredients and a nutritionally balanced diet.

Acana Advantage:

• The first two ingredients of Acana pet food are premium meats such as fresh or raw meat, poultry organs or fish.
• Acana uses Whole prey, meat, organs and bone. It does not use meal, by-products or fillers.
• Over 10 quality animal ingredients compared with others that have less than 5.
• Acana recipes do not contain Potato or Tapioca. Potao is a cheap filler used in many pet foods.
• Acana recipes do generally not contain carrageenan, which is an inflammatory agent linked to cancer.
• No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives are used in Acana recipes.

Best Acana Dog food for small-breed dogs:

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food: Best Acana puppy small breed

The overall best Acana dog food recipe for small-breed dogs is the ACANA Puppy Recipe that is grain-free dry kibble.

ACANA Puppy Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food’s first 2 ingredients are fresh or raw chicken and turkey. The fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. This recipe also features fresh or raw veggies and fruit, including whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples and pears, which are nutritious and high in fiber.

ACANA Puppy Recipe is a real food for your puppy – with ingredients that are sustainably farmed and harvested by people we know, in places we trust. ACANA Puppy Recipe is also made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients, including responsibly raised meats from North America, wild caught fish from Canada & New Zealand and free-run chicken & turkey.

ACANA Wholesome Grains Puppy Recipe Gluten-Free Dry Dog Food

The second-best Acana dog food recipe for small-breed dogs is the Wholesome Grains Puppy Recipe. This recipe is made with fresh chicken and turkey, whole eggs, and wild-caught fish. The ingredients are free from grains, gluten, and potato.

ACANA’s Puppy Recipe is a gluten-free dry dog food crafted with fresh, nutrient-dense chicken as the very first ingredient. The recipe uses refrigeration as the only method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. This results in a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fiber and supports optimum gut health.

ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Pork and Squash: Best Acana adult small breed

Our overall best Acana food for small-breed adult dogs is the Singles Limited Ingredient Diet. Small breed dogs that weigh as low as 6kg will find this kibble important for weight and adult health maintenance.

ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet is a protein-rich kibble derived from a single animal source. Made with sweet potatoes, ACANA Singles is free from peas, corn, and plant-protein isolates. Taurine and other vitamins, minerals and antioxidants support immune and circulatory function. Free of grains, glutens and fillers, ACANA Singles provides your dog with the nutrition he needs to thrive as nature intended. Available for dogs of all life stages (adult maintenance), ACANA Singles contains no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.

This limited ingredient diet is perfect for dogs with sensitivities to ingredients, grains, or gluten. The single protein source makes it easy to identify and eliminate potential allergens.

ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Apple Recipe Grain

Our second best limited-ingredient Acana dog food for small-breed dogs is a lamb and apple recipe called ACANA Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Lamb & Apple Recipe Grain. This recipe is also grain-free, and it’s made with fresh lamb as the first ingredient. The ingredients are free from grains, gluten, and potato.

This recipe is made here in the US and is free from peas which have been linked to DCM in dogs. DCM is a heart condition that can be fatal. ACANA Singles Lamb & Apple Recipe is also free from corn, soy, and wheat which are common allergens in dogs.

This food is perfect for dogs with sensitivities to ingredients, grains, or gluten. The single protein source makes it easy to identify and eliminate potential allergens.

ACANA Free-Run Poultry Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

ACANA’s Free-Run Poultry Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a high-protein, nutrient-dense recipe made with fresh or raw turkey and chicken as the first two ingredients. The fresh ingredients are refrigerated as the sole method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. This food also features fresh or raw veggies and fruit, including whole pumpkin, collard greens, apples and pears, which are nutritious and high in fiber.

ACANA Grasslands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Another great Acana brand for small-size dogs is the grain-free Acana Grassland kibble. This is a grain-free recipe that features fresh or raw lamb, duck and eggs as its first 3 ingredients.

The fresh or raw ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, while the raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. ACANA Grasslands features whole pumpkin, collard greens, butternut squash, apples and pears to provide your dog with fiber and vitamins A & C.

ACANA Grasslands Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is made without corn, soy, wheat or tapioca, and coated with freeze-dried lamb and duck for lip-smacking flavor. Made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients, this food is perfect for dogs of all ages and sizes.

Orijen-Acana Small-Breed Dog Food

Acana and Orijen have a dog food formulation specifically made for small-breed dogs that have specific to them energy and nutrient requirements. Orijen-Acana Small-Breed Dog Food is made from nourishing protein and kibble that have high palatability

. This dog food is made with smaller kibble pieces to make it easier for small mouths and teeth to eat, as well as being higher in protein and fat content to fuel those high metabolisms.

ORIJEN’s Small Breed Dog Food kibble is packed with protein and nutrients and is shaped to be easier for smaller dogs to eat. With WholePrey animal ingredients, this food is as close to nature as you can get – delivering the nutrition your dog needs in a delicious, healthy meal.

Orijen-Acana Small Breed Dog Food is made with fresh, raw poultry and fish ingredients as the first 5 ingredients. This food uses refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, ensuring that your dog gets the most nutrient-rich food possible. Orijen-Acana is also made with raw ingredients that are frozen at their peak freshness, so you can be sure that your dog is getting the best food possible.

Ben W. Domb

Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com

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Purina has about 200 dog food brands that are listed as a special diet containing high-protein amounts. Upon further analysis of the protein content for each brand, it was clear that some have very low protein content on a dry matter basis.

What is high-protein dog food?

High-protein dog food is a complete and balanced diet that contains significantly higher levels of protein than what is typically found in most commercial pet foods. These products are designed to meet the needs of dogs who require more protein in their diets, such as working dogs, sporting dogs, and those with certain medical conditions.

Determining the quality of protein in dog food:

There are a number of ways to determine the quality of protein in dog food.

• Guaranteed analysis: One method is to look at the guaranteed analysis on the pet food label. This will tell you the minimum percentage of crude protein that is present in the food. However, this number can be misleading, as it does not take into account the quality of the protein or the digestibility of the protein.
• Dry matter basis: A more accurate way to determine the quality of protein in dog food is to calculate the percentage of protein on a dry matter basis. This takes into account the moisture content of the food and gives you a more accurate idea of the amount of usable protein that your dog will be getting.
• Biological value: Another way to determine the quality of protein in dog food is to look at the biological value. This is a measure of how well the protein is used by the body and how efficiently it is absorbed.
• Net protein utilization: Net protein utilization (NPU) is another way to measure the quality of protein in dog food. This is a measure of how much of the protein is actually used by the body and is a good indicator of the overall quality of the protein.

Why switch to a high-protein diet?

There are a number of reasons why you may want to switch your dog to a high-protein diet.

• Working dogs: Working dogs, such as police dogs, service dogs, and sled dogs, need more protein in their diets than the average pet dog. This is because they use up more energy and need more protein to help rebuild and repair their muscles.
• Sporting dogs: Sporting dogs, such as agility dogs and hunting dogs, also need more protein in their diets than the average pet dog. This is because they use up a lot of energy and need protein to help rebuild and repair their muscles.
• Dogs with medical conditions: Dogs with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, and diabetes, may also benefit from a high-protein diet. This is because protein can help to repair and rebuild damaged tissues and organs.

How to switch to a high-protein diet:

If you are interested in switching your dog to a high-protein diet, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

• Talk to your veterinarian: First, you should talk to your veterinarian about whether or not a high-protein diet is right for your dog. They can help you determine if your dog has any medical conditions that would benefit from a change in diet.
• Choose a quality food: Second, you need to choose a quality food that is high in protein. Not all high-protein foods are created equal, so it’s important to do your research and choose a food that is made with quality ingredients.
• Make the switch gradually: Finally, you need to make the switch gradually. This means slowly increasing the amount of high-protein food you give your dog while decreasing the amount of their regular food. This will help them adjust to the new diet and avoid stomach upset.

About Purina Brand:

Purina is a well-known brand of pet food that offers a variety of high-protein foods for dogs. Their products are designed to meet the needs of working dogs, sporting dogs, and those with certain medical conditions. They offer a variety of dry and canned foods, as well as treats and supplements.

Our rating:

To come up with an objective list based on our ranking and considering the special diet specifications of some of Purina’s brands, we decided to give the following marks:

• 5 paws = at least 32% protein on a dry matter basis
• 4 paws = 26-31% protein on a dry matter basis
• 3 paws = 20-25% protein on a dry matter basis
• 2 paws = 14-19% protein on a dry matter basis
• 1 paw = less than 14% protein on a dry matter basis

Bundle high-protein dog food by Purina:

• Bundle: Purina ONE Natural SmartBlend Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food, 40-lb bag + Milk-Bone Original Large Biscuit Dog Treats, 10-lb box
• Bundle: Purina ONE Natural True Instinct With Real Turkey & Venison High Protein Dry Dog Food, 36-lb bag + Milk-Bone Original Large Biscuit Dog Treats, 10-lb box

3 Best Purina High-protein Dog Food (over 30% protein)

Purina Pro Plan Puppy Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula – 34% Protein

At the top of our list if Purina Pro Plan Puppy Toy Dog Food which has the highest crude protein 34%.

Purina Pro Plan Puppy Toy Breed Dog Food is a nutritionally complete, high-performance formula for the first year of your puppy’s life. This food has been specially formulated to meet the needs of highly active toy breed dogs. It contains DHA from omega-rich fish oil to nourish brain and vision development as well as guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. The protein in this diet comes from real chicken as the first ingredient plus other quality sources like chicken meal, rice flour and whole grain corn. The result is a formula that helps your puppy build and maintain lean muscle mass for a healthy, active life.

Purina ONE True Instinct Chicken & Duck High Protein Dry Dog Food – 32% Protein

With 32% protein from real chicken as the #1 ingredient, this grain-free recipe provides essential vitamins and minerals to help support your dog’s strong muscles, including his heart—the strongest muscle of all!

Purina ONE True Instinct with Real Chicken combines the natural choice of real chicken with a blend of healthy ingredients to provide your adult dog with the nutrition he needs for his daily adventures. This formula is crafted by Purina, a brand you can trust, in U.S. facilities that are veterinarian-approved and audited regularly for quality.

Purina ONE Natural High Protein True Instinct With Real Beef & Salmon Dry Dog Food – 32% protein

Looking for a dry kibble that will help support your dog’s muscle and heart health? Look no further than Purina ONE Natural High Protein True Instinct. This adult kibble is packed with 32% crude protein, derived from real beef and salmon, to help your pup maintain healthy muscles and a strong heart. Plus, it’s free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives — and there’s no poultry by-product meal in sight. The irresistible meaty morsels have a texture that will make your best buddy beg for more, while glucosamine helps support his joint function.

Ben W. Domb

Hi there! My name is Ben Domb, an owner of two pets and I am one of the co-founders of OurPets HQ. I have several years of experience as a pet care professional in the New England region having spent time in various roles including a stint at a veterinary hospital in Upstate New York, Syracuse area. I am a certified pet care professional and mostly spend my time researching pet nutrition and sharing my thoughts in various blogs and columns. With quarantine and COVID restrictions, I have been spending a lot of time a lot with my dogs and cat and loving it! I also run a small consulting business providing advice to parents on pet nutrition, and especially safe homemade options to try. You can reach me at ben@ourpetshq.com

ourpetshq.com