Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages
Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages scores 2.5/5 on Moesonson's label-based analysis. Its strongest factor is protein clarity (high — 80% of the recipe's protein panel is clearly named); its weakest is animal-protein content (moderate — 58% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources).
Rating
Updated Jul 2026
How this score is made
This score isn’t a hand-wavy impression: it reads what the label actually prints — the ingredient list, guaranteed analysis and AAFCO adequacy statement — and runs it through the same algorithmic rubric as every other product. No brand pays for placement, and there are no affiliate links on reviewed products.
Is Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages dry dog food good?
Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages is a dry dog food rated 3 stars, with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content. The recipe lists most animal ingredients by name and features real muscle meat as a primary protein source. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish but contains Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
Cons
- Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.
Nutrition Breakdown
| Protein | 31% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 18% |
| Est. Carbs | 37% |
| Fiber | 6% |
| Ash | 8% |
Moisture (10%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.
Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.
| Protein | 28% |
|---|---|
| Fat | 16% |
| Est. Carbs | 34% |
| Fiber | 6% |
| Moisture | 10% |
| Ash | 7% |
Ash value not listed on label; 7% used as a standard estimate.
As-fed values are the raw percentages printed on the product label.
Tips
- Protein is Medium (31% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This may be reasonable for many adult dogs, though active, growing, pregnant, or nursing dogs may need a more specific fit.
- Fat is High (18% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. It can support calorie needs for active or growing dogs, but portion control and pancreatitis history deserve extra attention.
Ingredients Analysis
39 of 39 matched
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1 Duck
Animal ProteinDescription
A novel animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also rich in vitamin B3, B2, selenium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Ground Whole Peas
Plant Protein CarbsDescription
Ground whole peas providing plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Why Prefer?
Named plant ingredient providing protein and fiber.
Digestion Concern
May cause gas or bloating in some pets.
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3 Duck Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A novel animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also rich in vitamin B3, B2, selenium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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4 Pea Protein
Plant Protein ConcentrateDescription
Extracted protein from pea in a dry process. It contains 45 - 55% protein, which will significantly boost up the overall protein content of pet foods.
Why Notice?
High level of plant-based protein is not easy to digest and offers less biological value. Good quality pet foods should obtain sufficient protein from animal sources.
Digestion Concern
The process will concentrate the level of oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that is indigestible by dogs / cats. It offers much less biological value (less absorbed by the body) to pets compared to animal protein.
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5 Canola Oil
FatDescription
Oil extracted from canola seed, high in omega 6 fats and contains a small amount of trans-fats which is not optimal for health.
Why Concerned?
A controversial, less optimal choice of fat.
Digestion Concern
High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
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6 Ground Whole Green Lentils
Plant Protein CarbsDescription
Ground whole green lentils providing plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
Why Prefer?
Named plant ingredient providing protein and fiber.
Digestion Concern
May cause gas or bloating in some pets.
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7 Fish Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of unnamed fish. It is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh fish on dry matter basis.
Why Notice?
It does not state what kind of fish is used to make the ingredient. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.
Uncertain/Risky
Unnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.
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8 Tapioca
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler as a source of vitamin Bs, iron, manganese, and calcium.
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9 Ground Whole Chickpeas
Plant Protein CarbsDescription
Ground whole chickpeas providing plant-based protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.
Why Prefer?
Named plant ingredient providing protein and fiber.
Digestion Concern
May cause gas or bloating in some pets.
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10 Pea Fiber
CarbsDescription
Produced by separating the starch of peas from fiber, consists mainly of insoluble fiber, contains around 6 - 12% protein.
Why Concerned?
A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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11 Dicalcium Phosphate
SupplementDescription
A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods. It is also found in some toothpaste as a polishing agent.
Why Notice?
A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.
Digestion Concern
It does not absorb any water, almost insoluble, and becomes very hard in digesting.
Uncertain/Risky
Studies show that it can cause the formulation of kidney stones.
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12 Natural Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.
Why Concerned?
Contrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.
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13 Ground Whole Flaxseed
FatDescription
One of the richest sources of plant-based omega 3s, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains around 41% of fat, 57% of the total fatty acids is omega 3s.
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14 Monosodium Phosphate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of phosphate, has 5 - 15% less absorption rate compared to the organic form. Phosphorus is essential for various body functions, especially critical to maintain normal metabolism.
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15 Potassium Chloride
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.
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16 Choline Chloride
SupplementDescription
Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.
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17 Inulin
CarbsDescription
A prebiotic that promote friendly bacteria in the gut and support better digestion.
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18 Taurine
SupplementDescription
An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.
Why Prefer?
A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).
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19 Zinc Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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20 Iron Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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21 Sea Salt
OthersDescription
Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.
Why Concerned?
A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.
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22 Glucosamine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
The most common joint supplement for reducing the level of pain and inflammation.
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23 Yucca Schidigera Extract
CarbsDescription
Yucca schidigera is a desert plant found in the arid southwestern US and Mexico. It has been shown to reduce fecal aroma (poop's smell) without any harmful effect.
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24 Chondroitin Sulfate
SupplementDescription
Derived from animal parts containing cartilage, as a supplement to support joint health.
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25 Vitamin E Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.
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26 Copper Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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27 Manganese Proteinate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% higher absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is essential for normal metabolic function with the body.
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28 Niacin Supplement
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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29 Vitamin A Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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30 D-calcium Pantothenate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.
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31 Riboflavin Supplement
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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32 Thiamine Mononitrate
SupplementDescription
An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
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33 Vitamin D3 Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin D3 (animal-derived), which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).
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34 Vitamin B12 Supplement
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.
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35 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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36 Calcium Iodate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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37 Folic Acid
SupplementDescription
A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.
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38 Sodium Selenite
Food AdditiveDescription
An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.
Why Concerned?
A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.
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39 Rosemary Extract
CarbsDescription
A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.
Tips
- Some protein sources are less clear: Fish Meal appear near the top without a clearly defined animal source.
- Plant protein signal: Ground Whole Peas, Pea Protein, Ground Whole Green Lentils may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Higher-priority ingredients to review: Pea Protein, Fish Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate.
- Higher-caution ingredients: Fish Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate have caution notes in the ingredient database.
- Possible digestion triggers: Ground Whole Peas, Pea Protein, Canola Oil, and 4 more have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 80%
- Unnamed 20%
Strong clarity: 80% of Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 20% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Named protein ingredients let you verify the source and check for allergens.
Contributing ingredients
Named
Unnamed
Animal Protein
Moderate- Animal 58%
- Plant 12%
- Plant concentrate 30%
Mixed protein sources in Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages: 58% animal, 12% whole plants, and 30% plant-protein concentrates. The recipe combines meat with notable plant-protein signals.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Plant concentrate
Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages dry dog food Review
Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages is a solid mid-tier dry dog food at 3 stars, with high ingredient transparency and moderate animal protein content. It has clear strengths alongside a few trade-offs worth weighing.
Best for
- Owners who want clearly named protein sources
- Pets avoiding gluten grains
Avoid if
- You're avoiding legumes
- You need to know the exact animal source of every protein
- You're avoiding plant-protein concentrates like pea or soy isolate
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 80% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Plant-protein concentrates appear in the top 10 ingredients: Pea Protein.
- Contains common allergens: Legumes, Poultry, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
- On a dry-matter basis: 31% protein, 18% fat, 37% estimated carbohydrates.
- Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish.
Frequently asked questions
Is Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages good for dogs?
Mostly — Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages is a solid mid-tier choice at 3 out of 5 stars on Moesonson’s label-based analysis, pairing high ingredient transparency with moderate animal protein content. It shows real strengths alongside a few trade-offs, so weigh the ingredient list against your dog’s needs — allergies, life stage and protein preference.
Does Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages contain Dairy?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages does not include Dairy or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages contain Egg?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages does not include Egg or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Does Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages contain Legumes?
Yes — according to the printed ingredient list, Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages contains Legumes. Pets with a known Legumes sensitivity should generally avoid this recipe, or check with a veterinarian first. Moesonson flags allergens directly from the label’s ingredient panel, so this reflects what the manufacturer actually declares.
Does Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages contain Nuts?
No — based on the printed ingredient list, Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages does not include Nuts or closely related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid that trigger here. Recipes do get reformulated, though, so re-check the packaging before feeding — Moesonson’s reading reflects the label at analysis time.
Is Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages grain-free?
Yes — Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages is grain-free according to its printed ingredient list: no gluten grains (like wheat) and no gluten-free grains (like rice or corn) appear in the recipe. That makes it a candidate for pets with diagnosed grain sensitivities, though grain-free offers no automatic benefit for pets without one.
What are the main protein sources in Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages?
The main animal proteins in Oven-Baked Tradition Grain-Free Duck Small Breed All Life Stages are Duck, Duck Meal. Each is named by species on the printed ingredient list — a protein-clarity strength in Moesonson’s scoring, because named sources let you verify what your dog is eating and avoid specific proteins when managing food allergies.
