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ACANA

Classics Wild Coast Recipe

DogDry

Rating

★︎★︎★︎★︎☆︎ 4.5 / 5
Protein Clarity

Protein Clarity

This measures how clearly the protein sources are identified on the label. "High" means ingredients like "chicken" or "salmon" are listed by name, so you know exactly what your pet is eating. "Low" means vague terms like "meat meal" or "animal by-products" are used, making it harder to know what's really inside.

Why does clarity matter?

According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), pet food labels must follow specific naming standards. When a product uses a named protein like "chicken" it must contain at least 25% of that ingredient. Vague terms like "meat by-products" have no such minimum and can include lower-quality parts from any animal source — making it impossible to know what your pet is actually eating or to identify allergens.

High
Animal Protein

Animal Protein

This estimates how meat-forward the protein sources are from the ingredient label. Named animal proteins count strongly, plant protein concentrates count strongly against the score, and whole plant ingredients with some protein count more lightly. A "High" score means the recipe appears mainly animal-protein led. A "Low" score means the label shows a stronger reliance on plant protein signals.

This is an ingredient-label heuristic, not an exact lab measurement of protein grams.

Why does animal protein matter?

1. Contains irreplaceable essential nutrients Taurine and Arginine — which cats need to stay healthy — are only found in meat. Plants contain none at all.

2. Plant proteins are poorly utilized by the body Even though plant proteins (like corn gluten meal) may show 92.9–96% apparent digestibility, that does not mean high bioavailability. They lack adequate Lysine (only 1.7% vs. the ideal 6–7%) and contain phytic acid that blocks mineral absorption.

High

Is ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe dry dog food good?

ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe is a dry dog food rated 4.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong 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 Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Gluten grains, Legumes, Red meat, Fish.

Allergy Highlights

Contains:

Gluten grainsLegumesRed meatFish

Free From:

DairyEggNutsPoultryShellfishUnknown Meal

Pros

  • Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
  • Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.

Cons

  • Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.

Nutrition Breakdown

  • Protein 31%
  • Fat 18%
  • Est. Carbs 37%
  • Fiber 6%
  • Ash 9%

Moisture (12%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.

Dry matter basis = label value ÷ (100% − moisture%). Carbs estimated from remaining.

  • Protein 27%
  • Fat 16%
  • Est. Carbs 33%
  • Fiber 5%
  • Moisture 12%
  • Ash 8%

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.

    Understanding Medium Protein (25% - 33% Dry Matter)

    Middle Comparison Bucket This bucket is species-aware: the cat medium range starts higher than the dog range. It helps compare labels, but it is not a complete nutrition verdict.

    Cats Need Closer Review Cats are obligate carnivores and generally need more protein than dogs. For cat foods in this range, the complete-and-balanced statement and life-stage claim are especially important.

  • 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.

    Understanding High Fat (16% – 22% Dry Matter)

    Higher Calorie Density This range can support pets with higher energy needs, but it can also make overfeeding easier. Portion size, total calories, and body condition matter.

    Pancreatitis and Digestive History For dogs with pancreatitis history, fat level is often reviewed carefully. For cats, fat is only one part of the decision. Use this as a flag for vet-guided review, not as an automatic rejection.

Ingredients Analysis

52 of 52 matched

  • 1 Raw Salmon
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A fresh form of salmon, one of the most nutrient-dense fish, high in protein, omega-3s, and B vitamins.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 2 Herring Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of herring, which contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 3 Pearled Barley
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of grain that is high in carbs and fiber, along with manganese and selenium.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

    Allergen Concern

    Contains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.

    Digestion Concern

    Gluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach.

  • 4 Whole Peas
    Carbs Plant Protein

    Description

    A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.

    Digestion Concern

    Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.

  • 5 Oat Groats
    Carbs

    Description

    A whole grain that has higher protein and fats compared to other types. It is rich in B-vitamins and dietary fiber.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

  • 6 Pork Fat
    Fat

    Description

    The fatty layer separated during the cooking process. It is a quality animal fat source with a higher level of omega 6s.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 7 Whole Oats
    Carbs

    Description

    A whole grain that has higher protein and fats compared to other types. It is rich in B-vitamins and dietary fiber.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

  • 8 Chickpea Fibre
    Carbs

    Description

    Fiber extracted from chickpeas, used as a dietary fiber source.

  • 9 Fish Oil
    Fat

    Description

    Oil derived from fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA.

    Why Concerned?

    A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 10 Calcium Carbonate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 11 Potassium Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 12 Dried Kelp
    Carbs

    Description

    An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.

  • 13 Salt
    Others

    Description

    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.

  • 14 Dried Chicory Root
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.

  • 15 Fresh Whole Pumpkin
    Carbs

    Description

    An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.

  • 16 Fresh Whole Butternut Squash
    Carbs

    Description

    An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.

  • 17 Fresh Whole Carrots
    Carbs

    Description

    Fresh whole carrots, rich in alpha and beta-carotene, potassium, and vitamin B6.

  • 18 Fresh Whole Apples
    Carbs

    Description

    Whole fresh apples, containing carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants.

  • 19 Fresh Whole Pears
    Carbs

    Description

    Fresh whole pears, a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

  • 20 Fresh Whole Zucchini
    Carbs

    Description

    A summer squash rich in vitamin A, antioxidants - carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene.

  • 21 Kale
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of dark green leafy vegetables belongs to the cruciferous family. It is high in vitamin A, C, K, and other minerals, which is one of the most nutrient-dense food.

    Digestion Concern

    Contains isothiocyanates, a small molecule found in specific plants, which can cause mild to severe gastric irritation.

    Uncertain/Risky

    Contains calcium oxalate, which can cause health problems like kidney and bladder stone.

  • 22 Fresh Spinach
    Carbs

    Description

    Nutrient-dense leafy greens, an excellent source of vitamin A, C, K1, B9, iron, and calcium.

  • 23 Fresh Turnip Greens
    Carbs

    Description

    Dark leafy greens of the top of turnip, it is packed with vitamin A and C.

  • 24 Fresh Beet Greens
    Carbs

    Description

    The leafy part of a beet plant, packed with vitamins and minerals including vitamin K, copper, manganese, iron, and calcium.

  • 25 Whole Cranberries
    Carbs

    Description

    High in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is also best known for fighting Urinary Tract Infections. While it could be true for humans, the effect on pets is yet to be confirmed by further research.

  • 26 Whole Blueberries
    Carbs

    Description

    Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.

  • 27 Whole Saskatoon Berries
    Carbs

    Description

    With a similar appearance as blueberries, it is a great source of vitamin A, B, C, along with a pack of antioxidants.

  • 28 Turmeric
    Carbs

    Description

    Orange ginger-like plant often used in making curry. It contains curcumin, which is a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. However, its color is the main purpose of adding it to pet foods.

  • 29 Milk Thistle
    Carbs

    Description

    A herbal remedy often used to treat liver disorders. It has a high concentration of silymarin, which is a compound known to have antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.

  • 30 Burdock Root
    Carbs

    Description

    A long brown vegetable root that is commonly used for cleansing and detox. Past Research study suggests that it can help remove toxins from the blood and improve circulation.

  • 31 Lavender
    Carbs

    Description

    The purple flower famous for its fragrance and color. It provides a trace amount of minerals and is believed to have calming effects. However, the plant of lavender contains a compound called linalook, which is toxic to both cats and dogs. It could cause vomiting, reduced appetite, and nausea when a large quantity of lavender.

    Why Concerned?

    A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.

  • 32 Marshmallow Root
    Carbs

    Description

    A herb usually used as a remedy to treat skin, respiratory, and digestive issues. The healing power is mainly from the mucilage it contains.

  • 33 Rosehips
    Carbs

    Description

    Small red seeds that are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C, catechins, quercetin, and ellagic acid. These help the body to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

  • 34 Tocopherol Extract from Vegetable Oils
    Food Additive

    Description

    Vitamin E extract from vegetable oils, a natural preservative.

  • 35 Citric Acid
    Food Additive

    Description

    A common additive used for fat preservation. It is commonly found in citrus fruit like lemons and limes.

    Why Concerned?

    A food additive that might cause health issues.

    Digestion Concern

    Research suggests that dogs consumed dry foods containing citric acid as a preservative have a 200% increased risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloating). However, more research is required to make a solid conclusion.

  • 36 Rosemary Extract
    Carbs

    Description

    A common herb used for cooking, it is rich in antioxidants to fight off radical damages in the body.

  • 37 Choline Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.

  • 38 Taurine
    Supplement

    Description

    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).

  • 39 Zinc Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 40 Copper Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 41 Vitamin B1
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B1, which is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.

  • 42 Vitamin B2
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B2, which is vital for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia and weight loss.

  • 43 Vitamin B3
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B3, which is vital for catabolism of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, weight loss, inflammation, and ulcers of the oral.

  • 44 Vitamin B5
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B5, which is important for energy metabolism and synthesis of specific proteins and fats. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, gastritis, poor growth rate.

  • 45 Vitamin B6
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B6, which is vital for producing glucose, red blood cells, and synthesis of niacin, taurine, dopamine. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anemia, seizures, and heart-related issues.

  • 46 Vitamin B2

    (Detected): Vitamin B7

    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B2, which is vital for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia and weight loss.

  • 47 Vitamin B12
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 48 Vitamin A
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.

  • 49 Vitamin D3
    Supplement

    Description

    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).

  • 50 Vitamin E
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 51 Vitamin C
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.

  • 52 Enterococcus Faecium
    Probiotics

    Description

    A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. E. faecium is uniquely able to survive the digestive process and grow, balancing the gut environment.

Tips

  • Named animal proteins near the top: Raw Salmon, Herring Meal are listed early in the ingredient panel.
  • Plant protein signal: Whole Peas may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
  • Ingredients worth checking: Pearled Barley, Oat Groats, Whole Oats.
  • Higher-caution ingredients: Kale have caution notes in the ingredient database.
  • Possible allergy triggers: Pearled Barley have allergen notes; review them if your pet has sensitivities.

Protein Analysis

How this recipe earned its protein scores.

Protein Clarity

High
High
  • Named 100%

Strong clarity: 100% of ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 0% 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

Raw Salmon Herring Meal

Animal Protein

High
High
  • Animal 88%
  • Plant 13%

Meat-forward: 88% of the weighted protein in ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (13% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.

Contributing ingredients

Animal

Raw Salmon Herring Meal

Plant

Whole Peas

ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe dry dog food Review

ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe is a strong choice — rated 4.5 stars with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. A confident pick when the ingredient panel matches your pet's needs.

Best for

  • Owners who want clearly named protein sources
  • Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein

Avoid if

  • Your pet has a grain or gluten sensitivity
  • You're avoiding legumes

Key takeaways

  • Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
  • Contains common allergens: Gluten grains, Legumes, Red meat, Fish.
  • On a dry-matter basis: 31% protein, 18% fat, 37% estimated carbohydrates.
  • 88% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
  • Free from Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Poultry, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.

Frequently asked questions

Is ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe good for dogs?

Yes — rated 4.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.

Does ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe contain Dairy?

No — based on the ingredient list, ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe contain Egg?

No — based on the ingredient list, ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe doesn't include Egg or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe contain Legumes?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe contain Nuts?

No — based on the ingredient list, ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.

Is ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe grain-free?

No — the recipe contains Gluten grains.

What are the main protein sources in ACANA Classics Wild Coast Recipe?

The top animal proteins are Raw Salmon, Herring Meal — clearly named, so you can verify the source.

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