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Wellness CORE

Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free

DogDry

Rating

★︎★︎★︎★︎★︎ 5.0 / 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 Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free dry dog food good?

Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free is a dry dog food rated 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 Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish.

Allergy Highlights

Contains:

EggLegumesPoultryFish

Free From:

Gluten grainsGrains (gluten-free)DairyNutsRed meatShellfishUnknown Meal

Pros

  • Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
  • Contains organ meats that provide natural vitamins and minerals.
  • 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 38%
  • Fat 18%
  • Est. Carbs 32%
  • Fiber 4%
  • Ash 8%

Moisture (10%) removed so you can compare foods fairly.

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

  • Protein 34%
  • Fat 16%
  • Est. Carbs 29%
  • Fiber 4%
  • 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 High (38% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. For many healthy dogs, this can support muscle maintenance, though dogs with kidney disease or other medical conditions should follow vet-guided diet targets.

    Understanding High Protein (33% - 40% Dry Matter)

    Protein-Forward Profile This bucket suggests the food is protein-forward for the selected species. The cat threshold is intentionally higher than the dog threshold because cats generally need more protein than dogs.

    Check Species and Life Stage Growing, pregnant, nursing, senior, or medically managed pets can have different targets. The adequacy statement and your vet's advice matter more than this bucket alone.

  • 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

41 of 41 matched

  • 1 Deboned Turkey
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A large bird looks similar to chicken, high in protein, and packed with vitamin B3, B6, B12, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 2 Turkey Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A large bird looks similar to chicken, high in protein, and packed with vitamin B3, B6, B12, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 3 Chicken Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of chicken, it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh chicken on dry matter basis.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 4 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 Potatoes
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains mainly carbs, often used as an alternative filler for grain-free pet foods.

    Why Concerned?

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

  • 6 Dried Egg
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of eggs, it contains almost every nutrient the body needs. It also has the highest biological value (protein absorption) among other animal proteins.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 7 Chicken Fat
    Fat

    Description

    The fatty layer separated during the cooking process, with a high level of omega 6, It is more preferable by dogs and cats over other types of fats.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 8 Tomato Pomace
    Carbs

    Description

    The leftover by-product of the process in making ketchup and other tomato products. Depending on quality, it could provide a certain amount of vitamin C, K1, and potassium.

    Why Concerned?

    Vegetables are fair source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

  • 9 Chicken Liver
    Animal Protein

    Description

    An excellent source of vitamin A, chromium, and copper.

    Why Prefer?

    Organ meats are highly nutritious, with quality protein and many important vitamins / minerals.

  • 10 Natural Chicken Flavor
    Food Additive

    Description

    The flavor made of chicken parts, it is used to make pet food more tasty and palatable.

  • 11 Flaxseed
    Fat

    Description

    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.

  • 12 Salmon Oil
    Fat

    Description

    The oil extracted from salmon, an excellent source of fat and omega 3s, which is important to reduce inflammation in the body.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 13 Carrot
    Carbs

    Description

    Well known for its alpha and beta-carotene content, also rich in potassium and vitamin B6. Most pet foods use it as a minor ingredient (include 0.1% to 3% of the total composition).

  • 14 Sweet Potato
    Carbs

    Description

    An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent amount of vitamin A, C, B6.

  • 15 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.

  • 16 Broccoli
    Carbs

    Description

    A safe treat for both dogs and cats in small amounts, as it contains isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation.

  • 17 Spinach
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 18 Apple
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.

  • 19 Blueberry
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 20 Cranberry
    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.

  • 21 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.

  • 22 Beta-carotene
    Supplement

    Description

    An antioxidant and a precursor to Vitamin A helps to regulate both cellular and immune responses.

  • 23 Vitamin A
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 24 Riboflavin
    Supplement

    Description

    A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.

  • 25 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).

  • 26 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.

  • 27 Niacin
    Supplement

    Description

    Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.

  • 28 Ascorbic Acid
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 29 Calcium Pantothenate
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 30 Folic Acid
    Supplement

    Description

    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.

  • 31 Biotin
    Supplement

    Description

    A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.

  • 32 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.

  • 33 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).

  • 34 Chicory Root Extract
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 35 Yucca Extract
    Carbs

    Description

    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.

  • 36 Dried Yeast Fermentation Product
    Prebiotics

    Description

    Dried product from yeast fermentation, a source of prebiotics and B vitamins.

  • 37 Dried Enterococcus Fermentation Product
    Probiotics

    Description

    A dried probiotic from the Enterococcus genus supporting gut flora balance.

    Why Prefer?

    A beneficial probiotic strain.

  • 38 Dried Lactobacillus Fermentation Product
    Probiotics

    Description

    Dried product from Lactobacillus fermentation, providing beneficial bacteria.

  • 39 Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product
    Probiotics

    Description

    A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus subtilis helps to boost immunity, protect the body from pathogens (like salmonella), and improve gut health.

  • 40 Rosemary Extract
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 41 Green Tea Extract
    Others

    Description

    One of the most healthy tea in the world. It contains catechins, which are natural antioxidants that help prevent radical damages to the body and offer many health benefits.

Tips

  • Named animal proteins near the top: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal are listed early in the ingredient panel.
  • Plant protein signal: Peas may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
  • Ingredients worth checking: Potatoes, Tomato Pomace.
  • Higher-caution ingredients: Kale have caution notes in the ingredient database.
  • Possible digestion triggers: Peas, Kale have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.

Protein Analysis

How this recipe earned its protein scores.

Protein Clarity

High
High
  • Named 100%

Strong clarity: 100% of Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free'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

Deboned Turkey Turkey Meal Chicken Meal Dried Egg Chicken Liver

Animal Protein

High
High
  • Animal 94%
  • Plant 6%

Meat-forward: 94% of the weighted protein in Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (6% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.

Contributing ingredients

Animal

Deboned Turkey Turkey Meal Chicken Meal Dried Egg Chicken Liver

Plant

Peas

Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free dry dog food Review

Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free is a strong choice — rated 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 avoiding gluten grains
  • Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein

Avoid if

  • Your pet is allergic to eggs
  • 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: Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Fish.
  • On a dry-matter basis: 38% protein, 18% fat, 32% estimated carbohydrates.
  • 94% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
  • Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.

Frequently asked questions

Is Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free good for dogs?

Yes — rated 5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.

Does Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contain Dairy?

No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contain Egg?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contains Egg, so pets sensitive to Egg should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contain Legumes?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free contain Nuts?

No — based on the ingredient list, Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.

Is Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free grain-free?

Yes — there are no grains in this recipe.

What are the main protein sources in Wellness CORE Original Deboned Turkey & Chicken Meal Recipe Adult Grain Free?

The top animal proteins are Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal — clearly named, so you can verify the source.

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