Acana s Lamb Line A Deep Dive into Premium Canine Nutrition
Singles, Lamb with Apple RecipeDry Dog Food
Composition
Raw lamb (21%), lamb meal (18%), raw lamb organs (liver, kidney, tripe) (16%), whole chickpeas, whole lentils, fish oil (5%), fresh apples (4%), dehydrated sweet potato (4%), lentil fibre, sunflower oil, salt, dried kelp, fresh whole pumpkin, fresh whole butternut squash, dried chicory root, whole cranberries, whole blueberries, turmeric, milk thistle, burdock root, lavender, marshmallow root, rosehips.
ADDITIVES (per kg): Technological additives: Tocopherol extracts from vegetable oils: 121 mg, citric acid: 40 mg. Sensory additives: Rosemary extract: 80 mg Nutritional additives: Taurine: 1500 mg, Choline chloride (choline): 700 mg, Zinc proteinate: 160 mg, Copper proteinate: 5.5 mg, Vitamin B1: 75 mg, Vitamin B2: 15 mg, Vitamin B3: 150 mg, Vitamin B5: 45 mg, Vitamin B6: 26 mg, Vitamin B9: 5.25 mg, Vitamin B12: 0.15 mg, Vitamin E: 250 IU. Zootechnical additives: Enterococcus faecium DSM 10663/NCIMB 10415: 1x10^9 CFU.
CALORIE CONTENT (calculated): Metabolizable energy is 3405 kcal/kg (409 kcal per standard 120 g cup) with calories distributed with 32% from protein, 26% from carbohydrates, and 42% from fat. ACANA LAMB WITH APPLE RECIPE dog food is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by FEDIAF for All Life Stages, excluding growth of all large size dogs (70 lb or more as an adult).
More ProteinFor Your Growing
When it comes to ACANA pet food, every ingredient that goes into our thoughtfully crafted recipes is important, and were dedicated to making quality dog and cat foods with the world's best ingredients. Our foods are crafted with quality fresh or raw animal ingredients balanced with whole fruit and vegetables. Our fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, and our raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. ACANA premium dog foods and treats are protein-rich, nutritious and delicious, and use ingredients from a curated group of farmers, ranchers and fishers weve known and trusted for decades. Our recipes are ideal for dogs of all ages including puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs and are available in no grains ingredients added recipes, Healthy Grains recipes, and Singles recipes for dogs with sensitivities. ACANA premium cat food recipes offer a variety of recipes and flavours rich with animal protein and nutrients, so your cat is getting everything they need to look and feel their best. With diets for kittens, adult cats and senior cats, theres the right food for every cat. The name "Acana" was inspired by the farmlands of Alberta, Canada. Through the years, it has become synonymous with quality. Today we craft our food in our world-class kitchens in Edmonton, Alberta and Auburn, Kentucky.
Protein-rich, with the best grains on earth1
Protein-rich, with the best grains on earth1
Nurture your dog with the animal protein they really crave! Crafted with our most protein-rich animal ingredients, your dog will love the premium flavour and nutrition in ACANA Highest Protein recipes.
SEE OUR RECIPES Where To Buy60 - 70%
protein-richAnimal Ingredient2
30 - 40%
wholesome grains, vegetablesfruit & botanicals2,3
0%
artificial preservatives,flavors or colorsadded in our kitchen
1Sorghum, millet and oats are higher in fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals when compared to wheat and rice. 2Approximate and derived from the unprocessed state of the ingredients.3 We also add essential vitamins and minerals, natural preservatives and probiotics. Our included fresh ingredients are delivered refrigerated and our included raw ingredients are delivered frozen..The Ultimate Guide to Canine Nutrition: A Deep Dive into Premium Dog Food Collections
The Ultimate Guide to Canine Nutrition: A Deep Dive into Premium Dog Food CollectionsAs dog parents, we continually seek the best for our canine companions. With the plethora of options available, diving into the world of dog food brands, understanding the benefits of raw dog food, and distinguishing between the many premium offerings can be a daunting task. This article explores key dog food options, focusing on brands like Orijen puppy food, Acana puppy food, and Open Farm dog food.1. Open Farm Dog Food: Sustainability Meets Nutrition Open Farm dog food is more than just another brand; it's a commitment to ethical and sustainable sourcing. Here's why you should consider it:Ethical sourcing: Open Farm assures its ingredients come from farm-to-bowl through sustainable and humane methods. Diverse recipes: From pasture-raised lamb to wild-caught fish, the variety caters to all canine preferences.Quality assurance: With grain-free, non-GMO ingredients, it's an excellent choice for health-conscious pet parents. 2. Raw Dog Food: Back to the Basics An increasingly popular choice, raw dog food offers a diet mimicking a dog's natural ancestral menu. Benefits include:Natural enzymes: Raw food is rich in natural enzymes that aid digestion and nutrient absorption. Muscle health: High protein content ensures muscle growth and maintenance. Fewer additives: Minimally processed, raw food often contains fewer artificial additives and preservatives. However, it's essential to handle raw food with care to avoid contamination and ensure its adequately balanced nutritionally.3. Orijen Puppy Food: Tailored for Young Canines Puppies have specific nutritional needs, and Orijen puppy food is designed to cater to them:Biologically appropriate: With high meat content, it mirrors what dogs would eat naturally. Diverse protein sources: From free-run chicken to wild-caught fish, Orijen offers a protein-packed punch. Grain-free: Ideal for puppies with sensitivities or allergies. Remember, the right nutrition in the early stages sets the foundation for a healthy adult dog life.4. Acana Puppy Food: The Art of Fresh Ingredients Another champion in puppy nutrition is Acana puppy food:Locally sourced: Acana takes pride in sourcing ingredients from local farms and waters. High in protein: Ensuring optimal growth for your young companion.Diverse recipes: Catering to various breeds and sizes, from large breeds to toy breeds. 5. Nutrience Dog Food: The Promise of Purity Nutrience dog food brings forth a blend of purity and simplicity:No fillers: Every ingredient serves a nutritional purpose. Variety: Whether your dog prefers grain-free, original, or infusion varieties, Nutrience has it all. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6: Promoting skin and coat health. 6. The World of Dog Food Brands: Making an Informed Choice With so many dog food brands on the market, how does one choose?Ingredient quality: Ensure meat, not fillers, is the primary ingredient. Protein diversity: Brands offering diverse protein sources ensure a well-rounded diet. Transparency: Brands like Open Farm offer traceable ingredient sourcing, ensuring quality. Conclusion: Navigating the vast landscape of dog nutrition, from premium brands like Open Farm dog food and Nutrience dog food to more specific options like Orijen puppy food, can be challenging. But, with knowledge comes empowerment. By understanding the nuances of each offering, you can ensure a happy, healthy life for your furry friend. Always consult with a vet when introducing new food or making significant changes to your dog's diet. Because, at the end of the day, a well-fed dog is not just a healthy dog, but a joyful member of the family!
BALANCED RECIPESFOR ABALANCED BUDGET
When it comes to ACANA pet food, every ingredient that goes into our thoughtfully crafted recipes is important, and were dedicated to making quality dog and cat foods with the world's best ingredients. Our foods are crafted with quality fresh or raw animal ingredients balanced with whole fruit and vegetables. Our fresh ingredients use refrigeration as the sole method of preservation, and our raw ingredients are frozen at their peak freshness. ACANA premium dog foods and treats are protein-rich, nutritious and delicious, and use ingredients from a curated group of farmers, ranchers and fishers weve known and trusted for decades. Our recipes are ideal for dogs of all ages including puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs and are available in no grains ingredients added recipes, Wholesome Grains recipes, and Singles recipes for dogs with sensitivities. ACANA premium cat food recipes offer a variety of recipes and flavors rich with animal protein and nutrients, so your cat is getting everything they need to look and feel their best. With diets for kittens, adult cats and senior cats, theres the right food for every cat. The name "Acana" was inspired by the farmlands of Alberta, Canada. Through the years, it has become synonymous with quality. Today we craft our food in our world-class kitchens in Edmonton, Alberta and Auburn, Kentucky.
Acana vs Orijen Dog Food: 2024 Comparison
As we learn more about proper nutrition for ourselves, many dog owners have also taken a good look at what theyre feeding their pets. This trend has led to many independent premium dog food brands gaining a cult-like following often for a good reason.
Acana and Orijen are two of the most respected dog food brands. While neither brand is widely available in all retailers, their use of quality, regional ingredients and well-balanced nutrition have carved out a corner of the market for these two product lines.
When it comes to choosing between these two brands, however, which is right for your dog? What are the differences between Acana, Orijen, and their various dog food formulas?
A Sneak Peek at the Winner: Acana
Choosing between Acana and Orijen is difficult, especially since these two dog food brands are incredibly similar. While Orijens formulas offer more animal ingredients and protein on average, we ultimately chose Acana as the winner because of its wider range of products, grain-inclusive options, and more affordable price point.
The winner of our comparison:
About Acana
Acana is a premium dog food that is built on using biologically appropriate, regional ingredients whenever it can. Currently, Acanas U.S. catalog can be broken into three core product lines.
Originals
As the name implies, Acanas Originals lineis where it all began. Alongside standard flavors like red meat or poultry, this is where youll find the brands Puppy & Junior Formula and Healthy & Fit Formula.
Regionals
Acanas Regionals line is designed around local ecosystems and the natural protein sources found within. While the Regionals line sold in the U.S. is based around Kentucky, the Canadian line features Alberta-inspired ingredients.
Singles
The Acana Singles recipes are designed with just one source of animal protein per formula. Combined with a somewhat limited list of plant-based ingredients, these formulas are designed for dogs who require a limited ingredient diet due to sensitivities or allergies.
Along with traditional kibble, the Singles line also includes several types of freeze-dried dog treats.
+ Wholesome Grains
Originally, all Acana dog food products were formulated to be entirely grain free. With the introduction of its + Wholesome Grains products, however, Acana has added two grain-inclusive formulas to each of its three main product lines above. Since these recipes rely on oats, not wheat, they are still gluten free.
A Quick Look at Acana Dog Food
- Offers grain-free and grain-inclusive options
- Made in the U.S. and Canada
- Based on fresh, regional ingredients
- Independently owned and manufactured
- High in whole animal proteins
- Competitive pricing for a premium brand
- Not widely available at all retailers
- Not ideal for true limited-ingredient diets
- No senior or small breed formulas available
About Orijen
Like, Acana, Orijen is also formulated with regional, biologically-appropriate ingredients. However, the biggest difference between these two dog food brands is that Orijen tends to use up to 15% more meat and animal-based ingredients in its formulas. Right now, Orijen offers a limited selection of dog food varieties:
Dry kibble
Orijens main product line includes several types of grain-free kibble. Along with a few regular, adult formulas, youll also find specialized recipes for puppies, seniors, different breeds, and weight management.
Freeze-dried
Along with the regular kibble recipes, many dog owners turn to Orijen because of its variety of freeze-dried dog foods and treats. These recipes contain up to 90% animal ingredients that are freeze-dried to preserve nutrition and flavor without the mess or shortened shelf life of a wet formula.
Like Orijens kibble formulas, all of its freeze-dried meals and treats are entirely grain free.
A Quick Look at Orijen Dog Food
- Extremely high in animal proteins
- Ideal for dogs on a grain-free diet
- Made in the U.S. or Canada
- Relies on fresh, local ingredients
- Offers unique freeze-dried meals and treats
- Owned by a small, independent company
- Limited product range
- No grain-inclusive options
- More expensive than some competitors
- Not available in all pet supply retailers
Who Makes Acana & Orijen?
Both of these pet food brands are owned and manufactured by the parent company, Champion Pet Foods. Champion Pet Foods is a Canadian company that has existed for over 25 years.
All Acana and Orijen products are made in one of Champion Pet Foods two independently operated factories. Products made for the Canadian market are made in the Acheson, Alberta, factory. Since 2006, all U.S. products have been made in the Auburn, Kentucky, factory.
Recall history
As of our review, Acana, Orijen, and Champion Pet Foods have not been included in any public pet food recalls.
Consumer relations history
In the past couple of years, multiple consumer lawsuits have emerged regarding Acana, Orijen, and Champion Pet Foods. These lawsuits have claimed that Champion Pet Foods and its labels have sold products containing detectable levels of heavy metal and BPA.
Most of these lawsuits have been legally dismissed. However, according to our research, it appears that at least one case is still in progress.
Champion Pet Foods has made several brief statements regarding these legal issues on its website, which you can read here.
The 3 Most Popular Acana Dog Food Recipes
While we cant take a deep dive into Acanas entire dog food range, weve broken down three of our favorite formulas:
1. Acana Kentucky Farmlands With Wholesome Grains Dry Dog Food
The Kentucky Farmlands with Wholesome Grains formula is one of the newest products from Acana, filling the brands gap in grain-inclusive offerings. Although this formula does include carbohydrates from whole grains, it is entirely gluten free. The Kentucky Farmlands formula is part of the Regionals line, featuring whole animal protein sources like chicken, turkey, duck, and eggs.
- High in whole animal ingredients
- Features protein from raw and fresh sources
- Made in the U.S.
- Grain inclusive and gluten free
- Formulated with probiotics
- Pieces are too big for some small dogs
- May be hard to find in stores
2. Acana Meadowland Dry Dog Food
While we prefer Acanas new grain-inclusive formulas for most dogs, the brand offers many grain-free recipes as well. The Meadowland Dry Dog Food is another Regionals formula, including WholePrey ingredients like chicken, turkey, freshwater catfish, eggs, and rainbow trout.
- Ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities
- Made in the U.S.
- Formulated with local Kentucky ingredients
- Contains probiotics for digestion
- High in animal protein
- Grain free and gluten free
- High concentration of legumes
- Not available in all pet food retailers
3. Acana Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pear Formula Dry Dog Food
The Singles Limited Ingredient Diet Duck & Pear Formula is designed with a single source of animal protein and a shortened list of plant-based ingredients. This particular recipe uses duck as its primary ingredient, half of which is used in a raw or fresh state. While this formula is advertised for dogs with sensitivities or allergies, it does contain some ingredients that are likely to trigger reactions.
- Uses a single source of animal protein
- Made in the U.S.
- Grain free and gluten free
- Limited list of ingredients
- Formulated with live probiotics
- Contains pea protein
- Not ideal for a true limited-ingredient diet
- Difficult to find in some stores
The 3 Most Popular Orijen Dog Food Recipes
Compared to Acana, Orijens dog food product range is much more limited. Here are three of the most popular formulas currently being offered by the brand:
1. Orijen Original Dry Dog Food
As Orijens flagship recipe, the Original Dry Dog Food is made with whole animal ingredients like chicken, turkey, wild fish, and eggs. Since Orijen uses meat, organs, cartilage, and bones in its formulas, your dog gets all of the key nutrients it would get from hunting in the wild. This particular formula contains 85% animal ingredients, two-thirds of which are used in a raw or fresh state.
- Ideal for dogs on a grain-free diet
- Made in the U.S.
- 85% animal-based ingredients
- Contains freeze-dried liver
- Uses fresh and raw meat sources
- More expensive than some other options
- Not available from all pet food suppliers
- Grain-free formula may not be ideal for all dogs
2. Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food
The Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food is similar to the brands other kibble recipes but with additional nutrition to support your dog during its first one or two years. This recipe includes meat, cartilage, bones, and organs from chicken, turkey, fish, and eggs.
If your dog is a large or giant breed, Orijen also offers a Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Foodthat will help support slow and steady growth.
- Formulated for small and medium breed puppies
- Made in the U.S.
- High in animal protein
- Ideal for dogs with gluten or grain sensitivities
- Made with raw and fresh ingredients
- Not ideal for large or giant breeds
- Not widely available in all areas
- Not all puppies require a grain-free diet
3. Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food
On the other end of the spectrum, the Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food formula is designed for older dogs and their unique nutritional needs. This recipe is high in protein to support muscle mass and discourage unhealthy weight gain with increased age. Like the rest of Orijens product range, the Senior formula contains 85% animal ingredients.
- Designed aging dogs of all sizes
- Made in the U.S.
- Formulated with raw and fresh animal ingredients
- Supports lean muscle mass
- Grain and gluten-free
- May not be available in all pet supply stores
- Not ideal for dogs on a grain-inclusive diet
Acana vs. Orijen Comparison
Since both brands are owned and manufactured by the same company, comparing Acana and Orijen reveals few differences. Still, there are factors to consider when selecting a new dog food for your canine companion:
Pricing
While exact pricing may vary slightly between retailers and individual product lines, Orijen products tend to cost more than their Acana counterparts. If youre on a budget, Acana offers near-comparable quality for a more affordable price.
Ingredient quality
There may be slight differences between the ingredients used by Acana vs. Orijen, but we believe that these potential differences are negligible when looking at the big picture. Since both Acana and Orijen are manufactured in the exact same factories, theres a good chance that they also use the exact same ingredients.
Instead, the primary difference in ingredient quality between these two brands is how much of each ingredient is used.
Nutrition
The biggest difference between Acana and Orijen is that Orijen products are formulated with a higher concentration of animal protein.
At the same time, Orijen has yet to release any grain-inclusive formulas. Yes, a large portion of Orijens customer base prefers a grain-free diet, but this does exclude many dogs from trying out the brand. If your dog does not require a grain-free diet, Acana is your only option at the moment.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing Acana and Orijen, there is really no clear winner. Because these two pet food brands share the same parent company, factories, ingredients, and overall mission statement, the final products offered by each label are nearly the same.
With that said, we recommend Acanafor most dogs and their owners. However, if your dog requires a grain-free, high-protein diet and you can afford the higher price tag, Orijen technically offers slightly better nutrition.
Acana and Orijen are two of the highest-quality dog food brands currently on the market, so you cant go wrong trying one of these formulas with your own pets.
