Gather ‘round, dog lovers. We’ve got some big news to share: The internet’s leading retail site has entered the dog food game. That’s right – Amazon has released their own dog food brand, appropriately called “Wag.”
Below, we’ll break down the recipes they currently offer and explain everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your pooch.
Best Wag Dog Foods: Quick Picks
- #1 Wag 5-Pound Trail Bag [Best for Trying Wag Out]: Curious about Wag but don’t want to invest in 30 pounds of food yet? This 5-pound trail bag is the perfect choice (and you get select it in your choice of several flavors and puppy or adult formulations).
- #2 Wag 30-Pound Bag of Adult Kibble [Best for Owners Ready to Switch Foods]: Ready to jump in with both feet? This 30-pound bag (which is available in your choice of several flavors) is the ideal pick and will save you a bit of money.
- #3 Wag 15-Pound Bag of Puppy Kibble [Best for Owners Feeding a New Puppy]: Designed for your growing four-footer, this chicken-flavored kibble will help your pooch grow into a big, strong adult!
- #4 Chicken & Vegetable Stew Wet Dog Food [Best Wet Option to Try]: Got a pooch who prefers canned foods to kibble? Or do you need a tasty topper to go with a Wag kibble? Either way, this should be a great choice.
History & Background of Wag Dog Food
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last 15 years, you’ve probably heard of Amazon.com.
Founded in 1994 by Jeff Bezos, the Seattle-based company started as an online bookstore. And shortly after dominating the book-sales business, Amazon branched out and began offering movies, music, and other types of media too.
But that was just the beginning, and the site quickly became a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly want to buy. Need a new set of kitchen knives? Need a toy for your kid’s birthday? Need a new minivan? Amazon’s got you covered. There’s not much you can’t buy there.
Amazon also markets a number of different products under their own brand labels (such as AmazonBasics, among others), and dog foods are one of their most recent additions (their pet foods became available for purchase in May 2018).
Note that Wag is only available for members of Amazon Prime, but that may change in the future.
However, even if you decide Wag isn’t right for your pet, you may still benefit from this new product line.
Amazon’s unparalleled buying power means that they can produce dog food for less than many other brands, which allows them to slap a pretty reasonable price tag on the product. This will likely have trickle-down effects throughout the pet foods market, resulting in lower prices for everyone.
While Amazon owns the Wag brand, that doesn’t mean Mr. Bezos is in a kitchen somewhere, butchering a chicken and cooking up some lentils. The foods are actually manufactured by a supplier that Amazon works closely with.
These types of products (those made by independent manufacturers) are often called private label products.
There is nothing wrong with this type of manufacturing relationship, and you’ve probably purchased other private label goods yourself.
If, say, you buy Kroger canned green beans, you’re likely buying green beans that are prepared by one of the large green bean distributors — they’re just branded differently.
Amazon’s Wag Recall History
Given that Wag has only been on the market for a matter of months, there are no recalls in the product’s history (that’d be pretty embarrassing). We’ll monitor the food’s entry into the market and update this section as appropriate.
Wag Dog Food Formulas & Recipes
There are currently two formulas offered under the Wag brand name. They offer a kibble formula as well as a line of wet foods. Additionally, their kibble comes in grain-free and grain-inclusive recipes, while wet foods are available in both “stew” and “pate” forms, giving you a variety of options to choose from.
- Wholesome Grains Lamb & Brown Rice (grain-inclusive kibble)
- Wholesome Grains Beef & Brown Rice (grain-inclusive kibble)
- Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice (grain-inclusive kibble)
- Wholesome Grains Salmon & Brown Rice (grain-inclusive kibble)
- Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy (grain-inclusive kibble)
- Salmon & Lentil (grain-free kibble)
- Beef & Lentil with Wild Boar (grain-free kibble)
- Lamb & Lentil (grain-free kibble)
- Turkey & Lentil (grain-free kibble)
- Chicken & Lentil (grain-free kibble)
- Chicken & Lentil Puppy (grain-free kibble)
- Beef & Vegetable Stew (grain-free canned)
- Chicken & Vegetable Stew (grain-free canned)
- Lamb & Vegetable Stew (grain-inclusive canned)
- Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew (grain-free canned)
- Beef & Chicken Pate (grain-free canned)
- Chicken Pate (grain-free canned)
- Turkey & Chicken Pate (grain-free canned)
All of these foods meet the AAFCO’s guidelines, so just be sure to pick one for your dog’s life stage (puppy or adult) and your doggo will get all of the nutrition she needs.
We’ll look at each pet food recipe in greater detail below.
Many of Wag’s recipes are grain-free, which may give some owners pause.
In light of the fact that researches have demonstrated a correlation (but not causation) between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), many owners are electing to choose grain-inclusive foods unless their dog has a specific intolerance to grains (which is pretty rare — most dogs digest grains without issue).
As always, talk to your vet about your choice of dog food, and be sure to read our article on the connection between DCM and grain-free foods if you’d like to learn more.
Wag Recipe #1: Salmon & Lentil Dry Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Salmon & Lentil Recipe is a fish-forward kibble that’s great for canines needing an alternative to chicken or lamb. Many dogs love salmon and, because it is rich in coat-nourishing omega-3 fatty acids, it is a great protein to include in dog food.
Nutritional Information
This kibble is formulated to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, including large-breed puppies.
- Crude Protein: 35% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 15% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 5.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 10% Maximum
- Zinc: 150 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Selenium: 0.35 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/Kilogram Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 2.5% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.4% Minimum
- Glucosamine: 750 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Total Microorganisms: 2,000,000 CFU/Pound Minimum
- Calorie Content: 3700 kcal ME/KG (346 kcal ME/cup)
Ingredients List
SALMON, SALMON MEAL, LENTILS, PEA PROTEIN, PEAS...,
CHICKEN FAT (PRESERVED WITH MIXED TOCOPHEROLS), BREWERS YEAST, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, FLAXSEED, NATURAL FLAVOR, SALMON OIL, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, TAURINE, DRIED CHICORY ROOT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, IRON PROTEINATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, COPPER SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B1), MANGANESE PROTEINATE, MANGANOUS OXIDE, ASCORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, SODIUM SELENITE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6), VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID..
Wag Recipe #2: Beef & Lentil with Wild Boar Dry Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Beef & Lentil Recipe tempts pupper palates with its hearty beef flavor. This protein-rich food powers muscles and keeps canines moving and grooving with added glucosamine and chondroitin.
Nutritional Information
This kibble is formulated to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for adults.
- Crude Protein: 35% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 15% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 4.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 10% Maximum
- Zinc: 150 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Selenium: .35 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/Kilogram Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 2.5% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.4% Minimum
- Glucosamine: 750 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Total Microorganisms: 2,000,000 CFU/Pound Minimum
- Calorie Content: 3700 kcal ME/KG (346 kcal ME/cup)
Ingredients List
BEEF, BEEF MEAL, LENTILS, PEA PROTEIN, PEAS...,
EGG PRODUCT, CHICKEN FAT (PRESERVED WITH MIXED TOCOPHEROLS), BREWERS YEAST, WILD BOAR, POTATO PROTEIN, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, FLAXSEED, NATURAL FLAVOR, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, TAURINE, DRIED CHICORY ROOT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, IRON PROTEINATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, COPPER SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B1), MANGANESE PROTEINATE, MANGANOUS OXIDE, ASCORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, SODIUM SELENITE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6), VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID.
Wag Recipe #3: Lamb & Lentil Dry Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Lamb & Lentil Recipe is perfect for sensitive systems who may struggle with other proteins. Lamb is a favorite in dog food, as it’s a solid source of protein and amino acids.
Nutritional Information
This dry kibble is formulated to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, including large-breed puppies.
- Crude Protein: 35% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 15% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 5.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 10% Maximum
- Zinc: 150 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Selenium: .35 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/Kilogram Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 2.5% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.4% Minimum
- Glucosamine: 750 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Chondroitin Sulfate: 250 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Total Microorganisms: 2,000,000 CFU/Pound Minimum
- Calorie Content: 3700 kcal ME/KG (346 kcal ME/cup)
Ingredients List
LAMB, LAMB MEAL, LENTILS, PEA PROTEIN, PEAS...,
CHICKEN FAT (PRESERVED WITH MIXED TOCOPHEROLS), DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, BREWERS YEAST, POTATO PROTEIN, FLAXSEED, NATURAL FLAVOR, SALMON OIL, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, TAURINE, DRIED CHICORY ROOT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, IRON PROTEINATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, COPPER SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B1), MANGANESE PROTEINATE, MANGANOUS OXIDE, ASCORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, SODIUM SELENITE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6), VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID
Wag Recipe #4: Turkey & Lentil Dry Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Turkey & Lentil Recipe is the perfect food for poultry-loving canines who can’t handle chicken. Turkey also contains slightly more of key nutrients like zinc than its fellow feathered friend, and some dogs prefer its flavor over other proteins.
Nutritional Information
This kibble is formulated to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for adults.
- Crude Protein: 35% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 15% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 4.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 10% Maximum
- Zinc: 150 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Selenium: .35 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/Kilogram Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 2.5% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.4% Minimum
- Glucosamine: 750 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Chondroitin Sulfate: 250 Milligrams/Kilogram Minimum
- Total Microorganisms: 2,000,000 CFU/Pound Minimum
- Calorie Content: 3700 kcal ME/KG (346 kcal ME/cup)
Ingredients List
TURKEY, TURKEY MEAL, LENTILS, PEA PROTEIN, PEAS...,
CHICKEN FAT (PRESERVED WITH MIXED TOCOPHEROLS), BREWERS YEAST, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, FLAXSEED, NATURAL FLAVOR, SALMON OIL, CALCIUM CARBONATE, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, TAURINE, DRIED CHICORY ROOT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, IRON PROTEINATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, COPPER SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B1), MANGANESE PROTEINATE, MANGANOUS OXIDE, ASCORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, SODIUM SELENITE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6), VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID.
Wag Recipe #5: Chicken & Lentil (Puppy)
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About: Wag’s Chicken & Lentil Puppy Recipe is designed to provide your growing puppy with everything he needs to grow into a healthy adult. It does exhibit a few nutritional differences from the other recipes (such as containing a tiny bit more protein), but the differences are relatively minor.
Nutritional Information
This kibble recipe is formulated to meet or exceed the guidelines set forth by the AAFCO Dog Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, including large-breed puppies.
- Crude Protein: 36% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 16% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 5.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 10% Maximum
- Zinc: 150 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Selenium: .35 Milligrams/Kilograms Minimum
- Vitamin E: 150 IU/Kilogram Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acid: 2.8% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acid: 0.4% Minimum
- Total Microorganisms: 2,000,000 CFU/Pound Minimum
- Calorie Content: 3700 kcal ME/KG (346 kcal ME/cup)
Ingredients List
CHICKEN, CHICKEN MEAL, LENTILS, PEAS, PEA PROTEIN...,
CHICKEN FAT (PRESERVED WITH MIXED TOCOPHEROLS), BREWERS YEAST, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, FLAXSEED, EGG PRODUCT, NATURAL FLAVOR, SALMON OIL, SALT, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, TAURINE, DRIED CHICORY ROOT, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BACILLUS SUBTILIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM ANIMALIS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, IRON PROTEINATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, FERROUS SULFATE, ZINC SULFATE, COPPER SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B1), MANGANESE PROTEINATE, MANGANOUS OXIDE, ASCORBIC ACID (PRESERVATIVE), VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, MANGANESE SULFATE, SODIUM SELENITE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN B6), VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID.
Wag Recipe #6: Chicken & Vegetable Stew Wet Dog Food
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About: Chicken and veggies shine as star ingredients in Wag’s Chicken & Vegetable Stew. This large-dog-friendly option features nutrient-dense organ meat and fish oil rich in fatty acids.
Nutritional Information
This canned food is made to meet the AAFCO standards for large dog growth and maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 8% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 5% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 82% Maximum
- Linoleic Acid: 0.7% Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: 0.7% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.08% Minimum
- Calorie Content: 921 kcal/kg (344 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
CHICKEN, CHICKEN BROTH, BEEF BROTH, CHICKEN LIVER, DRIED EGG WHITES...,
CARROTS, PEAS, DRIED EGG PRODUCT, POTATO STARCH, NATURAL FLAVOR, GUAR GUM, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, GROUND FLAXSEED, SALT, FISH OIL, SODIUM PHOSPHATE, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM CARBONATE, ZINC PROTEINATE, IRON PROTEINATE, COPPER PROTEINATE, MANGANESE PROTEINATE, SODIUM SELENITE, COBALT PROTEINATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID
Wag Recipe #7: Lamb & Vegetable Stew Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Lamb & Vegetable Stew is a real palate pleaser with its tasty broth and chunked texture. Containing real lamb and vegetables and no corn, soy, or wheat, this grain-free stew is made with sensitive doggy digestive systems in mind.
Nutritional Information
This canned food is formulated to the AAFCO nutrient profiles suitable for canine maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 8% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 5% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1% Maximum
- Moisture: 82% Maximum
- Calcium: 0.25% Minimum
- Phosphorus: 0.20% Minimum
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: 0.50% Minimum
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 0.10% Minimum
- Calorie Content: 983 kcal/kg (368 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
LAMB BROTH, LAMB, LAMB LIVER, POTATOES, DRIED EGG PRODUCT...,
LAMB BROTH, LAMB, LAMB LIVER, POTATOES, DRIED EGG PRODUCT, CARROTS, GREEN BEANS, PEAS, WILD RICE, NATURAL FLAVOR, RED PEPPERS, SUNFLOWER OIL, GUAR GUM, OAT FIBER, PEA FIBER, BREWERS DRIED YEAST, SODIUM PHOSPHATE, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, CALCIUM CARBONATE, GARLIC, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, FLAXSEED OIL, PARSLEY, SALT, SODIUM CARBONATE, INULIN, DRIED KELP, MENHADEN FISH OIL, OREGANO, ROSEMARY, ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE, IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE, DRIED CRANBERRIES, DRIED APPLES, DRIED BLUEBERRIES, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE, MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE, SODIUM SELENITE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, POTASSIUM IODIDE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID
Wag Recipe #8: Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew offers a delicious grain-free mixture of real meat and vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it on its own or mix it into your dog’s food for a delicious treat.
Nutritional Information
This wet food option is made to meet AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 8% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 5% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 82% Maximum
- Calorie Content: 885 kcal/kg (331 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
TURKEY BROTH, TURKEY, CHICKEN LIVER, DRIED EGG WHITES, SWEET POTATOES...,
POTATO STARCH, DRIED EGG PRODUCT, GUAR GUM, SALT, PEAS, SODIUM PHOSPHATE, FLAXSEED MEAL, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE, IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE, COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE, MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE, SODIUM SELENITE, COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, XANTHAN GUM
Wag Recipe #9: Beef & Vegetable Stew Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Beef & Vegetable Stew is a scrumptious addition to your dog’s bowl, pleasing even the pickiest of pups. Made with chunked beef and chicken in a rich broth, this mixed-protein formula has the taste your doggo craves.
Nutritional Information
This chunky stew is balanced to meet AAFCO standards for canine maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 8% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 4.5% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 82% Maximum
- Calorie Content: 970 kcal/kg (363 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
BEEF BROTH, BEEF, CHICKEN, CARROTS, DRIED EGG WHITES...,
PEAS, POTATO STARCH, DRIED EGG PRODUCT, GUAR GUM, SALT, ADDED COLOR, DRIED POTATOES, SODIUM PHOSPHATE, DRIED PLAIN BEET PULP, GROUND FLAXSEED, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, NATURAL FLAVOR, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, FERROUS SULFATE, XANTHAN GUM, ZINC OXIDE, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, COPPER PROTEINATE, SODIUM SELENITE, MANGANESE SULFATE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, POTASSIUM IODIDE, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID
Wag Recipe #10: Beef & Chicken Pate Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag Beef & Chicken Pate Recipe has the smooth texture many dogs love. This mixed protein formula containing beef and chicken offers great flavor and a hefty serving of nutrients, including those from real organ meat.
Nutritional Information
This canned pate meets the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 78% Maximum
- Calorie Content: 1416 kcal/kg (501 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
BEEF, CHICKEN, WATER SUFFICIENT FOR PROCESSING, BEEF LIVER...,
CASSIA GUM, CARRAGEENAN, GUAR GUM, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, SALT, ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE, IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE, COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE, MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE, SODIUM SELENITE, COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, CHOLINE CHLORIDE, INULIN, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID
Wag Recipe #11: Chicken Pate Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Chicken Pate is packed with flavor and nutrients, plus it mixes well if added to kibble. This chicken-forward canned food features a single protein, making it the perfect pick for sensitive systems.
Nutritional Information
This canned pate is designed to meet the standards for maintenance based on AAFCO’s dog food nutrient profiles.
- Crude Protein: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 78% Maximum
- Calorie Content: 1427 kcal/kg (505 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
CHICKEN, WATER SUFFICIENT FOR PROCESSING, CHICKEN LIVER...,
CASSIA GUM, CARRAGEENAN, SALT, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, GUAR GUM, ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE, IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE, COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE, MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE, SODIUM SELENITE, COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID, INULIN, CHOLINE CHLORIDE
Wag Recipe #12: Turkey & Chicken Pate Wet Dog Food
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About: Wag’s Turkey & Chicken Pate is jam-packed with tongue-pleasing flavor. A mixture of poultry proteins and real veggies packs a punch in this pate-style canned food that can be served on its own or mixed into your canine’s kibble.
Nutritional Information
This pate is made to meet the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for maintenance.
- Crude Protein: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fat: 9% Minimum
- Crude Fiber: 1.5% Maximum
- Moisture: 78% Maximum
- Calorie Content: 1408 kcal/kg (498 kcal/can)
Ingredients List
TURKEY, CHICKEN, WATER SUFFICIENT FOR PROCESSING, TURKEY LIVER...,
CASSIA GUM, CARRAGEENAN, GUAR GUM, SALT, POTASSIUM CHLORIDE, ZINC AMINO ACID CHELATE, IRON AMINO ACID CHELATE, COPPER AMINO ACID CHELATE, MANGANESE AMINO ACID CHELATE, SODIUM SELENITE, COBALT AMINO ACID CHELATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, INULIN, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, NIACIN SUPPLEMENT, d-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, VITAMIN A SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN SUPPLEMENT, BIOTIN, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, FOLIC ACID, CHOLINE CHLORIDE
Primary Differences Between Wag Recipes
Because many of these recipes are remarkably similar, we’ve listed the primary differences between them below to save you some time.
Wag’s Wholesome Grains line of kibble contains less protein than the grain-free kibble recipes. The grain-free recipes have a minimum of 35% protein while Wholesome Grains range from a minimum of 22.5 to 27% protein.
The Turkey & Lentil and Beef & Lentil Recipes contain 1% less fiber than the other grain-free kibble recipes.
The Beef & Lentil Recipe does not contain salmon oil. Nevertheless, according to the nutritional information provided on the bag, it provides just as many omega-3 fatty acids as the other recipes do.
The Beef & Lentil Recipe, Wholesome Grains Lamb & Brown Rice, and the Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy contain egg product, which is missing from the other kibble recipes.
Wag Food (Dry Kibble): The First 6 Ingredients
The first half-dozen ingredients or so in a dog food are the most important ones to scrutinize when picking a food for your pup. Wag recipes are very similar to their grain-free or grain-inclusive counterparts, but the two lines differ a fair amount from each other.
That said, we’ve analyzed the first six ingredients in Wag’s Salmon & Lentil Recipe and Wag’s Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice below.
Wag’s Salmon & Lentil Recipe
- Salmon – You usually want to see a whole protein at the top of the ingredient list, and each of the Wag recipes satisfies this criterion. All of the recipes feature a high-quality protein at the top of the ingredient list, and the differences between them are not terribly consequential for most healthy dogs.
- Salmon Meal – As long as they are properly identified, meat meals are fantastic ingredients to include in dog food. They’re full of protein and nutrients, and dogs typically like the way they taste. In each recipe, the meat meal used is derived from the primary protein (for example, the Beef & Lentil Recipe features beef meal).
- Lentils – Lentils are legumes, somewhat similar to peas. They’re used in place of corn, wheat, and other grains, to provide the carbohydrate content.
- Pea Protein – Pea protein is comprised of the byproducts left behind when peas are processed. While perfectly safe, it is somewhat controversial among some dog owners (see discussion below).
- Peas – Most dogs love peas, and they’re full of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, so they’re typically a welcome ingredient in most dog foods.
- Chicken Fat – Animal fats are not only tasty to dogs, they are essential for proper health. As with meat meals, it is important to avoid those that aren’t properly identified (you want “chicken fat,” rather than “poultry fat” or “animal fat,”) as well as those that are not naturally preserved.
Wag’s Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
- Chicken – As with Wag’s grain-free line, all of Wag’s Wholesome Grains products feature real meat as the first ingredient. Most are single-protein recipes, though Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy and Beef & Brown Rice feature a secondary protein. Chicken is a solid protein choice for most dogs.
- Chicken Meal – Meat meals are included in each Wholesome Grains recipe in the second ingredient slot aside from the Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe, where it appears in the third position. Each is clearly identified and offers a good source of protein.
- Whole Grain Brown Rice – Brown rice is an easy-to-digest carbohydrate that’s often used in dog food. It provides energy and fiber, keeping your canine satiated.
- Barley – This cereal grain is another common ingredient in grain-inclusive kibbles. Like brown rice, it offers fiber and energy to fuel your pooch.
- White Rice – Only Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice and Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy contain white rice. White rice often gets a bad rap in health circles because it has a higher glycemic index than brown rice, but it’s a good carbohydrate source for dogs. That said, it does cause blood sugar to rise, so it could be an issue with diabetic doggos.
- Rice Bran – Rice bran is what is leftover after whole grain rice is milled. It’s an excellent source of fiber and key nutrients like protein and fat. Rice bran is used in all Wholesome Grains recipes except for Chicken & Brown Rice.
Controversial Ingredients
By and large, Wag dog food recipes are made with very high-quality ingredients, and they don’t contain very many troubling items. However, like most other dog foods, they do contain a few items that may give some owners pause. These include:
- Salt – Salt isn’t a “bad” ingredient; in fact, it’s necessary for life. The problem is that few dog foods – including Wag’s various recipes – disclose the amount of salt included in their recipe. Excessive amounts of salt can cause health problems for dogs.
- Brewers Yeast – A byproduct of the beer-making process, brewers yeast is actually quite nutritious. However, some owners worry that it can trigger allergies or cause yeast infections. It will only cause allergic reactions in dogs who are sensitive to the ingredient, and there doesn’t appear to be any empirical data to support the contention that it causes yeast infections.
- Beet Pulp – Beet pulp is typically included in dog foods to increase the fiber content and serve as a bulking agent. Some owners view it as a cheap filler, but it actually helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Pea Protein – Pea protein is certainly not a hazardous ingredient, but it is relatively devoid of nutritional content aside from the protein it provides. Therefore, some owners prefer foods that provide protein via other, more nutritious ingredients – like whole peas.
Wag Dog Food Special Notes
Note that while many Wag dog food recipes are appropriate for all life stages, the Beef & Lentil and Turkey & Lentil Recipes are designed for adults. The Chicken & Lentil Puppy Recipe and Wholesome Grains Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy are designed for puppies.
In any case, all Wag recipes provides nutrition that exceeds the requirements set for all of the categories listed on the bag. For example, the AAFCO recommends crude protein content of 18% for adult-maintenance diets and 22.5% for growth-and-reproduction diets; Wag provides protein levels of 35% or more.
Similarly, each Wag recipe contains at least 14% fat, whereas the AAFCO’s recommended minimum fat content is only 5.5% for adults and 8.5% for puppies and reproductively-active females. Each Wag recipe also contains more Vitamin E and Zinc than recommended by the AAFCO guidelines, and they satisfy the Selenium requirements too.
However, not all Wag dog foods indicate the content of many other vitamins and minerals, including Calcium, Phosphorus, Sodium, and others. This is not unusual – relatively few dog foods provide all of the nutritional information owners may like – but it is unfortunate, and we’d like to see Wag (and all other brands that fail to do so) address this issue moving forward.
WAG DOG FOOD PROS
There’s a lot to like about the Wag dog food recipes available. Some of the most noteworthy characteristics include the following:
- All Wag dog foods are made in the USA.
- Each recipe meets the AAFCO guidelines.
- Each recipe contains a whole protein at the top of the ingredient list.
- Five probiotic strains are included in each recipe.
- Each recipe is rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Wag foods are more affordable (sometimes significantly so) than comparable recipes produced by most other manufacturers.
WAG DOG FOOD CONS
While Wag’s recipes appear to be very well-conceived and made with plenty of nutritious ingredients, there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of:
- Aside from peas and lentils, there aren’t any whole fruits or vegetables included in the grain-free recipes.
- Each of the recipes, aside from Beef & Lentil, contains salmon oil, which may be problematic if your dog is allergic to salmon or doesn’t like the taste.
- Each recipe includes a few controversial ingredients, which may be concerning to some owners.
- The recipes and brand are very new, so there isn’t a long track record to consider.
It’s always important to transition your dog’s food slowly to help prevent stomach upset and other digestive problems.
So, you’ll want to mix increasingly large portions of Wag in with your dog’s current food. For example, the first day, you may want to fill your dog’s bowl 90% of the way with his current food and 10% of the way with Wag food. The next day, you’ll fill the bowl 80% of the way with his old food and 20% of the way with Wag food.
The exact proportions you use can vary a bit, but the entire process should take about 7 to 10 days in total.
Final Thoughts on Amazon’s Wag Dog Food
We’re quite excited about Amazon’s entrance into the dog food business. Wag dog food recipes appear to be very nutritious and comprised of high-quality ingredients, and they all exceed the minimum AAFCO nutritional guidelines.
They each contain a delicious whole protein at the top of the ingredient list, and their kibbles all contain five different probiotic strains to help ease your dog’s dietary transition and promote intestinal health. You also have the option between grain-free and grain-inclusive kibbles.
The grain-free recipes lack blueberries, cranberries, and other antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, but that’s a relatively minor concern. There’s also only one grain-inclusive canned option, which may be a bummer to some pup parents.
It’s always wise to consider the track record of a dog food brand before purchasing it for your dog, but that’s not possible in this case. However, Amazon has typically excelled in most avenues they’ve pursued, so we’d consider their Wag dog food initiative to be a low-risk gamble.
Always consult your veterinarian before making a significant dietary change for your dog, but we’d bet that most will agree that Wag appears to be a very attractive option, which should provide your beloved bestie with the nutrition he needs and deserves.
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Have you tried Wag dog food yet? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Is it one of your dog’s favorite pet foods? Are there things you really like about it? Has it caused any problems for your pooch? How do you feel about a private label pet food in general?
Let us know in the comments!
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