Welcome to our review of Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food.

Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food Review

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List of products

TOTW Ancient Grains Products	Ratings	AAFCO
→ Ancient Mountain Canine Recipe	4.8	All Life Stages
→ Ancient Prairie Canine Recipe	4.8	All Life Stages
→ Ancient Stream Canine Recipe	5	All Life Stages
→ Ancient Wetlands Canine Recipe	4.8	All Life Stages

This dog food line has 4 recipes. Reviewing all isn’t possible. The review of Ancient Stream Canine Recipe shows the quality, nutrition, and composition of the whole line.

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Ingredients

Salmon, salmon meal, ocean fish meal, grain sorghum, millet, cracked pearled barley, dried yeast, canola oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), brown rice, smoke-flavored salmon, natural flavor, dried tomato pomace, salmon oil (a source of DHA), quinoa, chia seed, salt, potassium chloride, DL-Methionine, choline chloride, taurine, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, yucca schidigera extract, L-Carnitine, 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, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, potassium iodide, thiamine mononitrate, manganese proteinate, ascorbic acid, vitamin A supplement, biotin, niacin, calcium pantothenate, sodium selenite, pyridoxine hydrochloride, vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid.

Contains a source of live (viable), naturally occurring microorganisms.

Ingredient Analysis

The first five ingredients are highlighted as the primary ingredients in this Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food Review.

Primary Ingredients

→ Salmon, known for its rich protein and omega-3 fatty acid content, supports healthy skin and a shiny coat. It is the primary source of protein in many high-quality dog foods.

Each 100-gram serving of raw, farm-raised salmon contains approximately 20.3 grams of protein and 13.1 grams of fat, making it a balanced and nutritious primary source of protein for your dog’s diet.

Additionally, salmon contains selenium, which supports metabolism, energy production, and thyroid function in dogs.

→ Salmon meal is rendered salmon that has been dried and ground. It typically includes clean flesh, skin, and bone. Salmon meal has a high protein concentration—approximately 60–70%—making it an excellent ingredient for supporting muscle maintenance and development.

It is also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support healthy skin, a shiny coat, and a strong immune system.

→ Ocean fish meal is a concentrated protein source made by cooking, drying, and grinding fish (often whole fish or leftover parts) into a powder.

It retains many benefits of whole fish, like omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and fur, but its quality depends on the fish species and its processing method.

→ Sorghum, an ancient grain native to Africa, is an excellent source of carbohydrates and a valuable source of protein. Compared with grains like rice, it typically has a lower glycemic index.

It also provides important minerals, most notably phosphorus and magnesium, making it a wholesome, nutrient-dense addition to the diet.

Each 100 g of dry, raw, pearled white sorghum contains 74.9 g of carbohydrates and 10.2 g of protein.

→ Millet is a gluten-free whole grain commonly used in dog foods to deliver carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and key nutrients such as B-vitamins and iron, all of which support steady energy levels and healthy digestion. Gentle on the stomach, it is an excellent choice for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies.

Each 100 g of millet contains 74.4 g of carbohydrates and 10 g of protein.

Secondary Ingredients

The three ingredients immediately following the primary ingredients are highlighted as the secondary ingredients in this TOTW Ancient Grains Dog Food Review.

→ Barley provides pets with soluble fiber, carbohydrates, and B vitamins that support digestive health, but its gluten content can be a concern for dogs with gluten-related sensitivities or allergies.

Each 100g serving of raw pearled barley contains 9.91 g of protein and 77.7g of carbohydrates (including 15.6g of fiber).

→ Dried yeast is a high-quality source of essential amino acids, protein, and B vitamins. Adding it to a dog food formula boosts flavor, making the food more appealing to picky eaters or dogs with poor appetites.

→ Canola oil is extracted from the seeds of the canola plant and is composed primarily of unsaturated fats. It is especially rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid, which is valued for supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being.

Other Ingredients

→ Brown rice is a gluten-free grain that provides B vitamins, minerals, and energy from healthy carbs. Its fiber helps digestion and is safe for dogs with gluten sensitivities.

100g of raw long-grain brown rice contains 7.25g protein, 3.31g fat, 76.7g carbohydrates (including 3g fiber).

→ Smoke-flavored salmon is salmon that has been cured and smoked to impart a rich, smoky flavor.

→ Natural flavor is an ingredient derived from plant or animal sources used to enhance taste and palatability.
It is commonly added to pet food to make it more appealing to dogs and may be sourced from herbs, meats, or concentrated extracts of animal products.

The Ancient Stream Canine Recipe includes other beneficial ingredients further down the list to support your dog’s health. However, we won’t explore them in detail here due to the scope of this Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food.

Nutrient Sources - Ancient Grains Dog Food Review

Nutrient	Sources
Protein	Salmon, Salmon Meal, Ocean Fish Meal, Grain Sorghum, Millet, Cracked Pearled Barley, Dried Yeast, Brown Rice, Smoke-Flavored Salmon, Dried Tomato Pomace, Quinoa, Chia Seed, Dried Chicory Root
Fat	Salmon, Salmon Meal, Ocean Fish Meal, Grain Sorghum, Millet, Cracked Pearled Barley, Dried Yeast, Canola Oil, Brown Rice, Smoke-Flavored Salmon, Dried Tomato Pomace, Salmon Oil, Quinoa, Chia Seed
Carbohydrate	Grain Sorghum, Millet, Cracked Pearled Barley, Dried Yeast, Brown Rice, Dried Tomato Pomace, Quinoa, Chia Seed, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries
Fiber	Grain Sorghum, Millet, Cracked Pearled Barley, Dried Yeast, Brown Rice, Dried Tomato Pomace, Quinoa, Chia Seed, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes

Vitamins

This recipe provides a complete spectrum of essential vitamins, including A, D3, E, C, and a full B-complex (B1, B2, niacin, B5, B6, biotin, B9, B12) as synthetic supplements.

Vitamin K, while not listed, is adequately derived from ingredients like canola oil and synthesized by a dog’s body. The inclusion of natural antioxidants like mixed tocopherols protects against degradation, indicating a well-fortified, nutritionally complete formula with no apparent adequacy gaps.

Minerals

This recipe provides a robust mineral profile using both chelated (iron, zinc, copper, manganese proteinates) for enhanced bioavailability and sulfate forms for cost-effective supplementation.

It covers all essential macrominerals and trace minerals, including selenium and iodine. The strategic blend ensures excellent absorption and meets a dog’s complete nutritional requirements.

Ingredient Concerns

This recipe raises several broad concerns worth noting. The inclusion of sorghum, millet, barley, and rice may contribute to a higher carbohydrate load, which is less suitable for dogs with sensitivities or weight issues. The overall formula may be too rich in starches and lower in meat content than it initially appears.

Processed ingredients such as salmon meal and ocean fish meal, though protein-rich, can be nutritionally inferior to whole fish.

The presence of the vague ingredient natural flavor reduces transparency.

Reliance on synthetic vitamin and mineral supplements suggests the base ingredients may not provide complete nutrition on their own, while some minerals appear in less bioavailable forms such as sulfates and sodium selenite.

Potential allergens, including fish, yeast, and grains, could affect sensitive dogs.

This Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food review highlights both the strengths and potential concerns in the formulation, giving pet owners a clearer picture of what to expect from this dog food line.

Nutrient Analysis

Moisture=10% Max

Method of Analysis	Protein	Fat	Carbs	Fiber
→ Guaranteed Analysis	30%	15%	34%	3%
→ Dry Matter Basis	33.3%	16.7%	37.8%	3.3%
→ Calorie Content Basis	29.9%	36.3%	33.9%	NA

Normal dog food typically contains (18-35)% protein, (30–50)% carbohydrates and (9–25)% fat on a dry matter basis.

However, Ancient Stream Canine Recipe contains 33.3% protein, 16.7% fat, and approximately 37.8% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis.

This makes it Moderately High in protein, Moderate in fat, and Moderate in carbohydrates.

Compliance with AAFCO and FEDIAF Standards

The Ancient Stream Canine Recipe contains 33.3% protein and 16.7% fat on a dry matter basis.

These levels exceed the minimum requirements for both adult maintenance and growth and reproduction, as set by AAFCO and FEDIAF standards, ensuring the food provides sufficient protein and fat to support your dog’s overall health.

Every recipe in Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food line meets AAFCO and FEDIAF standards.

AAFCO Statement

“Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream Canine Recipe with Smoke-Flavored Salmon is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for All Life Stages, including growth of large size dogs (70 lb. or more as an adult).”

The statement means the recipe’s nutrient levels were tested in a lab but not through actual feeding trials with dogs.

Both methods ensure nutritional adequacy, though feeding trials provide practical validation.

Cost Analysis

Cost Metrics	5-lb bag	14-lb bag	28-lb bag
→ Cost per Unit	$19.99	$38.99	$58.99
→ Cost per Pound	$4.00	$2.79	$2.11
→ Cost per Serving	$1.04	$0.73	$0.55

Based on the provided cost metrics for Ancient Stream Canine Recipe, the financial advantages of purchasing larger bags are significant.

While the 5-lb bag offers minimal commitment, its cost per serving is nearly double that of the largest size. The 14-lb bag presents a solid middle ground with notable savings. However, the 28-lb bag is the most economical choice by far, boasting the lowest cost per pound and per serving.

This makes it the best overall value for dedicated pet owners, offering substantial long-term savings despite the higher initial upfront cost.

Chewy Autoship offers 35% off (up to $20) on your first order. For a 28-lb bag, the cost is $58.99, but on Autoship, it drops to $38.99, saving $20.

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Note: Prices are subject to change based on retailer, location, and availability.

Pros and Cons - Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food

Pros

High-quality animal protein as the #1 ingredient
Contains species-specific proprietary probiotics and prebiotic fibers
Packed with antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables
Use of chelated minerals for superior absorption
No artificial flavors/colors/preservatives

Cons

Presence of multiple meals
Presence of vague ingredients

Recalls and Safety

Taste of the Wild issued a voluntary recall in 2012 over concerns of possible contamination. However, later testing confirmed that none of their products were actually affected.

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Our Rating

Our dog food rating system rated the Ancient Stream Canine Recipe at 5.0 out of 5, while the Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food line received an overall rating of 4.85 out of 5.

Final Verdict

This article gives a basic look at dog food ingredients, but you should always ask your vet for specific advice. Your dog may have different needs, and an expert’s help is important.