Freeze-Dried Patties Farm-Raised Beef Recipe Dog Food
Verified Jun 16, 2026
This is a very high-protein, high-fat freeze-dried beef-based dog food designed to be fed as a complete meal or a topper for most dogs, excluding large-breed puppies. It features beef, organ meats, whole herring, and beef bone as the primary ingredients, with small amounts of pumpkin, organic vegetables, and fruit plus added vitamins and minerals for balance. The freeze-dried format preserves nutrients while keeping moisture low, making it a calorie-dense option best suited for dogs who do well on rich, meat-heavy diets.
Nutritionally, this is a rich, meat-forward, calorie-dense freeze-dried food that should work well for healthy, active dogs and those who need a higher calorie intake in a smaller volume of food. The protein and fat levels are quite high, with low starch and sugar, which many dogs tolerate very well. It is fully AAFCO-complete for all life stages except large-breed puppy growth, but the richness means it may be too heavy for some dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to weight gain.
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At a Glance
What "not formulated for" means
Life stages this food isn't certified complete and balanced for, based on its AAFCO statement.KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Very high animal-based protein (minimum 38%) and fat (minimum 28%) from beef, organ meats, whole herring, and beef bone, providing a strong amino acid profile and energy for active dogs.
- Low carbohydrate content, with dietary starch max 7% and sugars max 1%, which can be helpful for dogs that do better on lower-carb diets.
- Includes beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, dried chicory root (source of prebiotic fiber), turmeric, and dried kelp, plus added omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA for skin, coat, and overall health.
- AAFCO complete and balanced for all life stages except growth of large-breed puppies, so it can be used as a sole diet for most dogs or as a nutrient-dense topper.
Considerations
- Very calorie-dense (about 4,130 kcal/kg and 103 kcal per patty), so portions need to be carefully controlled, especially for small or less active dogs to avoid unwanted weight gain.
- High fat content may not suit dogs with a history of pancreatitis, very sensitive digestion, or those needing a lower-fat diet; some dogs may need a slower transition to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
- Contains beef and fish, which are common protein allergens for some dogs, so it would not be appropriate for dogs known to react to these proteins.
- Not appropriate as the sole diet for large-breed puppies, as specified by the AAFCO statement, so those dogs should be on a diet specifically formulated for large-breed growth instead.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Beef
Beef is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a primary animal protein and palatability enhancer, supplying high-quality essential amino acids, B vitamins, iron, and zinc that support muscle maintenance and overall health. Owners should note beef can be calorie- and fat-dense and is a relatively common allergen, and raw or improperly handled beef carries microbial risks, so formulation, fat content, and sourcing/processing are important considerations.
02
Beef Liver
Beef liver is an organ meat commonly used in dog and cat foods and treats as a highly palatable, protein-rich, nutrient-dense ingredient that provides concentrated, bioavailable vitamins (especially vitamin A and B12), heme iron, copper, and essential amino acids. While it supports blood health and overall nutrition, beef liver should be fed in moderation because excess vitamin A can cause toxicity, its richness may upset sensitive stomachs or contribute to pancreatitis in predisposed pets, and proper sourcing/processing is important to minimize contaminant or bacterial risks.
03
Herring
Herring is commonly used as a high-quality, palatable fish protein and oil source in dog and cat foods, supplying digestible protein along with beneficial long-chain omega-3s (EPA/DHA), vitamin D, B vitamins and trace minerals. It can support skin, coat and joint health, but may be an allergen for some pets and raw fish can contain thiaminase (typically destroyed by commercial cooking); owners should also consider fat content for pancreatitis-prone animals and look for responsibly sourced, low-contaminant products.
04
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is used in pet foods primarily as a fiber-rich carbohydrate and moisture source that can help regulate digestion and firm up loose stools or add bulk for softer stools, and it provides beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor) plus small amounts of vitamins and minerals for dogs and cats. It is safe and beneficial when plain cooked or canned (not spiced or sweetened pie filling), should be fed in moderation as a supplement rather than a primary food, and introduced gradually since large amounts can cause gastrointestinal upset or interfere with absorption of some medications.
05
Natural Fish Flavor
Natural fish flavor is used in pet foods primarily to enhance palatability and encourage eating rather than as a significant source of nutrients. Because it is derived from fish, it may contain trace marine compounds but generally provides little protein or omega‑3s and can be a concern for pets with fish allergies or owners sensitive to strong food odors.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional
adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.Brand
ACANA offers high-protein dog and cat foods made from fresh regional ingredients. The brand focuses on biologically appropriate nutrition with recipes inspired by nature, often containing various ratios of meat, fish, and poultry along with fruits and vegetables. Positioned as a premium choice, ACANA targets pet owners seeking high-quality, grain-free or limited-ingredient diets.
Visit AcanaManufacturer
Champion Petfoods maintains full control over its manufacturing through its own award-winning kitchens — NorthStar in Alberta, Canada, and DogStar in Kentucky, USA. The company implements strict quality control, adheres to HACCP and FDA manufacturing standards, and monitors safety through both internal testing and third-party audits.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Acana Freeze-Dried Patties Farm-Raised Beef Recipe Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Acana ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Acana. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
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