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Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe

DogDry

Rating

Updated Jun 2026
★︎★︎★︎☆︎☆︎ 3.5 / 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
How we review →

Is Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe dry dog food good?

Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe is a dry dog food rated 3.5 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, Egg, Nuts, Shellfish but contains Legumes, Poultry, Red meat, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.

Allergy Highlights

Contains:

LegumesPoultryRed meatFishUnknown Fish Meal

Free From:

Gluten grainsGrains (gluten-free)DairyEggNutsShellfish

Pros

  • Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
  • Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.

Cons

  • Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.

Nutrition Breakdown

Nutrition Breakdown — Dry Matter
Protein 28%
Fat 13%
Est. Carbs 47%
Fiber 4%
Ash 8%

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

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

Nutrition Breakdown — As Fed
Protein 25%
Fat 12%
Est. Carbs 42%
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 Medium (28% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This may be reasonable for many adult dogs, though active, growing, pregnant, or nursing dogs may need a more specific fit.

    Understanding Medium Protein (25% - 33% Dry Matter)

    Middle Comparison Bucket This bucket is species-aware: the cat medium range starts higher than the dog range. It helps compare labels, but it is not a complete nutrition verdict.

    Cats Need Closer Review Cats are obligate carnivores and generally need more protein than dogs. For cat foods in this range, the complete-and-balanced statement and life-stage claim are especially important.

  • Fat is Medium (13% dry matter) on our label-based comparison range. This is a moderate energy-density signal for many adult dogs, assuming the full diet matches activity and body condition.

    Understanding Medium Fat (10% - 16% Dry Matter)

    Moderate Energy Signal This bucket suggests a moderate fat level on a dry-matter basis. It may suit many adult pets when calories, protein, and the adequacy statement also fit.

    Still Check the Whole Diet Fat percentage does not show total calories by itself. Treats, feeding amount, body condition, and life stage can make the same food work well for one pet and poorly for another.

Ingredients Analysis

46 of 46 matched

  • 1 Venison
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A more exotic red meat, higher protein and lower in fat compared to other domestic red meats.

    Why Prefer?

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

  • 2 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.

  • 3 Potato
    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.

  • 4 Chickpea
    Carbs Plant Protein

    Description

    Also known as garbanzo beans, a type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 20% protein.

    Digestion Concern

    Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.

  • 5 Sweet Potato
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 6 Pea
    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.

  • 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 Ocean Fish Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of unnamed fish. It is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh fish on dry matter basis.

    Why Notice?

    It does not state what kind of fish is used to make the ingredient. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.

    Uncertain/Risky

    Unnamed fish products could source from sick, deadly animal bodies. It is a potential risk for severe illness.

  • 9 Brewers Yeast Powder

    (Detected): Brewer's Yeast Powder

    Plant Protein Concentrate

    Description

    Dried brewers yeast, a byproduct of brewing, rich in B vitamins and minerals.

    Why Concerned?

    A controversial ingredient, some believe it can support the immune system, while others say it can be linked to allergies and bloating. However, no scientific research can provide a concrete conclusion.

  • 10 Animal Plasma
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A nutrient-rich clear fluid from the portion of blood which has been separated away from the red and white blood cells. The protein portion of this product is primarily albumin, globulin and fibrinogen type proteins.

    Why Notice?

    Unspecified animal products from unknown sources. Its quality is highly concerned, often seen in low quality pet foods.

  • 11 Pumpkin
    Carbs

    Description

    An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.

  • 12 Dried 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.

  • 13 Natural Flavor
    Food Additive

    Description

    Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.

    Why Concerned?

    Contrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.

  • 14 Dicalcium Phosphate
    Supplement

    Description

    A supplement for calcium and phosphorus. It is mainly used to improve the texture of pet foods. It is also found in some toothpaste as a polishing agent.

    Why Notice?

    A risky supplement that can cause health issues, backed by research studies.

    Digestion Concern

    It does not absorb any water, almost insoluble, and becomes very hard in digesting.

    Uncertain/Risky

    Studies show that it can cause the formulation of kidney stones.

  • 15 Pea Fiber
    Carbs

    Description

    Produced by separating the starch of peas from fiber, consists mainly of insoluble fiber, contains around 6 - 12% protein.

    Why Concerned?

    A controversial filler with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

    Digestion Concern

    Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.

  • 16 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).

  • 17 Salt
    Others

    Description

    Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.

    Why Concerned?

    A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.

  • 18 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.

  • 19 Turmeric
    Carbs

    Description

    Orange ginger-like plant often used in making curry. It contains curcumin, which is a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. However, its color is the main purpose of adding it to pet foods.

  • 20 Spirulina
    Plant Protein Concentrate

    Description

    A type of cyanobacteria grows in water, it contains around 57% protein. It is one of the most nutrient-dense foods, an excellent source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, copper, iron, and omega 3s & 6s.

  • 21 Choline Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.

  • 22 Dl-methionine
    Supplement

    Description

    Added to balance the amino acids profile of pet foods with limited amounts of meat protein. Meat / fish naturally contains methionine, which does not require extra supplements. It is sometimes used to help support urine acidification.

    Why Concerned?

    A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein). However, it could imply the lack of meat protein - usually in lower quality pet foods.

  • 23 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.

  • 24 Vitamin C
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 25 Niacin
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 26 Pantothenic Acid
    Supplement

    Description

    A water-soluble dietary supplement for vitamin B5, which is essential for energy metabolism in the body.

  • 27 Riboflavin
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 28 Vitamin B6
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B6, which is vital for producing glucose, red blood cells, and synthesis of niacin, taurine, dopamine. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anemia, seizures, and heart-related issues.

  • 29 Thiamine
    Supplement

    Description

    A supplement for vitamin B1, which is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.

  • 30 Vitamin A
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 31 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.

  • 32 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).

  • 33 Biotin
    Supplement

    Description

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

  • 34 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.

  • 35 Ferrous Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 36 Zinc Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 37 Copper Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 38 Manganese Sulfate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.

  • 39 Zinc Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 40 Iron Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 41 Sodium Selenite
    Food Additive

    Description

    An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.

    Why Concerned?

    A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.

  • 42 Calcium Carbonate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 43 Dried Chicory Root
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 44 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).

  • 45 Rosemary Extract
    Carbs

    Description

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

  • 46 Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product
    Probiotics

    Description

    A type of probiotics, good bacteria that promotes good digestion and overall health. Bacillus coagulans is often taken by humans to treat bowel syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.

Tips

  • Some protein sources are less clear: Ocean Fish Meal appear near the top without a clearly defined animal source.
  • Plant protein signal: Chickpea, Pea may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
  • Higher-priority ingredients to review: Ocean Fish Meal, Animal Plasma, Dicalcium Phosphate.
  • Higher-caution ingredients: Ocean Fish Meal, Dicalcium Phosphate have caution notes in the ingredient database.
  • Possible digestion triggers: Chickpea, Pea, Dicalcium Phosphate, and 1 more 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 80%
  • Unnamed 20%

Strong clarity: 80% of Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 20% 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

Venison Turkey

Unnamed

Ocean Fish Meal

Animal Protein

High
High
  • Animal 81%
  • Plant 16%
  • Auxiliary 3%

Meat-forward: 81% of the weighted protein in Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (16% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.

Contributing ingredients

Animal

Venison Turkey Ocean Fish Meal Animal Plasma

Plant

Chickpea Pea

Auxiliary

Brewers Yeast Powder Spirulina

Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe dry dog food Review

Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe is a solid mid-tier dry dog food at 3.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. It has clear strengths alongside a few trade-offs worth weighing.

Best for

  • Owners who want clearly named protein sources
  • Pets avoiding gluten grains
  • Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein

Avoid if

  • You're avoiding legumes
  • You need to know the exact animal source of every protein

Key takeaways

  • Named animal proteins make up 80% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
  • Contains common allergens: Legumes, Poultry, Red meat, Fish, Unknown Fish Meal.
  • On a dry-matter basis: 28% protein, 13% fat, 47% estimated carbohydrates.
  • 81% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
  • Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Egg, Nuts, Shellfish.

Frequently asked questions

Is Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe good for dogs?

Mostly — a solid mid-tier pick at 3.5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. Best paired with knowledge of your pet's needs.

Does Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe contain Dairy?

No — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe contain Egg?

No — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe doesn't include Egg or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe contain Legumes?

Yes — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.

Does Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe contain Nuts?

No — based on the ingredient list, Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.

Is Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe grain-free?

Yes — there are no grains in this recipe.

What are the main protein sources in Solid Gold Wild Venison Gentle Digestion Recipe?

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

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