Choosing the right food for your canine companion is a crucial decision for their health and well-being. Ol’ Roy, a brand often found in many households, offers a range of canned dog food options. This review delves into the ingredients, nutritional analysis, and overall quality of Ol’ Roy’s canned products to help you make an informed choice.
Our Verdict
Ol’ Roy canned dog food receives a rating that places it as “Somewhat Recommended.” The product line, which includes 11 recipes, has an average rating of 2 out of 5 stars, with individual recipes ranging from 2 to 3 stars. While it aims to provide complete nutrition, concerns regarding ingredient quality and the presence of controversial additives warrant careful consideration.
Recipe and Label Analysis
To assess the Ol’ Roy canned range, a specific product, Ol’ Roy Strips in Gravy Filet Mignon Flavor, was selected for detailed analysis. This review focuses on its estimated dry matter nutrient content, revealing approximately 44.4% protein, 16.7% fat, and 30.9% carbohydrates.
The guaranteed analysis states 8% protein and 3% fat. When converted to a dry matter basis, the protein content is around 44%, fat is 17%, and carbohydrates are approximately 31%. On a calorie-weighted basis, the composition is 38% protein, 35% fat, and 27% carbohydrates. The estimated carbohydrate content is around 30% for the overall product line. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 43%. Compared to a typical canned dog food, this profile indicates above-average protein, below-average fat, and above-average carbohydrates.
Ingredients Analysis
A closer examination of the ingredients in Ol’ Roy Strips in Gravy Filet Mignon Flavor reveals several points of interest:
- Water: As common in canned foods, water is the first ingredient, adding moisture.
- Chicken: This is a good source of essential amino acids for dogs.
- Meat by-products: This ingredient is derived from slaughterhouse waste and can include various animal parts. While potentially nutritious, its anonymous nature makes it difficult to assess quality and can pose challenges for dogs with specific food allergies.
- Wheat flour: This highly refined grain offers modest nutritional value and is considered a controversial ingredient by some.
- Beef: A valuable source of protein and essential amino acids.
- Liver: While liver can be a quality ingredient, its source is not specified here, making its quality assessment difficult.
- Corn starch: Likely used as a thickening agent, this ingredient is derived from corn.
- Chicken meal: A concentrated source of protein, containing significantly more protein than fresh chicken.
- Salt: A necessary mineral, but its exact amount in the recipe is not disclosed.
Additionally, the ingredients list includes vegetable oil preserved with BHA/BHT, which are suspected carcinogens. The presence of artificial coloring, including titanium dioxide (a potential carcinogen) and iron oxide, is also a concern, as these are used for human appeal rather than canine nutritional benefit. Caramel coloring is another additive noted for its controversial status and potential health risks. Finally, onion and garlic are included, which in rare cases have been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs. The listed minerals are not chelated, which may reduce their absorbability.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients, Ol’ Roy canned dog food is considered a below-average wet product. While the protein content is notable, the quality of some ingredients and the presence of artificial additives detract from its overall nutritional profile. The brand’s average protein content is around 43%, with a mean fat level of 19%, and an estimated carbohydrate content of 30%.
Ol’ Roy Dog Food Recall History
As of January 2026, there have been no publicly reported recalls specifically for Ol’ Roy canned dog food within the provided data. However, it is always advisable to stay informed about any potential recalls from pet food manufacturers.
Our Rating of Ol’ Roy Dog Food
Ol’ Roy is a grain-inclusive canned dog food that utilizes a significant amount of both named and unnamed meat by-products as its primary animal protein sources. Due to the concerns outlined regarding ingredient quality and additives, the brand earns a rating of 1.5 out of 5 stars, placing it in the “Not Recommended” category.
While Ol’ Roy may be an accessible option, owners seeking the highest quality nutrition for their dogs might consider exploring brands with more transparent ingredient sourcing and a higher overall nutritional rating. Consulting with a veterinarian can also provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs.
