How to read a guaranteed analysis: what 26/16 and 32/32 actually mean
Every bag of dog or cat food in Canada and the US carries a guaranteed analysis. It is a short list of minimums and maximums, and it tells you more than most people realise.
The four basics
- Crude protein (min.) The least protein the food will contain.
- Crude fat (min.) The least fat. Fat carries more than twice the energy of protein or carbohydrate per gram.
- Crude fibre (max.) The most fibre.
- Moisture (max.) The most water. Corey's dry formulas are 10% max.
Inukshuk names its formulas after the first two numbers. Inukshuk 26/16 is at least 26% protein and 16% fat. 32/32 is at least 32% of each.
Why calories matter more than percentages
Fat is the main lever on energy density. Compare three Corey formulas:
| Formula | Protein / Fat | kcal per cup |
|---|---|---|
| ProSeries Weight Management | 25 / 7 | 452 |
| Inukshuk 26/16 | 26 / 16 | 472 |
| Inukshuk 32/32 | 32 / 32 | 720 |
A dog eating 32/32 needs far less volume for the same energy. That is why feeding amounts must change when you change food.
Cups versus kilograms
Calories per cup depend on how dense the kibble is. Calories per kilogram are the fairer comparison between brands. Use cups for daily scooping, kilograms for comparing.
What the analysis does not tell you
It won't tell you digestibility, ingredient quality or how consistently the food is made. That is where manufacturing matters: Corey's Fine Grind is designed to raise digestibility, and small-batch production keeps each bag consistent.
Questions owners ask
What does 30/25 mean on dog food?
It means the food contains a minimum of 30% crude protein and a minimum of 25% crude fat.
Is a higher-fat dog food always better?
No. Higher fat suits dogs with high energy demands. Less active pets usually do better on a moderate-fat formula like a 26/16 or a weight management food.
This article is general information from Corey Nutrition's team and isn't a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.
