Why is that?
There are two reasons why this might be the case.
- The dimension or metrics is not yet available in the Core Reporting API.
- The dimension or metric has a slightly different name in the API than it does on the web.
In the first case, there’s nothing we can do. Generally it takes about 6 months for new dimensions and metrics that are released into the GA web version to make their way into the API. Analytics Canvas has a strong track record of releasing on the same day as Google makes them available.
In the second case, Google has provided a reference guide to help you map the names.
For example,
- Active User maps back to ga:VisitorType
- NewUser maps to ga:newVisits
If you configure your query using the dimension and metrics reference guide, you’ll be able to get the results you’re after.