Nulo Dog Food Review (2023): Prices, Quality, Nutrients

Here is our Nulo dog food review.

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Dogs have a special place not only in our homes but in our hearts too. As such, they deserve the very best that life has to offer. Besides providing proper body hygiene and the ideal amount of exercise, our canine friends need a wholesome, nutritious, and completely balanced meal to live a happy, long, and healthy life.

Standard human food is not capable of meeting your dog’s nutritional needs. That’s why you must invest in good quality dog food to ensure your dog stays fit and performs optimally. However, picking the best food from the product-flooded market is not easy. 

It can be extremely overwhelming to choose from the wide variety of products and brands available. This, plus untruthful marketing gimmicks and conflicting information on the internet, further complicates the process.

So, how do you select the best nutrition for your furry pal amidst this confusion?

Well, you don’t need to worry. We are here to help.

To gauge the suitability of any dog food properly, you’ll need an honest source of information. And that’s what we exactly deliver. To make it easier for you, we analyze different brands in terms of ingredients quality, availability, variety, safety, and cost to give you a truthful review and enable you to make a sound judgment.

In this article, we delve deep into the Nulo dog food to help you gauge if it’s what your dog needs. We will touch on who owns the brand, where and who produces the food, any recalls it may have had, and some of its top products.

Nulo is a premium dog food brand formulated to provide nutritionally complete nutrition to meet the unique dietary needs of dogs at different life stages and ages.

Ready to learn more?

Let’s get down to it.

About Nulo Dog Food

Nulo dog food is a premium brand based in Austin, Texas. This brand provides all-natural food made with high-quality ingredients, including real animal meats, low glycemic carbohydrates, and fruits and vegetables, for balanced nutrition that supports overall health. This dog food comes in various varieties, including age-specific formulas for puppies, adults, and seniors.

Who owns Nulo dog food? 

Michael Landa and Brett Montana own Nulo dog food. These two partners were dog walkers who became concerned after they noticed a rise in diabetic and obese dogs. They both founded Nulo dog food to provide holistic food to support the nutritional needs of dogs at all life stages and sizes.

What are the sub-brands of Nulo Dog food? 

Nulo offers a wide variety of products to choose from. This dog food offers 3 lines of products to choose from.  The Freestyle range consists of foods containing no chicken or chicken products. These products are ideal for dogs with chicken sensitivities. The second line is the Metal series, made up of chicken-based foods. The last line is the FrontRunner line which is the grain-inclusive line.

Nulo dog food is further classified as follows:

  • Dry food: This line consists of foods that look like biscuits or kibbles. This kind of food contains a moisture content of up to 11%. There are 11 varieties to choose from under this line.
  • Grain-free and gluten-free line: This consists of dog food recipes that are crafted without including grains or wheat. These formulas are suitable for dogs with gluten or grain sensitivities. 
  • Grain-inclusive: The formulas under this sub-brand include wholesome grains like oatmeal, whole grain wheat, and pearled barley for enhanced nutrition levels.
  • Puppy formulas: These are designed to meet the needs of growing puppies
  • Senior and adult recipes: These are formulated with the specific needs of adult and senior dogs.
  • Canned food: This food has a moisture content of up to 85%  and comes in cans, trays, or pouches. Canned food is also known as wet food and has a shorter shelf-life than dry food. Nulo offers 11 varieties under this sub-brand.
  • Limited ingredients: These are crafted with few ingredients, including a single animal protein. This type of food is ideal for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.

What Is the Nutritional Profile of Nulo Dog Foods? 

It’s important to have a keen look at the nutritional content of any dog food before settling for it. This will give you important insights into its suitability and ability to meet your dog’s specific needs. 

By looking at the carbohydrate, protein, and fat contents on the ingredients list, you can gauge the nutritional value of any food. This is what the nutritional profile of Spot and Tango dog food looks like:

Carbohydrate Value of Nulo Dog Food

Carbohydrates make good sources of energy that dogs need to fuel their activities. Dogs need the energy released when carbohydrates are broken down to play and work. Once in the body, carbs are broken down and converted into sugar which then translates to calories that keep dogs going. Nulo dog food has an above-average carbohydrate level of 41%, considered high. 

Protein Value of Nulo Dog Food

Proteins are essential for healthy muscles and tissues and boosting dogs’ performance. Proteins supply dogs’ amino acids to build, repair, and maintain healthy cells, tissues, ligaments, and muscles. Nulo dog food boasts 35% protein content above AAFCO’s minimum requirement for dog food.

Fat Value of Nulo Dog Food

Fats are not only essential for keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy and supple but also helpful in lowering cholesterol levels, minimizing inflammations, building stronger cell membranes, and improving brain health. This dog food has a below-average fat level of 17%. 

What are the best Nulo recipes and flavors? 

Nulo dog food offers recipes for puppies, adults, and senior dogs that come in wet, dry, and freeze-dried forms. It also has limited ingredient formulas for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies. Nulo dog food is grain-free as it does not include grains.

Nulo dog food comes in various flavors, including turkey, lamb, salmon, chicken, and duck. This allows you to go for what suits your dog best. It also has some formulations for small-breed dogs. There are also recipes for specific health issues, including sensitive digestion and weight management. However, Nulo does not have breed-specific formulas.

What Makes Nulo Dog Food Unique? 

The following are some of the things that make Nulo dog food stand out from other dog food brands:

  • Improves gut health: Nulo includes its own patented probiotics in all its recipes to promote digestion and support a healthy gut.
  • It’s Protein-rich: Nulo dog food is formulated with high amounts of real animal meat proteins for healthy sources of essential amino acids to help dogs build healthy muscles and promote heart health.
  • Utilizes high-quality ingredients: Nulo dog food utilizes natural ingredients, including real meats and wholesome grains, in all its formulations. It does not include fillers like corn, soy, wheat, or artificial flavors and preservatives.
  • Wide variety: Nulo dog food offers various recipes and formulas for dogs at all life stages. It has foods for puppies, adults, and senior dogs that come in various flavors, including turkey, salmon, chicken, and duck. The food is available in wet, dry, and freeze-dried options.
  • Low-carb formulas: All Nulo dog food recipes contain low carbohydrate levels. The brand uses low glycemic carbohydrate sources and higher protein amounts for sustained energy.
  • Chicken and egg-free recipes: Nulo dog food includes recipes designed without any chicken or chicken products to cater to the needs of dogs that have difficulty digesting these ingredients.
  • Free from junk ingredients: This food does not contain any filler ingredients like additives, meat-byproducts, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives that have no nutritional value.
  • Wholesome and nutritionally complete meals: All the recipes from this brand are crafted with wholesome ingredients, including proteins from real meats, fruits, vegetables, minerals, and vitamins, to provide a completely balanced nutrition with all the necessary dietary components that dogs need to thrive.

What Are the Individual Dog Food Recipes From Nulo Dog Food Brand?

Nulo FreeStyle Adult Salmon and Peas 

This high-protein diet is formulated for active adult dogs with real salmon as the number one ingredient. The recipe combines 80% animal proteins with other low glycemic ingredients for wholesome and completely balanced nutrition that supports overall health.

Crafted without any chicken, eggs, or grains like tapioca and white potatoes, this food is perfect for dogs that don’t like chicken proteins or have sensitivities. Wholesome fruits and vegetables and vitamins E and C support a healthy immune system.  To enhance digestion, this food is further enriched with advanced probiotics.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Whole Peas, and Sweet Potatoes.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
  • Calories: 424 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Digestive health, immune system support
  • Price: $25 for a 6-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Contains a blend of high-quality protein from salmon, turkey meal, and Menhaden fish meal for essential amino acids to fuel your dog’s muscles and support a healthy heart.
  • Loaded with omega fatty acids, including omega 3 and 6, to nourish your dog’s skin and promote a glamorous coat.
  • Free from grains and chicken products hence great for dogs with allergies and sensitivities
  • Includes low glycemic carbohydrates for good sources of energy to keep your dog active
  • Added with calcium and phosphorus to support strong bones.

Nulo FreeStyle Large Breed Puppy Salmon and Turkey 

Large breed puppies have unique needs that must be met via the right diet to grow into healthy adults. And this is exactly what this Nulo recipe delivers. The meal is crafted with up to 75% animal proteins from salmon and turkey to supply the essential amino acids that these dogs need to build strong, healthy muscles.

It’s also crafted with an ideal balance of phosphorus and calcium to support healthy bones and joints. Wholesome fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, carrots, tomatoes, and apples are added for a nutritionally complete diet that boosts immunity and supports overall health.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Red Lentils, Chickpeas, and Salmon Meal.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calories: 404 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Large and extra large dog breed puppies
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet designed with ideal calcium and phosphorus levels to support healthy muscles and strong bones
  • Type of product: Dry food, Grain-free, No wheat, No wheat, No corn
  •  Life stage: Puppy
  • Best for: Healthy muscles, strong bones, and proper brain development
  • Price: $82.99 for a 26-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Contains ideal levels of calcium and phosphorus to support strong, healthy bones
  • Added with DHA to promote proper brain and healthy eye development
  • Loaded with essential amino acids to help build and maintain healthy muscle mass
  • Formulated with natural sources of vitamins and minerals to support optimal body functioning
  • Includes patented BC30 probiotics to support healthy digestion.

Nulo FreeStyle Adult Lamb and Chickpeas 

This grain-free recipe is exactly what your dog needs to thrive by boasting a whole 81% animal proteins from sources like real lamb, turkey, and salmon. These high-quality proteins are packed with amino acids that support lean muscle mass and a healthy heart. The balanced omega-3 & 6 fatty acid amounts in this food aid in promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Better still, this meal is fortified with low glycemic carbohydrates for sustained energy sources to fuel your dog’s activities. Advanced probiotics are added to aid digestion and promote gut health.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, and Chickpeas
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 31% min, Crude Fat 17% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
  • Calories: 426 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet enhanced with calcium and phosphorus to help build healthy muscles and bones in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Healthy muscles and bones
  • Price: $77.55 for a 26-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Made without tapioca or potatoes for a low carbohydrate diet that helps dogs maintain a healthy weight
  • Free from chicken and eggs hence suitable for dogs with sensitivities to these ingredients
  • Added probiotics to support healthy digestion
  • Packed with iron and zinc from real lamb to promote your dog’s overall immune health
  • Loaded with amino acids from lamb and turkey meal to help build healthy muscle mass.

Nulo FreeStyle Adult Turkey and Sweet Potato 

Your dog deserves a great meal after its hunting adventures. And that’s what this recipe delivers. Boasting a whole 85% animal protein from turkey, turkey meal, and salmon meal, this food is loaded with amino acids to fuel lean muscles and a healthy heart in your dog.

This recipe also includes wholesome vegetables and fruits plus vitamins C and E that work together to support your dog’s overall immune health. Advanced probiotics are added to promote gastrointestinal health.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal,  Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, and Chicken Fat
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 441 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: All dog breeds, small, medium, and large breed dogs
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for Strong and healthy muscles, healthy skin, and digestive health
  • Price: $79.58 for a 6-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Contains guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorus to promote the musculoskeletal health of dogs
  • Has good amounts of omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat 
  • Features 85% animal protein from turkey and salmon meal for essential amino acids to help build lean muscles
  • Free from grains and high glycemic carbohydrates, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies
  • Has added probiotics to enhance digestion and improve gastrointestinal health.

Nulo FreeStyle Adult Trim Cod and Lentils 

Specially formulated to help dogs maintain a healthy weight, this balanced diet is high in protein but low in calories and fats. The meal is crafted with 74% protein content from fresh cod, turkey, and salmon to help your dog build healthy muscles. It also contains L-carnitine to aid in the metabolism of fats, plus fiber from sources like sweet potatoes, lentils, and chickpeas for healthy digestion.

Better still, the food is enhanced with natural probiotics that are important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and improving the immune system.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Cod, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Lentils, and Yellow Peas.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
  • Calories: 368 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High protein diet formulated with low fat and calorie content to help in weight management
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Weight control
  • Price: $25 for a 6-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Low-fat, low-calorie food formulated to help dogs maintain a healthy weight
  • Includes L-carnitine to support fat metabolism
  • Contains zero grains with no eggs, tapioca, white potatoes, and chicken products; hence great for allergies. 
  • Fortified with guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorus levels to help build and maintain strong bones
  • Has pure probiotic strains to support healthy digestion.

Nulo FreeStyle Senior Trout and Sweet Potato 

Your aging dog does not need to slow down. You can help your senior pup regain youthful energy with the right diet. And this is what this trout and sweet potato recipe stand for. The meal is crafted to provide superior nutrition to help your senior pooch remain fit and healthy as long as possible. 

In addition to the high animal meat content, including deboned trout, salmon, and turkey, the food also includes lots of wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, tomatoes, blueberries, and apples for natural dog nutrition that supports overall health.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Trout, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, and Sweet Potatoes.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calories: 396 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet formulated to cater to the needs of aging dogs with added chondroitin and glucosamine 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Digestive health, immune system support
  • Price: $25 for a 6-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Fortified with glucosamine and chondroitin to support proper hip and joint health
  • Includes L-carnitine to aid in the metabolism of extra fats and help less active dogs maintain a healthy weight.
  • Loaded with healthy whole foods for a natural diet that supports overall health
  • Has added probiotic strains to aid digestion
  • Offers complete and balanced nutrition that senior dogs need to thrive
  • Rich in proteins from trout, turkey, and salmon to help maintain a healthy muscle mass

Nulo FreeStyle Puppy Turkey and Sweet Potato 

Puppies have unique dietary needs which must be met via proper nutrition. This Nulo Freestyle turkey and sweet potato recipe deliver all the nutrition puppies need for a healthy start. Featuring  85% real-animal proteins from turkey, turkey meal, and salmon, you can be sure your growing pup is getting all the amino acids for building healthy and strong muscles.

The food is enriched with omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and coat, plus DHA for healthy brain and eye development. Loads of wholesome vegetables and fruits are added to boost the immune system’s health while guaranteed calcium and phosphorus levels support strong bones and teeth.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, and Chicken Fat ( preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid).
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 441 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Puppies of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the puppy’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet specially formulated for puppies  to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Puppy
  • Best for: Healthy muscles, Healthy brain and eye development, skin and coat health.
  • Price: $82. 47 for a 26-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Fortified with DHA to support proper eye and brain development
  • Protein-packed food with real meat from turkey, turkey meal, and salmon to help build and maintain healthy muscles in puppies
  • Contains omega-3 and 6 fatty acids to nourish the skin and coat of dogs
  • Includes guaranteed levels of calcium and phosphorus to support healthy bones and teeth

Nulo FreeStyle Puppy Salmon and Peas 

This meal offers nutrient-packed nutrition and a balanced diet crafted with the needs of growing puppies in mind. The meal boast 80% animal meat from real salmon, turkey meal, and menhaden fish meal for easily digestible proteins that help build healthy muscles in puppies.

Besides being a good source of proteins, salmon provides good amounts of DHA that support healthy brain and eye development. Added calcium helps your little pup develop strong bones and teeth, while fresh vegetables and fruits give a healthy boost to the immune system.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Whole Peas, and Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and citric acid.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 17% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 428 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Puppies of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the puppy’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Puppy
  • Best for: Digestive health, immune system support, brain and eye health
  • Price: $82.99 for a 26-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Loaded with high-quality proteins from real meats to support healthy muscles and heart
  • Fortified with calcium to help build strong, healthy bones and teeth
  • Contains DHA that supports healthy brain and eye development
  • Enriched with fruits and vegetables for healthy doses of antioxidants that boost immune health
  • Completely balanced nutrition with all the necessary nutrients to support overall health

Nulo FreeStyle Adult Small Breed Salmon and Red Lentils 

Besides their size, small dogs have unique dietary requirements that must be met for them to thrive. The ideal diet should be designed to support these dogs’ higher metabolism. This salmon and Lentil recipe is formulated to provide power while delivering complete nutrition that supports your dog’s overall health.

With 84% protein, the recipe features tasty salmon as the first ingredient and adds protein-packed turkey, fish, lamb, and lentils to help build healthy muscles. Other wholesome ingredients include sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, chickpeas, and apples, providing everything your dog needs to stay healthy. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Lamb Meal, and Red Lentils.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 31% min, Crude Fat 17% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calories: 422 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Small breed dogs
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet to help build healthy muscles in dogs of small breed dogs
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Digestive health, immune system support, muscle health
  • Price: $29.98 for a 14-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Designed in small-size kibbles perfectly suited for small mouths to promote proper chewing.
  • Contains L-carnitine and Miscanthus grass to support healthy weight 
  • Free from grains, white potatoes, and tapioca, making it gentle on your dog’s tummy
  • Added with a pure probiotic strain to aid digestion and promote gastrointestinal health
  • Contains a balanced amount of omega 3 & 6 fatty acids to nourish skin and promote a beautiful, shiny coat.

Nulo Freestyle Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food 

This recipe offers a simplified diet packed with nutrition and taste with a single animal protein source. The food features salmon as the first and primary ingredient to help build healthy muscles and is ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to non-fish proteins.

The recipe also includes other wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and chickpeas plus other essential vitamins and nutrients for a nutritionally complete and balanced food that supports the overall health of all dogs, from puppies to seniors.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, ChickPeas, Chickpea Flour, and Canola oil (preserved with tocopherols and citric acid)
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.
  • Calories: 438 kcal/cup 
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds and ages
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: A limited ingredient diet that’s designed for dogs with food allergies and sensitivities
  • Type of product: Dry food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free, Limited Ingredient
  •  Life stage: All life stages
  • Best for: Digestive health, Allergies, and sensitivities
  • Price: $85.99 for a 24-lb bag 

Benefits

  • Loaded with probiotics to support digestive and immune health
  • Packed with omega fatty acids that promote smooth skin and a beautiful shiny coat
  • Features a single animal protein from salmon to help build strong muscles
  • Free from potatoes and tapioca and low in carbohydrates which makes it great for dogs with allergies and sensitivities
  • Enriched with essential minerals and nutrients for a nutritionally complete and balanced diet that supports overall health.

Best Treat: Nulo Freestyle Natural Dog Food Topper  

Treat your fido to a hearty and flavorful snack with this food topper. This high-protein treat is packed with real meat, including all-natural minced lamb, wild-caught saba mackerel, and kelp for a delectable meal enhancer that supports healthy muscle maintenance and keeps your dog healthy and happy.

The treat is free from potatoes, tapioca, gum, additives, or other fillers, making it a great choice for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.  

  • First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Lamb Broth, Mackerel, Mackerel Broth, and Kelp
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 10% min, Crude Fat 5% min, Crude Fiber 0.5% Max.
  • Calories: 76 kcal/pouch
  • Suitable for which dogs: Dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein  treat to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Food Topping, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for: Digestive health, immune system support
  • Price: $13.37 for a 2.8 0z pouch

Benefits

  • Free from grains, potato, tapioca, additives, and fillers, making it great for dogs with allergies
  • Has no artificial flavors or preservatives; hence easy on the stomach
  • Rich in animal-based proteins to support healthy muscle development

Nulo FreeStyle Grain-Free Canned Dog Food Mixed 

Designed for picky eaters, the NuloFree Style Canned dog food comes in various flavors to offer your dog variety and keep it from becoming bored. The recipes feature real meat as the first ingredient and come in chicken with carrots and Peas, turkey, and sweet potato; Beef with peas and carrots; and turkey, salmon, and chickpeas.

This recipe is suitable for adult dogs of all breeds and can be used as a special topper for your dog’s kibble or as its primary diet. We will look at the chicken, carrot, and peas recipe for our analysis.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, and Peas
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 10% min, Crude Fat 8% min, Crude Fiber 1% Max.
  • Calories: 462 kcal/can
  • Suitable for which dogs: Adult dogs of all breeds
  • Feeding: Appropriate feeding amounts differ depending on the dog’s weight, health status, and activity level. 
  • Key Benefit: High-protein diet to help build healthy muscles in dogs of all breeds 
  • Type of product: Wet food, Gluten-Free, Grain-free
  •  Life stage: Adult
  • Best for Healthy muscles, Digestive health, and immune system support
  • Price: $39.45 for a 13 oz 

Benefits

  • Added probiotic strain to support healthy digestion
  • Loaded with amino acids from real meat to help build and maintain healthy muscle mass
  • Contains added calcium and phosphorus for strong bones
  • Includes wholesome vegetables and fruits to support optimal immune health
  • Free from grains, preservatives, potatoes, tapioca, or other filler ingredients for optimal nutrition.

Customer Reviews 

Like any other dog food brand, Nulo has positive and negative reviews. Check out what some of the customers had to say about this brand:

Positive

‘’Our German shepherd puppy loves this food, and it’s so much healthier than other dog foods, even the pricier ones’’.

Customer review

‘’When my husband and I got our Frenchie 2 1/2 years ago, he had the worst gas. And by worst gas, I mean clear you out of a room, nostrils burning, bad gas. We did our research and started him on Nulo. To this day, this is the only brand of food that we feed him, and we are still very happy with it! His coat is very shiny and soft, his gas is minimal (thank god), and we are confident that the ingredients he consumes are overall good for his health, joints, and longevity! We will continue to support this brand as long as they provide good quality, nutritional ingredients’’.

Customer review

Negative

‘’My dog has no allergies and has never been sick for 6 years. After about a week of eating this, she started vomiting every day. First, I didn’t realize it was because of this kibble, and I stupidly kept feeding my dog Nulo. After a couple more days, I suspected Nulo and stopped feeding this. My dog stopped vomiting and became healthy again. Who knows what’s in this kibble and how it’s made, but if my healthy, never-been-sick dog got sick from it, I wouldn’t feed any dogs Nulo’’.

Customer review

Nulo Dog Food Recalls  

According to our research, Nulo dog food has had no recall recorded on its products. Given that the brand has existed for more than a decade now, the recall-free record speaks well about this brand’s commitment to ensuring the quality and safety of its products.

It’s a clear sign that the company has put in place and takes its manufacturing and safety procedures seriously. We hope the brand maintains the high standards and continues to keep a clean record in the foreseeable future.

What is the quality of ingredients in Nulo dog food? 

Nulo dog food utilizes only high-quality ingredients, including real meat, whole fruits and vegetables, and other wholesome ingredients. Real meat is always the first ingredient in all recipes. The food does not include fillers like corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It also excludes meat by-products and other ingredients that are considered low quality.

Do Nulo dog food products include chicken? 

Yes, Nulo dog food includes chicken as the primary ingredient in some recipes. It also uses chicken meals as a source of concentrated protein in its formulas. Chicken is a good source of easily digestible proteins that help to build lean muscle mass in dogs. However, chicken is also a major cause of allergies in dogs.

Are Nulo dog foods produced from slaughterhouse waste? 

No, Nulo dog food does not include any slaughterhouse waste, which consists of animal remains after all the meat has been removed. This can include beaks, horns, skin, hooves, and other undesirable parts.

 The brand only uses high-quality ingredients like real meat, fruits, and vegetables.

Discussion of Most Important Ingredients – Good and Bad 

Nulo dog food prides itself on using high-quality ingredients in all its formulations. These are some of the good ingredients found in this dog food.

  • Salmon and Salmon meal: Besides being an excellent source of high-quality protein, this is also a great source of omega-3 fats that help in improving skin health, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation. Salmon is especially great for dogs allergic to beef or chicken meat. This brand also includes salmon meals as a source of concentrated proteins.
  • Turkey and Turkey meal: Turkey is among the most prevalent animal protein sources in Wellness dog food. Just like chicken, turkey is a good source of easily digestible proteins. However, turkey is lower in fat and calories than chicken. Turkey meal is made from dehydrated turkey for a concentrated protein source.
  • Lamb: This provides an excellent source of easily digestible proteins that dogs need to build and maintain strong muscles.
  • Whole Peas:  These provide additional proteins and some energy for dogs. They are also good fiber sources that keep the digestive system flowing smoothly.
  • Menhaden fish meal: Manhaden fish is a good source of proteins and omega fatty acids. Since these are small ocean fishes, they have low mercury levels.
  • Sweet potatoes are good sources of complex carbohydrates that supply energy to keep dogs moving. Sweet potatoes are also rich in beta-carotene, which promotes vision and dietary fiber, which keeps the digestive system flowing smoothly.
  • Chicken fat: This is packed with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which help to maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Controversial ingredients

While the majority of ingredients in Nulo dog food are good, there are also some which are considered controversial. These include:

  • Salt: High amounts of salt can lead to sodium poisoning, which is marked by dehydration and kidney problems.
  • Dried brewers yeast: Although it has some nutritional benefits, this ingredient can cause severe bloating, which is fatal
  • Pea fiber is low in nutritional value and is commonly used as a filler to replace wheat.

Nulo Dog Food Advantages: What We Like About It. 

Nulo is a high-quality dog food brand that has many desirable qualities. These are some of the things we like about this dog food.

  • High-quality ingredients:  Nulo dog food is made using high-quality and healthy ingredients that promote overall health. The brand does not include any artificial ingredients, additives, and preservatives.
  • Complete and Balanced nutrition: This dog food is formulated with all the necessary nutrients like proteins, vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients in the right amounts for balanced nutrition that supports overall health.
  • High in protein: All Nulo recipes and formulas are packed with high amounts of proteins that supply essential amino acids to keep your dog’s muscles and heart healthy.
  • Low-carb formulas: All the recipes under this brand are formulated with low glycemic carbohydrates. The brand does not include potatoes or tapioca, which results in quick energy bursts. It instead uses healthy and lean proteins for sustained energy levels.
  • Probiotics: Nulo includes the brand’s patented probiotic formula to promote a healthy gut and overall well-being.
  • Chicken and egg-free formulas: Nulo provides several poultry-free recipes to cater to the needs of dogs that are sensitive to chicken and chicken products.
  • Wide product range: This brand offers a wide range of products to meet the different needs of different dogs. It has dry and wet foods, limited ingredient diets, and freeze-dried foods. There are also age-specific formulas for puppies, adults, and senior dogs.
  • AAFCO compliance: Nulo formulates all its recipes in adherence to the nutritional standards set by AAFCO. Additionally, all its products are made in AAFCO, USDA, and FDA-approved facilities; hence quality is guaranteed.

Nulo Dog Food Disadvantages: What We Don’t Like About It

Despite its being a good dog food brand, there are a few things that we don’t like about Nulo dog food. These include:

  • Cost: This is not among the most affordable options you will find in the market. However, this cost is justified given the great quality of ingredients it includes.
  • Controversial ingredients: The brand includes some less desirable ingredients, like pea fiber, brewers yeast,  and sodium.

Is Nulo a good food dog brand? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is a good dog food brand as it utilizes high-quality ingredients with no fillers, meat by-products, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. It also avoids common food allergens like soy, wheat, or corn.

Is Nulo dog food good for dog skin? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is enhanced with essential fats like omega 3 and 6 fatty acids essential in maintaining skin health. These are sourced from chicken fat, salmon oil, and ground flaxseed.

Is Nulo dog food good for itchy skin? 

Yes, this dog food is good for itchy skin as it does not contain fillers like soy, wheat, or corn which are major contributors to itchy skin. The essential fatty acids in this food also help in relieving itchy skin.

Is Nulo dog food good for puppies? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is good for puppies. The brand offers many puppy-specific recipes designed to cater to the needs of puppies of different sizes and breeds. It also lacks artificial flavors and preservatives that may harm a puppy’s delicate system.

Is Nulo dog food good for older dogs? 

Yes, the brand offers some formulas specially designed to cater to the needs of aging dogs. These formulas include supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine to support joint health and lots of fiber and probiotics to aid digestion.

Is Nulo dog food healthy for a dog’s growth? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is healthy for a dog’s growth as it’s formulated with the right amounts of all the necessary nutrients that dogs need for optimal growth. The food is balanced with appropriate levels of proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Is Nulo dog food expensive?  

Yes, Nulo dog food is a premium brand, so it’s expensive. This high cost makes it unaffordable to some people. However, the great quality of the food justifies the high price.

Is Nulo dog food AAFCO approved? 

All Nulo products are formulated to meet or exceed all AAFCO standards. It adheres to all nutritional and safety requirements set by AAFCO.

Is Nulo dog food grain free? 

YNulo dog food includes both grain-free and grain-inclusive formulas. The brand does not include grains like corn, wheat, or soy in its formulations but rather uses complex sources of carbohydrates.

Is Nulo dog food high energy for dog food? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is a high-energy food as it is formulated with high amounts of proteins and wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and fruits for sustained sources of energy. This makes it great even for dogs with high energy needs.

Is Nulo dog food produced in the USA? 

Yes, Nulo dog food is produced in Texas, USA. All the brand’s products are manufactured in facilities approved by AAFCO, USDA, and FDA using locally sourced ingredients.

Where to buy Nulo dog food products in the USA? 

This dog food is available in physical stores in the USA. You’ll also find it in various online stores like Chewy, Wal-Mart, Amazon, Petsmart, and other retailers.

How is the Nulo dog food shipment speed? 

This brand comes with a good shipment speed. Depending on your location, expect to receive your order within 2-5 days after ordering.

Comparable Brands 

While Nulo dog food is a good brand, it may not be suitable for your dog for various reasons. If this is the case, these are other brands that you can check out.

Victor

Owned and produced by Mid America Pet Food, this is a Texas-based dog food brand that’s committed to ensuring optimal nutrition in dogs. The company and third-party nutritionists craft balanced meals using premium ingredients. The brand produces all its products at its Mount Pleasant, Texas facility.

Victor offers recipes for puppies, senior dogs, adult dogs, high-energy and performance dogs, and weight management formulas in grain-inclusive and grain-free recipes.

Pros

  • It includes prebiotics and probiotics for gut health
  • Has no recall history
  • Wide variety of flavors and recipes to choose from
  • All recipes meet AAFCO standards
  • Uses high-quality ingredients

Con

  • Includes minimal fruits and vegetables 
  • Utilizes some plant proteins
  • It’s expensive

Chicken Soup For The Soul

Chicken Soup For The Soul was founded in 1993 by Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield to provide high-quality dog food for your dog. The brand takes pride in using only high-quality, natural ingredients to ensure the healthiest possible meals for dogs. It does not include filler ingredients like soy, corn, wheat, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. The brand offers uniquely shaped kibbles that help to scrape off plaque and improve the overall dental health of dogs.

Pros

  • Has high protein amounts
  • Made with high-quality, natural, and wholesome ingredients
  • Nutritionally complete and balanced
  • Includes prebiotics to aid digestion

Cons

  • The brand does not disclose the exact sources of the ingredients used
  • It has a past recall history

I and Love and You

Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, I and Love and You is a small and relatively new dog food company established in 2012. The brand has a stellar reputation for using high-quality ingredients from within and outside the US in its formulations. It has expansive dog food products, including dry foods, wet/canned foods, raw food, and dog treats.

Pros

  • It uses only high-quality ingredients, including real meat and wholesome fruits and vegetables.
  • No fillers or by-products
  • Does not include artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • Readily available in several grocery stores

Cons

  • It has a past recall history
  • Includes some controversial ingredients

Is Nulo Dog Food Worth It? Our Verdict 

If you are looking for high-quality, protein-rich nutrition that supports your dog’s overall health, then Nulo dog food is a good choice. The brand uses premium quality ingredients, including real meat products, fruits, and vegetables, and does not include any fillers or other troublesome ingredients like artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

What’s more, the brand has not recorded any recall since it was founded, which shows that it takes the quality and safety of its products safely. The brand offers grain-free recipes that come in a wide variety to cater to the needs of different dogs. So yes, Nulo dog food is, by all means, worth trying out.

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