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Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review

Written by

Elaine Navajo

Reviewed by

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Nulo Dog Food Reviews

Looking for the latest Nulo Dog Food Review? Read on. Nulo is an independently owned, holistic dog food company that’s been around for about ten years.

The focus of the company is whole foods with premium ingredients designed to mimic the canine ancestral diet with the convenience of shelf-stable kibble.

Nulo isn’t quite widely available the way that some other dog foods with mass distribution are, but if you can find it, it’s an excellent holistic alternative to some store brands with lots of cheap fillers. It’s good for dogs who are sensitive to artificial ingredients and common fillers.

The price point isn’t so expensive that most people couldn’t reach it and it does an excellent job of balancing the convenience of kibble with nutrition more attuned to your dog’s ancestral needs, so let’s take a look to see if Nulo may help solve some of your dog’s most pressing nutritional needs.

Brand Quick Look

  • Parent Company : Nulo, Inc.Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 1
  • Founded in : 2009
  • Made in : USA
  • Made by : Dry – CJ Foods (Kansas, Nebraska), Wet – Simmons Foods
  • Available at:  Chewy, Amazon
  • Types of Food : Wet, dry, freeze-dried, pouch
  • Real Meat in First 5 Ingredients? : Yes
  • Recalled in Past? : No
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Nulo Dog Food Reviews

1. Turkey And Sweet Potato Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 2

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chicken Fat

Protein: 33.0% min

Fat: 18.0% min

Fiber: 4.0% max

Moisture: 10.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: All Lifestages, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

This is a top-notch adult dog food, offering high-quality protein and low glycemic carbohydrates for sustained energy.

The recipe includes fruits, vegetables, omega fatty acids, and probiotics to support overall health, digestion, and a strong immune system.

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The smaller kibble size may benefit some dogs, but caution is advised for larger dogs to prevent fast eating and bloat. It's excellent for mixing with canned food for senior dogs.

Free from cheap fillers, artificial additives, and by-products, this formula uses peas and lentils, so consult your vet regarding heart health before switching.

Overall, it’s a superior choice from an independent company, ideal for upgrading from standard store brands.

2. Freestyle Cod & Lentils Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 3

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Cod, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Lentils, Yellow Peas

Protein: 30.0% min

Fat: 7.0% min

Fiber: 9.0% max

Moisture: 6.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: Adult, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

This is a grain-free pet food designed to help adult dogs maintain healthy weights. Suitable for all breeds and sizes, this low-calorie, high-fiber formula is made with real deboned cod, providing a protein-rich meal that's gentle on the stomach. With 74% of its protein from animal sources, it supports fat metabolism and is ideal for dogs needing to lose weight or manage diabetes.

The high fiber content aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating. It includes GanedenBC30, Nulo’s patented probiotic, which enhances digestion, supports the immune system, reduces gas, and improves stool quality, while also helping prevent skin problems and ear infections.

Enriched with vitamins and minerals, including calcium and phosphorus for strong bones, and natural nutrients from fruits and vegetables, this formula offers complete and balanced nutrition.

Reviews highlight its effectiveness in improving digestion-related issues and maintaining healthy weights, with many dogs enjoying the fish flavor and experiencing shinier, healthier coats.

Overall, it is a high-quality, cost-effective alternative to prescription dog foods, making it a great option for dogs needing a low-fat, low-glycemic, grain-free diet.

3. Freestyle Limited+ Salmon Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 4

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chickpea Flour, Canola Oil

Protein: 33.0% min

Fat: 18.0% min

Fiber: 5.5% max

Moisture: 10.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: Puppy, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

This Nulo Freestyle grain-free dry dog food suitable for puppies and adults of all breeds and sizes. This limited ingredient formula is perfect for sensitive dogs with allergies to proteins other than salmon. Made with real deboned salmon and salmon meal, it provides 30% protein to support strong, lean muscles.

The low glycemic recipe features nutritious carbohydrates like chickpeas, chickpea flour, and sweet potatoes. Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon and canola oil, it promotes skin and coat health. The inclusion of their patented GanedenBC30 probiotics aids digestion, supports the immune system, reduces gas, and improves stool quality while preventing yeast growth.

Free from grains, corn, soy, and artificial additives, this formula is praised by pet owners for being gentle on sensitive stomachs and effective in improving allergy-related skin issues. Dogs enjoy the flavorful treats without any digestive upset, making it an excellent choice for dogs with dietary sensitivities.

4. Frontrunner Ancient Grain Beef, Barley & Lamb

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 5

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Oats, Barley, Brown Rice

Protein: 27.0% min

Fat: 16.0% min

Fiber: 4.0% max

Moisture: 10.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: Adult, All Breeds

This is a grain-inclusive dry food designed for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. With 27% protein, this animal-based protein recipe features real deboned beef as the main ingredient, complemented by chicken meal, turkey meal, deboned lamb, and dried egg product for a robust protein profile. Despite its rich protein content, it is easy to digest and offers various health benefits.

The recipe includes low glycemic grains like oats, barley, and millet, which provide fiber for better digestion and prolonged satiety. Chicken fat supplies essential fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, while Nulo’s patented GanedenBC30 probiotics support digestion, immunity, and overall gut health.

Free from corn, soy, wheat, peas, potatoes, and artificial additives, this formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs and does not trigger allergic reactions.

Though it is priced higher than some alternatives, many dog owners find it worth the cost due to its nutrient-rich content and the positive impact on their dogs' health. The blend of beef, chicken, and lamb flavors is also a hit with dogs, making it a well-rounded choice for maintaining strong, lean muscles.

5. Freestyle Duck Freeze-Dried Raw Recipe With Pears

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 6

First 5 ingredients:

Duck, Duck Necks, Duck Heart, Duck Wings, Duck Liver

Protein: 43.0% min

Fat: 27.0% min

Fiber: 3.0% max

Moisture: 5.0% max

Food Type: Food Topping, Freeze-Dried

Best for: All Lifestages, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

This is a grain-free, high-protein dog food that blends the benefits of a raw diet with the convenience of dry food. Made with 43% protein from duck, it’s ideal for dogs with allergies to other proteins. The inclusion of salmon oil provides omega fatty acids for skin, coat, and joint health.

This nutrient-dense recipe features wholesome fruits and vegetables like pears, butternut squash, and kale, rich in antioxidants to support the immune system. The freeze-drying process preserves nutrients and flavor while eliminating harmful bacteria. Enriched with GanedenBC30 probiotics, it promotes digestion and nutrient absorption.

Free from grains, gluten, and artificial additives, this low-carb, low-glycemic formula offers complete and balanced nutrition. While it’s costly, many owners use it as a topper to maximize its benefits.

Highly rated by pet parents, this formula is particularly beneficial for sensitive dogs and offers the advantages of a raw diet without the hassle. Dogs love the duck flavor, and owners appreciate the positive impact on their pets’ health.

6. Freestyle Chicken, Carrots & Peas Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 7

First 5 ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Carrots, Peas

Protein: 10.0% min

Fat: 8.0% min

Fiber: 1.0% max

Moisture: 78.0% max

Food Type: Wet Food, Pâté

Best for: All Lifestages, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

Here we have a grain-free wet food designed for adult dogs of all breeds and sizes. This meaty pate, made primarily from chicken, is both tasty and easy to digest. 

Chicken broth and chicken liver enhance its flavor, making it appealing to dogs. The recipe includes carrots and peas as the main sources of carbs and fiber, adding nutritional value and taste.

Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, the recipe ensures complete and balanced nutrition. It also contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Free from carrageenan and artificial enhancers, it is suitable for dogs with sensitivities to common additives.

Popular among dogs, including picky eaters, this recipe has garnered positive feedback from pet owners for its high-quality ingredients and appealing taste. Its exclusive use of chicken makes it safe for dogs with protein sensitivities, and it can be served as a standalone meal or as a hydrating topper.

7. Freestyle Duck & Chickpeas Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 8

First 5 ingredients:

Duck, Duck Broth, Turkey Liver, Chickpeas, Dicalcium Phosphate

Protein: 43.0% min

Fat: 27.0% min

Fiber: 3.0% max

Moisture: 5.0% max

Food Type: Wet Food, Pâté

Best for: Puppy, Extra – Small Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

Another zero grain wet dog food designed for small breed dogs. The duck pate, available in perfectly portioned cans, features high-quality proteins from duck and turkey liver, providing essential amino acids for lean muscle mass and heart health. The savory flavor is highly appealing to dogs.

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The recipe includes chickpeas and ground lentils for added protein, and pea fiber and inulin to support digestion. L-carnitine aids in fat metabolism, helping small dogs maintain healthy weights. This nutritionally balanced pate can be served as a standalone meal or as a hydrating kibble topper.

Free from carrageenan and artificial additives, this food is naturally nutritious. Pet owners appreciate the high-quality ingredients and their dogs' enthusiastic response to the savory duck flavor, making it a trusted choice for small breed nutrition.

8. Frontrunner Ancient Grains Chicken, Oats & Turkey Puppy Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 9

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Oats, Barley, Brown Rice

Protein: 43.0% min

Fat: 27.0% min

Fiber: 3.0% max

Moisture: 5.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: Puppy, All Breeds

This is a grain-inclusive recipe formulated to meet the dietary needs of growing puppies. With 77% of its protein from animal sources like deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and dried egg product, it supports lean muscle and heart health.

Wholesome grains such as oats, barley, brown rice, ground flaxseed, and millet provide low glycemic carbohydrates and fiber for improved digestion.

It includes their GanedenBC30 probiotics to enhance gut health and nutrient absorption. Natural DHA sources support cognitive development, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coats. Chicken fat adds flavor and essential fatty acids, making the food appealing to puppies.

Free from corn, soy, peas, potato, and artificial enhancers, this high-protein, low-carb puppy food has received positive feedback from pet owners.

Puppies enjoy the taste and kibble size, and many experience improved digestive health and stool quality. This formula is praised for its high-quality ingredients and comprehensive nutritional benefits, making it an excellent choice for growing puppies.

9. Freestyle Trout & Sweet Potato Senior Recipe

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 10

First 5 ingredients:

Deboned Trout, Turkey Meal, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, Sweet Potato

Protein: 30.0% min

Fat: 12.0% min

Fiber: 5.0% max

Moisture: 10.0% max

Food Type: Dry

Best for: Senior, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

This Nulo dry dog food is crafted to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs across all breeds and sizes with zero grains. This high-protein kibble supports lean muscle mass, catering to senior dogs' dietary requirements. 

The main ingredient, real deboned trout, ensures a high-quality protein source, with additional protein from turkey meal, salmon meal, deboned turkey, and lentils, comprising 82% of the protein content. These ingredients also enhance the flavor, making it highly palatable for dogs.

For carbohydrates, yellow peas and sweet potatoes are included, providing easily digestible carbs and fiber for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. The recipe also features nutrient-rich plant-based ingredients such as chickpeas, dried tomatoes, carrots, blueberries, and apples.

Joint health is a priority in this recipe, with glucosamine and chondroitin supporting hip and joint health. Calcium and phosphorus contribute to strong bones, while l-carnitine aids in metabolism, helping older dogs maintain a healthy weight despite lower activity levels.

To further support digestion, this recipe includes GanedenBC30 probiotics, promoting a healthy gut and better nutrient absorption. The recipe has received positive feedback from pet owners, who have noticed improvements in their senior dogs' health and energy levels. The small kibble size is suitable for small breeds and appeals even to picky eaters.

Overall, it has proven beneficial for senior dogs' digestion and general well-being, making it a popular choice among dog owners.

10. Freestyle Grain-Free Salmon Recipe Dog Treats

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 11

First 5 ingredients:

Salmon, Dried Ground Chickpeas, Honey, Coconut Glycerin, Gelatin

Protein: 15.0% min

Fat: 8.0% min

Fiber: 3.0% max

Moisture: 30.0% max

Food Type: Treats

Best for: All Lifestages, All Breeds

Special Diet: Grain-free

These are tasty, nutritious morsels ideal for use as training rewards. Made with real salmon and other high-quality ingredients, these grain-free treats are healthy and flavorful. The first five ingredients include salmon, dried ground chickpeas, honey, coconut glycerin, and gelatin, with salmon providing a rich source of protein and salmon oil as the main fat source.

Salmon is not only delicious but also rich in omega fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and shiny coats. It is also easily digestible, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The salmon oil contains DHA, which supports cognitive development in dogs.

Additional protein comes from dried ground chickpeas, while superfoods like honey, blueberries, and cherries provide antioxidants that strengthen the immune system. Each treat contains only 2 kcal, allowing for more frequent rewards without the risk of weight gain. These treats are free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, grains, corn, soy, or wheat.

This product has received positive feedback from pet owners, who appreciate the salmon flavor, chewy texture, and perfect size for training rewards. These nutritious treats are highly recommended unless your dog has a salmon allergy.

nulo dog food review

Behind the Brand

In 2009, Michael Landa left his corporate job to create a company that dealt with pet walking and pet sitting. He couldn’t find the right help with his dog, Max, and eventually, the company expanded to include pet foods.

Michael was horrified at the rate of obesity and diabetes in dogs and soon felt that dog foods filled with empty fillers and too many carbs could be the reason dogs were having such a difficult time staying healthy. His company sought to counteract that trend by producing nutrient dense, meat-based foods that were more easily digestible.

The company is independently owned and manufactures foods in processing plants that typically handle the highest quality dog foods in the country. Both Nulo’s test kitchens and the processing plants have consistently received independent accolades as well as gone through certification processes to ensure the highest quality standards.

It focuses on meat-first recipes with low glycemic carbs designed to help keep weight controlled naturally. Whole supplements help with skin, bones, and joints and the perfect protein and carbohydrate blend helps keep dogs full all day with plenty of energy.

What Types of Dog Foods Does Nulo Offer?

Nulo offers a range of recipes that include both traditional kibble, pate-style wet foods, and freeze-dried raw for those with very demanding nutritional needs. Each recipe has been tested, and all were created by veterinarians and nutrition experts to be the best diet dogs could get.

High Meat Kibbles

The first three or four ingredients come from meat-based protein sources with quality carbohydrates and no grains, cheap fillers, or artificial colors. They also contain Nulo’s probiotic blend for healthy digestion.

Puppy:

  • Chicken and Sweet Potato
  • Salmon and Peas
  • Turkey and Sweet Potato
Nulo Dog Food Reviews

Adult:

  • Chicken and Peas
  • Lamb and Chickpeas
  • Lamb and Lentils
  • Salmon and Peas
  • Salmon and Sweet Potato
  • Turkey and Sweet Potato
  • Small Breed Turkey and Chickpeas
  • Small Breed Salmon and Red Lentils
  • Large Breed Turkey and Peas
  • Weight Management Chicken and Sweet Potato
  • Adult Trim Cod and Lentils

Senior:

  • Chicken and Lentils
  • Trout and Sweet Potato

Limited Ingredient Kibble

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 12

The Limited Ingredient line reduces protein down to a single source plus just a handful of other ingredients to help smooth digestion and remove some complicated food allergy triggers. These combinations are suitable for both puppies and adults with chronic digestion and inflammation issues.

  • Turkey and Chickpeas
  • Alaska Pollack
  • Chicken
  • Salmon
  • Turkey and Lentils
  • Salmon

Freeze Dried Raw

Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 13

Freeze dried raw is a safer, more convenient alternative to raw food diets including frozen and homemade. It’s suitable for all life stages and can be added to kibble or served as a stand-alone meal.

  • Beef with Apples
  • Duck with Pear
  • Lamb with Raspberries
  • Salmon and Turkey with Strawberries
  • Turkey with Cranberries

Pouches

Nulo Dog Food Review?

Pouches are limited ingredient recipes that use real bits of meat in a vegetable broth. They’re great for adding to meals or customizing meals. These are intended for intermittent feeding and are suitable for both puppies and adults.

  • Beef, Beef Liver, and Kale
  • Chicken and Green Beans
  • Chicken, Duck, and Kale
  • Chicken, Salmon, and Carrot
  • Lamb, Saba, and Kelp
  • Mackerel, Chicken, and Mussel

Pate

The Pates are wet food style cans that come in both six ounces and 13-ounce options for smaller and larger dogs. They have protein-rich, lower carb recipes with no carrageen, fillers, or artificial colors and flavors.

Puppy:

  • Chicken, Salmon, and Lentils
  • Turkey, Cod, and Sweet Potato
Top Choice for Canine Nutrition: An In-Depth Nulo Dog Food Review 14

Adult:

  • Beef, Peas, and Carrots
  • Chicken, Carrots, and Peas
  • Duck and Chickpeas
  • Lamb and Lentils
  • Turkey and Sweet Potato
  • Turkey, Salmon, and Chickpeas
  • Small Breed Lamb and Sweet Potato
  • Small Breed Turkey and Lentils
  • Adult Trim Turkey and Cod
  • Weight Management Turkey and Cod
Nulo Dog Food Reviews

Treats

Nulo’s dog treats are all high protein treats that contain only meat and superfoods such as honey, coconut, and berries. Dogs can choose from a range of flavors in the form of jerky strips, training treats, and protein sticks.

  • Chicken Recipe With Apples Jerky
  • Beef Recipe With Coconut Jerky
  • Turkey Recipe With Cranberries Jerky
  • Duck Recipe With Plum Jerky
  •  Turkey Recipe Dog Training Treats
  • Duck Recipe Dog Training Treats
  • Salmon Recipe Dog Training Treats

Water Enhancers

Nulo Hydrate is an innovative new product designed to give your dog extra hydration with a boost of nutrition. This liquid water enhancer has electrolytes, branched chain amino acids to help dogs recover, and B-vitamins to keep them going. Nulo Hydrate comes in 4 meaty flavors.

  • Beef Brisket
  • Rotisserie Chicken
  • Pork Tenderloin
  • Roasted Lamb
Nulo Dog Food Reviews

Recall History

Nulo has no recall history, which is excellent for a ten-year run. While we know that sometimes things happen and that there’s always the possibility of accidents, we are very impressed with Nulo’s commitment to high quality so far.

Customer Reviews

Nulo gets consistently good reviews both from customers and from reviewers who’ve tried their various recipes. Chewy and Amazon reviews are overwhelmingly positive with over four and a half stars for average ratings for most of their recipes. Overall, they’re one of the top-rated brands around in the holistic pet food arena without being on the high end of expensive.

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What do people like and dislike about Nulo dog food?

Customers appreciate that Nulo gives their pets nutrition without common fillers that can cause digestive issues. The foods do away with cheap fillers but still don’t break the bank. Most dogs also enjoy the taste of Nulo’s kibbles, and customers appreciate that it can satisfy even somewhat picky dogs.

If you use wet foods as supplements or a treat for kibble diets, their canned foods are equally as holistic. Low glycemic carbohydrates can also help alleviate some of the weight issues owners are experiencing with their dogs and customers praised that aspect as well.

Some customers didn’t like that the ingredients included things like peas and legumes. These are common carbohydrate alternatives in grain free foods, but a tentative link between Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy and foods with these ingredients have been established.

Talk to your vet about switching if you are worried. Other minor complaints included some gas issues and some dogs still not liking the kibble (there’s always one, right?

Positive

“My dogs have been on this food for about a year now. After switching around a bit due to food allergies and wanting what was best for the dogs, I found Nulo. Their coats have never been shinier and they love love love this food! No more dryness in their coats in the colder winter months just shine healthy coats and happy dogs.

There's a variety of food flavors to choose from and the dogs love them all. Chewy makes it easy with delivery which is super-fast and the auto ship allows me to avoid the pet store… to be honest Chewy's pricing is so much better I don't think I will ever step foot in those places again. Win Win for everyone!” Danielle, chewy.com

Negative

“My dogs have been on this for 2 weeks now, 1-week transition and 1 week all Nulo. They are having the worst gas ever! And the reason I switched was to help ease the allergies in one dog and I think they are worse with even more watery eyes. I’ll be switching back to Pro Plan before I finish the bag.” 3corgis, chewy.com

nulo dog food reviews

Our Final Say

In an unbiased assessment, Nulo dog food recipes stand out for their high meat content and focus on using animal protein to meet the health needs of dogs.

These recipes contain nutrient-dense ingredients, with a commitment to providing food for dogs that supports weight management and overall well-being.

Meeting AAFCO standards, their recipes are carefully formulated to cater to the diverse dietary requirements of dogs at different life stages and activity levels, making them a reliable choice for pet owners looking for quality nutrition.

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