Simply Nourish is a pet food brand owned by the company American Nutrition. You may have never seen or heard about this food before because it is only sold online and in-stores at PetSmart.
They offer a few different types of food – from grain-free recipes to high-protein and limited ingredients diets, as well as moist food and treats that suit the dietary needs of pooches from all life stages.
Although PetSmart is the official retailer of these products, you can still find limited amounts on websites like Chewy and Amazon.
There are mixed reviews online in regard to the quality of the food and the overall likability by fur-babies nationwide. I'm taking a deep dive into this company to find out if high-quality, all-natural food can indeed be affordable.
Read on as I tackle everything about them in our comprehensive Simply Nourish dog food reviews.
The company has limited information available online, and they don’t even have a website, so I had to pull any bit of information I could find from PetSmart and Chewy.
The main plus side is they claim to use all-natural ingredients and avoid additives or chemicals that you typically find in most manufactured pet foods.
Outside of that information, I could not find anything about the founding of the company or its procedures, but I do know they are consistently meeting USDA, FDA, and AAFCO standards.
Simply Nourish Dog Food Reviews
To get a more in-depth look into their line, I am breaking down six different options from the company and looking at the components, flavors, and preparation to help you decide if any of these are a good option for your canine companion.
Rest assured, I won’t be leaving a single stone unturned in these comprehensive reviews.
1. Small Breed Senior Chicken and Brown Rice
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Poultry Fat Rating: 4/5 Best for: Adult dogs without allergies and grain sensitivities
Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (min): 25%
Crude Fat (min): 14%
Crude Fiber (max): 7%
The company introduces itself by saying that they understand how confusing it can be shopping for food, so they want to make things simple for you. They carefully source all of their ingredients to help your furbaby achieve maximum nutrition and the best health throughout its life.
Each of their recipes gets designed with specific health considerations in mind. This recipe is intended to help build lean muscles and a healthy immune system.
Upon taking a look at the components, it does not contain anything alarming and has a wide variety of necessary vitamins and nutrients to help your pup have a high quality of life. However, there are some things worth mentioning.
This is a product specially formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of aging small breed dogs, providing high-quality protein from real chicken, wholesome grains for sustained energy, and essential nutrients to support joint health, digestion and overall well-being.
Most high-quality products you find will never contain canola oil because it sometimes contains something called rapeseed oil which is toxic and leads to nervous system issues, immune disorders, and even blindness. The best all-natural dog brands will use fish oil instead of canola. This is not something to overthink, though, because it is a small issue.
Another issue about this recipe is its tomato pomace content, an ingredient that is commonly found in a lot of cheaper options. The thing about this problematic ingredient is that it’s highly frowned upon as an unnecessary filler, and it is listed high up in the sixth spot of the recipe’s ingredients.
Tomato pomace is simply the tomato leftovers when companies process soups, ketchup, and juices. It won’t hurt your companion, but it’s not providing any nutritional value.
Overall, I find this senior recipe to be a good quality considering its list of ingredients. I’d want to pay special attention to the fact that it features real animal protein as its first ingredient. This is crucial since meat is a core ingredient in a canine’s diet.
The presence of whole fruits and vegetables is a bonus, as is the absence of chemicals and colorants. The company makes bold claims, claiming to offer a meal that is wholesome, nourishing, and made entirely from real, natural ingredients. They, in my opinion, quite adequately uphold these criteria.
On the other hand, while I didn’t experience it with the batches that I bought for my pups, other fur parents are unfortunate enough to have encountered maggots or worms in the kibble upon opening. This may occur if a bag in a manufacturing facility is compromised (i.e., rips or tears while in the factory).
Again, this may be an isolated case, so, as a discerning fur parent, it’s best that we always check the bag upon opening before we serve the dry kibble to our fur babies.
2. Limited Ingredient Small Breed Salmon and Sweet Potato
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Dried Sweet Potatoes, Dried Peas, Dried Lentils Rating: 4.5/5 Best for: Adult all breeds; Dogs with allergies and sensitivities
Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (min): 28%
Crude Fat (min): 14%
Crude Fiber (max): 8%
Here is one of the brand's limited-ingredient meals (this one for small breeds) that are intended to help pets with an uneasy stomach or allergies to common proteins. The company claims this line is all natural with added vitamins and minerals to help supplement where the ingredients are lacking.
It contains only one primary source of protein with no fillers, colors, or preservatives to try and limit the chance that your doggo will have a negative reaction.
The salmon and potato recipe was designed to help your canine develop lean muscles, a healthy heart, and easy digestion. It comes in a 5 lb., 11 lb., or 24 lb. bag and has 44 reviews on PetSmart with 3.1 stars.
Unfortunately, most of the reviews for this product say that the consumer loves its quality and usefulness, but price increases over time and have prevented them from continuing business.
So far, every item I have looked at from this company has an incredibly high protein and fiber content. This one contains around 28% protein and 8% fiber. Many of the best foods contain around 15% protein, so make sure your pooch can handle this much protein before switching; some pooches develop kidney issues from a high-protein diet.
Based on its ingredients alone, this limited-ingredient recipe is an above-average formula. Fortunately, my doggo adores this delectable kibble, and I could not be happier since this recipe is packed with all the nutrients he needs.
As a fur-rent, nothing feels better than knowing that your companion loves the nutritious food that is served in his bowl.
3. Simply Nourish Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe
First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Oatmeal, Brown Rice, Turkey Meal, Lamb Meal Rating: 4/5 Best for: Adults who are allergic to chicken
Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (min): 25%
Crude Fat (min): 13%
Crude Fiber (max): 5%
This kibble is specifically made to provide complete and balanced nutrition for adults. Made of real deboned lamb, this recipe gives high-quality protein in each serving.
This grain-inclusive recipe is made with whole grains such as brown rice and oatmeal to provide sustained energy. It has no corn, soy, or wheat fillers. It also has highly nutritious produce such as dried carrot, kale, pumpkin, and blueberries, among others. It also has flaxseed which is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
According to reviews from fur parents who purchased this recipe, their dogs love the rich lamb flavor of this recipe. As deboned lamb is the most plentiful ingredient in this item, no wonder doggos find it extra tasty.
Many pet parents have posted feedback that their canines’ skin issues have cleared up since they were fed this meal. Bald spots have started growing hair again, and their coats are healthier and shinier.
However, this is not a limited-ingredient formula as it also uses turkey as its source of animal protein. Despite this, my beloved fur baby doesn’t seem to have problems with this recipe. Besides, he also loves the tasty flavors of lamb and turkey.
So, while he may favor chicken or beef any day over other sources of animal protein, it doesn’t hurt to give him variations in his diet so he won’t get bored with his meal.
5. Freeze Dried Chicken Treat
First 5 ingredients: Chicken Rating: 5/5 Best for: All breeds, Adults
Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (min): 75%
Crude Fat (min): 9%
Crude Fiber (max): 2%
The next product that we’re looking at is intended to be a limited-ingredient, high-protein treat. To claim that they could add even more protein would be an overstatement because we already feel that all their offerings are protein-rich.
The brand focuses on providing a simple, wholesome snack for your pup. The main ingredient here is chicken, which is a high-quality, lean protein source.
Since these treats are freeze-dried rather than baked or extruded, they retain much of their original nutritional integrity. This process locks in the natural flavors and nutrients of raw chicken while eliminating the need for artificial preservatives.
Unlike some treats that contain a long list of fillers and additives, this product stays true to its limited-ingredient promise. However, pet owners should still be mindful of the freeze-dried nature of the product.
While it’s an excellent way to maintain high protein levels, it can also make the treat more concentrated in nutrients, which means portion control is important. Overfeeding these could lead to an unbalanced diet, especially for small dogs.
We do appreciate that Simply Nourish sticks to a single-source protein in this formula, which makes it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities—as long as chicken isn’t one of them. That being said, chicken is one of the most common allergens among dogs, so owners with pups who have sensitivities should proceed with caution.
6. LID Turkey & Sweet Potato Pate
First 5 ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Sweet Potatoes, Pea Protein, Guar Gum Rating: 4/5 Best for: Adult, All Breeds
Guaranteed Analysis:
Crude Protein (min): 8%
Crude Fat (min): 6%
Moisture (max): 78%
This meal keeps things simple by using turkey as its primary protein source. This is a great option for dogs who do well with poultry but need to avoid more common proteins like chicken or beef. The pâté texture makes it an easy-to-eat choice for dogs of all sizes, including seniors who may struggle with kibble.
One thing to note is that while turkey is the star of this recipe, pet owners should always check ingredient labels carefully. Some limited-ingredient diets still include secondary proteins, which can be misleading for dogs with allergies. Fortunately, this formula remains true to its name, sticking to turkey as its sole animal protein.
Sweet potatoes provide a natural source of carbohydrates and fiber, making this a well-rounded meal for dogs needing gentle digestion support. Unlike some wet foods that rely on fillers like corn, wheat, or soy, this formula avoids unnecessary additives, which is a plus for those seeking a cleaner diet for their pets.
Since this is a grain-free option, it may not be suitable for pet parents specifically looking for a grain-inclusive diet. Additionally, while it’s protein-dense and nutritionally balanced, pâté-style wet foods can sometimes be too rich for dogs prone to digestive issues, so gradual introduction is recommended.
This product designed to be a soft and chewy treat with a focus on palatability rather than high protein content. While it does contain some protein from its main ingredients, its primary appeal is its taste and texture, making it an excellent option for training rewards or occasional indulgence.
These chews cater to dogs who prefer softer treats, whether due to age, dental concerns, or simply personal preference. The combination of smoky bacon and rich cheese creates an irresistible flavor that most dogs will love. These soft chews are easy to break apart, allowing pet owners to control portion sizes for training or smaller breeds.
However, it’s important to look beyond just flavor. While the name highlights bacon and cheese, pet parents should always check the ingredient list for hidden fillers and artificial additives. Some soft treats rely on glycerin and other moisture-retaining agents to maintain their chewy texture, which may not be ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Additionally, while bacon adds an enticing flavor, it’s often higher in fat and sodium, so moderation is key. Cheese, another primary ingredient, provides some protein and calcium, but it may not be suitable for dogs with lactose sensitivities.
This formula also includes rosemary extract, which serves as a natural preservative to help maintain freshness. Rosemary extract has been used in pet foods for its antioxidant properties, though it may not be suitable for dogs with specific sensitivities or epilepsy, as some sources suggest it could trigger reactions in sensitive pets.
Overall, these soft and chewy delight offers an appealing flavor that most dogs will find irresistible. They work well for training, rewarding good behavior, or just spoiling your pup with a tasty snack. However, owners should be mindful of portion sizes, especially for dogs with dietary restrictions or weight concerns.
What Types of Food Do They Offer?
The company didn’t go overboard in its offerings, but they do offer a variety of different types of food to meet the needs of your dog's dietary concerns.
They have a general whole health brand which is an overall diet of protein, fat, and carbs. They offer a limited ingredient line to help limit allergies and adverse reactions to certain ingredients.
They also have a grain-free line for pups with gluten sensitivity. The company also carries a high-protein line they call “source.”This food limits carbs and maximizes proteins.
Dry Food Options
Whole Health
Chicken and Brown Rice
Lamb and Oatmeal
Limited Ingredient
Sweet Potato and Salmon
Lamb and Pea
Grain-Free
Chicken, Pea, and Potatoes
Source
Chicken and Salmon
Many of these foods also offer variations based on your pups breed, age, and weight. You could opt for a large breed food or a weight loss formula if need be.
They company has never been troubled by recalls until just this August 13, 2021, when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration posted a recall notice by Wet Noses Natural Dog Treat Company.
The company is recalling approximately 51,000 packages of Simply Nourish frozen food, due to it containing elevated levels of Vitamin D.
For the complete list of products covered in this recall click here.
Where to Buy?
Simply Nourish dog food is available for purchase at various retailers, both online and in-store (you can buy from the links on this page). Pet specialty stores such as PetSmart often carry a wide range of this brand, including dry and wet food options, treats, and supplements.
Additionally, the brand's official website may offer direct purchasing options or provide links to authorized retailers. Online marketplaces like Amazon and Chewy also frequently stock these products, providing convenience for pet owners who prefer to shop online.
Regardless of where one chooses to buy Simply Nourish dog food, it's essential to ensure the product's freshness and authenticity, and to check for any promotions or discounts available at the time of purchase.
What Do Others Say?
I am receiving mixed signals about the customer reputation because the reviews are all over the place. Chewy.com has excellent reviews, with most being 4-5 stars, while PetSmart and Amazon range between 3-4 stars.
Upon further research, I realized it could be an issue with PetSmart’s shipping and storage when compared to Chewy.
Top Positive Reviews
Chow Down! – My dog is a rescue and was on a basic natural dog food. He was still so itchy and would always roll on the floor. After talking with the vet, she recommended a fish based diet instead of his chicken diet. My dog was never really interested in or excited about food. And then we brought this home. Now he DEVOURS it in seconds. I have never seen him so excited about food! He loves this stuff! Hoping he continues to love it as it is one of the better brands for Limited Ingredient for a more affordable price. Happy dog, happy mom. – Chewy Customer
Great for sensitive pups – We got our dog in February and originally got the Simply Nourish chicken and brown rice recipe. We noticed our dog’s stomach would always make really loud noises before her breakfast and that her stool was commonly loose. We talked with a friend, who is a vet tech, and she said that it’s not uncommon for dogs to be sensitive to chicken and beef. We tried the salmon route, and it made a huge difference! Her stomach doesn’t make loud noises, and her stool is a good consistency. We won’t try any other food or recipe! – Chewy Customer
Top Critical Reviews
Infested with larvae – Two separate bags infested with meal moth worms. Pantry closet needed to be trashed, plus a trip to the vet to see if my dog was sick from ingesting them. Never again. – PetSmart Customer
Has bugs in the food – I have bought this product for several years now. My German Shepherd likes it okay. I have tried other products, like Blue, but they don't seem to agree with his digestive system. However, as much as this product works for my dog, I have a problem when for the 3rd year in a row I find larvae and hatched bugs flying in the bags. The bugs don't show up in the other dry foods we keep. The people in the local PetSmart stores are great about the returns. However, I will not buy this food anymore. It's sold as a premium product, but quality control seems to be lacking. Their manufacturing sites have a systemic quality problem. – PetSmart Customer
Final Verdict: Mid-Range Quality; Low-Range Price
This is a healthy pet food brand that seemingly blends in with all of the bad manufactured pet foods we see on the shelves. I think this is because the brand gets marketed as a generic PetSmart food.
That said, I don’t see much difference in the ingredients when stacking it up against some of the most expensive “natural” foods out there.
If you’re new to high-protein foods and you’re looking for something that won’t break the bank, I recommend giving this product a try to see how things work out for you and, most importantly, for your pup.
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He is a seasoned writer who has more than 10 years of experience in creating engaging and optimized content for various platforms and audiences. He has worked on diverse projects ranging from articles, social media posts, newsletters and ebooks, covering different topics and niches.
