nutrisource canned dog food
NutriSource Dog Food Review (Canned)
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Which NutriSource Canned Recipes GetOur Best Ratings?
NutriSource canned dog food receives the Advisors second-highest tier rating of 4.5 stars.
The NutriSource product line includes the 6 canned dog foods listed below.
Each recipe includes its AAFCO nutrient profile when available Growth (puppy), Maintenance (adult), All Life Stages, Supplemental or Unspecified.
Recipe and Label Analysis
NutriSource Chicken and Rice All Life Stages was selected to represent the other products in the line for detailed recipe and nutrient analysis.
Label and nutrient data below are calculated using dry matter basis.
NutriSource Chicken and Rice All Life Stages
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content
Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, whitefish, brown rice flour, barley, dried egg product, dehydrated alfalfa meal, agar-agar, salt, potassium chloride, dried cranberries, taurine, choline chloride, hydrolyzed yeast, zinc proteinate, iron proteinate, dried kelp, marine microalgae oil, Yucca schidigera extract, selenium yeast, brewers dried yeast, vitamin E supplement, vitamin B3 (niacin), copper proteinate, vitamin B1 (thiamine mononitrate), vitamin B5 (d-calcium pantothenate), manganese proteinate, vitamin A supplement, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9 (folic acid), ethylenediamine dihydroiodide, vitamin D3 supplement
Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 1%
Red denotes any controversial items
| Guaranteed Analysis | 9% | 6% | NA |
| Dry Matter Basis | 41% | 25% | 26% |
| Calorie Weighted Basis | 32% | 48% | 20% |
Ingredient Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Chicken is considered the clean combination of flesh and skin derived from the parts or whole carcasses of chicken.1
Chicken is naturally rich in the ten essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
The second ingredient is chicken broth. Broths are of only modest nutritional value. Yet because they add both flavor and moisture to a dog food, they are a common addition component in many canned products.
The third item is chicken liver. This is an organ meat sourced from a named animal and thus considered a beneficial component.
The fourth ingredient is whitefish, a marine or freshwater species native to Canada and the California coast.
The fifth ingredient is brown rice flour. Rice flour is made from either white or brown rice and is considered a gluten-free substitute for wheat flour.
The sixth ingredient is barley, a starchy carbohydrate supplying fiber and other healthy nutrients. However, aside from its energy content, this cereal grain is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The seventh ingredient lists dried egg product, a dehydrated form of shell-free eggs. Quality can vary significantly. Lower grade egg product can even come from commercial hatcheries from eggs that have failed to hatch.
In any case, eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value.
The eighth ingredient is alfalfa meal. Although alfalfa meal is high in plant protein (about 18%) and fiber (25%), it can be less common to find it in a dog food recipe.
The ninth ingredient is agar agar, a natural vegetable gelatin derived from the cell walls of certain species of red algae. Agar is rich in fiber and is used in wet pet foods as a gelling agent.
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But realistically, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this NutriSource product.
With 4 notable exceptions
First, taurine is an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of heart muscle. Although taurine is not typically considered essential in canines, some dogs have been shown to be deficient in this critical nutrient.
Since taurine deficiency appears to be more common in pets consuming grain-free diets, we view its presence in this recipe as a positive addition.
Next, we find brewers yeast, which can be a controversial item. Although its a by-product of the beer making process, this ingredient is rich in minerals and other healthy nutrients.
Fans believe yeast repels fleas and supports the immune system.
Critics argue yeast ingredients can be linked to allergies. This may be true, but (like all allergies) only if your particular dog is allergic to the yeast itself.
In addition, a vocal minority insists that yeast can increase the risk of developing the life-threatening condition known as bloat. However, this is a claim weve not been able to scientifically verify.
In any case, unless your dog is specifically allergic to it, yeast can still be considered a nutritious additive.
Whats more noteworthy here is that brewers yeast contains about 48% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
In addition, this food contains chelated minerals, minerals that have been chemically attached to protein. This makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.
And lastly, this recipe includes selenium yeast. Unlike the more common inorganic form of selenium (sodium selenite), this natural yeast supplement is considered a safer anti-cancer alternative.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, NutriSource canned dog food appears to be an above-average wet product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 41%, a fat level of 25% and estimated carbohydrates of about 26%.
As a group, this brand features an average protein content of 40% and a mean fat level of 28%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 25% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 69%.
Which means this NutriSource product line contains
Above-average protein. Above-average fat. And below-average carbs when compared to other canned dog foods.
Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the alfalfa meal and brewers yeast, this looks like the profile of a wet product containing a notable amount of meat.
However, with 48% of the total calories in our example coming from fat versus just 32% from protein, some recipes may not be suitable for animals on a low fat diet.
Our Rating of NutriSource Canned Dog Food
NutriSource is a grain-inclusive canned dog food using a notable amount of named meats as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4.5 stars.
Highly recommended.
Please note certain recipes are sometimes given a higher or lower rating based upon our estimate of their total meat content and (when appropriate) their fat-to-protein ratios.
Those looking for a quality kibble to go with this canned food may wish to visit our review of NutriSource dry dog food.
NutriSource Dog Food Recall History
The following automated list (if present) includes all dog food recalls related to NutriSource through April.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
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More NutriSource Brand Reviews
The following NutriSource dog food reviews are also posted on this website:
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A Final Word
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NutriSource Dog Food Review 2024: Recalls, Pros & Cons
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NutriSource Dog Food Review 2024: Recalls, Pros & Cons
Written by: Sophie HerlihyReview Summary
Our Final Verdict
We give NutriSource food a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
Its no secret that dog food recalls have been making headlines lately. In light of this, many pet owners are left wondering what the best option for their furry friend is when it comes to food.
NutriSource seems to be a popular choice, but is it really one of the best? With a range of products that cater to different life stages, recipes, and budgets, we decided to take a closer look at this brand and write an in-depth review so you can make an informed decision about whether its the right food for your pup.
Well cover everything from recent recalls to whats actually in the food, as well as the pros and cons, so you can decide if NutriSource is a good fit for your furry friend.
NutriSource has a long-standing history of sticking by its core values and beliefs: people, quality, spirit, tradition, and community. In fact, this company has turned away million-dollar deals with large pet providers to stick by its mission to provide quality nutrition for pets and support communities.
The company now has a wide range of dog and cat products available at pet stores and vets across the United States, Canada, and Europe. A core value of NutriSource is supporting independent stores that focus on pets well-being and nutrition, as they believe this is the best way to get quality products to pets and their owners while supporting innovation and community in the pet care industry.
Such tenacity in a company is rare in this day and age, but do their products measure up? Lets find out.
At a Glance: The Best NutriSource Dog Food Recipes
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Favorite |  | NutriSource Lamb & Rice Adult Dog Food | CHECK PRICE | |
 | NutriSource Chicken Lamb & Fish Canned Dog Food | CHECK PRICE | ||
 | NutriSource Super Stars Training Rewards Dog Treats | CHECK PRICE |
NutriSource Dog Food Reviewed
Who makes NutriSource and where is it produced?
For over 50 years, NutriSource has been proudly produced in Perham, Minnesota by three generations of the same family.
Their website states that all dry kibble is produced in their state-of-the-art facility in Perham. However, its not mentioned where the other products, such as wet foods, treats, or broths are produced; based on local production discussions we assume this is also in the same facility, but it is not clear.
Which type of dog is NutriSource best suited for?
The majority of recipes are grain-inclusive, with a handful of grain-free options as well. There are recipes for all life stages from puppies to seniors as well as small breeds and large breeds.
There is also a selection of limited ingredient diets (LID) for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities. And, finally, there are recipes for dogs with specific needs, such as for overweight or underweight dogs.
The range of products is vast, and most pet parents will find something that suits them. The only exceptions would be those pooches on medical diets prescribed by a veterinarian or those with very severe food allergies that limit their diet to just a few ingredients.
Discussion of the Primary Ingredients (Good and Bad)
The first ingredient in all of their dry food recipes is meat. This is always followed by grain, with the exception of their grain-free recipes where the second ingredient is usually pea proteins, pea flour, lentils, or other legumes such as garbanzo beans.
Meat as the first ingredient is a good sign, and it appears that these protein sources are of high quality.
As for the wet food recipes, the first ingredients are typically water or broth, followed by meat or fish. The inclusion of water or broth is not unusual in canned foods.
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Grain-Free Recipes
NutriSource has a large range of grain-free recipes alongside those that are grain-inclusive. They have grain-free options for their regular kibbles as well as limited ingredient diets.
Grain-free dog food is a bit of a social movement at the moment, with many people believing it to be a healthier option for their pets. And while there are some pros to grain-free diets, such as being lower in carbohydrates, there is also some controversy surrounding them.
The jury is still out on whether or not grain-free diets are actually better for dogs. Some veterinarians believe that they may be linked to heart disease1, while others say that there is not enough evidence to support this claim.
On the flip side, a grain-free diet may be beneficial for dogs2 with food allergies or sensitivities. However, the most common food sensitivities are usually protein sources such as chicken or beef.
The decision of whether or not to feed your dog a grain-free diet is one that you will need to make with your veterinarian.
Limited Ingredient Diets
In addition to grain-free choices, NutriSource has a range of Limited Ingredient Diets (LIDs). These are recipes that contain a single protein source and limited carbohydrates.
LID diets are often recommended for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities3 as they are easier to digest and less likely to cause an adverse reaction.
NutriSource has grain-inclusive and grain-free options for LIDs, which is great as many LIDs tend to be just grain-free, which may not be ideal for all dogs. They also have both dry and wet options.
Protein Selection
Due to NutriSources large product range, there is also a large range of proteins used in their recipes. For the dry food recipes, common protein sources include chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and fish.
For their wet food recipes, they use a mix of muscle meat, organs, and seafood.
There are also a few recipes that contain venison and bison as the primary protein source.
While the majority of their recipes use meat as the primary protein source, they do have a few that use plant-based proteins such as pea and lentils. These are typically found in their grain-free recipes.
Breaking Down the Marketing Terms: Patents and Proprietary Blends
Just like the majority of dog food brands, NutriSource uses a lot of marketing terms in the descriptions of the nutrition of their products. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as it helps to simplify complicated nutritional terms, but it pays to read closely what they are really advertising.
Lets break down NutriSources Good 4 Life System which you will see advertised on many of their products. This includes a bunch of patented terms and proprietary blends that are unique to NutriSource.
- Sel-Plex: Claiming to support brain function, this supplement is an FDA-reviewed selenium additive4. It has been around for over 20 years and supposedly increases the digestibility of selenium versus in its organic form.
- Bioplex: This patented name is used for a blend of trace minerals5, including zinc, copper, manganese, and iron. The blend aims to make these minerals more bioavailable for maximum absorption.
- Bio-Mos: A formulated prebiotic that supports the digestive tract6. Works to remove harmful pathogens such as salmonella and increase nutrient absorption. NutriSource claims 700 research papers support this.
- Lacto-Sacc: The term used for two live probiotics7 and three probiotic extracts that coat NutriSources kibble.
- NVGEN: a combo of bio-active compounds pulled from yeast cells that support a healthy microbial population. This is a proprietary blend.
Great Range
Overall, the range of products and ingredients in NutriSources lines leaves options for dogs of any size, age, and need. Grain-free, grain inclusive, LIDs, novel proteins, multiple proteins, single proteinsthe list goes on!
There is a lot of space to pick the perfect diet for your dog.
NutriSource Gives Back
What we really liked about NutriSource (in addition to the nutritional value of their products) was their commitment to giving back.
Their SuperStars Giving Program operates across the United States and supports programs such as:
- Therapy dogs in childrens hospitals
- Pinky Swear Foundation (financial support for families of children battling cancer)
- Soldiers 6 (supporting the training of dogs for dishonorable discharge veterans, police, and firefighters)
- Dogtopia (Dogs for veterans, youth literacy programs, employment opportunities for adults with autism)
- Finleys Barkery (a dog treat brand that donates 50% of its profits)
These are the types of companies we like to support!
Finding a Retailer
NutriSource emphasizes its commitment to supporting small and independent stores over big box stores. They believe this support is what helps local businesses thrive and passionate pet professionals to innovate.
However, if you like to buy your dog food in person, this does mean that it can be harder than other brands to source. But in this modern world, finding an e-commerce stockist to purchase online and get home delivered is as simple as pie!
A Quick Look at NutriSource Dog Food
Pros
- Extensive range
- Socially responsible company
- Charitable donations in each purchase
- High-quality ingredients for maximized nutrition
- Limited Ingredient Diet options
- Grain-free options
Cons
- Sometimes difficult to find an in-person stockist
- More expensive than some dog food brands
Recall History
In October 2021, Tuffys Pet Foods issued a voluntary recall of 1,600 cases of Pure Vita Salmon Entree Dog Food in Tetrapak packaging due to concerns over potentially high levels of vitamin D from the product developer.
This recall was determined to be a result of a processing error and only affected a defined batch of foods. No toxicities or illnesses were reported following the recall, and no other recalls have since been issued.
Reviews of the 3 Best NutriSource Dog Food Recipes
1. NutriSource Lamb & Rice Adult Dog Food
NutriSource Lamb & Rice Adult Dog Food is a high-quality, sustainably sourced food that is perfect for all breeds and life stages. The lamb is ethically raised in New Zealand and contains no fillers or artificial ingredients.
In addition, the food is fortified with pre and probiotics to support digestive health. The only downside is the cost; it is one of the more expensive dog foods on the market.
However, given the quality of the ingredients, it is worth the price. If you are looking for nutritious and delicious food for your dog, NutriSource Lamb & Rice Adult Dog Food is an excellent option.
Pros
- Sustainably sourced and ethically raised lamb from New Zealand
- Added pre and probiotics to support digestive health
2. NutriSource Chicken Lamb & Fish Canned Dog Food
NutriSource Chicken Lamb & Fish Canned Dog Food is a great choice for many dogs, thanks to its multiple high-quality protein sources.
This food is also a complete diet for dogs at all life stages, so you can confidently feed it to your puppy, adult dog, or senior dog. Additionally, many dogs with sensitive stomachs have found this food to work well for them.
While there are some great things about this food, its important to note that the portion sizes must be adjusted when feeding through all life stages.
Additionally, this food is not suitable for pups with protein allergies due to the multiple protein sources. Despite these few cons, NutriSource Chicken Lamb & Fish Canned Dog Food is still a great option for many dogs and their families.
Pros
- Multiple high-quality protein sources
- Many dogs with sensitive stomachs have found this food to work well
- Total nutrition for all life stages (puppy, adult, and senior)
Cons
- Portions sizes must be adjusted when feeding through all life stages
- Not suitable for pups with protein allergies due to multiple protein sources
3. NutriSource Super Stars Training Rewards Dog Treats
These NutriSource Super Stars Training Rewards Dog Treats are a great way to show your pup some extra love while also giving back to a good cause. 100% of the profits from these treats are donated to the SuperStar Giving Program, which helps to support dogs in need.
The real pork flavor is sure to be a hit with your furry friend, and the high protein content will give them the energy they need for a successful training session.
However, its worth noting that salt has been added to the ingredient list, so if your dog is on a low-sodium diet, these may not be the best treats for them. Overall, these treats are a delicious and nutritious option for any pup, and you can feel good knowing that your purchase is helping to support a worthy cause.
Pros
- 100% of the profits are donated to the SuperStar Giving Program
- Real pork is the first ingredient
- High-protein treat
Cons
- Salt added in the ingredient list
What Other Users Are Saying
- Facebook: My dogs have done best on NutriSource out of the dozen or so dog food brands Ive tried. Im very glad that they do so well on it because I genuinely love NutriSource as a company! I love how transparent they are about everything from sourcing to manufacturing to their nutrient panels. They also support rescues, shelters, and non-profits, which is super awesome. There are so many good qualities about this brand that are very difficult to find with other brands.
- Nutrisource Pet Foods: My dog lived to be 14 1/2 years old before she became ill, and it was time to say goodbye. For the last 12 years, all I fed her was the NutriSource Brand, and she loved the food. Im from Minnesota, and I wanted to support a company that makes it here. Ive always been an advocate to fellow dog owners telling them what a wonderful and true quality product the NutriSource Brand is and suggested that they change their brand and try it.
- Amazon: Before we buy anything, we double-check with Amazon buyer reviews. You may read these by going here.
Final Thoughts
There are many things to love about NutriSource Dog Foods, from the high-quality ingredients to the commitment to supporting dogs in need. While there are a few things to be aware of (adjusting portion sizes for different life stages, the addition of salt in some products), overall, this is a great choice for many dogs and their families.
We hope this review has helped you to better understand the pros and cons of NutriSource Dog Foods so that you can make the best decision for your furry friend.
See also:
Featured Image Credit: Nutrisource
