nutrisource canned dog food reviews
NutriSource Dog Food Review (Dry)
NutriSource Dog Food Review (Dry)
By Mike Sagman
Updated: April 25, 2024
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Is NutriSource a good dog food?
In this review The Dog Food Advisor an in-depth look at NutriSource Dog Food and rates each of its most popular sub-brands.
Well also answer 3 important questions:
- Is NutriSource made in the United States?
- Has NutriSource been recalled?
- Which flavors and recipes get our top ratings?
But first
Which NutriSource sub-brand is best for your dog?
Here are NutriSources most popular sub-brands. In this section, well share what makes each different. So, you can pick the type that best meets your dogs needs.
NutriSouces original dry kibble. Each recipe is made with grain and generous amounts of animal protein, derived from both fresh meat and named meat meals.
- No BHA, BHT or other high-risk preservatives
- Healthy grain-inclusive formula
- 16 recipes (ratings vary)
View All Recipe Ratings
This NutriSource sub-brand is recommended for those who prefer a fully-balanced, grain-free dry option.
- Contains no corn, wheat or rice
- Offers top-rated puppy and adult options
- 17 recipes (ratings vary)
View All Recipe Ratings
This NutriSource sub-brand includes the companys best-selling, grain-free wet recipes.
- Fully balanced, protein-rich blend
- Contains no corn, rice, wheat, or barley
- 9 recipes (ratings vary)
View All Recipe Ratings
PureVita is NutriSources limited ingredient diet. The grain-inclusive dry formula is a good choice for dogs with possible food sensitivities.
- Balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fat ratio for healthy skin and coat
- Simple recipe design for gentle digestion
- 3 recipes (ratings vary)
View All Recipe Ratings
Who makes NutriSource and where is it made?
All NutriSource dog foods are produced in the United States. All the brands dry recipes are manufactured at its family-owned company facilities in Perham, Minnesota.
The companys wet foods are produced at its own pet food cannery located in Delano, Minnesota.
Has NutriSource Dog Food been recalled?
The following list includes all dog food recalls since 2009 related to NutriSource products.
You can view a complete list of all dog food recalls since 2009 here.
Review of NutriSource Dry Dog Food
NutriSource Dog Food receives the Advisors top rating of 5 stars.
The NutriSource Dog Food product line includes 16 dry 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 Large Breed Chicken and Rice 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 Large Breed Adult Chicken and Rice
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrient Content
Chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal, natural turkey and chicken flavor, chicken fat (preserved with tocopherols and citric acid), dried plain beet pulp, flax seeds, menhaden fish meal (a source of fish oil), potassium chloride, brewers dried yeast, salt, dl methionine, choline chloride, minerals (zinc proteinate, iron proteinate, copper proteinate, manganese proteinate), selenium yeast, vitamins (vitamin A acetate, vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin E supplement, niacin, d-calcium pantothenate, thiamine mononitrate, pyridoxine hydrochloride, riboflavin supplement, folic acid, biotin, vitamin B12 supplement), lactic acid, l-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), Yucca schidigera extract, taurine, l-carnitine, calcium iodate, rosemary extract, yeast culture, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Aspergillus oryzae fermentation extract, dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract
Fiber (estimated dry matter content) = 5%
Red denotes any controversial items
| Guaranteed Analysis | 23% | 14% | NA |
| Dry Matter Basis | 26% | 16% | 51% |
| Calorie Weighted Basis | 22% | 33% | 45% |
Ingredient Analysis
The first ingredient in this dog food is chicken. Although it is a quality item, raw chicken contains up to 73% water. After cooking, most of that moisture is lost, reducing the meat content to just a fraction of its original weight.
After processing, this item would probably account for a smaller part of the total content of the finished product.
The second ingredient is chicken meal. Chicken meal is considered a meat concentrate and contains nearly 300% more protein than fresh chicken.
The third ingredient is brown rice, a complex carbohydrate that (once cooked) can be fairly easy to digest. However, aside from its natural energy content, rice is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.
The next ingredient is barley. Barley is 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 fifth ingredient is oatmeal, a whole-grain product made from coarsely ground oats. Oatmeal is naturally rich in B-vitamins, dietary fiber and can be (depending upon its level of purity) gluten-free.
After the turkey and chicken flavor, we find chicken fat. Chicken fat is obtained from rendering chicken, a process similar to making soup in which the fat itself is skimmed from the surface of the liquid.
Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesnt sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient.
The eighth ingredient is beet pulp. Beet pulp is a controversial ingredient, a high fiber by-product of sugar beet processing.
Some denounce beet pulp as an inexpensive filler while others cite its outstanding intestinal health and blood sugar benefits.
We only call your attention here to the controversy and believe the inclusion of beet pulp in reasonable amounts in most dog foods is entirely acceptable.
The ninth ingredient is flaxseed, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided theyve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.
However, flaxseed contains about 19% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food.
The tenth ingredient is menhaden fish meal, another protein-rich meat concentrate.
Fish meal is typically obtained from the clean, dried, ground tissue of undecomposed whole fish and fish cuttings of commercial fish operations.1
From here, the list goes on to include a number of other items.
But to be realistic, ingredients located this far down the list (other than nutritional supplements) are not likely to affect the overall rating of this NutriSource product.
With 6 notable exceptions
First, brewers yeast 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 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.
Next, 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.
In addition, we note the use of selenium yeast. Unlike the more common inorganic form of selenium (sodium selenite), this natural yeast supplement is considered a safer anti-cancer alternative.
Next, this food contains dried fermentation products. Fermentation products are typically added to provide enzymes to aid the animal with digestion.
And lastly, we find taurine, 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.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredients alone, NutriSource Dog Food looks like an above-average dry product.
The dashboard displays a dry matter protein reading of 26%, a fat level of 16% and estimated carbohydrates of about 51%.
As a group, the brand features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 17%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 47% for the overall product line.
And a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
Above-average protein. Near-average fat. And near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.
Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the flaxseeds and brewers yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a significant amount of meat.
Our Rating of NutriSource Dog Food
NutriSource Dry is a grain-inclusive kibble using a significant amount of named meat meals as its main source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 5 stars. The grain-free sub-brand gets 4.5 stars.
Enthusiastically recommended.
What Do Others Say About NutriSource?
At the time of this update
Petflow customers rate NutriSource Adult Chicken and Rice 4.8 out of 5 stars and appear to be willing to recommend the recipe to others.
Heres an actual user review
Sample buyer review My dogs have always had nutrisource and I know it is good for them. Their breeder has always used it and I recommend it to anyone that wants a healthy food for their pets
Read more buyer reviews at Petflow.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most frequently asked questions we get about feeding NutriSource Dog Food:
How to switch to NutriSource dog food without making your dog sick
In this video
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help reduce your dogs risk of getting sick when you switch to NutriSource or any other new food.
Is NutriSource dog food good for seniors?
NutriSource offers 3 senior foods designed specifically for older dogs. One grain-inclusive dry senior formula, one grain-free dry recipe and one canned recipe. All 3 recipes meet AAFCO nutrient guidelines for adult maintenance. Each dry recipe contains fewer than 400 calories per cup. Which makes each a healthy option for older dogs. View The Advisors best senior dog foods here.
Is NutriSource Dog Food good for puppies?
NutriSource markets 6 puppy formulas, 2 of which are specifically designed for large breeds. And a number of other all life stages products that are also considered safe for puppies. The brand also offers products that are labeled adult maintenance. These should not be fed to puppies. View The Dog Food Advisors best puppy foods here.
Is NutriSource considered a healthy dog food?
Every NutriSource recipe meets 100% of the nutrient requirements published by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Each is considered complete and balanced for the specific life stage indicated on the package based on standards published by the National Research Council of the National Academies of Science.
More NutriSource Dog Food Reviews
Here are more NutriSource reviews published by The Dog Food Advisor on this website.
Compare NutriSource Dog Food
How does NutriSource compare with The Dog Food Advisors most recommended brands?
Compare This Dog Food
How does this brand compare with The Dog Food Advisor's most recommended brands?
A Final Word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
NutriSource Dog Food Review 2024: Recalls, Pros & Cons
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Learn more.
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
