Is Nulo a Good Dog Food? Expert Review

When it comes to choosing the right food for your furry best friend, the options can feel absolutely overwhelming. There are premium brands, budget-friendly options, grain-free formulas, and everything in between. One brand that’s been generating quite a bit of buzz in the dog food world is Nulo. But is all that hype justified? We’ve done the legwork to break down whether Nulo truly deserves a spot in your dog’s food bowl.

Nulo has positioned itself as a premium pet food brand that emphasizes high-protein formulas, grain-free options, and natural ingredients. With their tagline focusing on feeding your dog “like nature intended,” they’ve certainly caught the attention of health-conscious pet parents. But what does the science actually say? Let’s dig into the details and help you make an informed decision about whether Nulo is the right choice for your pup.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine everything from ingredient quality to nutritional content, customer satisfaction, and how Nulo stacks up against other popular brands. Whether you’re considering switching your dog’s food or you’re just curious about what makes Nulo tick, you’ll find the answers you need right here.

About Nulo Dog Food

Nulo is a relatively newer player in the premium dog food market, having launched in 2010. The brand is owned by Petropics, a company with a history in the pet food industry. Nulo has made a name for itself by focusing on high-protein, grain-free formulas that appeal to pet owners looking for more “natural” feeding options for their dogs.

The company emphasizes several key principles in their product development. They claim to use no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives. Additionally, Nulo promotes the idea that their recipes are designed to support lean muscle development and maintain healthy weight in dogs. Their marketing heavily features the concept of feeding dogs a diet more similar to what their ancestors ate in the wild.

What sets Nulo apart from some competitors is their commitment to including probiotics in many of their formulas. These beneficial bacteria are intended to support digestive health, which is a growing concern among pet owners. The brand also emphasizes the use of what they call “premium proteins,” though we’ll explore what that actually means in terms of ingredient sourcing and quality.

Ingredient Quality and Sources

When evaluating any dog food, ingredient quality is absolutely crucial. This is where many pet owners get confused, as marketing language can be misleading. Let’s break down what you’ll actually find in Nulo’s formulas.

Nulo’s recipes typically feature meat as the first ingredient, which is generally considered a positive sign. Common primary proteins include chicken, turkey, duck, and fish. The company does use named meat sources rather than vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal by-products,” which is a legitimate point in their favor. However, it’s important to note that chicken and other proteins are essential for your dog’s diet, but the form and quality matter significantly.

One thing to be aware of is that while Nulo uses high-quality meat sources, the inclusion of meat by-products and meals in some formulas means they’re using parts of the animal beyond prime cuts. This isn’t necessarily bad—many premium brands do this—but it’s worth understanding what you’re paying for.

The grain-free aspect of Nulo has become increasingly controversial among veterinarians. Recent research has raised concerns about the link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition in dogs. The FDA has been investigating this connection, and many veterinary cardiologists recommend against grain-free diets unless there’s a specific medical reason.

Nulo does offer both grain-free and grain-inclusive options, which is good news if you want to avoid potential risks associated with grain-free formulas. Their grain-inclusive formulas include ingredients like oats and barley, which provide beneficial fiber and nutrients. The company also uses sweet potato and peas as carbohydrate sources in their grain-free options, though the long-term effects of these substitutes are still being studied.

Nutritional Profile Analysis

Nulo markets itself heavily on protein content, and for good reason—dogs do need adequate protein. Most Nulo formulas contain between 25-30% crude protein, which is higher than many mainstream brands but comparable to other premium options like Merrick dog food and Blue Buffalo.

The fat content in Nulo formulas typically ranges from 14-18%, which meets AAFCO standards for adult maintenance. However, it’s worth noting that higher protein doesn’t automatically mean better nutrition for every dog. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with certain health conditions may have different nutritional requirements.

One significant aspect of Nulo’s nutritional profile is their inclusion of probiotics, specifically using strains like Lactobacillus and Enterococcus. While the research on probiotics for dogs is still emerging, many veterinarians acknowledge potential digestive benefits. Nulo also includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil and chicken fat, which support skin and coat health.

When comparing to other brands, Purina Pro Plan offers more research-backed formulas and veterinary oversight, while Nulo focuses more on the “natural” and “ancestral” approach. Both have merit, depending on your dog’s individual needs.

Product Lines and Varieties

Nulo offers a fairly extensive range of products to cater to different dogs’ needs. Their main lines include:

• Nulo Freestyle: Their core line featuring grain-free and grain-inclusive options with various protein sources including chicken, turkey, duck, and salmon
• Nulo Puppy: Specially formulated for growing dogs with appropriate calcium and phosphorus ratios
• Nulo Senior: Designed for older dogs with adjusted calorie and nutrient levels
• Nulo Limited Ingredient: For dogs with sensitivities, featuring fewer ingredients and novel protein sources
• Nulo Medley: A wet food option for dogs who prefer or need moist food

This variety is genuinely helpful for pet owners with dogs that have specific needs. If your dog has digestive issues and you’re considering adding pumpkin to their diet, Nulo’s limited ingredient line might be worth exploring. Similarly, their senior formula can be particularly useful for older dogs who need adjusted nutrition.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality, named meat sources as primary ingredients
• No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives
• Includes probiotics for digestive support
• Wide variety of formulas for different life stages and dietary needs
• Contains omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Good palatability—most dogs find it tasty
• Grain-inclusive options available for those concerned about grain-free risks
• Reasonably transparent about ingredient sourcing

Cons:

• Premium pricing means it’s not budget-friendly
• Some formulas still use grain-free recipes despite emerging health concerns
• Limited peer-reviewed research specifically on Nulo’s formulas
• Uses meat by-products and meals in some formulas
• Not as extensively researched or recommended by veterinarians as some competitors
• The “ancestral diet” marketing may not be scientifically accurate
• Availability can be limited depending on your location

How Nulo Compares to Competitors

To give you proper context, let’s see how Nulo stacks up against other popular premium brands:

Nulo vs. Purina Pro Plan: Purina Pro Plan has significantly more veterinary research backing their formulas and is often recommended by veterinarians, particularly for dogs with specific health issues. However, Purina Pro Plan is more mainstream and less focused on the “natural” angle that appeals to many Nulo customers.

Nulo vs. Blue Buffalo: Both brands emphasize natural ingredients and high protein. Blue Buffalo is more widely available and has been around longer, which means more customer reviews and feedback. Nulo tends to have slightly higher protein content in most formulas.

Nulo vs. Merrick: Merrick is another high-protein option with similar pricing. Both brands focus on premium ingredients, though Merrick tends to have even higher protein percentages in some formulas. Merrick is also more widely available in most regions.

The reality is that all of these brands can be good choices depending on your individual dog’s needs, preferences, and any health considerations. The “best” food is ultimately the one that keeps your dog healthy, maintains a good weight, and results in a shiny coat and healthy skin.

What Dog Owners Are Saying

Customer reviews and feedback can provide valuable real-world insights. Overall, Nulo receives generally positive reviews from customers, with many reporting:

• Improved coat quality and skin health
• Better digestion and fewer digestive issues
• Increased energy and alertness
• Dogs finding the food very palatable
• Good weight management results

However, there are some common complaints worth noting:

• High price point is a barrier for some customers
• Some dogs experience digestive upset during transition
• A small percentage of dogs seem to have allergic reactions to specific ingredients
• Availability issues in certain regions
• Some customers feel the marketing claims aren’t backed by sufficient research

When considering customer feedback, remember that individual dog responses vary significantly. What works wonderfully for one dog might not be ideal for another. This is why it’s important to consider your specific dog’s needs, including age, activity level, and any existing health conditions, when deciding on how much food to feed your dog and which brand to choose.

Safety and Recall History

When evaluating any pet food brand, safety and recall history are paramount. Nulo has had a relatively clean record compared to some competitors, though like most pet food companies, they’ve had occasional recalls.

The company has experienced a few recalls over the years, primarily related to potential contamination issues rather than ingredient problems. These recalls have generally been handled professionally and communicated clearly to customers. It’s worth checking the FDA’s pet food recall database for the most current information about any brand you’re considering.

Nulo is manufactured by Petropics, a company that operates multiple facilities. The company states that their facilities follow strict quality control measures, though they’re not as extensively regulated or audited as some larger, more established manufacturers.

It’s also worth noting that the recent concerns about grain-free diets and heart disease have led to increased scrutiny of all brands offering these formulas. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the American Kennel Club both provide resources for understanding pet food safety and choosing appropriate formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nulo good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Nulo’s Limited Ingredient line is specifically designed for dogs with sensitivities. Their inclusion of probiotics may help with digestive health. However, every dog is different. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes. You might also consider gradually transitioning to Nulo over 7-10 days to minimize digestive upset.

Is Nulo grain-free safe?

This is a complicated question. While Nulo offers grain-free options, recent research has raised concerns about potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs. The FDA is still investigating this connection. If you’re concerned, Nulo’s grain-inclusive formulas are a safer bet. Always discuss dietary choices with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has any heart-related concerns.

How does Nulo compare in price to other premium brands?

Nulo is positioned as a premium brand with pricing that’s generally comparable to Blue Buffalo and Merrick, though slightly higher than Purina Pro Plan. Expect to pay $40-60 per 24-27 pound bag, depending on the specific formula and where you purchase it.

Can I switch my dog directly to Nulo?

No, you shouldn’t switch your dog’s food abruptly. A gradual transition over 7-10 days is recommended to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing 25% Nulo with 75% of their current food, gradually increasing the Nulo percentage until they’re eating it exclusively.

Does Nulo offer a satisfaction guarantee?

Nulo does offer a satisfaction guarantee on their products. If your dog doesn’t seem to like the food or if you’re not satisfied with the results, you can typically return the unused portion for a refund or exchange. Check the specific terms with your retailer or Nulo directly.

Is Nulo appropriate for puppies?

Yes, Nulo offers a specific puppy formula that’s formulated to support healthy growth and development. Their puppy formula includes appropriate levels of calcium and phosphorus for growing bones. However, always ensure you’re feeding the correct life-stage formula for your dog’s age.

Are there any artificial ingredients in Nulo?

Nulo markets itself as free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. They use natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E). However, always read the ingredient list carefully, as “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean better or healthier in all cases.