9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
Inukshuk Professional Dog Food isn’t your typical pet store brand. It was created by Corey Nutrition Company, a family-owned business founded in 1982 by Lee Corey, a former fisheries biologist in New Brunswick, Canada. The brand itself emerged from a very specific need: feeding sled dogs competing in grueling endurance races like the Yukon Quest, where temperatures drop to -58°F and dogs cover 1,000 miles of rough terrain. Those dogs needed exceptional caloric density just to survive, let alone perform.
Today, Inukshuk operates out of a single, family-owned facility in Fredericton, New Brunswick, with Dr. Emily Corey—Lee’s daughter and a trained scientist—leading product development. The company has been in continuous operation for over 40 years and remains independent, with no parent corporation or outside ownership. That independence matters: Inukshuk controls every step of production in-house, from ingredient sourcing to final packaging, using proprietary technology they call CoreyTEC™.
The brand’s core philosophy is captured in three pillars: optimum nutrition, maximum food safety, and excellent customer service. They emphasize local sourcing where possible, use no outsourced manufacturing, and produce food in small batches for tighter quality control. All formulas are GMO-free and meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, though the brand is laser-focused on working, sporting, and highly active dogs rather than the average pet market.
Inukshuk’s reputation is strongest within niche communities—breeders, K9 units, mushers, and field trial competitors—where word-of-mouth runs deep. You won’t see it in big-box pet stores, and mainstream brand recognition is low. But within its target demographic, it’s considered a gold standard for high-performance nutrition.
Inukshuk’s chicken-based formulas—26/16, 30/25, and 32/32—list chicken meal as the first ingredient, followed by herring meal. These are concentrated protein sources, meaning the water has been removed, so you’re getting more actual protein per pound than you would from fresh chicken. Chicken meal delivers essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy, while herring meal adds omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and joint health.
The two Marine formulas—Marine 16 and Marine 25—take a different approach. They’re built entirely on ocean-sourced proteins: herring, salmon, and whitefish. There’s no chicken at all, making them a solid option if your dog has a poultry sensitivity. Marine proteins are naturally rich in omega-3s, which can help with inflammation, skin conditions, and cognitive function.
Inukshuk is grain-inclusive, which sets it apart from many modern brands chasing the grain-free trend. The chicken formulas use whole wheat, corn, and brown rice as carbohydrate sources. Corn sometimes gets a bad rap, but it’s actually a highly digestible energy source when processed correctly—and Inukshuk’s fine-grind technology helps with that. Brown rice and wheat provide fiber, B vitamins, and sustained energy release.
The Marine formulas contain less grain overall and avoid wheat and corn, though they’re not entirely grain-free. If you’re looking for a true grain-free option, Inukshuk isn’t it. But given the FDA’s ongoing investigation into potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, the brand’s grain-inclusive stance may actually be a safety advantage.
Fat content is where Inukshuk really stands out. The flagship 32/32 formula contains 32% fat—among the highest you’ll find in any dry kibble. That fat comes from chicken fat and herring oil, both excellent sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. The Marine formulas lean even more heavily on fish oils, which are particularly beneficial for dogs with skin allergies or joint issues.
Inukshuk uses a proprietary vacuum infusion process to push these oils deep into the kibble without leaving a greasy surface. In practice, that means the food doesn’t feel oily to the touch, and you’re less likely to end up with a slick residue at the bottom of the bag.
All formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support—important for working dogs and larger breeds prone to hip or elbow issues. You’ll also find taurine, an amino acid that supports heart health, and a full spectrum of chelated minerals, which are bound to proteins for better absorption.
Preservatives are natural: mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and calcium propionate. No artificial colors, flavors, or synthetic preservatives. Inukshuk also includes chicory root, a source of inulin that acts as a prebiotic to support gut health, though they don’t add standalone probiotics.
You won’t find by-products, meat and bone meal, or unnamed animal fats. There are no artificial additives. However, Inukshuk doesn’t disclose exact percentages of fresh meat versus meal, and detailed ingredient sourcing—like which farms supply the chicken or where the fish are caught—isn’t published. For a brand that emphasizes local sourcing, more transparency here would be welcome.
| Price per pound | $2.30 – $3.30 |
| Primary protein | Chicken meal, herring meal, salmon, whitefish |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (all life stages) |
| Formula options | 5 formulas (3 chicken-based, 2 marine) |
| Availability | Specialty stores + online only |
Inukshuk’s five formulas are differentiated primarily by protein and fat percentages, which directly correlate to caloric density. Here’s how they stack up:
To put that in perspective, most mainstream kibbles land around 350–400 kcal/cup. The 32/32 formula delivers nearly double that. This means you feed significantly less volume to meet your dog’s energy needs—a 60-pound active dog might only need 2–3 cups per day of 32/32, compared to 4–5 cups of a standard food.
Inukshuk doesn’t publish carbohydrate percentages directly, but you can calculate them by subtracting protein, fat, moisture, and estimated ash from 100%. The 26/16 and Marine 16 formulas come in around 38–41% carbohydrates, while the 32/32 is closer to 22–26%. That lower carb percentage in the highest-energy formula reflects the brand’s focus on fat as the primary fuel source for endurance.
All formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, meaning they’re technically suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors. Beyond baseline nutrition, Inukshuk includes:
What you won’t find are standalone probiotics, exotic superfoods, or trendy add-ins like turmeric or blueberries. Inukshuk’s approach is straightforward: deliver the macros and micros working dogs need, without chasing marketing buzzwords.
Inukshuk emphasizes digestibility, though they don’t publish specific digestibility coefficients. The brand’s fine-grind technology—where ingredients are milled to a flour-like consistency—is designed to improve nutrient absorption and reduce waste. Anecdotally, many users report smaller, firmer stools, which is a practical indicator of high digestibility.
Working and sporting dogs are Inukshuk’s core audience. If your dog is a sled dog, hunting companion, K9 unit, or competes in agility, flyball, or field trials, this food was designed for them. The high caloric density and fat content support sustained energy output, muscle recovery, and endurance.
Hard keepers—dogs that struggle to maintain weight on standard foods—often thrive on Inukshuk. The nutrient density means you can pack more calories into a smaller volume, which is easier on dogs with smaller appetites or sensitive stomachs. Pregnant and nursing dogs also benefit, as their caloric needs can double or triple during lactation.
Large and giant breeds with high activity levels do well on the 30/25 or 32/32 formulas. The inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin is a bonus for breeds prone to joint issues. If your dog has a poultry sensitivity, the Marine formulas offer a chicken-free alternative without sacrificing performance nutrition.
Sedentary or low-activity dogs should stay away from the higher-calorie formulas. A couch-potato Labrador on 32/32 will gain weight fast, and not the good kind. Even the 26/16 formula may be too rich for a dog that spends most of the day napping. If your dog’s idea of exercise is a leisurely stroll around the block, look elsewhere.
Dogs with pancreatitis or fat-sensitive conditions can’t handle Inukshuk’s high fat content. The 32/32 formula is particularly risky here. If your dog has a history of digestive upset from rich foods, start with the 26/16 and monitor closely—or skip it altogether.
Dogs with multiple or severe food allergies may struggle. While the Marine formulas eliminate chicken, they still contain grains and aren’t true limited-ingredient diets. If your dog needs a hypoallergenic or single-protein formula, Inukshuk doesn’t offer that.
Budget-conscious owners may find the price hard to justify, especially for larger dogs. While you feed less per meal, the per-bag cost is still premium, and the brand doesn’t offer economy-sized options beyond the 44-pound bag of 32/32.
Palatability is one of Inukshuk’s strongest suits, at least within its target demographic. Roughly 75–80% of user reviews mention that their dog loves the food, often calling out picky eaters who finally showed enthusiasm at mealtime. The high fat content and concentrated meat meals seem to hit the sweet spot for most dogs.
The chicken-based formulas have a mild, meaty smell—not overwhelming, but noticeable. The Marine formulas are fishier, which some owners find off-putting but dogs generally adore. A small percentage of dogs (around 5–7%) refuse the food outright, and a few users report their dog loved it initially but lost interest after a few weeks. That’s not uncommon with any brand, but it’s worth noting.
One practical advantage: the food doesn’t leave a greasy residue in the bowl or on your hands. Inukshuk’s vacuum infusion process keeps the kibble dry to the touch, which makes cleanup easier and reduces the oily smell that clings to some high-fat foods.
Inukshuk sits in the premium price range. A 33-pound bag of the 26/16 formula runs about $75–$90, while the 30/25 is $76–$95. The 32/32 comes in a larger 44-pound bag for $100–$135. The Marine formulas are the most expensive: Marine 16 is around $92–$105 for 33 pounds, and Marine 25 is $99–$110.
That works out to roughly $2.30–$3.30 per pound, depending on the formula. For comparison, Purina Pro Plan Sport runs about $1.50–$2.00 per pound, while ultra-premium brands like Orijen are $3–$5 per pound.
Here’s where the math gets interesting. Because Inukshuk is so calorie-dense, you feed less. The 32/32 formula costs about $0.53 per 1,000 kcal, while the 26/16 is closer to $0.63 per 1,000 kcal. That’s competitive with—and sometimes cheaper than—many mainstream brands when you account for the smaller serving size.
For a 60-pound active dog, you’re looking at roughly $3–$4 per day on the 30/25 formula. That’s less than many boutique brands and about on par with higher-end Pro Plan or Royal Canin options.
If your dog genuinely needs the calories—if they’re working, competing, or struggling to maintain weight—then yes, Inukshuk offers solid value. You’re paying for nutrient density, quality ingredients, and a safety record with no recalls. The fact that it’s made in a single, family-owned facility adds a layer of quality control that’s harder to guarantee with brands using multiple co-packers.
If your dog is a moderate-activity pet, the value proposition weakens. You’re paying a premium for caloric density you don’t need, and you could get comparable nutrition from a mid-tier brand at a lower price. And if you’re feeding a 100-pound dog on the 32/32 formula, you’re still looking at $4–$5 per day—manageable for some, but a stretch for others.
Bulk discounts are available if you buy 65+ bags, and some retailers offer a 5% autoship discount, which helps. Sample packs are available online, so you can test palatability without committing to a full bag.
All Inukshuk food is produced at Corey Nutrition Company’s facility in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. This is a single, family-owned plant—no outsourcing, no co-packers. That level of control is rare in the pet food industry and gives the brand tight oversight over every batch.
Inukshuk’s proprietary production system, CoreyTEC™, includes three key innovations:
These aren’t just marketing gimmicks—they’re tangible production methods that affect the final product’s texture, digestibility, and shelf life.
Inukshuk has no documented recalls in its history. That’s a significant point in its favor, especially compared to larger brands that have faced multiple recalls over the past decade. The company states they adhere to the “strictest safety and quality assurance guidelines in the industry,” though they don’t specify which certifications (ISO, HACCP, etc.) they hold.
All formulas meet AAFCO standards, and the company mentions conducting feeding trials, though detailed results aren’t published. Ingredient sourcing emphasizes local suppliers, which can reduce supply chain complexity and contamination risk, but full traceability data isn’t publicly available.
Inukshuk’s sustainability story is a mixed bag. On the plus side, the brand emphasizes local ingredient sourcing, which reduces transportation emissions and supports regional economies. The founder’s background as a fisheries biologist suggests some awareness of environmental impact, and all formulas are GMO-free.
However, the brand doesn’t publish formal sustainability reports, carbon footprint data, or environmental goals. Packaging uses a specialized freshness valve, which improves product quality but isn’t curbside recyclable—the bags are poly-lined and need to be taken to specialized recycling facilities. There’s no mention of renewable energy use in production or waste reduction initiatives.
On the ethics front, Inukshuk doesn’t disclose animal welfare standards for ingredient sourcing or publish an animal testing policy. The company is family-owned and independent, which avoids some of the corporate accountability issues of larger conglomerates, but transparency on these topics would strengthen their positioning.
I work at a dog shelter where we regularly test different foods to see how they perform in real-world conditions. For this review, I tried Inukshuk’s 30/25 formula with a dog named Maverick, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois mix who came to us underweight and anxious. Maverick had been bouncing between homes and arrived at the shelter with dull fur, low energy, and a tendency to pick at his food rather than eat a full meal.
We transitioned him onto Inukshuk over five days, mixing it gradually with his previous food—a mid-tier kibble he’d been eating inconsistently. The first thing I noticed was that Maverick actually seemed interested in his bowl. He’d usually sniff his food and walk away, but with Inukshuk, he’d start eating within a few seconds of me setting it down.
By the end of the first week, his energy started to pick up. He was more engaged during training sessions and less prone to zoning out in his kennel. His coat didn’t transform overnight, but after about three weeks, it looked noticeably shinier and felt softer. His stools firmed up quickly—within the first few days—and were smaller and less frequent, which made cleanup easier and suggested he was absorbing more nutrients.
The most striking change was his body condition. Maverick put on weight steadily but not excessively, filling out his chest and hindquarters in a way that looked healthy rather than bloated. His ribs were still palpable, but the gaunt look was gone. For a dog who’d been a hard keeper, that was a real win.
There were no dramatic downsides. He didn’t have any digestive upset, no itching or ear issues, and no refusal to eat. If anything, Maverick was more food-motivated than he’d been on his previous diet, which made training easier. The food didn’t work miracles—his anxiety and reactivity still required consistent behavior work—but it gave him the physical foundation he needed to engage with that work.
Across platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and niche breeder forums, Inukshuk consistently scores above 4.5 out of 5 stars. The most common praise centers on weight gain, energy, and coat quality. One user with a rescue Greyhound noted, “Within days, my girl was finally gaining healthy weight that she desperately needed. You won’t find a higher calorie food on the market—especially with this quality.”
Another recurring theme is stool quality. Multiple reviews mention firmer, smaller stools with less odor. One owner switching from Purina Pro Plan wrote, “Our girl’s poop was always just a little too soft. Switched to Inukshuk and great poops. Also, the food smells ‘good’ to me, whereas her previous brand was kind of greasy.”
Picky eaters get a lot of mentions. A user with five active dogs said, “I’ve tried literally everything. This food is heaven sent.” That’s not universal—about 5–7% of reviews mention dogs refusing the food—but the acceptance rate is notably high.
The main issue is overfeeding. Several users report their dogs gaining too much weight too quickly, often because they didn’t adjust portions for the higher calorie density. One owner wrote, “Dog put on weight extremely fast, had to switch back after gaining too much in six weeks.” That’s a user error, but it highlights the need to follow feeding guidelines carefully.
A smaller number of users report digestive upset—diarrhea or vomiting—usually when transitioning too quickly or feeding one of the higher-fat formulas to a dog not accustomed to rich food. One person noted, “My dog had explosive diarrhea and had to be switched back. He’s a golden who’s typically not sensitive.”
There are occasional mentions of scratching or itching, with some owners suspecting a grain sensitivity. One user said, “Changed from Royal Canin to Inukshuk, but after two weeks, dog started scratching constantly; suspected grains/corn allergy.” That’s rare—under 5% of reviews—but worth noting if your dog has known sensitivities.
Price comes up frequently. About 7–9% of reviews mention the cost, with some users comparing it unfavorably to bulk supermarket brands. However, most of those same users acknowledge the smaller serving size offsets some of the sticker shock.
If you’re weighing Inukshuk against a mainstream brand like Wholehearted, the differences are stark. Wholehearted is Petco’s house brand, positioned as a value-premium option for everyday pet owners. It offers dozens of formulas—dry, wet, grain-free, limited ingredient—at a lower price point, typically $1–$2 per pound.
Inukshuk, by contrast, is a specialist brand with just five formulas, all focused on high-performance nutrition. Where Wholehearted’s highest-calorie formulas top out around 410 kcal/cup, Inukshuk’s 32/32 delivers 720 kcal/cup. If you’re feeding a working dog or a hard keeper, that difference matters. If you’re feeding a moderately active family pet, Wholehearted’s broader range and lower cost may be a better fit.
Protein and fat content also diverge. Wholehearted formulas generally run 20–28% protein and 10–15% fat. Inukshuk’s range is 26–32% protein and 16–32% fat. That higher fat content is a boon for endurance athletes but a liability for sedentary dogs.
In terms of ingredient quality, both brands use meat meals as primary proteins and avoid by-products. Inukshuk has a cleaner recall history (zero recalls vs. Wholehearted’s minor issues), and the single-facility production model offers tighter quality control. But Wholehearted’s wider retail presence and variety make it more accessible for the average buyer.
For a detailed breakdown of Wholehearted’s offerings, check out our Wholehearted review.
Orijen is another ultra-premium brand, known for its high protein content (33–38%) and “biologically appropriate” whole-prey formulas. It’s more expensive than Inukshuk—$3–$5 per pound—and leans heavily on fresh and raw ingredients. Orijen is grain-free, while Inukshuk is grain-inclusive.
If you’re prioritizing protein content, Orijen edges ahead. If you’re prioritizing caloric density and fat for endurance, Inukshuk’s 32/32 formula is unmatched. Orijen has faced minor recalls; Inukshuk hasn’t. Both are manufactured in Canada with strong quality control.
For a family pet, Orijen’s variety and balanced macros may be more appropriate. For a working dog, Inukshuk’s focused formulas and lower per-calorie cost give it an edge.
Purina Pro Plan Sport is a direct competitor in the performance dog space. It’s more affordable—$1.50–$2.00 per pound—and widely available in retail stores. Pro Plan’s 30/20 formula delivers 475 kcal/cup, which is high but still well below Inukshuk’s 32/32.
Purina has a long history of research and feeding trials, which Inukshuk can’t fully match in terms of published data. However, Purina has also had multiple recalls over the years, while Inukshuk’s record is clean. Ingredient sourcing is less transparent with Purina, and the brand uses multiple co-packers, which can introduce variability.
If you’re on a budget and need a solid performance food, Pro Plan Sport is a reasonable choice. If you want maximum caloric density, tighter quality control, and are willing to pay more, Inukshuk is the better option.
Inukshuk is purpose-built for high-energy, high-output dogs. That includes:
It’s not suitable for:
The 26/16 and Marine 16 formulas are the most versatile, working for puppies, seniors, and moderately active adults. The 30/25 and Marine 25 formulas are ideal for active adults. The 32/32 should be reserved for dogs with extreme caloric demands—if your dog isn’t working hard six days a week, it’s overkill.
Yes—if your dog fits the profile. Inukshuk delivers on its promise: nutrient-dense, high-performance nutrition for working and active dogs. The caloric density is unmatched, the ingredient quality is solid, and the safety record is spotless. If you’re feeding a sled dog, a hunting companion, or a hard keeper who needs every calorie they can get, this food is an excellent choice. The fact that it’s made in a single, family-owned facility with proprietary technology adds a layer of quality control that’s harder to find in larger brands.
But here’s the thing: most dogs don’t need this food. If your dog is a moderately active pet—say, a Labrador who goes for a daily walk and plays in the yard—Inukshuk’s higher-calorie formulas are overkill. You’ll either overfeed and end up with a chubby dog, or you’ll underfeed and wonder why you’re paying premium prices for a food you’re portioning like a diet kibble. The 26/16 formula is the most versatile and could work for a wider range of dogs, but even then, you’re paying for performance nutrition you may not fully utilize.
The Marine formulas are a standout if you’re dealing with a poultry sensitivity, but they’re pricey and still grain-inclusive, so they won’t work for dogs with multiple allergies. And if your dog has a fat-sensitive condition like pancreatitis, Inukshuk is off the table entirely.
Price is another consideration. At $2.30–$3.30 per pound, Inukshuk sits in the premium range. The smaller serving size offsets some of that cost, but if you’re feeding a 100-pound dog, you’re still looking at $4–$5 per day. That’s manageable for some, but it’s a real budget factor for others. If cost is a primary concern and your dog doesn’t have extreme caloric needs, you can find comparable nutrition at a lower price point with brands like Purina Pro Plan or even mid-tier options like Wholehearted.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a working dog or a hard keeper, absolutely. For a moderately active family pet, probably not—I’d look at something like The Farmer’s Dog for fresh, balanced nutrition or a mid-tier kibble that better matches their actual energy needs. Inukshuk is a specialist tool, and like any specialist tool, it excels in its niche but isn’t the right fit for every situation.
Bottom line: Inukshuk is a top-tier choice for high-performance dogs, with the ingredient quality, safety record, and nutrient density to back up its reputation. If your dog works hard, competes, or struggles to keep weight on, this food will serve them well. If they don’t, you’re paying for performance you won’t use. Know your dog’s needs, match the formula accordingly, and Inukshuk delivers.
You’ll feed significantly less Inukshuk than regular kibble due to its high caloric density. For example, a 60-pound active dog might only need 2–3 cups per day of the 32/32 formula, compared to 4–5 cups of standard food. Always start with the feeding guidelines on the bag and adjust based on your dog’s body condition. The higher fat and calorie content means smaller portions pack more nutritional punch.
The higher-calorie formulas (30/25 and 32/32) are not recommended for sedentary dogs, as they’ll likely gain weight quickly. However, the 26/16 or Marine 16 formulas can work for moderately active seniors or less active dogs if you adjust portions carefully. Monitor your dog’s weight closely and reduce portions if they start gaining. If your dog is truly inactive, a lower-calorie food would be a better choice.
No, Inukshuk’s high fat content makes it unsuitable for dogs with pancreatitis or fat-sensitive conditions. The 32/32 formula contains 32% fat, which is extremely high and could trigger a pancreatitis flare-up. Even the lowest-fat option (26/16 at 16% fat) may be too rich for dogs with digestive sensitivities. Consult your veterinarian for appropriate low-fat alternatives if your dog has these conditions.
The main difference is protein source and allergen profile. Chicken formulas (26/16, 30/25, 32/32) use chicken meal and herring meal as primary proteins, while Marine formulas use only ocean-sourced proteins like herring, salmon, and whitefish. Marine formulas are completely chicken-free, making them suitable for dogs with poultry sensitivities. However, both formula types contain grains, so they’re not hypoallergenic for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Inukshuk’s premium price reflects several factors: it’s made in a single, family-owned facility in Canada with proprietary CoreyTEC™ technology, uses high-quality meat meals and fish oils, and delivers exceptional caloric density. While it costs $2.30–$3.30 per pound, you feed significantly smaller portions, which can make the cost per feeding competitive with mid-tier brands. The zero-recall safety record and specialized production methods also contribute to the higher cost.
Follow a gradual 7–10 day transition, especially given Inukshuk’s rich, high-fat content. Start with 25% Inukshuk mixed with 75% current food for 2–3 days, then 50/50 for 2–3 days, then 75% Inukshuk for 2–3 days, and finally 100% Inukshuk. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may need an even slower transition. Watch for loose stools or digestive upset, and slow the transition if needed.
Yes, all Inukshuk formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, making them suitable for puppies. However, the high-calorie formulas should be used cautiously with puppies to prevent excessive weight gain, which can stress developing joints. The 26/16 formula is generally the safest choice for puppies, though active or large-breed puppies may benefit from the higher protein content in the 30/25 formula.
Inukshuk isn’t available in big-box pet stores. You can purchase it online through the company’s website, specialty pet retailers, or farm supply stores. Some independent pet stores carry it, particularly in areas with active sporting dog communities. The brand offers sample packs online so you can test palatability before committing to a full bag, which is recommended given the premium price point.
No, Inukshuk is grain-inclusive by design. The chicken formulas contain whole wheat, corn, and brown rice, while Marine formulas contain fewer grains but aren’t completely grain-free. Given the FDA’s ongoing investigation into potential links between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), Inukshuk’s grain-inclusive approach may actually be a safety advantage for most dogs.
Reduce the portion size immediately—this is the most common issue with Inukshuk due to its high caloric density. Many owners don’t realize they need to feed significantly less than their previous food. If your dog continues gaining weight on reduced portions of even the lowest-calorie formula (26/16), Inukshuk may simply be too rich for your dog’s activity level, and you should consider switching to a lower-calorie food.
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