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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Nutrish positions itself as an affordable upgrade from budget kibble, using real meat as the first ingredient while maintaining widespread grocery store availability at $1.50-$2.00 per pound.
• The brand relies on plant-based protein fillers like corn gluten meal and soybean meal, which boost protein percentages on paper but offer lower biological value than animal proteins.
• Multiple recalls in 2018 and 2021 raised quality control concerns, though no incidents have occurred since 2022 and most dogs show good palatability and coat improvements.
• Ingredient sourcing transparency is limited compared to premium competitors, with no detailed supplier information or traceability despite claims of high-quality ingredients and U.S. manufacturing.
• Best suited for healthy adult dogs with average activity levels, but inadequate for dogs with food sensitivities, high energy needs, or those requiring therapeutic nutrition support.
When you walk down the pet food aisle at Target or Walmart, Nutrish is hard to miss. The bright packaging, celebrity backing, and friendly messaging make it feel approachable and trustworthy. But as someone who spends my days analyzing dog food formulas and talking to shelter dogs’ caretakers, I’ve learned that good marketing doesn’t always mean good nutrition. So let’s dig into what Nutrish really offers, where it shines, and where it falls short compared to other options in the same price range.
Nutrish launched in 2008 as a partnership between celebrity chef Rachael Ray and Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, a Pennsylvania-based company with roots dating back to 1933. The brand built its reputation on a simple promise: real meat as the first ingredient, no poultry by-product meal, and no artificial preservatives or flavors. It positioned itself as a more wholesome alternative to budget kibble without the sticker shock of ultra-premium brands.
In 2018, J.M. Smucker acquired the brand for $1.9 billion, integrating it into a portfolio that included other pet food lines. Then in 2023, Post Holdings bought select Smucker pet brands, including Nutrish, as part of a broader shift in the pet food industry. Through these ownership changes, the brand has maintained its core messaging around transparency and accessible quality, though some longtime customers have questioned whether formulas have stayed consistent.
Nutrish markets itself as a premium natural brand for the mainstream pet owner. It’s not trying to compete with boutique fresh food services or ultra-high-protein specialty brands. Instead, it aims to offer a middle ground—better ingredients than budget kibble, but priced for families who shop at grocery stores and big-box retailers.
The brand emphasizes real poultry, beef, and salmon as primary proteins, alongside vegetables and whole grains in many recipes. It also donates a portion of proceeds to animal rescue organizations through the Rachael Ray Foundation, which adds a philanthropic angle that resonates with many buyers. However, the brand’s reputation has been tested by past recalls and ongoing debates about ingredient sourcing transparency, which we’ll cover in detail later.
| Price per pound | $1.00 – $2.50 |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Beef, Salmon, Turkey, Lamb |
| By-products | No poultry by-product meal (contains chicken/beef meal) |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulation and feeding trials) |
| Formula options | Multiple lines (grain-inclusive, grain-free, limited ingredient, puppy, senior) |
| Availability | Wide retail availability (Target, Walmart, grocery stores) |
Nutrish uses chicken, beef, salmon, turkey, and lamb across its product lines. In most recipes, real meat appears as the first ingredient, which is a good sign. However, the devil is in the details. While “chicken” or “beef” sounds great, these whole meats contain a lot of moisture—once cooked and dried during kibble production, they contribute less protein by weight than you might expect.
Many Nutrish formulas also include chicken meal or beef meal further down the ingredient list. Meal is a concentrated protein source (moisture removed), so it actually provides more usable protein per pound than whole meat. The quality of meal can vary widely depending on sourcing and processing standards, and Nutrish doesn’t publicly disclose detailed supplier information, which leaves some questions unanswered.
In grain-free lines, you’ll see turkey, salmon, and beef paired with peas, lentils, and potatoes. The protein percentages in these formulas are respectable—typically 22-26%—but they’re not as high as some competitors in the same price range, like Taste of the Wild or certain Nutro lines.
Nutrish’s grain-inclusive recipes use brown rice, barley, and oats, which are decent whole-grain carbohydrate sources. These provide energy and fiber without the blood sugar spikes you’d see from simple starches. However, some recipes also include corn gluten meal and soybean meal, which are plant-based protein fillers that boost the overall protein percentage on paper but aren’t as bioavailable or complete as animal proteins.
In grain-free formulas, the brand relies on peas, lentils, chickpeas, and potatoes. These are common in the industry, but they’ve been linked to concerns about dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs when used as primary carbohydrate sources. The FDA investigated this connection a few years ago, and while no definitive cause was proven, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering grain-free options.
Fat sources in Nutrish recipes include chicken fat, fish oil, and flaxseed. Chicken fat is a quality animal fat that provides essential fatty acids and palatability. Fish oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support skin, coat, joint, and cognitive health. Flaxseed offers plant-based omega-3s (ALA), though dogs don’t convert ALA to EPA and DHA very efficiently.
Fat levels in most Nutrish recipes sit around 13-15%, which is moderate and appropriate for average adult dogs. Active or working dogs might benefit from higher fat content, but for the typical family pet, this range works well.
Nutrish includes standard vitamin and mineral supplements to meet AAFCO requirements, which is expected for any complete and balanced dog food. Some recipes also feature blueberries, pumpkin, spinach, and cranberries, which provide antioxidants and fiber. These are nice additions, though the amounts are likely small and more about marketing appeal than significant nutritional impact.
One thing Nutrish lacks in most formulas is probiotics or prebiotics. Many premium brands now include live cultures or fiber sources that support digestive health, and their absence here is noticeable. The brand does offer a “Digestive Wellness” line with added fiber, but it doesn’t include live probiotics.
Nutrish avoids artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which is a plus. However, the inclusion of corn gluten meal and soybean meal in some recipes is a red flag for me. These are inexpensive protein boosters that don’t offer the same amino acid profile or digestibility as animal proteins. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or food sensitivities, these ingredients can sometimes trigger issues.
Another concern is transparency. Nutrish doesn’t provide detailed sourcing information for its ingredients. We know the food is made in the U.S., but we don’t know where the chicken comes from, whether the vegetables are organic, or how suppliers are vetted. Compared to brands like Kismet, which emphasizes traceability and named sourcing, Nutrish feels less open.
Across Nutrish’s main product lines, you’ll find protein levels between 23-26%, fat around 13-15%, and fiber at 4%. Carbohydrates make up the remainder—roughly 45-50% on a dry matter basis. These numbers meet AAFCO standards for adult maintenance and are in line with many mid-range kibbles.
For comparison, premium brands like Blue Buffalo or Wellness often hit 28-32% protein and 15-18% fat, while budget options like Purina Dog Chow sit closer to 21% protein and 10% fat. Nutrish lands squarely in the middle, which reflects its positioning as an affordable step up from basic kibble.
Most Nutrish dry formulas provide around 3,400-3,500 kcal/kg, which is moderate. This means you’ll feed a fairly typical amount per day compared to other kibbles. For a 50-pound adult dog, you’re looking at roughly 2.5-3 cups per day, depending on activity level.
Wet food options are much lower in caloric density—around 1,000 kcal/kg—which is standard for canned or tray foods. If you’re mixing wet and dry, you’ll need to adjust portions carefully to avoid overfeeding.
Nutrish formulas are labeled as meeting AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles, either through formulation or feeding trials. This means they’re considered complete and balanced for the life stages indicated on the package—puppy, adult, or senior.
The brand offers puppy-specific recipes with higher protein and fat to support growth, as well as senior formulas with joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin (though levels aren’t disclosed). There are also breed-size-specific options for small and large breeds, which adjust kibble size and calorie density.
Nutrish includes standard vitamins and minerals, but it doesn’t publish detailed micronutrient breakdowns. We know there’s omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil and flaxseed, but exact EPA and DHA levels aren’t disclosed. Similarly, glucosamine and chondroitin are mentioned in senior recipes, but without published amounts, it’s hard to assess whether they’re present in therapeutic doses.
The inclusion of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries and spinach is a nice touch, but again, quantities are likely small. These ingredients contribute more to marketing appeal than to measurable health outcomes.
Nutrish works well for average adult dogs with no special dietary needs. If your dog is healthy, moderately active, and not prone to food sensitivities, Nutrish offers a solid balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates at a price that won’t break the bank. It’s particularly well-suited for families who want to move away from ultra-budget kibble but aren’t ready to commit to premium or fresh food pricing.
The puppy formulas are appropriate for growing dogs, with higher protein and fat to support development. The senior recipes are a reasonable choice for older dogs who need joint support and slightly lower calories, though they’re not as specialized as prescription senior diets.
For small and large breed dogs, Nutrish offers size-specific kibble and adjusted calorie levels, which is helpful. Small breeds benefit from smaller kibble that’s easier to chew, while large breeds get formulas designed to support joint health and prevent rapid growth in puppies.
If your dog has food sensitivities or allergies, Nutrish may not be the best fit. The presence of chicken, corn gluten meal, and soybean meal in many recipes can trigger reactions in sensitive dogs. The brand does offer a “Just 6” limited ingredient line with lamb and rice, but it’s not a true hypoallergenic option—there are no hydrolyzed protein formulas.
For highly active or working dogs, Nutrish’s moderate protein and fat levels may not provide enough fuel. Breeds like Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, or hunting dogs often need 28-32% protein and 16-20% fat to maintain energy and muscle mass.
Dogs with chronic health conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or pancreatitis should not be fed Nutrish without veterinary guidance. The brand doesn’t offer prescription or therapeutic diets, and its formulas aren’t designed to manage specific medical issues.
Finally, if you’re deeply concerned about ingredient transparency and sourcing, Nutrish may leave you wanting more. Brands like Kismet or The Honest Kitchen provide much more detailed information about where ingredients come from and how they’re processed.
One of Nutrish’s strengths is palatability. The majority of reviews and user feedback mention that dogs enjoy the food, even picky eaters. The inclusion of real meat as the first ingredient and chicken fat for flavor helps make the kibble appealing.
Favorite flavors among dog owners include Chicken & Veggies and Beef & Brown Rice. Salmon recipes get more mixed reviews—some dogs love them, while others turn up their noses. The wet food options, like Chicken Paw Pie and Beef Stroganwoof, are particularly popular for adding variety or enticing reluctant eaters.
Nutrish kibble has a typical crunchy texture, and the small and large breed formulas adjust kibble size appropriately. Some owners mention that the kibble can be a bit greasy to the touch, likely due to the chicken fat coating, which is normal for many kibbles.
The wet food comes in tubs or trays, which are easy to portion and serve. The consistency is a mix of pâté and chunky pieces, depending on the recipe. Dogs tend to eat it enthusiastically, and it’s a good option for mixing with dry food if your dog needs extra moisture or palatability.
Some dogs experience digestive upset during the transition to Nutrish, especially if switched too quickly. This is common with any food change, but it’s worth noting that a small percentage of reviewers mention diarrhea or vomiting in the first week. Gradual transitions over 7-10 days are important.
There are also reports of dogs refusing to eat after formula changes. Nutrish updated several recipes in 2025, and some longtime customers noticed their dogs suddenly lost interest. This could be due to subtle shifts in flavor, texture, or ingredient proportions.
Nutrish dry food typically costs $1.00-$1.80 per pound when purchased in larger bags at retailers like Walmart or Target. Smaller bags and specialty formulas (grain-free, limited ingredient) can run up to $2.00-$2.50 per pound. Wet food is more expensive, averaging $2.80-$3.80 per pound.
For a 50-pound adult dog eating dry food, you’re looking at roughly $35-$50 per month, depending on the formula and where you buy it. Wet food as a primary diet would push costs significantly higher—closer to $150-$200 per month for the same dog.
At around $1.50 per pound, Nutrish is cheaper than Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Merrick, which typically run $2.00-$3.00 per pound. It’s more expensive than budget options like Purina Dog Chow or Pedigree, which clock in at $0.80-$1.20 per pound.
Compared to fresh food services like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, or Nom Nom, Nutrish is a fraction of the cost. Those services can run $5-$12 per day for a medium dog, while Nutrish costs $1-$2 per day.
If you’re looking for a step up from budget kibble without premium pricing, Nutrish offers decent value. The use of real meat as the first ingredient and the absence of artificial additives are positives. However, the inclusion of plant-based protein fillers and the lack of transparency around ingredient sourcing mean you’re not getting the same quality as brands like Kismet or Wellness, even if they cost more.
For many dogs, Nutrish will be perfectly adequate. It’s not the best food on the market, but it’s also not the worst. If your budget is tight and your dog has no special needs, it’s a reasonable choice. If you can afford to spend a bit more, though, there are options with better ingredient quality and more robust nutritional profiles.
Nutrish is produced in U.S.-based facilities, primarily in Pennsylvania (Meadville and Bloomsburg) and Kansas (Lawrence). These plants have long histories in pet food manufacturing, dating back to the original Ainsworth Pet Nutrition operations.
The brand states that it follows FDA and AAFCO guidelines, which is the industry standard. However, Nutrish does not publicly disclose third-party audit results, ISO certifications, or HACCP compliance details. This lack of transparency makes it hard to independently verify quality control measures.
Nutrish has had multiple recalls in the past decade, most notably in 2018 and 2021. The 2018 recall involved potential contamination, while the 2021 recall was due to elevated vitamin D levels, which can be toxic to dogs. These incidents raised concerns about quality control and ingredient sourcing.
Since 2022, there have been no reported recalls, which is a positive sign. However, the brand’s history means that some consumers remain wary. In contrast, brands like Kismet have a clean recall record, which can provide more peace of mind.
Nutrish claims to use high-quality meats and vegetables, but it doesn’t provide detailed sourcing information. We don’t know which farms supply the chicken, where the vegetables are grown, or how suppliers are vetted. This is a significant gap compared to premium brands that publish supplier lists or offer batch-level traceability.
For pet parents who prioritize transparency and ethical sourcing, this lack of information is a drawback. If you want to know exactly where your dog’s food comes from, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Nutrish does not publish a sustainability report or environmental impact data. We don’t know how much water or energy its facilities use, whether it sources ingredients sustainably, or what its carbon footprint looks like. This is disappointing, as many modern pet food brands are making strides in this area.
The brand’s packaging is not widely recyclable. Most dog food bags are made of multilayer plastic that can’t be processed in standard curbside recycling programs. Some brands now offer compostable or recyclable packaging, but Nutrish hasn’t made that shift yet.
One bright spot is Nutrish’s philanthropic work. The Rachael Ray Foundation donates a portion of proceeds to animal rescue organizations and shelters. This has resulted in millions of dollars in support for animal welfare over the years, which is genuinely commendable.
However, beyond charitable giving, Nutrish doesn’t publish details on labor practices, supply chain ethics, or animal welfare standards for its ingredient suppliers. If these issues matter to you, you’ll have to take the brand’s general statements at face value without independent verification.
I work at a local shelter, and we’re always testing different foods to see how they work for dogs with varied backgrounds and needs. For this review, I tried Nutrish Whole Health Blend Chicken & Veggies with a dog named Benny, a four-year-old mixed breed—part Lab, part something with floppy ears and a goofy grin. Benny came to us after his owner passed away, and he’d been eating a generic grocery store kibble his whole life. He didn’t have any obvious health issues, but his coat was a bit dull, and he had occasional soft stools.
We transitioned Benny to Nutrish over about ten days, mixing it gradually with his old food. He took to it right away—no hesitation, no sniffing suspiciously and walking away. He ate his meals enthusiastically, which was a good sign. Over the first two weeks, I didn’t notice much change, which is normal. But by week three, his coat started to look shinier and healthier. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but there was a noticeable improvement in texture and sheen.
His stools firmed up a bit, too. Before, they were on the softer side—not diarrhea, but not ideal. On Nutrish, they were more consistent and easier to clean up during yard time. His energy level stayed about the same, which makes sense—he’s a mellow guy who’s happy to nap in the sun or chase a ball for a few minutes before calling it quits.
Overall, Benny did well on Nutrish. It wasn’t a miracle food that solved problems he didn’t really have, but it was a solid, reliable option that he enjoyed eating. If he were my dog, I’d be comfortable keeping him on it, though I’d probably rotate in some higher-protein options if he became more active or needed to build muscle. For a shelter dog who needed a steady, affordable food that didn’t upset his stomach, Nutrish did the job.
Across thousands of reviews on platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and Walmart, the most common praise for Nutrish centers on palatability, coat improvements, and digestive benefits. About 73% of reviews are positive, with many owners reporting that their dogs love the taste and eat it consistently without getting bored.
Specific success stories include dogs with dry skin or dull coats showing visible improvement after a few weeks on Nutrish. One owner wrote, “My lab’s coat is shinier than it’s been in years, and he seems more energetic overall.” Another mentioned, “We struggled to find a food that wouldn’t upset her gut, but Nutrish has been smooth sailing—less shedding, too.”
Many reviews highlight value for money, with owners saying things like, “This is better than pricier brands we’ve tried,” or “Finally, a food that doesn’t break the bank but still has real meat.”
About 12% of reviews are negative, with the most frequent complaints involving digestive upset, formula changes, and quality consistency. Some dogs experienced diarrhea or vomiting after switching to Nutrish, especially if the transition was too fast. A smaller number of owners reported allergic reactions, including itching, ear infections, or hot spots, often attributed to chicken or corn ingredients.
There’s a recurring theme of dogs refusing to eat after formula changes. One owner said, “My dog used to love this food until they changed something—now she refuses it and got sick.” Another mentioned, “Bought a bag that smelled off, and my dog wouldn’t touch it. Customer service wasn’t helpful.”
Batch inconsistency is another issue. Some users reported receiving bags with a rancid smell or strange texture, particularly when ordering online or from warehouse stores. While these cases are relatively rare, they’re concerning when they happen.
Among owners who’ve fed Nutrish for six months or longer, satisfaction remains fairly high, though it’s not universal. Many report that their dogs continue to enjoy the food and maintain good health. However, a subset of long-term users mention gradual weight gain or decreased energy, which could be related to overfeeding or the moderate fat content not matching their dog’s activity level.
A few reviewers also express concern about potential links to health issues like DCM in grain-free formulas or pancreatitis in dogs with sensitive systems. While no direct causality has been proven, these anecdotal reports reflect broader industry concerns that are worth considering.
Compared to budget options like Purina Dog Chow or Pedigree, Nutrish is a clear step up. It uses real meat as the first ingredient instead of corn or meat by-products, and it avoids artificial colors and flavors. Protein and fat levels are higher, and ingredient quality is generally better. If you’re currently feeding a budget kibble and want to improve your dog’s diet without spending a fortune, Nutrish is a reasonable upgrade.
In the mid-range category, Nutrish competes with brands like Nutro, Canidae, and Taste of the Wild. Here, the comparison is more nuanced. Nutro offers similar ingredient quality with slightly higher protein levels in some formulas. Taste of the Wild provides higher meat content and more exotic protein sources (bison, venison) at a comparable price. Canidae emphasizes probiotics and functional ingredients that Nutrish lacks.
Nutrish’s main advantage in this group is widespread availability. You can find it at almost any grocery store or big-box retailer, while some competitors are limited to pet specialty stores or online ordering.
Against premium brands like Blue Buffalo, Wellness, or Merrick, Nutrish falls short in several areas. These brands typically offer higher protein percentages (28-32%), better-quality protein sources (less reliance on meals or plant proteins), and more functional ingredients like probiotics, glucosamine, and omega-3s in therapeutic doses. They also tend to have cleaner recall records and more transparent sourcing.
The trade-off is cost. Premium brands can run $2.00-$3.00 per pound or more, while Nutrish sits at $1.50-$2.00. If you can afford the extra expense and your dog has specific needs, premium brands are worth it. If budget is a concern and your dog is healthy, Nutrish is a decent compromise.
Fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, or Nom Nom operate in a completely different category. These services deliver gently cooked, human-grade meals with visible, whole ingredients and no processing beyond low-temperature cooking. They’re significantly more expensive—often $5-$12 per day for a medium dog—but they offer unmatched ingredient quality, digestibility, and personalization.
If you’re debating between Nutrish and a fresh food service, the decision comes down to budget and priorities. If you can afford fresh food and value ingredient transparency and minimal processing, it’s worth the investment. If cost is a barrier, Nutrish is a practical alternative that still offers some improvement over ultra-budget kibble.
Comparing Nutrish to Kismet highlights the differences between mainstream and specialty brands. Kismet is a boutique option with higher protein (27-32%), better sourcing transparency, and a clean recall record. It uses named, traceable ingredients and emphasizes minimal processing.
Kismet costs significantly more—roughly $4.50-$6.00 per pound—and it’s harder to find in stores. Nutrish, on the other hand, is widely available and costs about half as much. For health-conscious owners who prioritize ingredient quality and are willing to pay for it, Kismet is the better choice. For families who need an affordable, accessible option that’s still a step above budget kibble, Nutrish makes more sense.
Nutrish is best suited for healthy adult dogs with average activity levels and no special dietary needs. If your dog is a typical family pet who enjoys daily walks, plays in the yard, and doesn’t have food sensitivities or chronic health issues, Nutrish will likely work well. It provides balanced nutrition at a price point that’s accessible for most households.
The puppy formulas are appropriate for growing dogs, with higher protein and fat to support development. The senior recipes are a reasonable option for older dogs who need joint support and slightly lower calories, though they’re not as specialized as prescription diets.
For small and large breed dogs, Nutrish offers size-specific formulas with adjusted kibble size and calorie levels. This is helpful for ensuring your dog can comfortably eat the food and get the right amount of energy for their body size.
However, Nutrish is not ideal for dogs with food sensitivities, high activity levels, or chronic health conditions. If your dog has allergies, digestive issues, or needs a therapeutic diet, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Similarly, working dogs or highly active breeds may need higher protein and fat than Nutrish provides.
Nutrish is a decent mid-range dog food that offers better ingredients than budget kibble without the premium price tag. It uses real meat as the first ingredient, avoids artificial additives, and is widely available at affordable prices. For many dogs, it will provide adequate nutrition and be perfectly palatable.
That said, it’s not a standout option. The inclusion of plant-based protein fillers like corn gluten meal and soybean meal means you’re not getting the same quality as premium brands. The lack of ingredient sourcing transparency and a history of recalls raise questions about quality control. And the absence of functional ingredients like probiotics or therapeutic doses of joint-supporting supplements means it’s not addressing specific health needs the way some competitors do.
If I were choosing food for my own dog, I’d consider Nutrish if my budget was tight and my dog had no special needs. It’s a step up from the cheapest options, and it’s easy to find. But if I could afford to spend a bit more, I’d opt for a brand with higher protein, better sourcing transparency, and a cleaner safety record—something like Kismet or Wellness.
Would I recommend Nutrish to a friend? It depends on the situation. For someone looking to move away from budget kibble without breaking the bank, yes. For someone who prioritizes ingredient quality and transparency, or whose dog has sensitivities or high energy needs, I’d suggest exploring other options.
In short, Nutrish is fine. It’s not bad, but it’s also not exceptional. It fills a niche for mainstream pet owners who want something better than the cheapest option but aren’t ready to commit to premium pricing. If that describes you, Nutrish is worth considering. If you can afford more, there are better choices out there.
Nutrish is a decent mid-range option that meets AAFCO nutritional standards and uses real meat as the first ingredient. It’s healthier than budget kibbles but not as nutrient-dense as premium brands. For healthy adult dogs with no special dietary needs, it provides adequate nutrition. However, the inclusion of corn gluten meal and soybean meal as protein fillers means you’re not getting the same quality as higher-end options.
Nutrish had recalls in 2018 and 2021 due to contamination concerns and elevated vitamin D levels. Since 2022, there have been no reported recalls, which is a positive trend. However, the brand’s recall history means some pet owners remain cautious about quality control.
Nutrish keeps costs down by using plant-based protein fillers like corn gluten meal and soybean meal, which are less expensive than animal proteins. They also don’t include costly functional ingredients like probiotics or therapeutic doses of joint supplements. The brand positions itself as an affordable step up from budget kibble rather than competing with ultra-premium options.
Nutrish is not ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. Many recipes contain chicken, corn gluten meal, and soybean meal, which are common allergens. While they offer a “Just 6” limited ingredient line, it’s not a true hypoallergenic option and doesn’t include hydrolyzed proteins for severely allergic dogs.
Nutrish’s grain-free formulas use peas, lentils, and potatoes as primary carbohydrates, which were linked to DCM concerns in the FDA investigation. While no definitive cause was proven, it’s something to consider. If you’re concerned about DCM, grain-inclusive formulas with rice, barley, and oats may be a safer choice.
Blue Buffalo and Wellness are premium brands with higher protein content (28-32% vs. Nutrish’s 23-26%), better-quality protein sources, and more functional ingredients like probiotics. They also have cleaner recall records and more transparent sourcing. However, they cost $2.00-$3.00 per pound compared to Nutrish’s $1.50-$2.00 range.
Nutrish is produced in U.S.-based facilities in Pennsylvania (Meadville and Bloomsburg) and Kansas (Lawrence). While the food is made domestically, the brand doesn’t provide detailed information about where individual ingredients are sourced from.
Nutrish offers senior-specific formulas with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, though exact amounts aren’t disclosed. For healthy senior dogs with no medical issues, it’s adequate. However, dogs with chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes need prescription diets that Nutrish doesn’t offer.
Nutrish updated several recipes in 2025, and some dogs have refused to eat after formula changes. This could be due to subtle shifts in flavor, texture, or ingredient proportions. If your dog suddenly stops eating a food they previously enjoyed, try transitioning to a different flavor or brand gradually.
Yes, mixing Nutrish wet and dry food is fine and can improve palatability and moisture content. Just remember that wet food is much lower in caloric density (around 1,000 kcal/kg vs. 3,400-3,500 kcal/kg for dry), so you’ll need to adjust portions carefully to avoid overfeeding. The wet food varieties like Chicken Paw Pie are particularly popular for this purpose.
If you’re currently feeding budget kibble like Purina Dog Chow or Pedigree, Nutrish is a worthwhile upgrade. It uses real meat as the first ingredient instead of corn or meat by-products, has higher protein and fat levels, and avoids artificial colors and flavors. For many dogs, this improvement in ingredient quality is worth the extra $0.30-$0.70 per pound.
Yes, the Rachael Ray Foundation donates a portion of Nutrish proceeds to animal rescue organizations and shelters. This has resulted in millions of dollars in support for animal welfare over the years, which is one of the brand’s genuine positive aspects beyond the food itself.
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