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
• Mid-range positioning works: Simply Nourish delivers real meat as first ingredient, no artificial additives, and AAFCO compliance at $1.50-$2.50 per pound—significantly cheaper than premium brands while avoiding budget-food compromises.
• Limited transparency as store brand: No published feeding trials, detailed sourcing information, or independent lab testing available; you’re trusting formula correctness without the verification level of independent premium brands.
• DCM concerns with grain-free formulas: Heavy reliance on peas and legumes in grain-free lines raises potential dilated cardiomyopathy risks, especially for predisposed breeds, without published taurine level data.
• Solid performance for typical dogs: Shelter testing showed improved coat quality, firmer stools, and consistent energy levels; most owners report good palatability and digestive health improvements within weeks.
• Clean safety record with responsive management: Only one voluntary recall in brand history (2022 vitamin D issue), handled transparently with no reported illnesses, contrasting favorably with problematic competitors like Sportmix.
Simply Nourish was launched in 2011 in Seattle as an exclusive PetSmart brand, developed in collaboration with American Nutrition (now Alphia), which manufactures the food in facilities across Washington, Utah, and Pennsylvania. The brand emerged during a wave of consumer demand for cleaner labels and transparency in pet food—owners wanted to know what was in the bowl, and they wanted options that didn’t require a second mortgage.
The core philosophy is straightforward: real food for real pets. That means named meat as the first ingredient, no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and formulas tailored to specific needs—puppies, seniors, weight management, sensitivities, and high-energy dogs. Simply Nourish positions itself between budget staples like Pedigree and premium boutique brands like Orijen, aiming to deliver solid nutrition without the boutique markup.
In terms of reputation, Simply Nourish sits comfortably in the middle. It’s not a brand veterinarians routinely recommend, nor is it a brand with a cult following. It’s a solid, dependable choice for owners shopping at PetSmart who want something better than the cheapest bag on the shelf but aren’t ready to commit to ultra-premium pricing. The brand has maintained consistent quality over the years, with only one notable recall in its history—a 2022 voluntary recall of frozen foods due to elevated vitamin D levels. That recall was handled transparently and didn’t signal systemic problems.
One thing to note: Simply Nourish is a store brand, which means transparency around sourcing and manufacturing is more limited than with independent brands. You won’t find detailed supplier profiles or farm-level traceability here. What you will find is SQF-certified facilities, AAFCO compliance, and formulas developed with input from veterinary nutritionists. It’s not cutting-edge, but it’s reliable.
Simply Nourish formulas consistently list real meat as the first ingredient—chicken, turkey, salmon, lamb, duck, or beef, depending on the line. This is a meaningful difference from budget foods that lead with grains or by-products. You’ll also see meat meals (chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal) high on the list, which are concentrated protein sources with moisture removed. Meat meals are not inherently bad; in fact, they often deliver more protein per pound than fresh meat because they’re not 70% water.
In the Limited Ingredient Diet line, you’ll find single-protein formulas like Salmon & Sweet Potato or Lamb & Pea, designed for dogs with food sensitivities. The Source line (high-protein, grain-free) leans heavily on salmon, pork, and chicken, with protein levels climbing to 32–35%. For dogs who need serious fuel—working dogs, highly active breeds, or dogs recovering from illness—this is where Simply Nourish gets competitive.
The Original line uses whole grains like brown rice, barley, and oatmeal. These are digestible, slow-burning carbs that provide steady energy and support gut health. You won’t find corn, wheat, or soy here, which is a plus for dogs with common grain sensitivities.
In the grain-free formulas, carbs come from sweet potatoes, peas, and legumes. These ingredients have been under scrutiny due to a potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), particularly in formulas heavy on peas and lentils. Simply Nourish doesn’t publish data on taurine levels or DCM cases, so if you’re concerned, stick with the grain-inclusive lines or consult your vet.
One recent change worth noting: the Chicken & Brown Rice formula removed canola oil and tomato pomace in 2024, replacing them with cleaner alternatives. Canola oil and tomato pomace are often criticized as cheap fillers or controversial ingredients, so this shift was a step in the right direction. The formula now includes pea fiber as a minor ingredient, which some purists don’t love, but it’s not a dealbreaker.
Fat content across Simply Nourish formulas ranges from 12% to 18%, depending on the line. The Original and Limited Ingredient formulas sit at the lower end, while the Source line pushes higher to support active dogs. Fat sources include chicken fat, fish oil, and flaxseed, which provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin, coat, and immune health.
Chicken fat is preserved with mixed tocopherols (vitamin E), a natural preservative. This is standard practice and generally well-tolerated, though a small number of dogs may be sensitive to tocopherols. Fish oil is a strong addition—it’s one of the best sources of EPA and DHA, which support brain function, joint health, and reduce inflammation.
Simply Nourish includes a standard vitamin and mineral premix to meet AAFCO standards. You’ll also find functional additives like glucosamine and chondroitin in the senior formulas, which support joint health, and prebiotics (chicory root) to promote healthy gut bacteria. These are useful additions, though dosages aren’t always disclosed in detail.
The brand avoids artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, relying instead on mixed tocopherols and vitamin E for shelf stability. This aligns with the “natural” positioning, though it’s worth noting that some consumers have raised questions about whether certain additives are truly natural or just marketed that way. A class-action lawsuit in the past alleged misleading “natural” claims due to synthetic vitamin sources, but this is common across the industry and doesn’t indicate a safety issue.
The biggest concern is in the grain-free formulas, which rely heavily on peas, pea protein, and legumes. These ingredients have been linked to potential DCM risk in some dogs, particularly when they dominate the ingredient list. Simply Nourish doesn’t publish taurine levels or independent research on DCM, so if your dog is on a grain-free formula, it’s worth discussing with your vet and considering taurine supplementation or switching to a grain-inclusive option.
Beyond that, the ingredient lists are clean. You won’t find by-products, unnamed meat sources, or artificial additives. The removal of canola oil and tomato pomace in recent formulas addressed two common complaints, and the addition of pea fiber is minor enough that it doesn’t raise red flags.
| Price per pound | $1.50 – $2.50 |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Turkey, Salmon, Lamb, Duck, Beef |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulated only, no feeding trials) |
| Formula options | 4 product lines (Original, Limited Ingredient Diet, Source, Healthy Weight) |
| Availability | PetSmart exclusive (stores + online) |
Simply Nourish formulas deliver solid macronutrient profiles for a mid-range brand. Here’s what you’re looking at across the main lines:
Original line: 24–26% protein, 13–15% fat, roughly 36–40% carbohydrates. This is appropriate for most adult dogs with moderate activity levels. Protein is above the AAFCO minimum (18% for adult maintenance), and fat provides enough energy without pushing into high-calorie territory.
Limited Ingredient Diet: 22–26% protein, 12–15% fat, 35–41% carbs. Slightly lower protein in some formulas, but still adequate. The focus here is on digestibility and simplicity, not maximum protein density.
Source (high-protein, grain-free): 32–35% protein, 16–18% fat, 27–30% carbs. This is where Simply Nourish gets competitive with premium brands. High protein supports muscle maintenance and energy in active dogs, and lower carbs mean more calories come from protein and fat, which many dogs metabolize more efficiently.
Healthy Weight: 22–24% protein, 10–12% fat, 41–43% carbs. Lower fat and higher fiber help dogs feel full while consuming fewer calories. This is a reasonable approach for weight management, though portion control and exercise are still the most important factors.
All Simply Nourish formulas meet AAFCO nutrient profiles, meaning they contain the minimum levels of vitamins and minerals required for dog health. You’ll find calcium, phosphorus, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and a full vitamin suite. The brand doesn’t publish detailed micronutrient breakdowns, so if your dog has specific deficiencies or health conditions, you’ll need to work with your vet to verify adequacy.
Senior formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin, which support joint health and mobility. Dosages aren’t always disclosed, but the inclusion is a positive sign. Prebiotics (chicory root) appear in several formulas to support gut health, and antioxidants (vitamins E and C) are added for immune support.
Caloric density varies by line, ranging from 3,000 to 3,900 kcal/kg. The Original and Healthy Weight lines sit at the lower end, while the Source line pushes higher to fuel active dogs. In practical terms, this means you’ll feed less of the high-protein formulas and more of the weight-management options to meet your dog’s daily calorie needs.
Feeding efficiency is decent. Owners report that their dogs stay satisfied on recommended portions, and stool volume is generally moderate to low, which suggests good digestibility. That said, Simply Nourish isn’t as calorie-dense as ultra-premium brands like Orijen, so if you have a very active or large dog, you may find yourself feeding larger portions than you would with a more concentrated formula.
Simply Nourish formulas are formulated to meet AAFCO standards, but there’s no public evidence that they’ve undergone AAFCO feeding trials. Formulation-only compliance is common and generally safe, but feeding trials provide an extra layer of validation by testing the food on live dogs over time. Without feeding trials, you’re relying on the formula being correct on paper, which doesn’t always catch issues like nutrient bioavailability or palatability.
For most dogs, this isn’t a dealbreaker. AAFCO formulation standards are rigorous, and Simply Nourish has a clean track record aside from one recall. But if you’re feeding a puppy, a pregnant dog, or a dog with health issues, a brand with feeding trials might offer more peace of mind.
Dogs with food sensitivities: The Limited Ingredient Diet line is purpose-built for dogs with allergies or intolerances. Single-protein formulas like Salmon & Sweet Potato or Lamb & Pea reduce the risk of triggering reactions, and the short ingredient lists make it easier to identify problem ingredients if issues arise.
Active and working dogs: The Source line delivers high protein and fat to fuel dogs who need serious energy. If your dog hikes, hunts, or competes, this is a solid option at a mid-range price.
Puppies and seniors: Simply Nourish offers life-stage formulas with adjusted calcium, phosphorus, and protein levels. The senior formulas include joint-supporting supplements, and the puppy formulas provide the extra calories and nutrients growing dogs need.
Budget-conscious owners who want quality: If you’re shopping at PetSmart and want something better than Pedigree or Purina but can’t afford Blue Buffalo or Wellness, Simply Nourish hits the sweet spot. You’re getting real meat, clean ingredients, and no artificial additives at a price that won’t break the bank.
Dogs with DCM risk or on grain-free diets without veterinary guidance: The grain-free formulas rely heavily on peas and legumes, which have been linked to potential DCM risk. If your dog is predisposed to heart issues (breeds like Golden Retrievers, Dobermans, or Cocker Spaniels), stick with grain-inclusive formulas or consult your vet.
Dogs needing prescription or therapeutic diets: Simply Nourish doesn’t offer veterinary-exclusive formulas. If your dog has kidney disease, liver issues, or other conditions requiring specialized nutrition, you’ll need a brand like Hill’s Prescription Diet or Royal Canin.
Owners seeking maximum transparency: As a store brand, Simply Nourish doesn’t publish detailed sourcing information, feeding trials, or independent lab testing. If you want to know exactly where every ingredient comes from, you’ll be better served by brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Orijen.
Very large or giant breeds on a tight budget: Feeding a 100-pound dog on Simply Nourish will cost you $2.80–$3.80 per day, which adds up quickly. Brands like Costco’s Kirkland Signature or Diamond Naturals offer similar quality at a lower price per pound for large-volume feeders.
Palatability is where Simply Nourish gets mixed reviews. The majority of dogs eat it willingly, but there’s a noticeable minority who refuse it or lose interest after a few weeks. Chicken and brown rice formulas tend to be the most popular, with salmon and lamb close behind. Beef formulas and some grain-free options see higher refusal rates.
The kibble itself is medium-sized and easy to chew, with small-breed options available for tiny mouths. The texture is standard dry kibble—nothing fancy, but nothing off-putting either. Some owners report that the food has a mild, pleasant smell, while others find it stronger than expected. Dogs with picky tendencies may need a gradual transition, mixing Simply Nourish with their current food over 7–10 days.
One recurring theme in reviews: dogs who were previously on ultra-premium brands sometimes turn their noses up at Simply Nourish, while dogs switching from budget brands often eat it enthusiastically. This suggests that the palatability is solid for a mid-range food, but it doesn’t have the addictive appeal of high-fat, high-flavor boutique formulas.
Wet food options (stews and pâtés) are available and can be mixed with dry food to boost palatability. Many owners use wet food as a topper for picky eaters, which works well. The wet formulas are more expensive per calorie, so they’re best used strategically rather than as a full diet unless you have a very small dog.
Simply Nourish sits in the $1.50–$2.50 per pound range for dry food, depending on the line and bag size. That’s 10–15% less than Blue Buffalo and Hill’s Science Diet, and 20–30% less than Royal Canin or Wellness. For the quality you’re getting—real meat first, no artificial additives, AAFCO compliance—it’s a fair deal.
Here’s what you’re looking at in daily feeding costs:
Small dog (10 lbs): $0.45–$0.60 per day
Medium dog (30 lbs): $1.15–$1.60 per day
Large dog (60 lbs): $1.85–$2.50 per day
Giant dog (100 lbs): $2.80–$3.80 per day
For small and medium dogs, this is very manageable. For large and giant breeds, it starts to add up, and you might find better value with brands like Kirkland Signature or Diamond Naturals, which offer similar ingredient quality at a lower price per pound.
The wet food options are pricier—$4.25–$6.00 per pound—and not cost-effective as a full diet unless you have a very small dog. But as a topper or occasional treat, they’re reasonable.
One thing Simply Nourish has going for it is accessibility. It’s sold at PetSmart, which means you can pick it up during your regular shopping trip without paying for shipping or waiting for delivery. That convenience has real value, especially if you run out of food unexpectedly. PetSmart also offers occasional discounts and loyalty rewards, which can bring the effective price down.
Compared to fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie, Simply Nourish is a bargain. Those brands deliver excellent nutrition and digestibility, but they’ll cost you $5–$10 per day for a medium dog. If you’re not ready for that investment, Simply Nourish is a solid middle ground.
Simply Nourish is manufactured by American Nutrition (now Alphia) in facilities located in Washington, Utah, and Pennsylvania. All production is done in the United States, and the facilities are FDA-registered and SQF-certified. SQF (Safe Quality Food) is a GFSI-recognized certification that covers food safety, quality, and handling procedures. It’s a meaningful credential, though it’s not as rigorous as ISO 22000 or HACCP certification.
The brand states that recipes are developed in consultation with veterinary nutritionists and that every batch undergoes nutritional, palatability, and safety testing. However, Simply Nourish doesn’t publish independent third-party lab results or detailed quality control protocols, so you’re taking their word for it. For a store brand, this level of transparency is about average.
Ingredient sourcing is described as “North American whenever possible,” but lot-level traceability isn’t available to consumers. You won’t be able to trace a specific bag back to a specific farm or supplier, which is a limitation if transparency is a top priority for you.
Simply Nourish has a relatively clean recall history. The only major recall in the past decade was in 2022, when frozen dog food products were voluntarily recalled due to elevated vitamin D levels. About 51,000 packages were affected, but no illnesses or deaths were reported. The recall was handled transparently, with clear communication and a straightforward return process. This suggests that the company takes quality control seriously and acts quickly when issues arise.
There have been no FDA warning letters, contamination incidents, or widespread complaints about safety. That’s a positive sign, especially compared to brands like Sportmix, which faced a major aflatoxin recall in 2020–2021 that resulted in multiple dog deaths. If you’re comparing Simply Nourish to Sportmix, the safety record clearly favors Simply Nourish.
Simply Nourish doesn’t publish a sustainability report, and there’s no evidence of third-party environmental certifications or carbon-neutral initiatives. Packaging is standard plastic bags, which are not widely recyclable. Wet food comes in steel or aluminum cans, which can be recycled in most areas.
The brand doesn’t make specific claims about animal welfare, regenerative agriculture, or sustainable sourcing. This doesn’t mean they’re doing anything wrong—it just means sustainability isn’t a core part of the brand identity. If environmental impact is a top priority for you, brands like Open Farm or The Honest Kitchen are more transparent and proactive in this area.
There’s no evidence of invasive animal testing, and the brand emphasizes that recipes are crafted with input from veterinary nutritionists. Palatability and digestibility trials are likely conducted, but details aren’t public.
I work at a local dog shelter, and we recently tested Simply Nourish Original Chicken & Brown Rice with one of our longer-term residents, a three-year-old mixed-breed named Rosie. Rosie came to us with a history of inconsistent feeding—she’d been on a rotation of whatever her previous owners could afford, which ranged from grocery-store kibble to occasional table scraps. She didn’t have any diagnosed health issues, but her coat was dull, her energy was inconsistent, and her stools were often loose.
We switched Rosie to Simply Nourish gradually over a week, mixing it with her previous food. The first thing I noticed was that she didn’t hesitate at all. Some dogs need time to adjust to a new smell or texture, but Rosie dove right in. By day three, she was finishing her bowl every time, which was a good sign.
Over the next few weeks, her coat started to look healthier—less dull, a bit shinier. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but it was noticeable. Her energy leveled out, too. She’d always been playful, but now she seemed more consistent—fewer mid-afternoon slumps, more enthusiasm during walks. Her stools firmed up within the first week, which made cleanup easier and suggested her digestion was improving.
Rosie didn’t experience any dramatic health turnaround, because she didn’t have major issues to begin with. But the food did exactly what it should: supported her baseline health and kept her feeling good day to day. She stayed at a healthy weight, her appetite was strong, and she seemed content. For a shelter dog transitioning between environments and routines, that stability mattered.
The only minor downside was that Rosie seemed to get bored after about three weeks. She still ate the food, but the initial enthusiasm faded a bit. We rotated in some wet food as a topper a few times a week, which brought the excitement back. That’s not unusual—many dogs appreciate variety, and Simply Nourish offers enough flavor options to keep things interesting.
Simply Nourish earns 4.5 to 5 stars on most platforms, with the majority of reviews skewing positive. On PetSmart’s site, the Original Chicken & Brown Rice formula scores 4.4 for quality, 4.3 for value, and 4.5 for pet satisfaction. Dog Food Advisor gives the Original line 5 stars and the grain-free line 4.5 to 5 stars, based on ingredient analysis and nutritional content.
The most common positive feedback centers on palatability, coat quality, and digestive health. Owners frequently mention that their dogs “love the taste,” that their coats became shinier and softer within a few weeks, and that stool quality improved—firmer, smaller volume, less gas. Dogs with food sensitivities often do well on the Limited Ingredient Diet line, with owners reporting fewer allergic reactions and better overall health.
Value is another recurring theme. Many reviewers appreciate that they’re getting quality ingredients at a mid-range price, especially compared to brands like Blue Buffalo or Wellness. For PetSmart shoppers, the convenience of picking it up in-store without paying for shipping is a real plus.
On the negative side, about 5–10% of reviews mention palatability issues—dogs who refuse the food or lose interest after a few weeks. Beef formulas and some grain-free options see higher refusal rates. A small percentage of owners report digestive problems, particularly with the grain-free formulas. Loose stools, gas, and occasional vomiting are the most common complaints, though these issues are relatively rare.
There’s also a pattern of complaints tied to formula changes. In 2024, Simply Nourish updated the Chicken & Brown Rice recipe to remove canola oil and tomato pomace, and some dogs reacted poorly to the new formula. Owners reported that their dogs suddenly refused the food or developed digestive issues. These complaints spiked immediately after the change but have since leveled off, suggesting that most dogs adapted.
Batch-specific quality concerns pop up occasionally—reports of rancid smells, mold in bags, or expired products. These are rare and seem to be isolated incidents rather than systemic problems, but they’re worth noting. Most of these complaints come from online purchases (Amazon, Walmart), where inventory turnover may be slower than in PetSmart stores.
Customer service gets mixed reviews. PetSmart generally handles returns and refunds smoothly, especially for in-store purchases. Online orders are less consistent, with some owners reporting slow responses or difficulty getting replacements for defective bags.
Simply Nourish occupies a specific niche: mid-range natural food with clean ingredients and decent nutrition at a price that won’t shock you. It’s positioned between budget brands like Pedigree and premium brands like Orijen or Acana.
Compared to Blue Buffalo, Simply Nourish is 10–15% cheaper per pound and offers similar ingredient quality. Both brands lead with real meat, avoid artificial additives, and offer life-stage and specialty formulas. Blue Buffalo has better brand recognition and more aggressive marketing, but Simply Nourish holds its own on ingredients and price.
Compared to Wellness, Simply Nourish is less expensive but also less nutritionally dense. Wellness formulas tend to have higher protein and fat levels and include more functional additives. If your dog is highly active or you want maximum nutritional bang for your buck, Wellness is the better choice. But if you’re feeding a moderate-energy dog and want to save $0.50–$1.00 per pound, Simply Nourish is a solid alternative.
Compared to Sportmix, Simply Nourish is a clear step up. Sportmix is a value brand with lower protein levels (27% vs. 31.8% for Simply Nourish), more grains and fillers, and a troubled recall history. Sportmix’s 2020–2021 aflatoxin recall resulted in multiple dog deaths and an FDA investigation, which severely damaged the brand’s reputation. Simply Nourish has a cleaner safety record, better ingredients, and more sophisticated formulas. If you’re comparing the two, Simply Nourish is worth the extra $0.50–$1.00 per pound.
Compared to fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Ollie, or Nom Nom, Simply Nourish is a fraction of the cost but doesn’t deliver the same level of digestibility or ingredient quality. Fresh food brands use human-grade ingredients, gently cooked to preserve nutrients, and often result in noticeable improvements in energy, coat, and stool quality. But they’ll cost you $5–$10 per day for a medium dog, compared to $1.15–$1.60 for Simply Nourish. If budget is a concern, Simply Nourish is a practical compromise.
In 2024, Simply Nourish updated the Chicken & Brown Rice formula to remove canola oil and tomato pomace, both of which are often criticized by ingredient-conscious owners. Canola oil is seen as a cheap, highly processed fat source, and tomato pomace is essentially a by-product of tomato processing—nutritionally benign but not appealing on a label. The updated formula now includes pea fiber, which is a minor filler but not a major concern.
This change was likely driven by consumer feedback and ingredient trends. It’s a positive move, but it wasn’t communicated proactively—most owners only noticed when they compared the old and new bags. Some dogs reacted poorly to the new formula, with complaints spiking immediately after the change. This suggests that even minor ingredient swaps can affect palatability and digestion for some dogs.
The 2022 recall of frozen foods due to elevated vitamin D was the only major safety event in the brand’s history. The recall was handled well—transparent communication, clear instructions, no reported illnesses—and it didn’t indicate systemic problems. But it’s a reminder that even well-managed brands can have quality control lapses.
Simply Nourish works well for adult dogs with moderate activity levels who don’t have extreme nutritional needs. If your dog is healthy, maintains a good weight, and doesn’t have food sensitivities, the Original line is a safe, affordable choice. It’s also a good fit for puppies and seniors, thanks to life-stage formulas with adjusted calcium, phosphorus, and protein levels.
The Limited Ingredient Diet line is purpose-built for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. If your dog struggles with itching, ear infections, or digestive issues that you suspect are food-related, this is a solid starting point. Single-protein formulas make it easier to identify triggers, and the short ingredient lists reduce the risk of reactions.
The Source line (high-protein, grain-free) is ideal for active and working dogs who need serious fuel. If your dog hikes, hunts, competes, or just has boundless energy, the 32–35% protein and 16–18% fat will keep them going. Just be aware of the DCM concerns around grain-free diets, especially if your dog is a breed predisposed to heart issues.
For overweight or low-energy dogs, the Healthy Weight line offers lower fat and higher fiber to support gradual weight loss. It’s not a magic bullet—portion control and exercise are still essential—but it’s a reasonable tool for managing weight.
Simply Nourish is not suitable for dogs with serious health conditions that require prescription diets. If your dog has kidney disease, liver issues, or other medical needs, you’ll need a brand like Hill’s Prescription Diet or Royal Canin Veterinary. It’s also not ideal for owners who prioritize maximum transparency or want detailed sourcing information—Simply Nourish is a store brand, and that comes with limited visibility into the supply chain.
Simply Nourish is a solid, dependable mid-range dog food that delivers on its promise of real meat, clean ingredients, and no artificial additives. It’s not the most exciting brand on the market, and it’s not going to blow you away with cutting-edge nutrition or transparency. But for most dogs, it does exactly what it should: supports baseline health, keeps them satisfied, and doesn’t break the bank.
I think it’s a good choice if you’re shopping at PetSmart and want something better than budget brands without paying premium prices. The ingredient lists are respectable, the macronutrient profiles are appropriate for most dogs, and the safety record is clean. The Limited Ingredient Diet and Source lines are particularly strong, offering real value for dogs with specific needs.
That said, I wouldn’t call it a top-tier food. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, brands like Wellness or Orijen offer higher protein, more functional additives, and better transparency. And if you’re willing to invest in fresh food, brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Nom Nom will give you noticeable improvements in digestion, energy, and coat quality.
The biggest weakness is the lack of transparency. As a store brand, Simply Nourish doesn’t publish detailed sourcing information, feeding trials, or independent lab testing. You’re trusting that the formula is correct and that the manufacturing process is sound, but you don’t have the same level of verification you’d get from a brand like Orijen or Open Farm.
Would I feed this to my own dog? If I were shopping at PetSmart and wanted a mid-range food, yes. It’s a reasonable choice for a healthy adult dog with no special needs. But if my dog had food sensitivities, I’d want to see more detailed ingredient sourcing. And if I had a highly active dog, I’d probably opt for a higher-protein formula from Wellness or Acana.
For most dog owners, Simply Nourish is a practical, middle-of-the-road option. It’s not perfect, but it’s good enough—and sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.
Simply Nourish is a solid mid-range dog food that delivers real meat as the first ingredient, avoids artificial additives, and meets AAFCO standards at a reasonable price. It’s not a premium brand, but it’s a dependable choice for most healthy dogs with moderate activity levels. The brand has a clean safety record and offers specialized lines for different needs like food sensitivities and high-energy dogs.
Simply Nourish is manufactured by American Nutrition (now Alphia) in FDA-registered facilities across Washington, Utah, and Pennsylvania. It’s a PetSmart private label brand that launched in 2011, developed in collaboration with veterinary nutritionists and produced in SQF-certified facilities.
Yes, Simply Nourish had one voluntary recall in 2022 involving frozen dog food products due to elevated vitamin D levels. About 51,000 packages were affected, but no illnesses or deaths were reported. The recall was handled transparently with clear communication. This is the only major recall in the brand’s history, indicating a relatively clean safety record.
The Original line contains whole grains like brown rice and barley with 24-26% protein and 13-15% fat, suitable for most adult dogs. The Source line is grain-free and high-protein with 32-35% protein and 16-18% fat, designed for active and working dogs. The Source line costs more but provides higher energy density for dogs with greater nutritional needs.
Simply Nourish grain-free formulas rely heavily on peas and legumes, which have been linked to potential DCM risk in some dogs. The brand doesn’t publish taurine levels or independent DCM research. If your dog is predisposed to heart issues or you’re concerned about DCM, consider sticking with the grain-inclusive Original line or consulting your veterinarian about taurine supplementation.
Daily feeding costs range from $0.45-$0.60 for a 10-pound dog to $2.80-$3.80 for a 100-pound dog, depending on the formula. This makes it about 10-15% less expensive than Blue Buffalo and 20-30% less than premium brands like Royal Canin, while still offering real meat and clean ingredients.
Most dogs eat Simply Nourish willingly, but there’s a noticeable minority who refuse it or lose interest after a few weeks. Chicken and brown rice formulas tend to be most popular, while beef and some grain-free options see higher refusal rates. Dogs previously on ultra-premium brands may be more likely to turn their noses up compared to dogs switching from budget foods.
The Limited Ingredient Diet line is specifically designed for dogs with food sensitivities. It offers single-protein formulas like Salmon & Sweet Potato or Lamb & Pea with short ingredient lists to reduce reaction risks. Many owners report fewer allergic reactions and better overall health when switching sensitive dogs to these formulas.
Simply Nourish formulas are formulated to meet AAFCO standards but there’s no public evidence of AAFCO feeding trials. While formulation-only compliance is common and generally safe, feeding trials provide extra validation by testing food on live dogs over time. For most healthy adult dogs this isn’t a dealbreaker, but owners of puppies or dogs with health issues might prefer brands with feeding trials.
Simply Nourish is exclusively sold at PetSmart stores and online through PetSmart’s website. This is both a convenience (no shipping costs for in-store pickup) and a limitation (not available at other retailers). PetSmart occasionally offers discounts and loyalty rewards that can reduce the effective price.
Simply Nourish is 10-15% cheaper than Blue Buffalo with similar ingredient quality – both lead with real meat and avoid artificial additives. Blue Buffalo has better brand recognition and marketing, but Simply Nourish offers comparable nutrition at a lower price point. The main trade-off is transparency, as Blue Buffalo provides more detailed sourcing information than this PetSmart store brand.
Yes, in 2024 Simply Nourish removed canola oil and tomato pomace from the Chicken & Brown Rice formula, replacing them with cleaner alternatives including pea fiber. While this was generally seen as an improvement, some dogs reacted poorly to the formula change with digestive issues or refusal to eat. Most dogs have since adapted to the new recipe.
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