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
• Protein-forward nutrition at mid-range pricing – delivers 22-30% protein from named meat meals like chicken, lamb, and salmon at $1.75-$2.80 per pound, competing effectively with premium brands.
• Sensitive line stands out for digestive issues – excludes peas, lentils, and legumes while using ancient grains, showing notable improvements in dogs with skin problems and stomach sensitivities.
• Brand recovery from 2021 recalls – Midwestern Pet Foods reformulated recipes and improved safety protocols after aflatoxin/salmonella contamination, with no incidents since but lingering consumer caution.
• Strong palatability and real-world performance – 67% of owners report dogs “love” the food, with shelter testing showing reduced itching, clearer ears, and shinier coats within 2-3 weeks.
• Limited specialization but solid fundamentals – lacks exotic proteins and veterinary diets but delivers reliable, meat-first nutrition for healthy, active dogs without premium pricing complexity.
Ultimates is manufactured by Midwestern Pet Foods, a family-owned business that started as a small milling operation in 1926. Now in its fourth generation, the company has grown into a multi-brand pet food producer with facilities across the Midwest, including a major plant in Evansville, Indiana. The brand relaunched and rebranded in 2022–2023 following recalls in 2021 tied to aflatoxin and salmonella contamination under the Pro Pac Ultimates name. Since then, Midwestern has emphasized quality control, reformulated recipes, and expanded distribution—Ultimates entered 650 Pet Supplies Plus stores nationwide in 2025 alone.
The core philosophy centers on high-quality animal proteins, no fillers, and accessible pricing. Every formula lists a named meat or fish meal as the first ingredient, avoids corn, wheat, and soy, and includes antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. The sensitive line goes further by cutting out peas, lentils, and legumes, which some dogs struggle to digest. Ultimates aims to occupy the space between budget grocery brands and ultra-premium boutique foods—offering solid nutrition and transparency without the $4-per-pound price tag.
That said, the brand’s reputation is still recovering from its recall history. While no incidents have occurred since the 2021 events, and the company has implemented stricter safety protocols, some dog owners remain cautious. Transparency has improved—ingredient sourcing is clearly communicated, and AAFCO compliance is front and center—but detailed third-party testing reports or veterinary endorsements are harder to find. Overall, Ultimates presents itself as a reliable, no-nonsense option for owners who prioritize protein content and ingredient simplicity over marketing flair.
Ultimates relies on named meat and fish meals—chicken meal, lamb meal, whitefish meal, and salmon meal—as the foundation of every recipe. Meals are concentrated protein sources created by rendering fresh meat to remove water and fat, leaving behind a dense powder that’s roughly 65–70% protein by weight. This approach delivers more protein per pound than fresh meat, which is typically 70–80% water. Critics argue that meals lack the appeal and digestibility of whole meat, but for dry kibble, they’re a practical and cost-effective way to hit high protein targets.
The brand does not use generic terms like “poultry meal” or “meat by-products,” which is a positive. Each protein source is clearly identified, and recipes stick to one or two primary proteins, making them easier to work with if your dog has sensitivities. The sensitive line, for example, uses lamb meal or salmon meal as the sole animal protein, which simplifies elimination diets.
The whole grain formulas feature brown rice as the main carbohydrate, paired with peas and sweet potatoes. Brown rice is a digestible, moderate-glycemic grain that’s well-tolerated by most dogs and provides steady energy without spiking blood sugar. The sensitive recipes swap in ancient grains—such as millet, quinoa, and sorghum—which are nutrient-dense and less likely to trigger sensitivities than wheat or corn.
Grain-free options replace grains with potatoes, peas, and sweet potatoes, which are common in grain-free kibbles but have drawn scrutiny due to potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. The FDA has not established a definitive causal relationship, and Ultimates adds taurine to its grain-free recipes as a precaution, but if your dog doesn’t have a confirmed grain allergy, the whole grain or sensitive lines are generally safer bets.
Chicken fat and flaxseed provide the primary fat sources, delivering omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin, coat, and immune health. Chicken fat is highly palatable and digestible, while flaxseed contributes plant-based omega-3s. The puppy formula includes DHA from fish oil to support brain and eye development, which is a thoughtful addition for growing dogs.
Fat percentages range from 12–20% depending on the formula, landing in the moderate range. This works well for most adult dogs, though highly active or working dogs might benefit from higher-fat options.
Ultimates includes a superfood blend in every recipe: apples, blueberries, carrots, cranberries, and spinach. These ingredients provide antioxidants, fiber, and micronutrients, though the amounts are likely modest—they appear toward the middle or end of the ingredient list. Still, their presence signals attention to overall nutrition rather than just hitting minimum protein and fat targets.
Large breed formulas add glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, which is helpful for breeds prone to hip dysplasia or arthritis. However, the brand doesn’t disclose exact dosages, so it’s unclear whether the levels are therapeutic or symbolic. If your dog has significant joint issues, a dedicated joint supplement is probably still necessary.
Ultimates avoids most red-flag ingredients—no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or flavors. Preservatives are limited to mixed tocopherols (vitamin E) and rosemary extract, both natural and widely accepted. Beet pulp appears in some recipes as a fiber source, which is a topic of debate: it’s digestible and helps with stool consistency, but some owners prefer to avoid it due to its association with sugar processing.
The grain-free line’s reliance on peas and potatoes is the main concern. While these ingredients are fine in moderation, diets heavily dependent on legumes and tubers have been flagged by the FDA in ongoing DCM investigations. Ultimates mitigates this risk by adding taurine, but the science is still evolving, and grain-inclusive formulas are generally considered safer unless your dog has a specific grain intolerance.
| Price per pound | $1.50 – $2.80 |
| Primary protein | Chicken meal, Lamb meal, Whitefish meal, Salmon meal |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulated to meet nutrient profiles) |
| Formula options | 3 lines: Whole grain, Grain-free, Sensitive |
| Availability | Pet Supplies Plus stores + online |
Ultimates delivers above-average protein levels across the board. Puppy formulas hit 30% crude protein, adult recipes range from 22–26%, and grain-free options sit at 24–30%. These numbers exceed AAFCO minimums (22.5% for adult maintenance, 22% for growth) and compare favorably to many mid-range competitors. Higher protein supports muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall vitality, especially for active dogs.
On a dry matter basis—removing the 10% moisture content from the guaranteed analysis—protein percentages climb even higher, typically landing in the 33–35% range. This is solid for a kibble at this price point and reflects the brand’s emphasis on meat meals as the foundation of each recipe.
Fat content ranges from 12–20%, with most adult formulas hovering around 14–16%. This is moderate and appropriate for dogs with average activity levels. Caloric density sits at roughly 3,600–4,000 kcal/kg, depending on the formula. That’s middle-of-the-road—not as energy-dense as performance or working dog foods, but more concentrated than many grocery-store brands.
If your dog is a couch potato or prone to weight gain, you’ll want to measure portions carefully. On the flip side, highly active dogs might need larger servings or a higher-calorie formula to maintain weight.
Estimated carbohydrate content—calculated by subtracting protein, fat, moisture, and ash from 100%—falls around 33–37%. This is typical for kibble and reflects the inclusion of rice, ancient grains, or potatoes as energy sources. Fiber sits at 4–5%, which is enough to support healthy digestion without causing excessive bulk or gas.
The sensitive line’s use of ancient grains is worth noting. Millet, quinoa, and sorghum are nutrient-dense and easier on sensitive stomachs than heavily processed grains, and many owners report firmer stools and less gas after switching to these recipes.
Ultimates meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, meaning the recipes provide adequate vitamins and minerals for growth, maintenance, and reproduction. Chelated minerals—bound to amino acids for better absorption—appear in the ingredient lists, which is a quality touch. The puppy formula includes DHA for brain development, and large breed recipes add glucosamine and chondroitin, though exact amounts aren’t disclosed.
Omega-6 to omega-3 ratios are balanced, supporting skin, coat, and inflammatory response. Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables contribute vitamins A, C, and E, though the quantities are likely modest given their placement in the ingredient list.
All Ultimates recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards, and the brand states compliance on every bag. However, there’s no public evidence of AAFCO feeding trials—most formulas appear to be formulated to meet nutrient profiles through lab analysis rather than tested on dogs over time. Feeding trials provide higher confidence in real-world performance, so the lack of trial data is a minor transparency gap.
Ultimates works well for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin issues, especially if you choose the sensitive line. The exclusion of peas, lentils, and legumes, combined with ancient grains and single-protein recipes, makes these formulas easier to digest and less likely to trigger reactions. Owners of dogs prone to itching, ear infections, or loose stools often report improvements within a few weeks of switching.
The brand is also a solid choice for puppies and large breed dogs. The puppy formula’s 30% protein and added DHA support healthy growth and brain development, while the large breed recipes include joint-supporting ingredients that can help reduce the risk of hip dysplasia or arthritis down the line. If your dog is an active adult—think working breeds, agility dogs, or outdoor adventurers—the higher protein content provides the fuel they need without requiring massive portion sizes.
Budget-conscious owners who still want quality ingredients will appreciate Ultimates. At $1.50–$2.80 per pound, it sits comfortably between grocery-store brands and premium boutique options, offering meat-first nutrition without the $4-per-pound sticker shock of some competitors. If you’re not interested in exotic proteins or elaborate marketing claims and just want a straightforward, protein-rich kibble, Ultimates delivers.
If your dog requires a grain-free diet, approach with caution. The grain-free line includes taurine, but the heavy reliance on peas and potatoes means it falls into the category of foods flagged in the FDA’s DCM investigation. Unless your veterinarian has confirmed a grain allergy or intolerance, the whole grain or sensitive recipes are safer and more balanced choices.
Ultimates doesn’t offer breed-specific formulas or highly specialized diets for conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or severe food allergies requiring hydrolyzed proteins. If your dog has a complex medical condition, a veterinary prescription diet is a better fit. Similarly, if you’re looking for exotic proteins—kangaroo, venison, bison—or single-ingredient wet food, Ultimates doesn’t provide those options. The brand focuses on chicken, lamb, salmon, and whitefish, which covers most dogs but leaves limited choices for those with multiple protein sensitivities.
Dogs with very low activity levels or a tendency to gain weight might struggle with Ultimates’ moderate caloric density. The formulas aren’t particularly low-fat or low-calorie, so portion control is essential if your dog spends most of their time napping.
Palatability is one of Ultimates’ strengths. In user reviews, roughly 67% of owners report their dogs “love” the food, with particularly strong acceptance for the chicken-based recipes. The combination of chicken meal, chicken fat, and the superfood blend creates a flavor profile that most dogs find appealing, and the kibble size is manageable for small to medium breeds.
The sensitive line—especially the salmon and lamb recipes—also scores well, with many owners noting that picky eaters who rejected other brands took to Ultimates without hesitation. The absence of peas and legumes may contribute to better taste acceptance, as some dogs find those ingredients less palatable or harder to digest.
That said, about 9% of reviews mention dogs refusing to eat the food or losing interest after an initial transition period. This is common across all brands and often reflects individual preference rather than a quality issue. A few owners report a strong odor that they find off-putting, though most describe the smell as typical for meat-meal-based kibble—earthy and protein-forward rather than rancid.
If your dog is particularly finicky, starting with a small bag or mixing Ultimates with their current food during a gradual transition can help gauge acceptance before committing to a larger purchase. The 4-pound trial sizes are a smart way to test the waters.
Ultimates occupies a sweet spot in the market: it’s more affordable than premium brands like Blue Buffalo, Orijen, or Taste of the Wild, but it delivers higher protein content and better ingredient transparency than many grocery-store options. At roughly $1.75 per pound for the whole grain line in 28-pound bags, it’s competitive on cost without sacrificing nutritional quality.
The sensitive recipes are slightly pricier at around $2.14 per pound, and the grain-free options top out at $2.39 per pound. These prices are still reasonable compared to boutique grain-free brands, which often exceed $3 per pound. If you factor in the higher protein content and the inclusion of functional ingredients like DHA and glucosamine, the value proposition becomes even stronger.
For a 50-pound dog eating roughly 3 cups per day, a 28-pound bag of the whole grain formula lasts about 3–4 weeks and costs around $38–$40. That works out to about $1.25–$1.50 per day, which is manageable for most households. By comparison, Blue Buffalo’s grain-inclusive formulas often run $2–$2.50 per day for the same dog, and premium fresh food services can exceed $5–$8 per day.
The main trade-off is that Ultimates doesn’t offer the ingredient variety or specialized formulas you’ll find in higher-priced brands. If you want exotic proteins, breed-specific recipes, or veterinary-backed therapeutic diets, you’ll need to spend more. But if your goal is solid, meat-first nutrition at a fair price, Ultimates delivers.
Ultimates is manufactured in company-owned facilities operated by Midwestern Pet Foods, primarily in Evansville, Indiana. The company controls the entire production process, from ingredient sourcing to final packaging, which provides more oversight than brands that outsource manufacturing to third-party co-packers.
However, transparency around specific quality control measures is limited. The brand states compliance with AAFCO standards and U.S. federal regulations, but detailed information about third-party audits, HACCP certification, or batch testing protocols isn’t publicly available. This is a common gap across many mid-range brands, but it’s worth noting if you prioritize transparency.
The 2021 recalls remain a shadow over the brand’s safety record. Those incidents involved aflatoxin contamination in grain-based foods and salmonella in certain formulas, leading to voluntary recalls and, tragically, reports of canine illnesses and deaths. Midwestern Pet Foods responded by discontinuing the affected lines, reformulating recipes, and implementing stricter safety protocols. Since then, there have been no further recalls, and the brand has worked to rebuild trust through improved transparency and expanded distribution.
Still, the history means some owners remain cautious. If you’re considering Ultimates, it’s worth monitoring your dog closely during the transition period and staying alert for any signs of digestive upset or unusual behavior. Buying from retailers with strong return policies—like Chewy or Amazon—can also provide peace of mind.
Midwestern Pet Foods emphasizes domestic sourcing for most ingredients, which reduces the environmental impact of long-distance shipping and supports U.S. suppliers. The brand states that proteins are sourced from American farms, though specific details about farming practices or animal welfare standards aren’t disclosed.
Packaging is a mixed bag. Ultimates uses plastic bags for its kibble, which are not widely recyclable through curbside programs. The brand has not announced plans for compostable or fully recyclable packaging, which is a missed opportunity given the growing consumer demand for sustainable options. Some sister brands under Midwestern Pet Foods—like Earthborn Holistics—participate in recycling initiatives, but there’s no indication that Ultimates has adopted similar programs.
The brand does not publish corporate social responsibility reports or detailed sustainability goals, so it’s difficult to assess its broader environmental and ethical impact. If eco-friendly practices are a top priority for you, brands like Open Farm or The Farmer’s Dog offer more transparency in this area.
I work at a local dog shelter, and we recently tested Ultimates Sensitive Salmon Protein with one of our residents, a four-year-old mixed-breed named Benny. Benny came to us with a history of chronic ear infections and itchy skin, likely tied to food sensitivities, and he’d been on a rotation of different kibbles without much improvement. His previous food was a mid-range grain-free formula, but his ears stayed inflamed and he scratched constantly, especially around his neck and paws.
We switched Benny to the Sensitive Salmon recipe over the course of a week, mixing it gradually with his old food to avoid digestive upset. The transition went smoothly—no vomiting or diarrhea—and within a few days, he was eating the Ultimates kibble straight without hesitation. The first thing I noticed was his enthusiasm at mealtimes. Benny had been a reluctant eater before, often leaving food in his bowl, but he cleaned his dish every time with the salmon formula.
After about two weeks, the scratching started to decrease. His ears, which had been red and waxy, began to clear up, and he stopped pawing at them constantly. By the end of the third week, his coat looked noticeably shinier, and the dry, flaky patches on his neck had mostly disappeared. His stools were consistently firm and smaller in volume, which is a good sign of digestibility and nutrient absorption.
Benny’s energy level stayed about the same—he’s always been a moderately active dog who enjoys a good play session but isn’t hyperactive—but he seemed more comfortable overall. Less itching meant better sleep, and he stopped waking up at night to scratch. The staff all commented on how much calmer he seemed, which I attribute to simply feeling better in his own skin.
Not everything was perfect. The kibble has a strong fishy smell that some of the volunteers found off-putting, and Benny’s breath definitely reflected the salmon content. We also noticed that he drank a bit more water than usual, which is common with dry food but worth mentioning. Still, the improvements in his skin and ears were significant enough that we decided to keep him on Ultimates as his regular food while he waits for adoption.
User reviews for Ultimates are generally positive, with average ratings between 4.3 and 4.5 stars across major platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and DogFoodAdvisor. The most common praise centers on palatability, digestive health, and value for money. Many owners report that their dogs transitioned easily to Ultimates and showed improvements in coat quality, stool consistency, and energy levels within a few weeks.
The sensitive line, in particular, draws enthusiastic feedback from owners of dogs with allergies or digestive issues. One Chewy reviewer wrote, “My pup Millie LOVES Ultimates Sensitive Salmon. I’ve noticed that her coat is more soft and shiny than it has ever been since we’ve made the switch to this recipe. Highly recommend for dogs that have a sensitive tummy or skin issues!” Another shared, “Ever since I switched to Ultimates, my dog Sadie has stopped chewing her feet and rubbing her face. My vet had me trying different foods that were grain-free. Nothing worked until I switched to Ultimates.”
On the flip side, roughly 9% of reviews mention palatability issues, with some dogs refusing to eat the food or losing interest after an initial period. A few owners report digestive upset—diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive gas—though these complaints are relatively rare and often occur during the transition phase rather than after the dog has fully adjusted.
There are also occasional reports of batch inconsistencies. Some users mention receiving bags with a rancid smell or finding mold, though these incidents appear to be isolated and are typically resolved by the retailer. Chewy and Amazon both offer prompt replacements or refunds, which helps mitigate the frustration.
Price complaints come up in about 7% of reviews, with some owners feeling the cost is higher than expected for a brand that uses meat meals rather than fresh meat. However, most acknowledge that Ultimates is still more affordable than premium competitors like Blue Buffalo or Orijen, and the majority of users feel they’re getting good value for the quality.
Ultimates competes most directly with brands like Blue Buffalo, Purina Pro Plan, and Diamond Naturals—mid-to-premium options that emphasize meat-first nutrition without the ultra-premium price tag of boutique brands. If you’re deciding between Ultimates and Blue Buffalo, the choice often comes down to priorities: Blue Buffalo offers more recipe variety and brand recognition, but Ultimates typically delivers higher protein content at a lower price per pound. Curious how the two stack up in more detail? Check out our Blue Buffalo dog food review for a side-by-side comparison.
Compared to Purina Pro Plan, Ultimates has the edge in ingredient transparency—Pro Plan uses poultry by-product meal in some recipes, which is less appealing to owners who prefer named protein sources. However, Pro Plan offers a broader range of specialized formulas, including veterinary-backed therapeutic diets, which Ultimates doesn’t provide. If your dog needs a weight management, digestive health, or joint support formula with clinical backing, Pro Plan might be the better choice.
Diamond Naturals is another close competitor, with similar pricing and ingredient quality. Both brands use meat meals as primary proteins and avoid corn, wheat, and soy. Diamond Naturals edges ahead slightly in terms of variety—it offers more flavor options and specialized formulas—but Ultimates’ sensitive line is more thoughtfully designed, with its exclusion of peas, lentils, and legumes setting it apart for dogs with digestive sensitivities.
At the premium end, brands like Orijen and Acana offer higher meat inclusion rates and more exotic proteins, but they also cost significantly more—often $3–$4 per pound compared to Ultimates’ $1.75–$2.80. If budget is a concern and your dog doesn’t require specialized proteins, Ultimates provides a solid middle ground.
Fresh food services like The Farmer’s Dog and Ollie represent a different category entirely. They offer human-grade, gently cooked meals with visible, whole ingredients, but the cost is substantially higher—often $5–$8 per day for a medium-sized dog. If you’re willing to invest in fresh food and have the freezer space, those brands deliver noticeable improvements in digestibility and ingredient quality. But if you prefer the convenience and affordability of kibble, Ultimates is a strong contender in its price bracket.
Ultimates is best suited for adult dogs with normal to high activity levels who benefit from elevated protein content. The 22–30% protein range supports muscle maintenance and provides sustained energy for dogs who enjoy regular walks, playtime, or outdoor adventures. If your dog is a working breed, participates in agility training, or simply has an active lifestyle, the whole grain or grain-free formulas will meet their nutritional needs without requiring excessive portion sizes.
The puppy formula is a solid choice for growing dogs, with 30% protein and added DHA to support brain and eye development. The kibble size is manageable for smaller mouths, and the nutrient profile aligns well with AAFCO standards for growth. Large breed puppies can benefit from the joint-supporting ingredients in the large breed adult formula, though it’s worth noting that the brand doesn’t offer a dedicated large breed puppy recipe, which some competitors provide.
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, skin issues, or suspected food sensitivities, the Sensitive line is the standout option. The exclusion of peas, lentils, and legumes, combined with ancient grains and single-protein recipes, makes it easier to identify and avoid trigger ingredients. Owners of dogs prone to itching, ear infections, or loose stools often see meaningful improvements within a few weeks of switching to the salmon or lamb formulas.
Senior dogs with joint concerns can benefit from the large breed formula’s added glucosamine and chondroitin, though the dosages aren’t disclosed, so a dedicated joint supplement may still be necessary for dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia. The moderate fat content (14–16%) is appropriate for less active seniors, though dogs with very low activity levels may need careful portion control to avoid weight gain.
Ultimates is not ideal for dogs with complex medical conditions requiring prescription diets—such as kidney disease, severe allergies, or diabetes—or for those needing exotic proteins due to multiple sensitivities. The brand’s focus is on straightforward, meat-first nutrition for generally healthy dogs, not specialized therapeutic formulas.
Ultimates is a solid, middle-of-the-road option that delivers on its core promises: high protein content, named meat meals, and no fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. If you’re looking for a kibble that emphasizes meat-first nutrition without the premium price tag of boutique brands, it’s a smart choice. The sensitive line, in particular, stands out for dogs with digestive or skin issues, and the whole grain formulas offer a balanced, affordable option for everyday feeding.
That said, Ultimates isn’t groundbreaking. The reliance on meat meals rather than fresh meat, the limited recipe variety, and the lack of transparency around quality control and ingredient sourcing keep it from competing with top-tier brands. The 2021 recall history is also a consideration—while the brand has taken steps to improve safety and no further incidents have occurred, some owners remain cautious, and that’s understandable.
Would I buy this for my dog? If I had a dog with a sensitive stomach or skin issues, I’d absolutely give the Sensitive Salmon or Lamb recipe a try. The ingredient list is clean, the protein content is strong, and the price is reasonable. For a healthy, active adult dog without special dietary needs, the whole grain line offers good value and solid nutrition. I’d be comfortable recommending Ultimates to friends who want a reliable, protein-forward kibble without spending $4 per pound.
However, if your dog requires a grain-free diet, I’d proceed with caution due to the DCM concerns surrounding peas and potatoes. And if you’re the type of owner who wants maximum transparency, third-party testing, or exotic proteins, you’ll probably find better options elsewhere. Ultimates is a dependable workhorse, not a show pony—it does what it’s designed to do without a lot of fanfare, and for many dogs and owners, that’s exactly enough.
Since the 2021 recalls related to aflatoxin and salmonella contamination, Ultimates has implemented stricter safety protocols and reformulated their recipes. There have been no further recalls since then, and the brand has worked to rebuild trust through improved transparency. However, some pet owners remain cautious due to this history. If you decide to try Ultimates, monitor your dog closely during the transition period and buy from retailers with strong return policies for peace of mind.
The grain-inclusive formulas use brown rice as the main carbohydrate source, while the grain-free options rely on potatoes, peas, and sweet potatoes. The grain-free recipes have been flagged in FDA investigations regarding potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, though Ultimates adds taurine as a precaution. Unless your dog has a confirmed grain allergy, the grain-inclusive or sensitive formulas are generally considered safer choices.
Ultimates typically offers higher protein content at a lower price than Blue Buffalo. While Blue Buffalo provides more recipe variety and stronger brand recognition, Ultimates delivers solid meat-first nutrition at roughly $1.75-$2.80 per pound compared to Blue Buffalo’s higher pricing. Both brands avoid corn, wheat, and soy, but Ultimates focuses on straightforward nutrition without the marketing flair.
The Sensitive line is specifically designed for dogs with digestive issues. These recipes exclude peas, lentils, and legumes while using ancient grains like millet, quinoa, and sorghum. They also feature single-protein sources (salmon or lamb) to make elimination diets easier. Many owners report improvements in stool consistency, reduced gas, and better overall comfort within a few weeks of switching.
Yes, Ultimates offers a puppy formula with 30% protein and added DHA for brain and eye development. The large breed formula includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, though exact dosages aren’t disclosed. However, the brand doesn’t offer a dedicated large breed puppy recipe, which some competitors provide. The formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages.
Meat meals are concentrated protein sources created by removing water and fat from fresh meat, resulting in roughly 65-70% protein by weight. This approach delivers more protein per pound than fresh meat (which is 70-80% water) and is more practical for dry kibble production. While some prefer fresh meat, meals are a cost-effective way to achieve high protein targets and are widely used in quality pet foods.
For a 50-pound dog eating roughly 3 cups per day, Ultimates costs approximately $1.25-$1.50 per day for the whole grain formula. The sensitive recipes are slightly higher at around $1.75 per day. This is significantly less expensive than premium fresh food services ($5-8 per day) and competitive with other mid-range kibbles while offering higher protein content.
No, Ultimates focuses on straightforward, meat-first nutrition for generally healthy dogs. The brand doesn’t offer therapeutic diets for conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or severe food allergies requiring hydrolyzed proteins. If your dog has complex medical needs, a veterinary prescription diet would be more appropriate. Ultimates is best suited for healthy dogs with normal to high activity levels.
Ultimates avoids most controversial ingredients—no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, or flavors. The main concern is the grain-free line’s reliance on peas and potatoes, which have been flagged in FDA DCM investigations. The brand uses natural preservatives (mixed tocopherols and rosemary extract) and clearly identifies all protein sources. Some recipes contain beet pulp as a fiber source, which is debated but generally considered acceptable.
Ultimates entered 650 Pet Supplies Plus stores nationwide in 2025 and is also available through online retailers like Chewy and Amazon. The brand has expanded distribution significantly since its relaunch in 2022-2023. Buying from established retailers provides better return policies and customer service if you encounter any issues with your purchase.
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