NutriSource Dog Food Review: Prices, Quality, Nutrients

Is your dog a licker? Licking is normal dog behavior, and your doggy dude licks you to express his joy when you walk in the door. He licks you to comfort you when he thinks you’re sad, and it is your precious pup’s way to show his love and devotion. However, your dog might dish out extra special wet kisses to show how much he loves the food you provide.

That is where a dog food manufacturer like NutriSource comes in. NutriSource dog food is manufactured by KLN Family Brands, a family-owned business located in Perham, Minnesota. According to their company information, KLN started in 1964 by making Tuffy’s Pet Foods, which they still make. They have continued to expand its products and brands in many directions. Today they make NutriSource, Pure Vita, and Natural Planet Organics pet foods, as well as snacks, candies, and organic foods

It is always a good idea to check a manufacturer’s recall history before changing your dog’s diet to a different dog food brand. NutriSource appears to have had one voluntary recall, announced on October 11, 2021. They recalled approximately 1,600 cases of NutriSource Pure Vita Salmon Entrée Dog Food in a Tetra Pak carton following notification from the product manufacturer of potentially elevated levels of vitamin D.

What is NutriSource’s Commitment?

NutriSource pet food brands – NutriSource, Pure Vita and Choice – are dedicated to the long-term health of family pets. That very commitment is what drives their promise of quality and safety in every bag. Below is NutriSource’s commitment as stated on their website.

“A promise in every bag: 100% satisfaction guaranteed. Purchase one of our amazing formulas from one of our authorized retailers, and it will be covered by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Should your dog or cat not enjoy one of our formulas, you may return it to the retailer you purchased it from, and they will refund your purchase or help you pick another one of our formulas. That’s our promise…in every bag.”

According to NutriSource, their foods are made with real chicken or lamb as the first ingredient, and they don’t use by-products or whole corn in their foods. They also use mixed tocopherols (a source of vitamin E) as a preservative. They feature Sel-Plex Selenium – an organic form of Selenium – in their foods. Furthermore, they also use “proteinated” or chelated minerals, which are easier for dogs to digest. And their foods have digestive enzymes to help with digestion. NutriSource markets its dog foods as “super-premium” foods, although there is no definition of “super-premium.”

NutriSource also promotes its digestibility, saying that its foods give dogs maximum nutrition. They say you can feed your dog as much as two-thirds less than other brands, saving you money. They also say that you not only feed your dog less, but your dog will produce less waste.

What are the Sub-brands of NutriSource Dog Food Manufacturer?

The NutriSource dog food range includes dry and wet foods, with and without grains, Limited Ingredient Diets, and a range of High-Protein foods with 85% meat as the first ingredient. Below is a summarized list of the sub-brands of NutriSource. 

Is NutriSource a Complete and Balanced Dog Food?

Choosing the best food for your furry family member is a challenge and not a job to do without doing your research. Even though NutriSource is a top-rated company that produces high-quality foods, it is not necessarily the right choice for everyone. Can you trust the manufacturer’s claim that the dog food is “Complete and Balanced?” 

For any dog food to be marketed as “Complete and Balanced,“ it must meet the nutritional standards established by AAFCO. AAFCO is an acronym for the Association of American Feed Control Officials, a non-profit organization that sets standards for pet foods in the United States.

These nutritional adequacy standards are defined by two nutrient profiles based on a dog’s stage of life.

• Adult maintenance
• Growth and reproduction

You might see “(the dog food name) is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Dog) Food Nutrient Profiles for (the dog’s life stage)” on a dog food label. It verifies that the dog food meets AAFCO’s nutrient profiles. However, there is no law making such testing, analysis, or inclusion on dog food labels compulsory in the US. 

Who owns NutriSource Dog Food?

NutriSource is a pet food brand that is owned by KLN Family Brands, which was founded by Darrel “Tuffy” Nelson in 1947. KLN Family Brands also own and produce several other pet food brands such as PureVita, Premium Tuffy’s, Tuffy’s Gold, and Supreme. NutriSource is manufactured in the United States at a facility in Perham, Minnesota. To the best of our knowledge, this facility is only used by the KLN Family Brands group to produce NutriSource and their other pet food brands.

What are the Nutritional Profiles of the Different NutriSource Dog Foods Recipes?

Below is a table showing the summarized AAFCO analysis and rating for the chosen products to represent each NutriSource sub-brand. It is a helpful tool for selecting quality dog food. However, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance if you are unsure about the best food for your dog.

Although the AAFCO rates all four recipes suitable for all life stages, the NutriSource wet and dry ranges include recipes formulated for senior dogs and weight management, which are rated M (Maintenance) by the AAFCO. Remember, your dog’s overall health, metabolism, breed size and food-related sensitivities make your doggy dude unique, and must be considered when you select a dog food brand. And when in doubt, consult a veterinarian for help.

When Dog Food Care reviews and rates a dog food brand, we consider the important aspects, some of which are listed below.

• Is the protein content high enough to maintain strong, lean muscles?
• Is the carbohydrate content low enough to maintain healthy blood sugar levels?
• Are the meat sources specified by name to show the genuine source of amino acids?
• Does the formula include meat by-products?
• What is the level and quality of fatty acids like linoleic, Omega-3, and Omega-6?
• Which fresh vegetables and legumes were included as sources of minerals and digestible vitamins?

1. Nutritional Profile of NutriSource Dry Dog Food with Grains

NutriSource has recipes for puppies, all life stages, small breeds, and large breeds as well as recipes targeted for weight management, performance, and seniors. All NutriSource formulas deliver compact nutrition and include prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut.

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Dog Food Care chose the Large Breed Chicken and Rice formula to represent the 16 NutriSource grain inclusive range of recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the NutriSource Large Breed Chicken and Rice Formula

 (I would like to point out that all prices quoted are as of June 10, 2022.)

Below is a list of the 16 recipes in the NutriSource grain inclusive range

The first ingredient in NutriSource Large Breed Chicken and Rice Dry Formula is chicken, and although it is a quality protein source, chicken’s water content is about 73% of the weight. Therefore, Chicken Meal, is added–a valuable meat concentrate with about 300% more protein than fresh chicken to replace the protein loss after cooking the fresh chicken. Another concentrated protein appears lower down the list in the form of Menhaden fish meal.

Brown rice, barley, and oatmeal provide carbs and fiber, and chicken fat is skimmed off the soupy water after cooking the chicken. Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesn’t sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient. Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

As a group, the NutriSource grain inclusive range features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 17%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 47% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%. All this means this NutriSource product line contains above-average protein, near-average fat, and near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the flaxseed and brewer’s yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat. NutriSource Grain-Free is a dry dog food using a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of meat, thus earning the brand 4.5 stars.

NutriSource Grain-Free is a dry dog food is highly recommended by Dog Food Care.

2. Nutritional Profile of NutriSource Dry Dog Food with Grains

NutriSource grain-free formulas deliver compact nutrition and include pre and probiotics to help support a healthy gut. It contains balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride, and DL-methionine supplementation to promote heart health to make NutriSource grain-free formulas stand out.

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Dog Food Care chose the Seafood Select Grain-Free formula to represent the 17 NutriSource grain-free range of recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the NutriSource Seafood Select Grain-Free formula.

Below is a list of the 17 recipes in the NutriSource grain inclusive range

The first ingredient is salmon, and although it is a quality protein source, salmon’s water content is about 73% of the weight. Therefore, Menhaden fish meal is added–a valuable meat concentrate about 300% more protein than salmon to replace the protein lost after cooking the fresh salmon. 

Peas, pea flour, alfalfa meal, and flaxseed are rich in fiber, and chicken fat is added for its high linoleic acid content, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Both salmon and menhaden fish are rich sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, menhaden do not live deep enough in the ocean to have mercury contamination, as is common with deep water species. 

The addition of sunflower oil is a concern because, although it is rich in Omega-6, it has no Omega 3s. Canola and flaxseed oil would have been a healthier choice. 

Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated minerals. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods. 

Taurine, an important amino acid, associated with heart health, is an important amino acid in this recipe and the dried fermentation products shown on the ingredients list aid with digestion. Selenium yeast is a safer option than natural yeast supplements.

As a group, the NutriSource grain-free range features an average protein content of 30% and a mean fat level of 17%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 45% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%. All this means this NutriSource product line contains above-average protein, near-average fat, and below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the pea products, alfalfa meal, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat. NutriSource Grain Free is a dry dog food using a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of animal protein, thus earning the brand 4.5 stars.

NutriSource Grain-Free dry dog food is highly recommended by Dog Food Care.

3. Nutritional Profile of NutriSource Grain Inclusive Canned Dog Food

Most canned dog food formulas have the vitamin, minerals, and other supplements lower on the ingredient’s list as they are lighter.

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Therefore, they take up less space in the overall formula. In contrast, NutriSource has packed their canine cuisine with many beneficial ingredients such as vitamins, B complex, C, D, and E plus iron and potassium you keep your dog healthy. Furthermore, NutriSource has added some other supplements that the brand promotes as their guide for keeping your pet healthy.

Dog Food Care chose the NutriSource Chicken and Rice All Life Stages Grain Inclusive formula to represent the 7 NutriSource grain-free range of recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the NutriSource Chicken and Rice All Life Stages Grain Inclusive formula.

Below is a list of the 6 recipes in the NutriSource grain inclusive wet range

The first ingredient is chicken, which contains the 10 essential amino acids, followed by chicken broth. Both add valuable proteins and natural chicken flavor. The next ingredient is chicken liver, and knowing the animal source makes it a valuable ingredient. The same is not true of the next ingredient–ocean fish. Unfortunately, the phrase “ocean fish” is vague and leaves the dog owner guessing as to the type of fish. Since some fish are higher in omega-3 fats than others, and some fish in deep waters are contaminated with mercury, it’s impossible for us to judge the quality of this item.

Barley and brown rice are carbohydrates that also provide fiber, but once cooked both are of limited nutritional value. Another fiber source in the recipe is agar-agar, natural vegetable gelatin derived from the cell walls of certain species of red algae. Agar agar is rich in fiber and is used in wet pet foods as a gelling agent. 

Dried egg product is another questionable ingredient, and although eggs are easy to digest and have an exceptionally high biological value, the quality of the dehydrated shell-free eggs can vary significantly. The source could be anything from eggs that failed to hatch to low-grade eggs from commercial hatcheries.

Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated minerals. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods. 

Taurine, an important amino acid, associated with heart health, is an important amino acid in this recipe and the dried fermentation products shown on the ingredients list aid with digestion. Selenium yeast is a safer option than natural yeast supplements. The only essential amino acid source in this recipe is the chicken, and the questionable ocean fish is the closest this recipe comes to omega fatty acids.

As a group, the NutriSource grain-inclusive canned range features an average protein content of 40% and a mean fat level of 36%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 16% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 90%. This means this NutriSource product line contains above-average protein, above-average fat, and below-average carbs compared to other canned dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the alfalfa meal and brewer’s yeast, this looks like the profile of wet dog food containing a notable amount of meat. However, with 59% of the total calories in our example coming from fat versus just 29% from protein, some recipes may not be suitable for every animal. In addition, this same finding also prevents us from awarding the brand a higher rating than 3.5 stars. 

Although this rating is rather low, Dog Food Care recommends NutriSource grain-inclusive canned dog food as toppers on any of the NutriSource kibble recipes.

4. Nutritional Profile of NutriSource Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

We have already learned that NutriSource Dry kibble is high quality and that the grain-inclusive canned food’s rate is lower than the dry dog food.

When it comes to their canned food, however, these values slip somewhat below the radar of good nutritional value. This is not uncommon for wet dog food. The average protein in these formulas is 9.8% which is on the shallow side. It has a fat content of 7.94% and a fiber content of 1%.

Although dogs convert fat into energy, NutriSource canned food might not be a good choice if your dog tends to easily gain weight. A  fiber content that is too low could also make it hard for dogs with are prone to digestive issues. Let’s look at the NutriSource grain-free canned dog food range to see how it measures up to other wet grain-free dog food options.

Dog Food Care chose the NutriSource Grain-Free Chicken Formula canned dog food to represent the 4 NutriSource grain-free range of wet food recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the NutriSource Grain-Free Chicken formula.

Below is a list of the 3 recipes in the NutriSource grain inclusive wet range

The first ingredient is chicken, which contains the 10 essential amino acids, followed by chicken broth. Both add valuable proteins and natural chicken flavor. The next ingredient is chicken liver, and knowing the animal source makes it a valuable ingredient. 

The fourth ingredient includes chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Like peas, beans and lentils, chickpeas are a nutritious member of the fiber-rich legume (or pulse) family of vegetables. However, chickpeas contain about 22% protein, a factor that must be considered when judging the actual meat content of this dog food. 

Another fiber source in the recipe is agar-agar, natural vegetable gelatin derived from the cell walls of certain species of red algae. Agar-agar is rich in fiber and is used in wet pet foods as a gelling agent. 

The eighth ingredient is salmon oil–naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids. These two high-quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans. Depending on its level of freshness and purity, salmon oil should be considered a commendable addition.

Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated minerals. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods. 

Taurine, an important amino acid, associated with heart health, is an important amino acid in this recipe and the dried fermentation products shown on the ingredients list aid with digestion. Selenium yeast is a safer option than natural yeast supplements. 

As a group, the NutriSource grain-free canned range features an average protein content of 47% and a mean fat level of 38%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 7% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 81%. This means this NutriSource’s product line contains above-average protein, above-average fat, and below-average carbs compared to other canned dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of chickpeas and brewer’s yeast, this looks like the profile of wet dog food containing a notable amount of meat. However, with 66% of the total calories in our example coming from fat versus just 30% from protein, some recipes may not be suitable for every animal. 

However, NutriSource Grain Free canned dog food contains significant amounts of named meats as its dominant source of animal protein. It has no unnamed proteins, and good amino acid and Omega fatty acid sources. Thus, the NutriSource Grain-Free canned range earns 4 stars and Dog Food Care confidently recommends it to dog owners.

5. Nutritional Profile of PureVita Whole Grain Dry Dog Food

Choosing the right dog food to keep your canine companion in optimal health is a challenging quest. This is exacerbated by the large number of dog food brands on the store shelves, and each manufacturer finding ways to attract dog owners to their brands.

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Does your furry friend tend to have adverse reactions to some foods? LID or Limited Ingredient Diets are the only effective way to learn which ingredient is the culprit. Specific meat products or grains cause most allergies, and NutriSource PureVita helps you eliminate the allergens that cause your dog’s adverse reactions.

Dog Food Care picked the PureVita Chicken and Brown Rice Entrée dry dog food to represent the range of 4 PureVita grain-inclusive dry dog food recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the PureVita Chicken and Brown Rice Entrée

Below is a list of the 4 recipes in the PureVita grain inclusive dry range

PureVita™ Limited Ingredient grain inclusive formulas deliver compact nutrition and include prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut. PureVita offerings are specially formulated limited ingredient diets that feature a single source of animal protein, making them a top choice for pets with allergies.

The first ingredient in PureVita Chicken and Brown Rice Entrée is chicken, and although it is a quality protein source, chicken’s water content is about 73% of the weight. Therefore, Chicken Meal, is added–a valuable meat concentrate with about 300% more protein than fresh chicken to replace the protein loss after cooking the fresh chicken.

Brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and flaxseed provide carbs and fiber. Flaxseed is one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Provided they’ve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber. Another source of fiber and protein in this recipe is alfalfa meal. One controversial ingredient is garlic, and although many favor the ingredient for its claimed health benefits, garlic has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs.

Chicken fat is skimmed off the soupy water after cooking the chicken. Chicken fat is high in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for life. Although it doesn’t sound very appetizing, chicken fat is actually a quality ingredient. Salmon oil, naturally rich in the prized EPA and DHA type of omega-3 fatty acids, is also added. These two high-quality fats boast the highest bio-availability to dogs and humans. Depending on its level of freshness and purity, salmon oil should be considered a commendable addition.

We also note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of the heart muscle. Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

As a group, the PureVita Limited Ingredient grain inclusive range features an average protein content of 27% and a mean fat level of 16%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 49% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%. All this means this PureVita product line contains above-average protein, near-average fat, and near-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the flaxseed, alfalfa, and brewer’s yeast, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing a notable amount of meat. PureVita Limited Ingredient grain inclusive dry dog food uses a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of meat, thus earning this product line 4.5 stars.

PureVita Limited Ingredient grain inclusive dry dog food is highly recommended by Dog Food Care.

6. Nutritional Profile of PureVita Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Pure Vita™ Limited Ingredient grain-free formulas deliver compact nutrition and include prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut. PureVita offerings are specially formulated limited ingredient diets that feature a single source of animal protein, making them a top choice for pets with allergies.

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Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation to promote heart health make all NutriSource® grain inclusive formulas stand out. 

Dog Food Care picked the PureVita Turkey & Sweet Potato Entrée Grain-Free Dry Dog Food to represent the range of 9 PureVita grain-free dry dog food recipes. 

Below is information about the ingredients and nutritional profile of the PureVita Turkey & Sweet Potato Entrée Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Below is a list of the 9 recipes in the PureVita grain inclusive dry range

The first ingredient in PureVita™ Turkey & Sweet Potato Entrée Grain-Free Dog Food is turkey, and although it is a quality protein source, turkey’s water content is about 73% of the weight. Therefore, Turkey Meal, is added–a valuable meat concentrate with about 300% more protein than fresh turkey to replace the protein loss after cooking the fresh turkey.

The third ingredient is peas, followed by sweet potato, a gluten-free source of complex carbohydrates in dog food, naturally rich in dietary fiber and beta-carotene The fifth item is pea flour, made from roasted yellow peas. Flaxseed is lower down the list, one of the best plant sources of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, provided they’ve first been ground into a meal, flax seeds are also rich in soluble fiber.

Next comes sunflower oil. Sunflower oil is nutritionally similar to safflower oil. Since these oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids and contain no omega 3’s, they’re considered less nutritious than canola or flaxseed oils, but sunflower oil is notable for its resistance to heat damage during cooking.

The seventh ingredient is pea starch, a paste-like, gluten-free carbohydrate extract probably used here as a binder for making kibble. Aside from its energy content (calories), pea starch is of only modest nutritional value to a dog.

It’s important to note that several ingredients included in this recipe are each a type of pea product:

• Peas–third on the ingredient list
• Pea flour–Fifth on the list
• Pea starch– Seventh on the ingredients list

Although they’re a mixture of quality plant ingredients, packed with carbohydrates and fiber, they contain about 25% protein. The concern here is the recipe design practice known as ingredient splitting. Combining all these individual items together and reporting them as one, that newer combination would almost certainly occupy a higher position on the list — possibly making peas (not meat) the predominant ingredient in this recipe. Another controversial ingredient is garlic, and although many favor the ingredient for its claimed health benefits, garlic has been linked to Heinz body anemia in dogs.

We also note the use of taurine, an important amino acid associated with the healthy function of the heart muscle. Next, the ingredients list shows the minerals are chelated. Minerals that have been chemically attached to protein makes them easier to absorb. Chelated minerals are usually found in better dog foods.

As a group, the PureVita Limited Ingredient grain-free range features an average protein content of 28% and a mean fat level of 18%. Together, these figures suggest a carbohydrate content of 46% for the overall product line, and a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%. All this means this PureVita product line contains above-average protein, above-average fat, and below-average carbs when compared to a typical dry dog food.

Even when you consider the protein-boosting effect of the pea products, flaxseed, alfalfa, and brewer’s yeast, in this recipe and the lentils and garbanzo beans contained in others, this looks like the profile of a kibble containing just a moderate amount of meat. Dog Food Care could not establish that PureVita Limited Ingredient grain inclusive dry dog food range uses a notable amount of named meat meals as its dominant source of meat, thus earning this product a slightly lower rating than the grain-inclusive products. 

Dog Food Care rates the PureVita Limited Ingredient grain-free range of dry dog foods as a 4-Star product and recommends it as such. 

7. Nutritional Profiles of PureVita Grain-Free and Grain-Inclusive Wet Dog Food

NutriSource PureVita Canned Dog Foods feature meat-rich, single-source animal protein-dense recipes, nutritionally supplemented with the amino acid, Taurine to support heart health. They are protein heavy, low carbohydrate diet for pets.

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Both grain-free and grain-inclusive PureVita canned dog foods are enriched with NutriSource’s exclusive Good 4 Life ingredients to promote gut health and overall well-being for dogs.

Good 4 Life supports proper absorption of the nutrients that matter, while helping to assure the dog’s body is adequately prepared to defend itself against infection and disease. Gut health and proper immune function are inextricably linked. Disease begins in the gut. Conversely, so does good health. Good 4 Life works from the inside out to provide lasting results.

Below are the Good 4 Life ingredients and their benefits to your dog’s health.

• Brain Function

• • SEL-PLEX is a proprietary form of ORGANIC selenium yeast. SEL-PLEX is an anti-oxidant that may aid in preventing age-related cognitive decline, immunity, and reproduction, and may help maintain a healthy anti-oxidant status by neutralizing free radicals in the bloodstream.

• Skin & Coat

• • BIOPLEX is the patent name for the trace minerals used in all NutriSource dog foods, including the PureVita dry and wet range. It provides organic mineral nutrition via zinc, copper, manganese, and iron in a form as close to nature as possible. BIOPLEX helps to maintain healthy skin and coat, aids digestion and supports immune function.

• Prebiotic for Gut Health

• • BIO-MOS, a prebiotic, supports the gut integrity and overall intestinal health of dogs. Designed to feed the gastrointestinal tract and enhance natural defenses, it promotes good bacteria and supports the influence of microbial populations. BIO-MOS works in dogs of all ages and performs well during periods of stress. Backed by over 700 research studies and proven to be 92% effective, BIO-MOS removes pathogens (i.e.; salmonella) from the gastrointestinal tract, thereby improving nutrient absorption.

• Digestive Support

• • Good 4 Life Plus Includes NVGEN, a combination of mannan-rich fractions, yucca schidigera and yeast extracts designed to optimize the microbiome necessary for full utilization of a high animal protein diet. Alltech® NVGEN is a proprietary blend which includes prebiotics, specially formulated to feed the microbiome. These bio-active compounds, derived from specific fractions of yeast cells, contribute to a more diverse and healthy microbial population, positively affecting the pet’s physiology.

Below is a list of the 4 recipes each in the PureVita grain-inclusive and grain-free canned dog food range.

8. NutriSource Choice for Dogs 

NutriSource Choice offers three grain-inclusive dry recipes for dogs. Choice diets deliver compact nutrition with meat meals as the #1 ingredient. Choice Recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO guidelines for all life stages at an entry-level price point.

NutriSource Choice grain-inclusive formulas deliver compact nutrition and include balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support development and body systems. 

NutriSource Choice grain inclusive formulas are supplemented with taurine, choline chloride and L-Carnitine to support heart health. The minerals are chelated, and the Choice Kibble recipe includes Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate to support strong joints.

As a member of the NutriSource grain inclusive series of dog foods, NutriSource® Choice Recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO guidelines for all life stages at an entry-level price point.

NutriSource Choice grain inclusive formulas are available in the recipes listed below.

Chicken Meal & Barley, Turkey Meal & Barley, Whitefish & Rice at prices starting from $1.49-lb

9. NutriSource Element Series

NutriSource Element Series offers an advanced diet for canine companions. We bring together the best elements of nature’s intention with cutting-edge nutritional concepts. It’s all part of our mission to provide your pet with unsurpassed gut health and support whole-body health.

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Element Series diets were created with nutrition in mind. It all starts with the animal protein.

Targeted probiotics for your dog in the Element Series come from NutriSource’s proprietary Good 4 Life Plus system,  specially designed to work with a high animal protein canine diet.

• Supports Proper Digestion & Gut Health
• Supports Proper Nutrient Utilization
• Supports Cognitive & Heart Health
• Supports Skin & Coat

Good 4 Life Plus Includes NVGEN, a combination of mannan rich fractions, yucca schidigera and yeast extracts designed to optimize the microbiome necessary for full utilization of a high animal protein diet.

NutriSource says the Element Series is highly evolved nutrition in every bowl, formed by the building blocks to support your canine companion body as listed below.

• Supplemented with key amino acids such as DL Methionine, Choline Chloride, Taurine, and naturally occurring L-Arginine to support heart health and overall body health.
• Features proteinated minerals to support bioavailability and a healthy immune system.
• Includes omega-3 & -6 fatty acids that support healthy skin and a soft coat.
• Contains a powerful combination of Sel-Plex (organic selenium), naturally occurring DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) and select fruits and vegetables to support oxidation at the cellular level.

NutriSource Elements Series are available in 4-lb, 12-lb, and 24-lb bags at an average price of $5.58 per pound.

• Elements Coastal Plains Recipe
• Elements Open Waters Recipe
• Elements Outback Trails Recipe
• Elements Wildlands Recipe

What are the Best NutriSource Recipes and Flavors?

After reviewing the NutriSource range of Dog Foods, Dog Food Care selected the Best Recipes and Flavors as listed below.

Best for Highly Active Dogs: NutriSource High Performance with Grains

• The formula delivers compact nutrition and includes prebiotics and probiotics to help support a healthy gut.
• Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride and DL Methionine supplementation to promote heart health make NutriSource grain inclusive formulas stand out for optimizing the health of active dogs.

Best for Healthy Weight: NutriSource Weight Management Grain-Free

• Perfect for all stages of life with natural formulas 
• Added vitamins and minerals for optimal health
• Infused with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for optimal skin and coat health
• Probiotics and prebiotics are used to help promote healthy immune and digestive systems

Best for Senior Dogs: NutriSource Grain-Free Dog Food for Senior Dogs

• Formulated for dogs in their golden years
• Supplemented with L-carnitine and taurine for heart health and to delay cognitive decline.
• Infused with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for optimal skin and coat health
• The minerals are chelated, and the kibble recipe includes Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate to support strong joints.

Best Wet Dog Food: NutriSource Grain-Free Mediterranean Blend

• Based on NutriSource’s trademark Good 4 Life supplement system, a combination of four supplements that support the health of the neuro system, gut, skin, and coat.
• It’s made with beef, lamb, and lamb liver, cooked in lamb broth with additional chickpeas and salmon oil.
• It also includes bioavailable minerals and dominant prebiotics that promote your dog’s balanced growth and boosted immunity. 
• It offers superb and premium nutrition, easy-to-digest, canned food that is perfect for dogs with grain or gluten-related allergies. 
• Taurine as an extra ingredient supports your dog’s healthy heart. 

Best For Budget: NutriSource Choice Chicken Meal Barley Recipe Dry Dog

• Best for all life stages at affordable prices starting at $1.49-lb
• Supplemented with L-carnitine and taurine for heart health and to delay cognitive decline.
• Infused with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for optimal skin and coat health
• The minerals are chelated, and the kibble recipe includes Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate to support strong joints.

What is the quality of ingredients in NutriSource Dog Food?

When examining the ingredients in NutriSource products, Dog Food Care found that the quality of the ingredients in the dry dog foods is higher than those in the wet food products.

Dry Dog Food Ingredients

An average of the nutritional analysis percentages of the dry dog foods indicates a decent amount of protein at 26%. The fiber and fat contents are 3.3% and 14% respectively, which is average for kibble. The calorie count per meal is an average of 420 kcal, an appropriate count for average size adult canines.

Wet Dog Food Ingredients

The average protein in the wet formulas is below what one would like to see at 9.8%. Furthermore, the fiber’s average shows only 1%, which is too low to support digestion, and at 7.94, the fat content could be unhealthy for dogs with weight problems. Finally, the average calorie count is 300 kcal per meal, which is not critical but concerning.

Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements

Unlike most dog foods, NutriSource dog foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other supplements, listing them much higher up on the ingredient list. The NutriSource canine cuisine is loaded with many beneficial ingredients such as vitamins, B complex, C, D, and E, plus iron and potassium to keep your dog healthy.

NutriSource adds even more supplements to boost your doggy dude’s health. Those are listed below.

• Omega-3 and 6: These two ingredients are common in most dog foods, as they provide benefits for your pet’s skin and fur. They keep dry skin moisturized and can improve indoor coats.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are natural bacterial enzymes that live in your furry friend’s gut. They are there to eat away at the harmful bacteria that can accumulate. They support a healthy digestive and immune system.
• Taurine: This ingredient is an amino acid that is included to strengthen your dog’s heart, eyes, bones, and muscle tissue as well as many other benefits.
• L-Carnitine: This is another amino acid that performs the same function as above.
• DHA and EPA: Both of these fall under the omega category, but are better suited to promote your pet’s cardiovascular health.
• Glucosamine: This is a supplement that supports your dog’s joint health. It relieves swelling and pain, but it is also preventative, especially in dogs that are predisposed to arthritis or hip dysplasia.

Ingredients to be aware of in NutriSource wet dog foods

Although NutriSource ad additional vitamin and mineral supplements, the ingredients below should be noted. Although they provide little or no nutritional benefits, they are not toxic to dogs, and even with them, NutriSource canned dog foods are still superior to most canned dog foods on store shelves. 

• Alfalfa Meal: If Alfalfa appears in the bottom half of the ingredients list, it is less concentrated and will not prevent your dog’s system from soaking up other vitamins and minerals.
• Barley: Barley is good for giving your pup a quick boost of energy due to its carbohydrate levels.  However, apart from providing energy, barley provides almost no nutritional value.
• Salt: Salt is another common ingredient that is harmful if it appears in the top half of the ingredients list of wet dog food. Sodium is typically used as a natural preservative, although it is not beneficial to dogs.
• Brewer’s Yeast: Yeast has long been a controversial ingredient within dog formulas that have given rise to many arguments. Many argue that there are countless nutritional benefits to this item, yet it can cause stomach upset for pups that have allergies. Moreover, in some rare cases, it can cause serious to even fatal bloating issues.

Across the NutriSource dry and wet dog foods, the recipes and flavors are all based on the animal, fish, or poultry proteins listed below.

• Chicken and rice
• Quail
• Lamb and rice
• Turkey and rice
• Cherokee
• Sweet potato
• Salmon and pea
• Trout and sweet potato
• Chicken and lamb
• Ocean fish

What are the Customer Reviews for NutriSource Dog Food Brand?

Customer reviews are essential as a tool when considering a change in your dog’s diet. Even though NutriSource Dog Food is a highly recommended dog food brand, it helps to see what other dog owners think. Amazon customer reviews of the NutriSource range of dog foods seem scarce, however, this is what Amazon’s customer reviews show. 

Is NutriSource Dog Food good for a dog’s skin?

NutriSource dog food recipes specifically include healthy oils, such as fish oil and sunflower oil, containing omega-3 and omega-6 to promote healthy skin and combat allergies. Plus, their limited-ingredient recipes.

Is NutriSource Dog Food good for dogs with itchy skin problems?

Yes, NutriSource PureVita recipes are limited ingredient formulas, and if your dog’s itchy skin is food-related, PureVita recipes will minimize the risk of ingredient allergens within the diet. NutriSource PureVita will be a good choice to get your precious pup’s skin back to normal and keep it healthy. Except if the dog is sensitive to chicken and not grains, in which case you’d be advised to get one of the PureVita Grain-Free recipes.

Is NutriSource Dog food good for puppies?

All the NutriSource’s dog foods, wet and dry, are approved by the AAFCO for all life stages. However, both the NutriSource and PureVita have wet and dry recipes formulated for puppies.

Is NutriSource Dog food good for older dogs?

All the NutriSource foods should be perfectly safe for senior dogs, as the AAFCO approval indicates. However, the NutriSource range includes recipes formulated for senior dogs.

Is NutriSource Dog Food healthy for dog growth?

NutriSource diets have been carefully crafted to provide optimal amounts of calcium, balanced by phosphorus, to promote adequate bone growth while reducing the risk of potentially debilitating disorders later in life.

Is NutriSource Dog Food expensive?

NutriSource has a vast range of dog food recipes, at different prices. Based on the dog food bought. The NutriSource Choice kibble range is priced at an entry level around $1.89 per pound choice, while the Top range Elements range cost from $4.48 per pound. The NutriSource and PureVita products are available at affordable prices between the two mentioned.

Is NutriSource Dog Food AAFCO approved?

Yes, all the NutriSource dog food formulas are approved as meeting the nutritional guidelines set out by AAFCO (The Association of American Feed Control Officials) for All Life Stages. 

Is NutriSource Dog Food grain-free?

NutriSource and PureVita have grain-free and grain-inclusive products, wet and dry, and the  NutriSource Choice and Element ranges are grain inclusive.

Is NutriSource Dog Food a high-energy dog food?

NutriSource Grain-Free and Grain-Inclusive ranges include recipes formulated for performance of high-energy dogs.

Is NutriSource Dog food produced in the USA?

NutriSource is manufactured in the United States at a facility in Perham, Minnesota. To the best of our knowledge, this facility is only used by the KLN Family Brands group to produce NutriSource and their other pet food brands.

Where to Buy NutriSource Dog Food products in the USA?

NutriSource is available to purchase from a considerable range of physical pet food stores across the United States, including independent stores and some larger brands. Customers can also purchase dog food through the NutriSource website, and it is available from Amazon, but not Chewy.

How is the NutriSource Dog Food Shipment Speed?

The speed of NutriSource shipments for orders placed online depends on the location where the dog food must be delivered. Amazon deliveries take 1 to 3 days in most cases.