Choosing the right dog food can make all the difference in your pet’s health and happiness. Nutro dog food has long been a favorite among dog owners for its natural ingredients and variety of options tailored to different needs, from puppies to seniors. In this comprehensive Nutro dog food review, we’ll break down its seven key sub-brands, average ratings of 4.5 stars, detailed ingredient analysis, and whether it’s a solid choice for your canine companion. Whether you’re switching brands or exploring premium kibble, this guide covers everything.
For large breed puppies, check out our in-depth nutro ultra large breed puppy review to see how it stacks up.
Nutro Dog Food Sub-Brands overview
Which Nutro Sub-Brand Fits Your Dog?
Nutro offers seven main sub-brands, each designed for specific dietary preferences like grain-inclusive, grain-free, dry kibble, or wet food. Ratings vary by recipe, but the lineup earns high marks overall for quality proteins and added fruits and vegetables. Here’s a closer look:
Nutro Natural Choice
Nutro Natural Choice Dog Food
This is Nutro’s bestseller: affordable, grain-inclusive dry kibble with proteins from chicken, lamb, salmon, or venison. It averages 26% protein and includes rice for digestibility. With 21 recipes for puppies, adults, seniors, and special needs like weight control, ratings range from 3.5 to 5 stars. Ideal for everyday feeding without breaking the bank.
Popular picks include Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice (5 stars, growth stage) and Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice (5 stars, maintenance).
Nutro Ultra Dry
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Adult Dry
A step up from Natural Choice, Nutro Ultra features a protein trio (chicken, lamb, salmon) in every grain-inclusive recipe, plus non-GMO fruits and veggies. Nine recipes earn 4.5 stars on average, making it great for dogs needing more meaty nutrition. It’s a worthy upgrade for picky eaters or those wanting antioxidant boosts.
If you’re managing weight, explore similar options in our fromm weight management dog food reviews.
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet (Dry)
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Venison
Perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities—no chicken, grains, corn, wheat, or barley. Limited to under 10 ingredients per recipe (six total), it scores 3 stars due to simpler formulations. Venison or salmon options help with food intolerances.
Nutro Hearty Stews (Wet)
Nutro Hearty Stew Chicken Carrot Pea
Chunky, grain-free wet food in chicken, lamb, turkey, or beef flavors. High protein, low carbs—use as a meal or kibble topper. Five recipes average 4.5 stars for palatability and nutrition.
Nutro Premium Loaf (Wet)
Nutro Premium Loaf Wet Dog Food
High-protein (39-41%) grain-free loaves with no corn, wheat, or rice. Four finely ground recipes rate 4.5 stars, excellent as a mixer or standalone for fussy dogs.
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Cans (Wet)
Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet Fish Potato Wet
Another allergy-friendly wet option: grain-free loaves limited to five key ingredients like lamb, turkey, or fish. Three recipes score 3 stars but shine for sensitive stomachs.
Nutro Ultra Grain-Free Tubs
Nutro Ultra Grain-Free Turkey Entree
Wet counterpart to Ultra dry—11 grain-free tubs with diverse proteins, fruits, veggies, and resealable lids. Top-rated at 5 stars, perfect for diet rotation.
For discontinued lines like Nutro Max, see our nutro max dog food reviews.
Overall Verdict: Is Nutro Dog Food Good?
Nutro earns 4.5 stars across its Natural Choice range (21 recipes, 3.5-5 stars average). It’s above-average for dry formulas: 27% protein, 18% fat, 42% carbs on dry matter basis. Moderate meat content boosted by peas and flaxseed, but balanced for most dogs.
| Top Natural Choice Recipes | Rating | AAFCO Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Lamb & Brown Rice | 5 | Growth |
| Small Breed Adult Chicken | 5 | Maintenance |
| Senior Chicken & Brown Rice | 5 | Maintenance |
| Large Breed Puppy Chicken | 5 | Growth |
| Healthy Weight Adult Lamb | 5 | Maintenance |
Detailed Recipe Analysis: Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice
Ingredients: Chicken (fresh, quality but water-heavy), chicken meal (concentrated protein), barley (starchy carb), split peas (fiber-rich, 25% protein), brewers rice (modest nutrition), brown rice, chicken fat (omega-6 source), rice bran (fiber/vitamins), flaxseed/chia (omegas, fiber), beet pulp (controversial fiber), coconut (MCTs for cognition), tomato pomace (fiber).
Pros: Fresh meats first, natural preservatives. Cons: Non-chelated minerals, sodium selenite. Fiber ~3.5%. Calorie-weighted: 23% protein, 37% fat, 41% carbs.
Manufacturing and Safety
Made in USA (Mars-owned facilities in NC, CA, OH, AR, SD). No recalls through November 2025. Backed by Waltham Petcare Science Institute.
Chewy reviews: 4.7/5 stars, 97% recommend. “Nutritious, great transition, less waste,” says one owner of four dogs.
FAQs
Best Nutro recipes? Puppy Lamb, Small Breed Chicken, Senior lines top our list.
Good for large breeds? Yes—Large Breed Puppy formulas prevent hip issues.
Senior-friendly? Senior Chicken and Ultra Senior offer balanced protein/calories.
Grain-free options? Limited Ingredient and most wets.
Final Thoughts
Nutro dog food stands out for quality ingredients, variety, and strong ratings—highly recommended for grain-inclusive needs. Consult your vet for personalized advice, and rotate diets for optimal health. Explore more reviews for the best fit for your pup.
References:
AAFCO Nutrient Profiles; British Journal of Nutrition (MCT study, 2010); Food Chem Toxicol (MCT safety, 2009).
