Nutrish dog food has gained popularity among pet owners seeking affordable, protein-rich options for their canine companions. Formerly known as Rachael Ray Nutrish, this brand rebranded in 2025 and offers a variety of dry kibble, grain-free formulas, and wet foods tailored to different dog needs. Rated 4.5 stars by independent reviewers like Dog Food Advisor, Nutrish stands out for using real meat as the first ingredient and avoiding artificial preservatives. Whether you’re feeding a puppy, large breed, or dog with sensitivities, this review breaks down the sub-brands, ingredients, and ratings to help you decide if Nutrish dog food is right for your pup.
Nutrish Dog Food brand overview showing kibble and packaging
For balanced nutrition, consider complementary recipes like a chicken bone broth recipe for dogs to mix with kibble for added hydration and flavor.
Which Nutrish Sub-Brand Fits Your Dog?
Nutrish features six popular sub-brands, each with unique formulas. Ratings range from 3.5 to 5 stars based on protein quality, ingredients, and nutrient profiles. Here’s a breakdown:
Nutrish Dry
The original dry kibble line includes grain-inclusive recipes with fresh chicken, beef, or salmon as top proteins. No BHA, BHT, or poultry by-products.
- 9 recipes available
- Rating: 4.5 stars
Nutrish Grain Free
Ideal for dogs avoiding grains like corn or wheat. Features chicken or salmon proteins.
- 2 recipes
- Rating: 4.5 stars
Nutrish Limited Ingredient
Designed for food sensitivities, with just six ingredients including lamb meal and brown rice.
- 1 recipe
- Rating: 3.5 stars
Nutrish Dish
Blends dry kibble with visible whole fruits, veggies, and meats for a fresh appeal. Grain-inclusive with 29% protein.
- 2 recipes
- Rating: 4 stars
Nutrish High Protein
Nutrient-dense, grain-free option (formerly Peak) with 34.2% protein and added taurine.
- 1 recipe
- Rating: 5 stars
Nutrish Canned
Wet food toppers or complete meals for digestion and weight management.
- 9 recipes
- Rating: 4 stars
When selecting breed-specific nutrition, check options like the best food for golden retriever for comparisons.
Detailed Ratings and Pros/Cons of Nutrish Dog Food
Overall, Nutrish earns 4.5 stars for its meat-first formulas and affordability. Dry recipes average 28.8% protein, 15.6% fat, and 43% carbs on a dry matter basis—near average for kibble but with quality meats.
| Product | Rating | AAFCO Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrish Everyday Immune Support Chicken, Salmon, Blueberry & Pumpkin | 4 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Beef, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice Large Breed | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Chicken, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice Large Breed | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies | 4 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Beef, Pea & Brown Rice | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy | 4.5 stars | Unspecified |
| Nutrish Real Chicken & Veggies Small Breed | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Real Salmon, Veggies & Brown Rice | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
| Nutrish Healthy Weight Real Turkey, Brown Rice & Venison | 4.5 stars | Maintenance |
Pros:
- Real meat and named meat meals first
- No artificial preservatives or by-products
- Budget-friendly with high palatability
Cons:
- Some plant proteins like peas and soybean meal boost totals
- Controversial fillers like corn and beet pulp in select recipes
In-Depth Ingredient Analysis: Real Chicken, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice Large Breed
This representative recipe starts with chicken (up to 73% water, reduces post-cooking) followed by chicken meal (300% more protein-dense). Dried peas add fiber and 27% protein, but soybean meal (a soy oil by-product) and corn provide cheaper boosts—common in affordable kibbles but less ideal biologically.
Key positives: Chicken fat for omega-6s, menhaden fish oil for EPA/DHA omegas, taurine for heart health, and chelated minerals for better absorption. No probiotics noted.
Estimated Dry Matter Nutrients:
- Protein: 28.8%
- Fat: 14.1%
- Carbs: 44.8%
Fiber: 4%. Avoid feeding risky human foods; learn what fruits should a dog not eat to complement safely.
Kibble size example from Rachael Ray Nutrish dry dog food
Recall History and Manufacturing
As of November 2025, Nutrish has no recalls. Dry foods are made in the United States by Big Heart Pet Brands (a J.M. Smucker division). Wet recipes come from Thailand. All meet AAFCO standards for labeled life stages.
Customer Feedback and Expert Insights
Chewy users give Nutrish 4.5/5 stars, with 92% recommending it. One reviewer noted: “Both dogs drooled over the bag and cleaned their bowls—worth every penny!”
Experts like founder Mike Sagman (Dog Food Advisor) and pet nutritionist Laura Ward endorse its meat focus, drawing from years in pet nutrition.
For storage tips, try a dog food container to keep ants out.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nutrish Dog Food
Best Nutrish recipes? Top picks: High Protein, Real Chicken Large Breed, and Puppy formulas based on ratings and popularity.
Made in China? No—dry in USA, wet in Thailand.
Healthy for puppies? Yes, with all-life-stages and puppy-specific options.
Grain-free options? 19 grain-free recipes available.
Explore alternatives like Badlands Ranch for premium comparisons.
Final Verdict on Nutrish Dog Food
Nutrish dog food delivers solid value with 4.5-star quality, real proteins, and no recalls—ideal for budget-conscious owners. Consult your vet for personalized advice, especially for sensitivities. Ready to try? Check recipes and stock up for a happier, healthier dog.
References:
- Dog Food Advisor (2025 Update)
- AAFCO Nutrient Profiles
- National Research Council Guidelines
