Nutrish Dog Food has gained popularity among dog owners seeking affordable, protein-rich options with real meat as the first ingredient. 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 canine needs. Whether you’re feeding a puppy, large breed, or dog with sensitivities, our in-depth Nutrish dog food review evaluates its six main sub-brands, ingredient quality, ratings, and overall value. Backed by pet nutritionist Laura Ward and founder Mike Sagman, this analysis helps you decide if Nutrish fits your furry friend’s diet.
Nutrish Dog Food Review
Dog Food Advisor rates Nutrish 4.5 stars overall—highly recommended for its use of fresh meats, no artificial preservatives, and competitive pricing. Dry recipes average 28.8% protein on a dry matter basis, making it above average for everyday feeding. However, some formulas include plant-based protein boosters like peas and corn, which may affect meat content perceptions.
Which Nutrish Sub-Brand Is Best for Your Dog?
Nutrish features six popular sub-brands, each designed for specific needs like grain-free diets, high protein, or limited ingredients. Ratings range from 4 to 5 stars, with most earning strong scores for palatability and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown to match the right one to your dog’s lifestyle.
Nutrish Dry
Nutrish Dry is the core line of grain-inclusive kibble, starting with fresh chicken, beef, or salmon, plus named meat meals for concentrated protein. Free of BHA, BHT, and poultry by-products, it offers nine recipes for puppies, adults, and large breeds. Average rating: 4.5 stars. Ideal for budget-conscious owners seeking balanced nutrition without fillers.
For dogs with tummy issues, explore options like purina pro plan sensitive stomach reviews for comparisons.
Nutrish Grain Free
This grain-free kibble (previously Zero Grain) avoids corn, wheat, rice, and barley, using chicken or salmon as top proteins. With just two recipes, it’s straightforward for dogs prone to grain allergies. Rating: 4.5 stars. Note added taurine supports heart health, a smart inclusion in grain-free feeds.
Nutrish Limited Ingredient
Limited to six natural ingredients like lamb meal and brown rice, this dry formula targets food sensitivities. It’s simple and effective for elimination diets. Rating: 3.5 stars. Great for picky eaters or those with allergies, though protein levels are moderate.
Pet owners managing weight might also check fromm weight management dog food reviews for similar targeted options.
Nutrish Dish
Blending kibble with visible whole fruits, veggies, and meats, Nutrish Dish delivers 29% protein (dry matter). Grain-inclusive with two recipes, it’s visually appealing and nutrient-dense. Rating: 4 stars.
Nutrish High Protein (formerly Peak) packs 34.2% protein in a grain-free formula, boosted with taurine. Perfect for active dogs. Rating: 5 stars.
For raw or alternative high-protein diets, see we feed raw dog food reviews.
Nutrish Canned
Wet foods serve as toppers or full meals, with nine flavors supporting digestion and weight control. Rating: 4 stars. Produced in Thailand, they complement dry kibble nicely.
Detailed Recipe Analysis: Nutrish Dry Example
We analyzed Nutrish Real Chicken, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice Recipe Whole Health Blend Large Breed as a representative. Nutrient profile (dry matter): 28.8% protein, 14.1% fat, 44.8% carbs. Key ingredients include:
- Chicken: Fresh, quality protein (though water loss reduces weight post-cooking).
- Chicken meal: Concentrated protein, nearly 300% richer than fresh.
- Dried peas and soybean meal: Fiber-rich but plant proteins that inflate totals.
- Corn and pea starch: Energy sources, though controversial for modest canine value.
- Beet pulp: Fiber for gut health, debated but acceptable in moderation.
- Chicken fat and menhaden fish oil: Omega-6 and omega-3 sources.
- Plus taurine, chelated minerals, and no probiotics.
Rachael Ray Nutrish Kibble Size
Pros: Real meat first, no artificial additives, affordable.
Cons: Plant proteins and corn in some recipes.
Individual ratings (out of 5 stars):
| Recipe | Rating | AAFCO Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday Immune Support Chicken, Salmon, Blueberry & Pumpkin | 4 | Maintenance |
| Real Beef, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice (Large Breed) | 4.5 | Maintenance |
| Real Chicken, Pea, Carrot & Brown Rice (Large Breed) | 4.5 | Maintenance |
| Real Chicken & Veggies | 4 | Maintenance |
| Real Beef, Pea & Brown Rice | 4.5 | Maintenance |
| Real Chicken & Brown Rice (Puppy) | 4.5 | Unspecified |
| Real Chicken & Veggies (Small Breed) | 4.5 | Maintenance |
| Real Salmon, Veggies & Brown Rice | 4.5 | Maintenance |
| Healthy Weight Real Turkey, Brown Rice & Venison | 4.5 | Maintenance |
Compare puppy options with simply nourish puppy food reviews.
black gold explorer dog food reviews offers insights into explorer-style formulas akin to Nutrish’s adventurous blends.
Recall History and Manufacturing
No recalls for Nutrish through November 2025— a strong safety record. Dry foods are made in the United States by J.M. Smucker Company (formerly Ainsworth). Wet recipes come from Thailand. All meet AAFCO standards for complete nutrition.
Chewy reviews average 4.5/5 stars, with 92% recommending it. Dogs love the taste, often finishing bowls clean.
Final Verdict on Nutrish Dog Food
Nutrish earns 4.5 stars as an above-average, grain-inclusive kibble with ample fresh meat and meat meals. It’s a solid choice for most dogs, especially at its price point, though watch for plant-heavy proteins. Consult your vet for personalized advice, particularly for grain-free or sensitive pups.
Ready to try? Stock up and share your dog’s reaction in the comments. Explore more dog food reviews for the best match!
References
- Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Nutrient Profiles: dogfoodadvisor.com/frequently-asked-questions/aafco-nutrient-profiles
- National Research Council Guidelines via National Academies of Sciences.
- Dog Food Advisor analysis by Mike Sagman, Karan French, and Laura Ward (updated November 4, 2025).
