Nulo vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food (2026): Which Performs Better?
Quick Verdict
| Category | Nulo | Blue Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| Ingredient Quality | Very Good | Good |
| Price (avg bag) | ~$68–$80/24 lb | ~$55–$65/30 lb |
| AAFCO Compliant | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | High protein, low glycemic, athletic dogs | Affordable natural, wide availability |
Brand Overview
Nulo is an Austin, Texas-based brand launched in 2009, focused on high-protein, low-glycemic performance nutrition. Nulo uses BC30 probiotic (Bacillus coagulans) and emphasizes protein-to-carbohydrate ratios that support lean muscle mass and weight management.
Blue Buffalo is General Mills’ natural pet brand known for the True Blue Promise and LifeSource Bits antioxidant blend. Massive product variety and the widest retail distribution among natural brands.
Ingredient Comparison
Nulo Freestyle Salmon & Peas features deboned salmon, salmon meal, and deboned turkey as primary proteins. 80% of protein from animal sources. Chickpeas, lentils, and sweet potato as carbs. BC30 probiotic. No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives.
Blue Buffalo LPF features deboned chicken, chicken meal, and ground whole grain brown rice. LifeSource Bits antioxidant blend. No by-products, corn, wheat, soy. Pea protein in some formulas.
Nutritional Comparison
| Nutrient | Nulo Freestyle Salmon | Blue Buffalo LPF Adult |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein (min) | 30% | 24% |
| Crude Fat (min) | 16% | 14% |
| Crude Fiber (max) | 4% | 5% |
| Calories (kcal/cup) | ~395 | ~368 |
Pros and Cons
Nulo
Pros
- 30%+ protein from 80% animal sources
- Low-glycemic carb profile
- BC30 probiotic supports gut health
- Excellent for active dogs and athletic breeds
- No corn, wheat, soy, artificial additives
Cons
- More expensive than Blue Buffalo
- Less widely available (primarily pet specialty stores)
- Grain-free formulas carry DCM advisory caveats
Blue Buffalo
Pros
- Widest retail distribution
- LifeSource Bits antioxidant blend
- Wide variety for all life stages
- More affordable
Cons
- Multiple recalls (2017, 2019)
- Lower protein than Nulo
- General Mills ownership
Best For
Choose Nulo if: Your dog is active, athletic, or a working breed that benefits from high protein and low glycemic nutrition.
Choose Blue Buffalo if: You want the widest availability, most variety, and an affordable natural brand for a healthy adult dog.
Alternatives
- [Nulo vs Purina Pro Plan](/compare/nulo-vs-purina-pro-plan)
- [Instinct vs Blue Buffalo](/compare/instinct-vs-blue-buffalo)
- [Blue Buffalo vs Wellness](/compare/blue-buffalo-vs-wellness)
- [Full Nulo Review](/reviews/nulo-dog-food)
FAQ
Is Nulo grain-free? Most Nulo Freestyle formulas are grain-free. They also have a Frontrunner grain-inclusive line with oats, millet, and barley for owners who prefer some grain content.
What is BC30 probiotic? BC30 (Bacillus coagulans) is a shelf-stable probiotic that survives the manufacturing process better than Lactobacillus strains. It supports gut microbiome health and stool quality.
Is Nulo good for weight management? Yes. The low-glycemic carb profile and high protein help maintain lean mass. Nulo also has a dedicated weight management formula.
Has Nulo been recalled? No recalls on record.
Is Nulo available at PetSmart? Yes. Nulo is available at PetSmart, Petco, Chewy, and independent pet stores, though its in-store selection is more limited than Blue Buffalo’s.
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