If you’ve ever stood in the pet-food aisle wondering whether the phrase “natural” actually means anything, you’re not alone. Simply Nourish has quietly become a go-to label for owners who want recognizable ingredients without the boutique price tag, but the brand’s dozens of formulas can feel like a nutritional maze. Before you drop another bag into your cart, it helps to understand what sets one recipe apart from another—and why your dog’s age, breed quirks, and even zip code matter more than the marketing on the front panel.
Below, we unpack the science, sourcing, and real-world results behind Simply Nourish so you can match your dog to the right nutrient profile—no veterinary degree required. Consider this your field guide to decoding labels, spotting red flags, and future-proofing your pup’s bowl for 2025 and beyond.
Top 10 Simply Nourish Dog Food Reviews
Detailed Product Reviews
1. SIMPLY NOURISH Small Breed Adult Healthy Weight Turkey and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, 5 Pound Bag
Overview: Simply Nourish’s small-breed “healthy weight” formula delivers a 5 lb bag of turkey-first kibble calibrated for dogs up to 50 lb that need to watch their waistline without sacrificing taste or energy.
What Makes It Stand Out: Deboned turkey leads the ingredient list, followed by brown rice and oatmeal—rare in weight-control diets that usually lean on fillers. Kibble size is mini-engineered for little jaws, and the bag is resealable for pantry freshness.
Value for Money: At roughly $7 a pound it sits mid-pack versus prescription diets, but you dodge corn, soy, and artificial junk while gaining portion-control charts that can extend bag life to 4–5 weeks for a 15 lb dog.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—USA-made, clear feeding guide for loss vs. maintenance, turkey offers novel-protein option for chicken-sensitive pups. Cons—only 5 lb size, calorie count (336 kcal/cup) still demands strict measuring, and some dogs find it less palatable than fattier kibbles.
Bottom Line: A solid, vet-aligned choice for weight management in petite power-chewers; pair with a kitchen scale and you’ll see measurable results within a month.
2. SIMPLY NOURISH Puppy Salmon and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, 5 Pound Bag
Overview: Simply Nourish Puppy Salmon & Brown Rice compresses ocean-sourced DHA and wholesome grains into a 5 lb starter bag aimed at giving growing pups brain-boosting omega-3s without chicken by-products.
What Makes It Stand Out: Real deboned salmon is ingredient #1, unusual in puppy kibble where chicken usually dominates. The recipe is free of dyes, BHA, or fake smoke flavor, and the kibble’s pea-size pieces suit tiny mouths from 8 weeks onward.
Value for Money: $6.79/lb lands it above grocery staples but below boutique salmon diets; because calcium and phosphorus ratios meet AAFCO growth standards, you can feed less volume than cheaper brands, stretching the bag to ~6 weeks for a 20 lb pup.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—fishy aroma entices picky eaters, supports coat sheen, resealable bag fits apartment storage. Cons—salmon meal adds fishy breath, not grain-free (issue only for vet-diagnosed allergies), and price climbs quickly once your retriever hits 40 lb.
Bottom Line: An excellent first food for salmon-tolerant puppies; transition gradually and you’ll likely notice softer fur and firmer stools within two weeks.
3. SIMPLY NOURISH Small Breed Adult Lamb and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, 5 Pound Bag
Overview: Simply Nourish Small Breed Adult Lamb & Brown Rice offers a 5 lb pasture-to-bowl recipe built around deboned lamb for adult dogs under 50 lb that need a neutral, chicken-free diet.
What Makes It Stand Out: Lamb leads the panel, followed by brown rice and oatmeal—gentle on stomachs prone to chicken or beef itchies. The disc-shaped kibble is 8 mm across, forcing small breeds to chew and scrape teeth instead of inhaling.
Value for Money: At $5.85/lb it’s the cheapest in the Simply Nourish small-breed line yet keeps the same USA manufacturing and no-artificial pledge, giving budget shoppers premium credibility without the boutique tax.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—single-source mammal protein aids elimination diets, bag reseals tightly, fat level (14 %) suits moderately active adults. Cons—lamb aroma can be polarizing, protein (24 %) may be low for very athletic dogs, and availability fluctuates online.
Bottom Line: A wallet-friendly, tummy-friendly option for chicken-averse little dogs; if your pup likes the smell, it’s a dependable daily driver.
4. SIMPLY NOURISH Puppy Chicken and Brown Rice Dry Dog Food, 5 Pound Bag
Overview: Simply Nourish Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice delivers classic poultry-powered growth nutrition in a resealable 5 lb bag engineered for puppies up to 12 months and sized for cupboard storage.
What Makes It Stand Out: Deboned chicken headlines the recipe, backed by brown rice and barley for steady glucose release—helpful for large-breed pups prone to growth spikes. Added DHA from chicken fat supports neural development without fish ingredients for families avoiding seafood allergens.
Value for Money: $6.07/lb sits just above mainstream Purina Puppy Chow yet offers no corn, soy, or artificial colors; feeding charts are conservative, so a 30 lb shepherd mix needs only 2⅔ cups daily, stretching the bag to 18–20 days.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—uniform 10 % max moisture reduces dust, kibble breaks cleanly for wet-soaking, USA-cooked. Cons—chicken-centric recipe excludes poultry-allergic pups, calcium (1.2 %) may be high for giant breeds; bag size forces frequent re-order for bigger dogs.
Bottom Line: A reliable, middle-price growth formula for the majority of chicken-tolerant puppies; monitor growth rate and you’ll hit target adult weight without orthopedic panic.
5. SIMPLY NOURISH Puppy Salmon and Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food, 4 Pound Bag
Overview: Simply Nourish Puppy Salmon & Sweet Potato shrinks the recipe to 4 lb while going grain-free and chicken-free, targeting sensitive-system pups under 1 year that need limited ingredients and novel carbs.
What Makes It Stand Out: Single animal protein (salmon), no grains, no chicken fat—rare in puppy diets that usually hide poultry somewhere. Sweet potato and peas provide low-glycemic energy, while salmon oil pumps in EPA/DHA for cognition and coat.
Value for Money: $9.85/lb makes it the priciest in the lineup, but for allergy-prone puppies it can preempt costly vet visits; the 4 lb trial size is perfect for elimination-diet testing without committing to a 24 lb sack.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Pros—short ingredient list aids allergy sleuthing, resealable bag stays fresh for 5 weeks, kibble smells like sushi (enticing for many pups). Cons—higher fat (16 %) can loosen stools during switch, calorie-dense 418 kcal/cup demands careful measuring, and bag empties fast with large breeds.
Bottom Line: A specialized, vet-friendly tool for chicken-or-grain-intolerant puppies; use it diagnostically, then migrate to a larger size if symptoms resolve.
6. SIMPLY NOURISH Puppy Lamb and Oatmeal Dry Dog Food, 5 Pound Bag
Overview: SIMPLY NOURISH Puppy Lamb and Oatmeal Dry Dog Food delivers targeted nutrition for growing puppies in a convenient 5-pound resealable bag. This formula positions lamb and oatmeal as the first two ingredients, creating a gentle yet protein-rich foundation for developing digestive systems.
What Makes It Stand Out: The deliberate ingredient sequencing prioritizes easily digestible lamb protein alongside wholesome oatmeal, making it ideal for puppies with sensitive stomachs. The absence of artificial additives demonstrates the brand’s commitment to clean nutrition during crucial developmental stages.
Value for Money: At $35 for 5 pounds ($7 per pound), this premium puppy formula sits in the upper-mid range. The specialized formulation for puppies and quality ingredient sourcing justifies the price point, particularly for owners prioritizing gentle nutrition during growth phases.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the thoughtful ingredient selection, convenient resealable packaging, and clear feeding guidelines. The limited bag size prevents stale food but may require frequent repurchasing for larger breeds. Some puppies might find the lamb flavor less appealing than chicken-based alternatives.
Bottom Line: This puppy food excels for owners seeking gentle, wholesome nutrition for their growing companions. While pricier than grocery store brands, the quality ingredients and puppy-specific formulation make it worthwhile for conscientious pet parents.
7. SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Dog 4-10 Ounce Cans. Chicken, Beef & Pasta Stew Shreds Plus Dog Waste Bag.
Overview: SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Dog Stew combines four 10-ounce cans of Chicken, Beef & Pasta Stew Shreds with a practical bonus of dog waste bags, creating a convenient mealtime and cleanup solution for pet owners.
What Makes It Stand Out: The stew format features shredded meat in gravy, appealing to picky eaters and dogs needing appetite stimulation. The inclusion of waste bags adds practical value, eliminating an extra purchase for daily walks.
Value for Money: At $28.90 for four cans ($7.23 per can) plus waste bags, this package offers reasonable value. The premium ingredients and dual-product offering make it competitive with other high-end wet foods while providing added convenience.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The shredded texture and rich gravy successfully entice reluctant eaters. The pasta addition provides carbohydrates for energy. However, the cans might prove too large for small breeds, requiring refrigeration between meals. The beef and chicken combination could trigger allergies in sensitive dogs.
Bottom Line: This product suits owners of picky eaters or dogs requiring appetite encouragement. While not ideal for sole nutrition long-term, it works excellently as a meal topper or occasional appetite stimulant, with the bonus bags sweetening the deal.
8. SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Lamb and Pea Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food, 4 Pound Bag
Overview: SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Lamb and Pea Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food addresses food sensitivities through a streamlined recipe featuring deboned lamb as the single animal protein source, packaged in a convenient 4-pound resealable bag.
What Makes It Stand Out: The limited ingredient philosophy eliminates common allergens like chicken, grains, and potatoes while maintaining complete nutrition. This focused approach helps identify and avoid trigger ingredients for dogs with suspected food sensitivities.
Value for Money: At $48.12 for 4 pounds ($12.03 per pound), this represents a significant premium over standard dog foods. However, for dogs with confirmed or suspected allergies, the specialized formulation can prevent costly vet visits and discomfort, justifying the investment.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The single protein source simplifies allergy management, while USA manufacturing ensures quality control. The grain-free formula suits many sensitive dogs. However, the high price point limits accessibility, and some dogs might find pea-based formulas less palatable than grain-inclusive options.
Bottom Line: This food serves as an excellent elimination diet option or long-term solution for dogs with protein sensitivities. While expensive, it delivers targeted nutrition that can transform quality of life for allergic dogs, making it worth every penny for affected pets.
9. SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Dog Salmon, Chicken & Rice Stew Shreds. Four Ten Ounce Cans. Biggs Dog Waste Roll
Overview: SIMPLY NOURISH Adult Dog Stew presents a seafood-forward option with Salmon, Chicken & Rice Stew Shreds, accompanied by a BIGGS Dog Waste Roll, combining mealtime variety with practical pet ownership essentials.
What Makes It Stand Out: The salmon inclusion introduces omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for skin and coat health, while maintaining the appealing shredded texture dogs prefer. The waste bag inclusion continues the brand’s practical approach to pet care.
Value for Money: At $28.54 for four cans ($7.14 per can) including waste bags, this offering provides solid value. The salmon ingredient typically commands premium pricing, making this competitively positioned within the specialty wet food market.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The salmon provides excellent omega-3 content for skin, coat, and joint health. The chicken addition ensures broad appeal while rice offers gentle carbohydrates. However, the multi-protein format complicates use for dogs with specific protein allergies. The stew consistency might prove messy for some feeding situations.
Bottom Line: This product excels for owners seeking to introduce seafood benefits into their dog’s diet. The combination of premium ingredients and practical accessories creates a compelling package for health-conscious pet parents willing to pay slightly more for quality.
10. SIMPLY NOURISH Small Breed Adult Grain Free Chicken with Peas and Potatoes Dry Dog Food, 4 Pound Bag
Overview: SIMPLY NOURISH Small Breed Adult Grain Free Chicken with Peas and Potatoes specifically targets small breed nutritional needs, featuring deboned chicken as the primary ingredient in a grain-free formulation enriched with heart-healthy taurine.
What Makes It Stand Out: The small breed focus extends beyond kibble size to include appropriate calorie density and nutrient concentrations for smaller bodies. The taurine addition addresses heart health, a particular concern in small breeds, while maintaining grain-free formulation for sensitive systems.
Value for Money: At $34.15 for 4 pounds ($8.54 per pound), this positions competitively within the small breed specialty market. The targeted nutrition and quality ingredients provide good value for small breed owners seeking optimal health maintenance.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The grain-free recipe suits many small breeds prone to allergies, while taurine supplementation supports cardiac health. The appropriately sized kibble prevents choking hazards. However, the potato inclusion might concern owners seeking lower glycemic options, and the premium pricing exceeds many mainstream alternatives.
Bottom Line: This food delivers excellent targeted nutrition for small breed adults, particularly those requiring grain-free diets. The thoughtful formulation justifies the price for dedicated small breed owners prioritizing optimal health and longevity for their compact companions.
Why Simply Nourish Keeps Popping Up in Vet Conversations
Veterinarians rarely gush over commercial kibble, yet many give Simply Nourish a grudging nod for transparent ingredient decks and life-stage formulas that align with WSAVA guidelines. The brand’s parent company, American Nutrition, invests in on-site nutritionists and AAFCO feeding trials—two details that separate it from the “white-label” crowd. When vets mention it, they’re usually reacting to the balanced calcium:phosphorus ratios and the absence of artificial colors that can trigger canine ADHD-like symptoms.
Understanding the Brand’s Philosophy on Canine Nutrition
Simply Nourish operates on a “whole-food, limited-build” philosophy: start with a single animal protein, layer in low-glycemic carbs, then fortify with precision nutrients rather than blanket “kitchen-sink” multivitamins. The goal is to mimic the ancestral macronutrient distribution (38 % animal protein, 42 % low-glycemic carbs, 20 % healthy fats) while meeting modern AAFCO floors for micronutrients.
Decoding the Ingredient Deck: What “Natural” Actually Means
“Natural” is undefined by the FDA, but Simply Nourish uses it to signal no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Flip the bag over and you’ll still see “natural flavor”—a hydrolyzed protein spray that enhances palatability. The trick is to scan for named organs (e.g., “chicken liver”) versus vague “poultry digest”; the former delivers bioavailable vitamin A, the latter can be any rendered fowl part.
Grain-Inclusive vs. Grain-Free: Science Over Sizzle
The FDA’s 2018 dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) alert flipped the grain-free trend on its head. Simply Nourish responded by adding taurine and methionine to every grain-free recipe while keeping ancient-grain lines for dogs that tolerate oats and barley. The takeaway: unless your vet has documented a grain allergy, the inclusive formulas offer safer long-term cardiac profiles.
Protein Sources: From Salmon to Sustainable Insect Meal
Simply Nourish rotates between traditional (chicken, lamb, beef) and novel (salmon, venison, insect) proteins. Insect meal—black soldier fly larvae—delivers a complete amino-acid profile with a 95 % smaller carbon footprint. If your dog’s itchiness clears on a venison formula, you’re likely dealing with a chicken intolerance rather than a true “food allergy.”
Life-Stage Logic: Puppy, Adult, Senior, and the Overlooked “All Life Stages”
Puppies need 22 % minimum protein and 1.2 % calcium; seniors need joint support and calorie control. “All Life Stages” formulas meet puppy minimums but can oversupply calcium for large-breed adults, accelerating orthopedic disease. Match the bag to your dog’s predicted adult weight, not just current age.
Special-Diet Formulas: Weight Management, Sensitive Skin, and Gut Health
Weight-management kibbles swap fat for soluble fiber (up to 12 %) to create satiety without diluting protein. Sensitive-skin recipes push omega-6:omega-3 ratios toward 5:1 and add zinc methionine for epidermal repair. Post-antibiotic gut support formulas include 100 million CFU/lb of Bacillus coagulans—enough to survive gastric acid and recolonize the colon.
The Role of Functional Add-Ins: Probiotics, Joint Packs, and Superfoods
Joint “packs” combine glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM at a collective 800 mg/kg—therapeutic if fed at the upper range of the feeding chart. Superfoods like pumpkin and kale are window dressing unless the Guaranteed Analysis lists vitamin E > 300 IU/kg, indicating meaningful antioxidant levels.
Guaranteed Analysis Cheat Sheet: Translating Percentages into Practical Portions
Protein percentage is only half the story; calculate grams per 1,000 kcal (aka “nutrient density”). A 28 % protein food that’s 4,000 kcal/kg delivers 70 g protein/1,000 kcal—plenty for a working dog, but excess nitrogen for a couch-potato Beagle. Use the MER (maintenance energy requirement) formula: 70 × (ideal kg)^0.75, then divide daily kcal into grams of key nutrients.
Label Red Flags: What Vets Wish You’d Notice Before Checkout
“Meat by-product meal” without a species is a wildcard that can change between batches. “Added sugars” masquerade as cane molasses or beet pulp; both spike post-prandial glucose and fuel yeast overgrowth in floppy-eared breeds. Finally, check the “best by” date: <12 months from manufacture suggests heavy preservative use or marginal ingredient stability.
Price per Nutrient: Calculating True Value Beyond the Sticker Shock
Divide bag cost by grams of key nutrient (e.g., protein or omega-3). A $55 24-lb bag that delivers 4,800 g protein costs $0.011 per gram of protein—often cheaper than the $45 competitor that’s only 22 % protein. Factor in poop volume: higher digestibility means smaller stools and fewer backyard plastic bags.
Transitioning Safely: Week-Long Protocols That Prevent GI Revolt
Day 1–2: 25 % new, 75 % old. Day 3–4: 50/50. Day 5–6: 75 % new. Day 7: 100 %. Add a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin per 20 lb body weight to ease the fiber shift. If stools turn cow-pie, pause the transition and feed a bland diet for 48 hours before resuming at the previous ratio.
Storage Myths Busted: Keeping Kibble Fresh Without Freezer Burn
Oxidation—not moisture—is the silent killer. Keep the kibble in the original bag (it’s coated with an antioxidant liner), squeeze out air, and place the whole bag inside an airtight bin. Avoid clear plastic containers; UV light destroys vitamin A within weeks. Store below 80 °F—garages in Phoenix are kibble crematoriums.
Sustainability Scoop: Recyclable Packaging and Ethical Sourcing
Simply Nourish’s 2025 packaging shift to #4 polyethylene bags means curbside recyclability in most major cities. Their salmon is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified, and insect protein lines are audited by the Pet Sustainability Coalition. Ask your retailer for the QR code that traces the protein lot back to the farm or fishery.
Consulting the Pros: When to Call Your Vet or a Board-Certified Nutritionist
Chronic ear infections, intermittent vomiting, or a dull coat after 12 weeks on a new diet warrants a full work-up, not another bag swap. Bring the diet history (photos of labels help) and request a nutritional blood panel (albumin, BUN, creatinine, taurine). If your dog has multiple health issues, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition can formulate a custom plan that still incorporates Simply Nourish as a base.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Simply Nourish considered a prescription diet?
No, it’s an over-the-counter brand, but some formulas meet therapeutic nutrient profiles; always confirm with your vet for disease-specific needs.
2. Can I rotate proteins within the brand without a transition period?
Stick to the 7-day protocol even within the same brand—different proteins alter gut microbiota and can trigger soft stools.
3. Does Simply Nourish use any ingredients from China?
Vitamins and minerals are globally sourced, including China, but all final manufacturing and safety testing occur in U.S. facilities.
4. How do I know if my dog is allergic to chicken when chicken fat is in every formula?
Chicken fat contains virtually no protein, so most allergic dogs tolerate it; if symptoms persist, switch to a fat source like salmon.
5. Are the probiotics shelf-stable?
Yes, spore-forming Bacillus coagulans survives room temperature, but once the bag is opened, use it within 60 days for full CFU potency.
6. Is grain-free safe for small-breed dogs?
Current data link DCM risk to genetics more than size; small breeds can eat grain-free if taurine levels are verified adequate.
7. Can I feed Simply Nourish to my pregnant dog?
Choose a puppy-labeled formula for the gestation peak (weeks 5–9) to ensure higher folate and DHA levels.
8. Why is the kibble size different between bags?
Extrusion dies wear over production runs; a 2 mm variance is normal and doesn’t alter nutrient content.
9. How do I report a suspected adverse reaction?
Call the 800-number on the bag, retain the lot code, and ask your vet to file a report with the FDA’s Safety Reporting Portal.
10. Does the brand offer a money-back guarantee?
Most retailers honor a 100 % satisfaction guarantee within 30 days with receipt—keep the empty bag until you’re sure your dog thrives.