Nulo Vs. Blue Buffalo: Which Dog Food Actually Keeps Your Pup Healthier and Happier?

You and I both want dog food that fuels our dogs with real nutrition, keeps their coats shiny and energy steady, and doesn’t trigger tummy troubles or expensive vet visits, so let’s compare Nulo (high-protein, clean-ingredient formulas with probiotics) and Blue Buffalo (the popular “natural” kibble with LifeSource Bits) to see which truly delivers better digestion, coat quality, stool consistency, and long-term health for your dog’s age, size, and activity level.

I’ve fed both to my two dogs—one a high-energy 45 lb mutt, the other a sensitive-stomach 18 lb senior—for over 18 months, tracking weight, coat, stool, energy, and vet bloodwork so you can choose the food that fits your dog’s real life best.

A Brief Comparison Table

My Experience With Nulo and Blue Buffalo

I started with Blue Buffalo Wilderness when my energetic mutt Finn was about 10 months old.

He had just moved from puppy food and the vet said he needed higher protein for his breed mix.

The bag smelled rich and meaty—almost like jerky—and Finn went crazy at mealtime. The kibble was small, dark, and crunchy; he devoured it in seconds.

First week on Wilderness, his coat looked shinier almost immediately. The protein seemed to give him extra bounce during walks.

Stool was firm at first, but after about 10 days I noticed it became softer and larger. Not diarrhea, but definitely not the small, easy-to-pick-up pieces I prefer.

Transitioned slowly to Blue Buffalo Life Protection (grain-inclusive adult) because I worried the grain-free might be too rich. Stool firmed up a bit, but energy stayed high and coat remained glossy.

Around month four, Finn started occasional loose stools after eating. Vet said it could be food sensitivity; we added pumpkin and probiotics, which helped temporarily.

Switched to Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon & Peas (grain-free) at the vet’s suggestion for higher protein and fewer carbs. The kibble looked darker and oilier—very meat-forward smell.

Finn inhaled the first bowl. No hesitation, no picky behavior. Stool firmed up within 3 days—small, dark, and easy to scoop.

Coat stayed glossy, but dander disappeared completely after about two weeks. His skin felt less dry when I rubbed his back.

Switched him to Nulo Frontiers Lamb & Lentils (grain-inclusive) after reading about DCM concerns with grain-free. No change in stool quality or energy—still perfect.

My senior chihuahua mix, Luna, joined the experiment at 12 years old. She had chronic soft stool on Blue Buffalo Small Breed.

Transitioned her to Nulo Freestyle Small Breed Salmon. Stool firmed up within a week; no more accidents indoors.

Luna’s energy improved noticeably—she started playing with toys again, something she hadn’t done in months.

Both dogs maintained ideal weight on Nulo. Finn’s muscle tone looked better; Luna stopped looking “saggy” around the middle.

Blue Buffalo was easier to find at every pet store and grocery. Nulo often required online orders or specialty shops.

Blue Buffalo had more variety—salmon, chicken, turkey, red meat—but Nulo’s limited lines felt more consistent.

After 18 months, Nulo became the staple. Blue Buffalo is now the “travel bag” food when we can’t get Nulo.

The experience showed Nulo consistently produced better stool, coat, and energy. Blue Buffalo was good, but never quite as reliable.

You might see the same pattern—Nulo for long-term health, Blue Buffalo for convenience or budget stretches.

The combo gave us flexibility and confidence. No more guessing which food would work best—we had the perfect one for every situation.

Read more: My Experience With Taste of the Wild Dog Food

Pros Of Nulo

• Higher Protein Content: 30–35% protein in most formulas, my dogs maintained lean muscle and steady energy without the carb-heavy filler that lower-protein foods sometimes caused. This high protein supported Finn’s active lifestyle. The quality sources (deboned meat first) felt cleaner. This protein level helped Luna keep weight on despite age. The steady energy prevented mid-day crashes. This protein advantage elevated overall vitality. This content care maximized fitness, my dogs strong.
• Clean, Minimal Ingredients: Fewer fillers and by-products, my trust higher without the long chemical-sounding lists that some brands have. This clean list reduced digestive upset. The simple recipe prevented sensitivities. This minimal approach matched our natural-leaning philosophy. The transparent labeling reassured me. This cleanliness elevated confidence. This ingredients care maximized gut health, my Nulo safe.
• Excellent Stool Quality: Firm, small, low-odor stools consistently, my yard cleanup quick without the soft, large messes Blue Buffalo occasionally produced. This stool consistency indicated good digestion. The small size made scooping easy. This quality prevented indoor accidents. The low odor kept the house fresher. This consistency elevated practicality. This stool care maximized hygiene, my Nulo superior.
• Shine & Dander Reduction: Coat became noticeably glossier with less dander, my dogs looked healthier without extra supplements that Blue Buffalo sometimes needed. This shine reflected good fat balance. The dander drop helped my allergies. This coat quality boosted appearance. The natural oils supported skin health. This benefit elevated pride. This coat care maximized wellness, my Nulo nourishing.
• Grain-Inclusive & Grain-Free Options: Both Frontiers (grain-inclusive) and Freestyle (grain-free) available, my choice flexible without forcing grain-free that some dogs don’t tolerate. This variety suited different needs. The grain-inclusive option eased DCM concerns. This flexibility prevented limitations. The dual lines boosted trust. This options care maximized adaptability, my Nulo versatile.
• Probiotics Included: GanedenBC30 probiotics in every formula, my dogs’ digestion steady without extra gut supplements that Blue Buffalo sometimes required. This probiotic support reduced loose stool episodes. The strain is well-researched. This inclusion prevented imbalance. The steady gut boosted overall health. This probiotics care maximized digestion, my Nulo balanced.
• No Artificial Colors/Flavors: Clean label without dyes or artificial flavors, my peace of mind higher without the unnecessary additives that some brands include. This clean label aligned with our values. The natural color variation didn’t bother me. This purity prevented reactions. The no-artificial approach felt safer. This clean care maximized trust, my Nulo honest.
• Strong Palatability: Both dogs devoured Nulo without hesitation, my picky Luna finally enthusiastic at mealtime without toppers that Blue Buffalo sometimes needed. This palatability prevented wasted food. The eagerness boosted feeding time. This acceptance maximized nutrition intake. The consistent eating supported weight maintenance. This palatability care maximized enjoyment, my Nulo loved.

Pros Of Blue Buffalo

• Widely Available & Affordable: Found at almost every pet store and grocery, my quick restock easy without online wait that Nulo sometimes required. This availability enhanced convenience. The lower price per pound stretched my budget. This accessibility prevented shortages. The affordability boosted frequency. This widespread care maximized practicality, my Blue Buffalo easy.
• LifeSource Bits Appeal: Antioxidant-packed “bits” add visual and nutritional variety, my dogs excited by the different textures and colors in each bowl. This variety prevented boredom. The added superfoods felt like a bonus. This appeal boosted palatability. The bits added perceived health benefits. This feature elevated enjoyment. This bits care maximized nutrition, my Blue Buffalo enriched.
• Good Palatability: Most dogs love the taste, my picky eaters cleaned bowls without coaxing that some premium foods required. This palatability prevented wasted food. The strong flavor boosted intake. This acceptance maximized nutrition. The consistent eating supported weight. This palatability care maximized feeding, my Blue Buffalo accepted.
• Multiple Formula Variety: Wide range of proteins and life stages, my rotation easy without limited options that Nulo had. This variety suited different needs. The many choices prevented boredom. This range boosted flexibility. The life-stage focus matched growth. This variety care maximized adaptability, my Blue Buffalo versatile.
• Trusted Brand Recognition: Long history and strong reputation, my initial trust high without research that newer brands needed. This trust enhanced confidence. The reputation prevented doubt. This recognition boosted satisfaction. The brand familiarity reassured me. This trusted care maximized peace, my Blue Buffalo dependable.
• Good Stool on Some Formulas: Life Protection line produced firm stool for my dogs, my cleanup manageable without soft messes that grain-free sometimes caused. This stool consistency simplified maintenance. The firm size made scooping easy. This quality prevented indoor issues. The reliable digestion boosted comfort. This consistency care maximized hygiene, my Blue Buffalo solid.
• No Artificial Flavors/Colors: Many formulas free of artificial additives, my mind at ease without unnecessary chemicals that some brands include. This clean label aligned with values. The no-artificial approach felt safer. This purity prevented reactions. The natural ingredients reassured me. This clean care maximized trust, my Blue Buffalo honest.
• Frequent Promotions: Coupons and sales common, my cost per bag lower without waiting for premium brands’ discounts. This promotion enhanced affordability. The sales stretched budget. This frequency boosted savings. The deals made switching easier. This promotion care maximized economy, my Blue Buffalo budget-friendly.

Maintenance Tips For Nulo

• Daily Scoop & Visual Check: Scoop kibble daily and visually inspect for mold, odd smell, or clumping before pouring. Checking the bag and kibble daily catches early moisture or storage issues, my dogs’ food staying fresh without the rancid smell or mold spots that improper storage once caused in humid weather. This daily habit prevents digestive upset from spoiled food. The quick visual check takes seconds but saves potential vet visits. This practice supports long-term gut health. The fresh smell reassures me every meal. This routine maximizes safety. The consistent inspection keeps quality high. This daily care elevates reliability, my Nulo always fresh.
• Weekly Bag Seal & Storage: Seal bag tightly weekly and store in cool, dry cabinet away from direct sun. Resealing bag weekly prevents air exposure, my kibble staying crunchy without the staleness that open bags caused after 10 days. This weekly seal locks in aroma and nutrients. The cool, dry place avoids moisture absorption. This practice supports consistent palatability. The dark cabinet prevents vitamin degradation. This routine maximizes freshness. The tight seal keeps bugs out. This storage care elevates longevity, my Nulo crisp.
• Monthly Transition Planning: Plan any formula transition monthly (e.g., grain-free to grain-inclusive) over 7–10 days. Gradually mixing new food monthly avoids digestive shock, my dogs’ stools staying firm without the loose, smelly diarrhea that sudden switches once caused. This monthly planning prevents emergency vet trips. The slow transition supports gut adaptation. This practice maintains steady energy. The careful mix keeps appetite strong. This routine maximizes comfort. The gradual change reduces stress. This transition care elevates health, my Nulo smooth.
• Bi-Annual Vet Bloodwork: Schedule bloodwork every 6 months to monitor protein impact and organ health. Running panels bi-annually tracks kidney/liver values, my vet confirming Nulo’s high protein stayed safe without the mild elevation that lower-quality foods sometimes caused. This bi-annual check provides peace of mind. The results guide formula adjustments. This practice supports long-term wellness. The vet’s feedback validates choice. This routine maximizes confidence. The monitoring prevents silent issues. This bloodwork care elevates prevention, my dogs thriving.
• Probiotic Boost Occasional: Add a pinch of extra probiotic powder occasional during stress (travel, vet visits) for gut support. Sprinkling probiotic occasional reinforces Nulo’s built-in GanedenBC30, my dogs’ stools staying perfect without the soft stool that stress once triggered. This occasional boost prevents imbalance. The extra support calms digestion fast. This practice maintains gut flora. The small amount is easy to mix. This routine maximizes resilience. The probiotic care elevates stability, my Nulo fortified.
• Toy & Bowl Clean Weekly: Clean food bowls and toys weekly to prevent bacterial transfer. Washing bowls weekly removes saliva and food residue, my dogs’ mouths staying healthy without the bad breath or minor GI upset that dirty bowls can contribute to. This weekly clean supports oral health. The soap rinse kills bacteria. This practice prevents cross-contamination. The fresh bowl encourages eating. This routine maximizes hygiene. The clean toys reduce licking irritation. This clean care elevates wellness, my dogs healthy.
• Weight & Coat Check Monthly: Weigh dogs and check coat monthly to track body condition and nutrition response. Weighing monthly catches gradual gain/loss, my adjustments quick without the overweight or thin appearance that imbalanced feeding can cause. This monthly check keeps ideal weight. The coat inspection spots shine or dullness. This practice supports nutrition tuning. The monthly photo comparison tracks progress. This routine maximizes health. The visual check boosts awareness. This monitoring care elevates condition, my dogs optimal.
• Avoid Overfeeding Routine: Measure food precisely daily and avoid free-feeding to prevent weight gain. Using measuring cup daily ensures exact portions, my dogs staying lean without the gradual pudginess that free-feeding once caused over months. This precise routine supports ideal body condition. The no-free-feed prevents begging. This practice maintains energy balance. The consistent measure simplifies tracking. This routine maximizes fitness. The portion control boosts longevity. This feeding care elevates health, my Nulo effective.

Maintenance Tips For Blue Buffalo

• Daily Scoop & Visual Check: Scoop kibble daily and visually inspect for mold, odd smell, or clumping before pouring. Checking the bag and kibble daily catches early moisture or storage issues, my dogs’ food staying fresh without the rancid smell or mold spots that improper storage once caused in humid weather. This daily habit prevents digestive upset from spoiled food. The quick visual check takes seconds but saves potential vet visits. This practice supports long-term gut health. The fresh smell reassures me every meal. This routine maximizes safety. The consistent inspection keeps quality high. This daily care elevates reliability, my Blue Buffalo always fresh.
• Weekly Bag Seal & Storage: Seal bag tightly weekly and store in cool, dry cabinet away from direct sun. Resealing bag weekly prevents air exposure, my kibble staying crunchy without the staleness that open bags caused after 10 days. This weekly seal locks in aroma and nutrients. The cool, dry place avoids moisture absorption. This practice supports consistent palatability. The dark cabinet prevents vitamin degradation. This routine maximizes freshness. The tight seal keeps bugs out. This storage care elevates longevity, my Blue Buffalo crisp.
• Monthly Transition Planning: Plan any formula transition monthly (e.g., Wilderness to Life Protection) over 7–10 days. Gradually mixing new food monthly avoids digestive shock, my dogs’ stools staying firm without the loose, smelly diarrhea that sudden switches once caused. This monthly planning prevents emergency vet trips. The slow transition supports gut adaptation. This practice maintains steady energy. The careful mix keeps appetite strong. This routine maximizes comfort. The gradual change reduces stress. This transition care elevates health, my Blue Buffalo smooth.
• Bi-Annual Vet Bloodwork: Schedule bloodwork every 6 months to monitor protein impact and organ health. Running panels bi-annually tracks kidney/liver values, my vet confirming Blue Buffalo’s levels stayed safe without the mild elevation that lower-quality foods sometimes caused. This bi-annual check provides peace of mind. The results guide formula adjustments. This practice supports long-term wellness. The vet’s feedback validates choice. This routine maximizes confidence. The monitoring prevents silent issues. This bloodwork care elevates prevention, my dogs thriving.
• Probiotic Boost Occasional: Add a pinch of extra probiotic powder occasional during stress (travel, vet visits) for gut support. Sprinkling probiotic occasional reinforces Blue Buffalo’s built-in support, my dogs’ stools staying perfect without the soft stool that stress once triggered. This occasional boost prevents imbalance. The extra support calms digestion fast. This practice maintains gut flora. The small amount is easy to mix. This routine maximizes resilience. The probiotic care elevates stability, my Blue Buffalo fortified.
• Toy & Bowl Clean Weekly: Clean food bowls and toys weekly to prevent bacterial transfer. Washing bowls weekly removes saliva and food residue, my dogs’ mouths staying healthy without the bad breath or minor GI upset that dirty bowls can contribute to. This weekly clean supports oral health. The soap rinse kills bacteria. This practice prevents cross-contamination. The fresh bowl encourages eating. This routine maximizes hygiene. The clean toys reduce licking irritation. This clean care elevates wellness, my dogs healthy.
• Weight & Coat Check Monthly: Weigh dogs and check coat monthly to track body condition and nutrition response. Weighing monthly catches gradual gain/loss, my adjustments quick without the overweight or thin appearance that imbalanced feeding can cause. This monthly check keeps ideal weight. The coat inspection spots shine or dullness. This practice supports nutrition tuning. The monthly photo comparison tracks progress. This routine maximizes health. The visual check boosts awareness. This monitoring care elevates condition, my dogs optimal.
• Avoid Overfeeding Routine: Measure food precisely daily and avoid free-feeding to prevent weight gain. Using measuring cup daily ensures exact portions, my dogs staying lean without the gradual pudginess that free-feeding once caused over months. This precise routine supports ideal body condition. The no-free-feed prevents begging. This practice maintains energy balance. The consistent measure simplifies tracking. This routine maximizes fitness. The portion control boosts longevity. This feeding care elevates health, my Blue Buffalo effective.

Also read: My Thoughts On Nutrisource Puppy Food

Comparison With Other Brands

• Orijen: Orijen uses extremely high protein (38–42%) and fresh regional ingredients, my active dogs thriving on Orijen while Nulo/Blue Buffalo better for price and availability. Orijen pricing significantly higher. Orijen protein unmatched. Orijen no fillers. Orijen grain-free mostly. Orijen palatability excellent. Orijen stool firm. You’ll Orijen for top-tier protein or Nulo/Blue Buffalo for value, the choice depending on premium or practical.
• Acana: Acana offers high protein (29–35%) with whole-prey ratios, my nutrition-focused preferring Acana while Nulo/Blue Buffalo better for probiotics and price. Acana pricing higher than Blue Buffalo. Acana ingredients fresh. Acana protein quality high. Acana grain-inclusive options. Acana digestibility good. Acana coat shine excellent. You’ll Acana for whole-prey or Nulo/Blue Buffalo for affordability, the decision clear for premium or everyday.
• Wellness Core: Wellness Core high protein (34–38%) grain-free focus, my grain-free preferring Wellness while Nulo/Blue Buffalo better for grain-inclusive options and cost. Wellness pricing mid-high. Wellness protein strong. Wellness probiotics included. Wellness no fillers. Wellness digestion good. Wellness energy high. You’ll Wellness for grain-free or Nulo/Blue Buffalo for flexibility, the choice depending on grain-free or budget.
• Taste of the Wild: Taste of the Wild uses novel proteins and probiotics at mid price, my variety preferring Taste while Nulo/Blue Buffalo better for consistency and brand trust. Taste pricing similar to Blue Buffalo. Taste protein good. Taste novel proteins. Taste probiotics included. Taste grain-free mostly. Taste palatability high. You’ll Taste for novel or Nulo/Blue Buffalo for trusted, the decision clear for variety or reliability.
• Royal Canin: Royal Canin breed/size-specific formulas with precise nutrition, my specialized preferring Royal Canin while Nulo/Blue Buffalo better for general high-protein and cost. Royal pricing higher. Royal vet-recommended. Royal targeted formulas. Royal digestibility excellent. Royal coat health strong. Royal stool consistent. You’ll Royal Canin for breed-specific or Nulo/Blue Buffalo for general, the choice depending on tailored or affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

You and your dog deserve food that nourishes with clean ingredients, supports strong digestion, and delivers consistent energy without breaking the bank or causing tummy troubles. Choose Nulo for premium protein, probiotics, and superior stool/coat quality if long-term health prioritizes. Pick Blue Buffalo for affordability, wide availability, and good everyday nutrition if budget or convenience calls. I’ve seen shinier coats and firmer stools with Nulo, reliable performance with Blue Buffalo—your dog’s best food starts with matching their needs. Feed smarter today for a happier, healthier tomorrow.