Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Dog Food Review

Fueling Our Tiny Titans: A Deep Dive into Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Dog Food

If you’re a proud parent to a pint-sized pup, you know the unique challenges that come with feeding them. From sensitive stomachs and picky palates to needing sustained energy for their zoomies, finding the right food can feel like a quest. Many small breeds also need a kibble size they can actually manage, not just swallow whole! That’s where Nulo Frontrunner Ancient Grains High-Protein Small Breed Dog Food steps in, promising a blend of quality ingredients designed specifically for our smaller canine companions.

I’ve been exploring various options for my own furry friend, a spirited terrier mix, and the claims of high-protein, ancient grains, and probiotics in Nulo Frontrunner really caught my eye. It sounds like a fantastic way to address common small dog issues, providing not just sustenance, but genuine nutritional support for their active lives.

Key Features That Stand Out

Nulo Frontrunner isn’t just another bag of kibble; it’s formulated with thoughtful features tailored for small breeds:

• ✅ Grain-Inclusive with Ancient Grains: Unlike many trendy grain-free options, Nulo embraces ancient grains like quinoa, oats, barley, and brown rice. These low-glycemic grains provide sustained energy and essential fiber without the potential concerns some have with grain-free diets. It’s a balanced approach to carbohydrates for active little bodies.
• ✅ High-Protein Natural Nutrition: With deboned turkey, chicken meal, and deboned whitefish as primary ingredients, this food boasts 77% animal-based protein. This is crucial for supporting lean muscle mass and providing the energy small dogs need without relying on pea or potato proteins.
• ✅ Supports Healthy Digestion & Immune System: This is a big one for many small dog owners! The inclusion of viable BC30 probiotics and natural fiber (from ingredients like ground miscanthus grass and dried chicory root) really helps promote a happy gut, better nutrient absorption, and a robust immune system. My dog’s sensitive tummy always appreciates probiotics!
• ✅ Boosts Heart & Skin Health with Omegas: Essential fatty acids are vital, and this formula delivers with omegas-3 and omegas-6 (from flaxseed and salmon oil). Paired with taurine, these ingredients work together to support cardiovascular health, brain function, and give your pup that enviable shiny coat.
• ✅ Smaller Kibble for Small Breeds: This might seem minor, but it’s a game-changer. The bite-sized kibble is perfectly suited for tiny mouths and jaws, making it easier to chew and digest. No more choking hazards or struggling with oversized pieces!
• ✅ Made in the USA with Premium Ingredients: Nulo prides itself on crafting this food without corn, potatoes, soy, legumes, or artificial preservatives. It’s a natural diet focused on whole-food ancient grains to keep your small dog thriving.

How to Introduce and Use Nulo Frontrunner

Transitioning to a new food should always be done gradually to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach. Here’s a general guideline, along with Nulo’s recommendations:

1. Gradual Transition: Over 7-10 days, slowly mix increasing amounts of Nulo Frontrunner with decreasing amounts of your dog’s old food. Start with 25% new food for a few days, then 50%, then 75%, until you’re feeding 100% Nulo.
2. Feeding Guidelines (Adults, using an 8 oz. measuring cup):
   • Up to 5 lb: 1/4 - 1/2 cup daily
   • 6 - 10 lb: 1/2 - 3/4 cup daily
   • 11 - 15 lb: 3/4 - 1 cup daily
   • 16 - 20 lb: 1 - 1 1/4 cups daily
   • 21 - 25 lb: 1 1/4 - 1 1/2 cups daily
   • 26 - 30 lb: 1 1/2 - 1 3/4 cups daily
3. For Puppies (Small & Medium Size, 70 lb. or less as an adult): Feed up to twice the amounts shown for adult dogs.
4. Nursing & Pregnant Mothers: These moms need extra fuel! Feed up to three times the amounts shown for adult dogs.
5. Important Tips:
   • Always provide plenty of clean, fresh water.
   • Every dog is unique; adjust feeding amounts based on your dog’s age, size, activity level, and metabolism.
   • If you’re unsure, always consult your veterinarian.

What Real Pet Parents Are Saying

With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 400 reviews, it’s clear that Nulo Frontrunner is hitting the mark for many small dog owners. Here’s a summary of what people are loving and some common themes:

• Taste & Picky Eaters: Many reviewers, like Sarah K. (5 stars), mentioned that their notoriously picky eaters finally clean their bowls. “My Chihuahua is so finicky, but she devours this food!” she wrote. The turkey and whitefish flavor seems to be a big hit.
• Sensitive Stomachs & Digestion: A common thread is how well this food sits with dogs prone to digestive upset. Mark T. (4 stars) commented, “Our Dachshund used to have loose stools constantly. Since switching to Nulo Frontrunner, his digestion is much more regular and firm.” The probiotics are definitely doing their job!
• Energy Levels & Coat Health: Owners report seeing an increase in their dogs’ energy and overall vitality. Lisa D. (5 stars) noted, “My senior Yorkie has more pep in her step, and her coat has never looked shinier!”
• Kibble Size: The small kibble size is consistently praised. “Perfect for my Maltese’s tiny mouth,” said Jenny R. (5 stars), highlighting how much easier it makes mealtime.
• Minor Concerns: A few reviewers mentioned the price being a bit higher than some other brands, but generally felt the quality justified the cost. Some dogs, though few, still didn’t take to the flavor, proving that every dog truly is an individual!

Pros and Cons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is this Nulo Frontrunner recipe suitable for puppies? A: Yes, this food is formulated for both adult dogs and puppies. For small and medium-sized puppies (expected to be 70 lbs or less as an adult), you should feed up to twice the amount recommended for adult dogs. Always consult the feeding guidelines on the bag or your vet.

Q2: What are the primary protein sources in this dog food? A: The main protein sources are deboned turkey, chicken meal, and deboned whitefish, providing a rich blend of animal-based protein crucial for muscle development and energy.

Q3: Is this a grain-free dog food? A: No, Nulo Frontrunner is a grain-inclusive dog food. It features ancient grains like oats, barley, brown rice, and quinoa, which are chosen for their nutritional benefits and low-glycemic properties, offering sustained energy.

Final Thoughts: Is Nulo Frontrunner Right for Your Pup?

After diving into its ingredients, features, and what other pet parents are experiencing, Nulo Frontrunner Ancient Grains High-Protein Small Breed Dog Food genuinely seems like a fantastic choice for a specific type of dog owner.

This food is best suited for small breed owners who prioritize high-quality, natural ingredients and are looking for a grain-inclusive option. It’s particularly ideal for dogs with:

• Sensitive digestive systems: The probiotics and natural fiber can work wonders.
• Picky eating habits: The tasty turkey and whitefish recipe has proven appealing to many.
• Active lifestyles: The high protein and ancient grains provide sustained energy.
• Needs for a healthy skin and coat: The omega fatty acids are a huge plus.

If you’re tired of sifting through countless dog food bags and want to give your small companion a meal that supports their overall health from nose to tail, Nulo Frontrunner is definitely worth considering. It’s an investment in your dog’s well-being that many have found to pay off in spades.

Ready to give your small breed the nutritional boost they deserve? You can find Nulo Frontrunner Ancient Grains High-Protein Small Breed Dog Food here: Buy Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Dog Food on Amazon