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Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe

Nulo

Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe

DogDry

Rating

★︎★︎★︎★︎★︎ 5.0 / 5
Protein Clarity

Protein Clarity

This measures how clearly the protein sources are identified on the label. "High" means ingredients like "chicken" or "salmon" are listed by name, so you know exactly what your pet is eating. "Low" means vague terms like "meat meal" or "animal by-products" are used, making it harder to know what's really inside.

Why does clarity matter?

According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), pet food labels must follow specific naming standards. When a product uses a named protein like "chicken" it must contain at least 25% of that ingredient. Vague terms like "meat by-products" have no such minimum and can include lower-quality parts from any animal source — making it impossible to know what your pet is actually eating or to identify allergens.

High
Animal Protein

Animal Protein

This estimates how meat-forward the protein sources are from the ingredient label. Named animal proteins count strongly, plant protein concentrates count strongly against the score, and whole plant ingredients with some protein count more lightly. A "High" score means the recipe appears mainly animal-protein led. A "Low" score means the label shows a stronger reliance on plant protein signals.

This is an ingredient-label heuristic, not an exact lab measurement of protein grams.

Why does animal protein matter?

1. Contains irreplaceable essential nutrients Taurine and Arginine — which cats need to stay healthy — are only found in meat. Plants contain none at all.

2. Plant proteins are poorly utilized by the body Even though plant proteins (like corn gluten meal) may show 92.9–96% apparent digestibility, that does not mean high bioavailability. They lack adequate Lysine (only 1.7% vs. the ideal 6–7%) and contain phytic acid that blocks mineral absorption.

High

Is Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe dry dog food good?

Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe is a dry dog food rated 5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. The recipe lists most animal ingredients by name and features real muscle meat as a primary protein source. This recipe is free from Dairy, Egg, Legumes, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal but contains Gluten grains, Poultry, Fish.

Allergy Highlights

Contains:

Gluten grainsPoultryFish

Free From:

DairyEggLegumesNutsRed meatShellfishUnknown Meal

Pros

  • Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
  • Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
  • Uses mainly organic mineral sources, which are typically better absorbed.

Ingredients Analysis

38 of 38 matched

  • 1 Turkey
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A large bird looks similar to chicken, high in protein, and packed with vitamin B3, B6, B12, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 2 Turkey Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A large bird looks similar to chicken, high in protein, and packed with vitamin B3, B6, B12, selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 3 Oatmeal
    Carbs

    Description

    A whole grain that has higher protein and fats compared to other types. It is rich in B-vitamins and dietary fiber.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

  • 4 Barley
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of grain that is high in carbs and fiber, along with manganese and selenium.

    Why Concerned?

    An inexpensive filler with gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

    Allergen Concern

    Contains gluten, which is one of the most common allergens that can cause skin rashes, itchiness, and irritation.

    Digestion Concern

    Gluten intolerances can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract, may result in diarrhea and discomfort stomach.

  • 5 Brown Rice
    Carbs

    Description

    Whole grain rice with its bran and germ remained, high in carbs and fiber. Studies have shown that rice bran depletes taurine in cats, which is an essential amino acid.

    Why Concerned?

    A common filler without gluten, with limited nutrition value to dogs / cats.

  • 6 Whitefish Meal
    Animal Protein

    Description

    A dehydrated form of white fish. it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh fish on dry matter basis.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 7 Chicken Fat
    Fat

    Description

    The fatty layer separated during the cooking process, with a high level of omega 6, It is more preferable by dogs and cats over other types of fats.

    Why Prefer?

    A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.

  • 8 Quinoa
    Carbs Plant Protein

    Description

    An ancient seed high in carbs, contains around 15% protein with all essential amino acids - a complete protein profile.

  • 9 Dried Beet Pulp
    Carbs

    Description

    The leftover pulp after sugar is extracted from sugar beets, contains higher fiber and less sugar compared to whole beets.

    Why Concerned?

    Controversial - Some say it is a good dietary fiber source, some believe it is just an inexpensive filler.

  • 10 Natural Flavor
    Food Additive

    Description

    Made of extracts from plant or animal sources to improve the taste of food.

    Why Concerned?

    Contrary to its name, natural flavors are highly processed and contain many chemical additives.

  • 11 Flaxseed
    Fat

    Description

    One of the richest sources of plant-based omega 3s, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains around 41% of fat, 57% of the total fatty acids is omega 3s.

  • 12 Dried Chicory Root
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains insulin, which is a prebiotic that promotes friendly bacteria in the gut and supports better digestion.

  • 13 Dried Apple
    Carbs

    Description

    Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.

  • 14 Dried Carrot
    Carbs

    Description

    Well known for its alpha and beta-carotene content, also rich in potassium and vitamin B6. Most pet foods use it as a minor ingredient (include 0.1% to 3% of the total composition).

  • 15 Dried Blueberry
    Carbs

    Description

    Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.

  • 16 Dried Kale
    Carbs

    Description

    A type of dark green leafy vegetables belongs to the cruciferous family. It is high in vitamin A, C, K, and other minerals, which is one of the most nutrient-dense food.

    Digestion Concern

    Contains isothiocyanates, a small molecule found in specific plants, which can cause mild to severe gastric irritation.

    Uncertain/Risky

    Contains calcium oxalate, which can cause health problems like kidney and bladder stone.

  • 17 Dried Spinach
    Carbs

    Description

    Nutrient-dense leafy greens, an excellent source of vitamin A, C, K1, B9, iron, and calcium.

  • 18 Salt
    Others

    Description

    Mainly added to enhance the flavor, might cause kidney and blood pressure issues in a larger dose. High-quality pet foods should get a sufficient amount from raw meat, additional salt is not necessary.

    Why Concerned?

    A controversial ingredient that might cause health issues, unnecessary for the risk.

  • 19 Potassium Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of potassium, which offers 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body. It is essential for important functions like nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and carbon dioxide / oxygen transport.

  • 20 Choline Chloride
    Supplement

    Description

    Vital molecule for various functions in the body, lack of choline can result in weight loss, vomiting, and fatty liver.

  • 21 Taurine
    Supplement

    Description

    An essential amino acid (building blocks of protein) to maintain a healthy brain and heart functions.

    Why Prefer?

    A safe supplement to improve the completeness of essential amino acids profile (the building block of protein).

  • 22 Zinc Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 23 Iron Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 24 Copper Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 25 Manganese Proteinate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% higher absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is essential for normal metabolic function with the body.

  • 26 Sodium Selenite
    Food Additive

    Description

    An inorganic selenium supplement. It remains controversial as the long term effect of consuming it is not known, and there is a much safer organic alternative available.

    Why Concerned?

    A food additive that is likely to be safe but unnecessary.

  • 27 Calcium Iodate
    Supplement

    Description

    An inorganic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.

  • 28 Vitamin E Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin E, which is an important antioxidant that protects oxidative damages on cellular membranes by free radicals. A deficiency will result in symptoms like anorexia, depression, and dermatitis.

  • 29 Niacin Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.

  • 30 D-calcium Pantothenate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of calcium, it is essential in the formation of bones / teeth and different cellular functions. Compare to inorganic form, it has 5 - 15% more absorption rate to the body.

  • 31 Vitamin A Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.

  • 32 Thiamine Mononitrate
    Supplement

    Description

    An organic form of thiamine, has 5 - 15% more absorption rate than the inorganic form. It is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.

  • 33 Riboflavin Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.

  • 34 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
    Supplement

    Description

    A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.

  • 35 Vitamin B12 Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin B12, which is vital for carbon transfer and propionate metabolism. A deficiency will result in symptoms similar to gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and weight loss.

  • 36 Vitamin D3 Supplement
    Supplement

    Description

    Supplement for vitamin D3 (animal-derived), which is essential for calcium homeostasis - to maintain a constant concentration of calcium. A deficiency will result in osteopenia (lower bone mass).

  • 37 Folic Acid
    Supplement

    Description

    A synthetic form of folate, which is also known as vitamin B9. It plays an important role to support the body's functions, such as cell growth.

  • 38 Biotin
    Supplement

    Description

    A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.

Tips

  • Named animal proteins near the top: Turkey, Turkey Meal are listed early in the ingredient panel.
  • Plant protein signal: Quinoa may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
  • Ingredients worth checking: Oatmeal, Barley, Brown Rice.
  • Higher-caution ingredients: Dried Kale have caution notes in the ingredient database.
  • Possible allergy triggers: Barley have allergen notes; review them if your pet has sensitivities.

Protein Analysis

How this recipe earned its protein scores.

Protein Clarity

High
High
  • Named 100%

Strong clarity: 100% of Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe's animal-protein ingredients are clearly named (like chicken or salmon). Only 0% use vague terms such as "meat meal" and 0% are by-products. Named protein ingredients let you verify the source and check for allergens.

Contributing ingredients

Named

Turkey Turkey Meal Whitefish Meal

Animal Protein

High
High
  • Animal 95%
  • Plant 5%

Meat-forward: 95% of the weighted protein in Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (5% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.

Contributing ingredients

Animal

Turkey Turkey Meal Whitefish Meal

Plant

Quinoa

Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe dry dog food Review

Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe is a strong choice — rated 5 stars with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content. A confident pick when the ingredient panel matches your pet's needs.

Best for

  • Owners who want clearly named protein sources
  • Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein
  • Owners prioritizing bioavailable minerals

Avoid if

  • Your pet has a grain or gluten sensitivity

Key takeaways

  • Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
  • Contains common allergens: Gluten grains, Poultry, Fish.
  • 95% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
  • Free from Dairy, Egg, Legumes, Nuts, Red meat, Shellfish, Unknown Meal.
  • Overall rating: 5 stars, based on transparency, protein source, and macro balance.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe good for dogs?

Yes — rated 5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.

Does Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe contain Dairy?

No — based on the ingredient list, Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe contain Egg?

No — based on the ingredient list, Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe doesn't include Egg or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Egg can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe contain Legumes?

No — based on the ingredient list, Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe doesn't include Legumes or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Legumes can typically avoid this allergen here.

Does Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe contain Nuts?

No — based on the ingredient list, Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.

Is Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe grain-free?

No — the recipe contains Gluten grains.

What are the main protein sources in Nulo Frontrunner Small Breed Turkey, Whitefish & Quinoa Recipe?

The top animal proteins are Turkey, Turkey Meal, Whitefish Meal — clearly named, so you can verify the source.

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