Nutrience
SubZero Northern Lakes
Rating
Is Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes dry dog food good?
Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes 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. However, most minerals are supplied in inorganic forms that may be less well absorbed. This recipe is free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Unknown Meal but contains Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Red meat, Fish, Shellfish.
Allergy Highlights
Contains:
Free From:
Pros
- Uses clearly named animal protein sources for better transparency.
- Contains organ meats that provide natural vitamins and minerals.
- Includes plant ingredients that can provide fiber and natural antioxidants.
Cons
- Relies mostly on inorganic mineral supplements, which may be less bioavailable.
Ingredients Analysis
62 of 63 matched
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1 Duck
Animal ProteinDescription
A novel animal protein source in pet foods. Other than protein, it is also rich in vitamin B3, B2, selenium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and copper.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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2 Cod
Animal ProteinDescription
A popular white fish that is high in protein, omega 3s and low in mercury.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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3 Lamb
Animal ProteinDescription
A type of red meat, high in protein and rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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4 Salmon Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
The dehydrated form of salmon, a meat concentrate that could contain up to 400% more protein compared to fresh meat. It is one of the most nutrient-dense fish, high in protein, packed with omega 3s, B vitamins, and it is a good source of potassium selenium, and antioxidants.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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5 Herring Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of herring, which contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a small silvery fish with low content of mercury. It is high in protein, vitamin D, selenium, and omega 3s.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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6 Cod Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of codfish, it is a meat concentrate that contains up to 4 times more protein than fresh cod on dry matter basis.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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7 Peas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 22% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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8 Red Lentils
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
A type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 27% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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9 Canola Oil
FatDescription
Oil extracted from canola seed, high in omega 6 fats and contains a small amount of trans-fats which is not optimal for health.
Why Concerned?
A controversial, less optimal choice of fat.
Digestion Concern
High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
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10 Lamb Meal
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of lamb, a meat concentrate that contains up to 400% more protein than the fresh form. It is a type of red meat, high in protein and rich in iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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11 Sweet Potato
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent amount of vitamin A, C, B6.
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12 Chickpeas
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Also known as garbanzo beans, a type of legume that is added to boost up the protein content and acts as an alternative carb. It contains around 20% protein.
Digestion Concern
Legume contains oligosaccharides, which is a 3 - 5 carbon short-chain sugar that are indigestible by dogs / cats.
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13 Egg
Animal ProteinDescription
It contains almost every nutrient the body needs. It also has the highest biological value (protein absorption) among other animal proteins.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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14 Natural Lamb Flavor
Food AdditiveDescription
A flavor made of lamb parts, it is used to make pet food more tasty and palatable.
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15 Dried Alfalfa
Carbs Plant ProteinDescription
Typically used in horse feed, high in fiber, and contains around 20% plant protein.
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16 Freeze Dried Duck
(Detected): Freeze-dried Duck
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of ducks by "cold" drying instead of "heat" drying. This method retains more nutrition value of the ingredient, but it costs up to 5 times more than the conventional drying process.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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17 Freeze-dried Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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18 Freeze-dried Green Mussels
(Detected): Freeze-dried Green Mussel
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of mussel by "cold" drying instead of "heat" drying. This method retains more nutrition value of the ingredient, but it costs up to 5 times more than the conventional drying process. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamin A, B12, zinc, and iron.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal protein with high digestibility and biological value.
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19 Freeze-dried Cod Liver
Animal ProteinDescription
A dehydrated form of the cod liver by "cold" drying instead of "heat" drying. This method retains more nutrition value of the ingredient, but it costs up to 5 times more than the conventional drying process.
Why Prefer?
Organ meats are highly nutritious, with quality protein and many important vitamins / minerals.
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20 Freeze-dried Kelp
CarbsDescription
An excellent source of various minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium. Rich in rare mineral iodine essential for healthy thyroid function.
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21 Salmon Oil
FatDescription
The oil extracted from salmon, an excellent source of fat and omega 3s, which is important to reduce inflammation in the body.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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22 Herring Oil
FatDescription
The fish oil extracted from herring. It is an excellent source of omega 3s, DHA, and EPA, which help reduce inflammation in the body.
Why Prefer?
A high-quality animal fat with high digestibility and biological value.
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23 Coconut Oil
FatDescription
The richest source of "medium-chain triglycerides" (MCT). One of the MCT, lauric acid is said to help to fight off viruses and infection of the body.
Digestion Concern
High amount of plant-based fat is not easily digested by dogs / cats, can cause obstruction and gastrointestinal upset.
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24 Pumpkin
CarbsDescription
An alternative high carbs filler with an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and beta carotene.
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25 Winter Squash
CarbsDescription
A variety of squash, a good source of potassium, vitamin A, and fiber.
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26 Carrot
CarbsDescription
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).
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27 Spinach
CarbsDescription
Nutrient-dense leafy greens, an excellent source of vitamin A, C, K1, B9, iron, and calcium.
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28 Broccoli
CarbsDescription
A safe treat for both dogs and cats in small amounts, as it contains isothiocyanates which can cause gastric irritation.
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29 Apple
CarbsDescription
Contains mainly carbs and sugar with multiple antioxidants to prevent radical damages by oxidative stress.
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30 Blueberry
CarbsDescription
Superfood packed with antioxidants, a good source of vitamin C, K, and manganese.
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31 Cranberry
CarbsDescription
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, it is also best known for fighting Urinary Tract Infections. While it could be true for humans, the effect on pets is yet to be confirmed by further research.
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32 Pomegranate
CarbsDescription
The red round fruit with many small edible seeds called "arils" inside. Arils are high in sugar - and a good source of vitamin C, K, folate, and potassium. Punicalagins, the antioxidant from the fruit, is said to be 3 times more powerful than green tea.
- 33 Juniper Berry
No match found in database
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34 Ginger
CarbsDescription
Knowns for its digestive properties, especially its aid in digesting fats.
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35 Fennel
CarbsDescription
Contains vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and potassium. It is said to aid digestion for pets. More research is needed for confirmation.
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36 Chamomile
CarbsDescription
Flowery herbs used to make tea in the human world. For us, the main benefit is to treat inflammation and gastrointestinal upset.
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37 Mint Leaves
CarbsDescription
Mint leaves providing a refreshing flavor and minor digestive benefits.
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38 Licorice
CarbsDescription
One of the oldest herbal remedies, often used to treat upset stomach, inflammation, and respiratory issues.
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39 Turmeric
CarbsDescription
Orange ginger-like plant often used in making curry. It contains curcumin, which is a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. However, its color is the main purpose of adding it to pet foods.
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40 Vitamin E
SupplementDescription
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.
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41 Vitamin C
SupplementDescription
Supplement for vitamin C, which can help to prevent oxidative damages by radicals, maintain healthy skin, and boost the immune system.
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42 Vitamin A
SupplementDescription
Supplement of vitamin A, it is essential for healthy skin, normal vision, and immune function.
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43 Niacin
SupplementDescription
Known as vitamin B3, essential to maintain healthy GI tracts, skin/coat, and nervous system.
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44 Calcium Pantothenate
SupplementDescription
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.
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45 Inositol
SupplementDescription
Also known as vitamin B8, is a micro-nutrient currently not required by AAFCO. It is said to facilitate other vitamin B actions. The evidence to support the benefit of this supplement is still lacking currently.
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46 Riboflavin
SupplementDescription
A synthetic supplement for vitamin B2. which is vital for the body's metabolism and health.
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47 Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
SupplementDescription
A synthetical supplement of vitamin B6, which is an essential element for nearly every part of metabolism.
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48 Thiamine
SupplementDescription
A supplement for vitamin B1, which is important for energy production and glucose metabolism.
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49 Biotin
SupplementDescription
A water-soluble vitamin B that is important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails.
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50 Vitamin B12
SupplementDescription
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.
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51 Vitamin D3
SupplementDescription
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).
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52 Folic Acid
SupplementDescription
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.
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53 Zinc Oxide
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of zinc, which is vital in skin function and wound healing, cell replication, the structure and function of biological membranes. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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54 Zinc Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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55 Iron Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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56 Ferrous Sulfate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of iron. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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57 Copper Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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58 Copper Sulfate
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of copper, which is important for the production of blood cells, hair coat color pigmentation, and maintaining the nervous system. Compare to organic form, it has 5 - 15% less absorption rate to the body.
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59 Manganese Proteinate
SupplementDescription
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.
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60 Manganese Oxide
SupplementDescription
An inorganic form of manganese that has 5 - 15% less absorption rate than the organic form. It is essential for the transport and movement of oxygen around the body.
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61 Calcium Iodate
SupplementDescription
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.
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62 Sodium Selenite
Food AdditiveDescription
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.
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63 Salt
OthersDescription
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.
Tips
- Named animal proteins near the top: Duck, Cod are listed early in the ingredient panel.
- Plant protein signal: Peas, Red Lentils may raise the listed protein percentage without meaning there is more meat.
- Ingredients worth checking: Canola Oil, Sodium Selenite, Salt.
- Possible digestion triggers: Peas, Red Lentils, Canola Oil, and 2 more have digestion notes; watch tolerance if your pet has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Analysis
How this recipe earned its protein scores.
Protein Clarity
High- Named 100%
Strong clarity: 100% of Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes'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
Animal Protein
High- Animal 94%
- Plant 6%
Meat-forward: 94% of the weighted protein in Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes comes from animal sources. Plant signals are modest (6% whole plants, 0% plant concentrates), so the protein profile leans on real meat.
Contributing ingredients
Animal
Plant
Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes dry dog food Review
Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes 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 avoiding gluten grains
- Pets that thrive on muscle-meat protein
Avoid if
- Your pet is allergic to eggs
- You're avoiding legumes
Key takeaways
- Named animal proteins make up 100% of the recipe's protein panel — a clear sourcing win.
- Contains common allergens: Egg, Legumes, Poultry, Red meat, Fish, Shellfish.
- 94% of the weighted protein comes from animal sources.
- Free from Gluten grains, Grains (gluten-free), Dairy, Nuts, Unknown Meal.
- Overall rating: 5 stars, based on transparency, protein source, and macro balance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes good for dogs?
Yes — rated 5 stars, with high ingredient transparency and strong animal protein content.
Does Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contain Dairy?
No — based on the ingredient list, Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes doesn't include Dairy or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Dairy can typically avoid this allergen here.
Does Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contain Egg?
Yes — based on the ingredient list, Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contains Egg, so pets sensitive to Egg should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.
Does Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contain Legumes?
Yes — based on the ingredient list, Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contains Legumes, so pets sensitive to Legumes should generally avoid this product or consult a vet first.
Does Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes contain Nuts?
No — based on the ingredient list, Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes doesn't include Nuts or related ingredients, so pets sensitive to Nuts can typically avoid this allergen here.
Is Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes grain-free?
Yes — there are no grains in this recipe.
What are the main protein sources in Nutrience SubZero Northern Lakes?
The top animal proteins are Duck, Cod, Lamb — clearly named, so you can verify the source.
