Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs

Common questions

Is Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs healthy?

Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This dog food contains beneficial ingredients like chicken, chicken meal, and fish oil, which provide high-quality protein and essential fatty acids.

How processed is Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs?

Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs' score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley count in its favor; Natural Flavors is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Nutro Natural Choice Chicken, Vegetable and Rice Flavor Senior Dry Dog Food - 5lbs

Nutro
65 Fair

Analysis updated June 2026 · How Scout scores

$15.97 · 5 lb · $3.19 / lb
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Mars
Category Pet Food
Summary

This dog food contains beneficial ingredients like chicken, chicken meal, and fish oil, which provide high-quality protein and essential fatty acids. However, it is considered ultra-processed due to the presence of multiple additives and the use of 'natural flavors,' which lack transparency. The processing level and the inclusion of processed ingredients limit its overall healthiness.

Key ingredients 14

Fish Oil
Very Good

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart, joint, and skin health. It is preserved with mixed tocopherols to maintain freshness and potency. This ingredient is beneficial for reducing inflammation and supporting overall health.

Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart, joint, and skin health.

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Chicken
Good

Chicken is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle maintenance in dogs. It provides essential amino acids necessary for overall health. Sourced from animal-based protein, it offers a richer amino acid profile compared to plant-based proteins.

Benefits

Rich in protein and essential amino acids, supporting muscle health and overall well-being in dogs.

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Chicken Meal
Good

Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein, providing more protein per gram than fresh chicken. It includes ground, rendered parts of the chicken, excluding feathers, which enhances nutrient density. This ingredient is beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels.

Benefits

Provides a concentrated source of protein and essential nutrients, supporting muscle maintenance and energy.

Whole Grain Barley
Good

Whole grain barley is a nutritious carbohydrate source that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides sustained energy release. As a whole grain, it retains more nutrients compared to refined grains.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

Split Peas
Good

Split peas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, supporting digestive health. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, including iron and B vitamins. As a legume, they contribute to a balanced diet with their nutrient density.

Benefits

Provides plant-based protein and fiber, supporting digestive health and nutrient intake.

Whole Grain Brown Rice
Good

Whole grain brown rice is a nutritious carbohydrate source that retains its bran and germ, providing fiber and essential nutrients. It supports digestive health and provides sustained energy. As a whole grain, it is more nutrient-dense than refined grains.

Benefits

Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, supporting digestive health and providing sustained energy.

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Chicken Fat
Good

Chicken fat is a source of energy and essential fatty acids, supporting skin and coat health. It is preserved with mixed tocopherols, which are natural antioxidants. This ingredient enhances palatability and provides essential nutrients.

Benefits

Provides essential fatty acids and energy, supporting skin and coat health.

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Choline Chloride
Good

Choline chloride is a source of choline, an essential nutrient that supports liver function and brain health. It is often added to pet foods to ensure adequate intake of this vital nutrient. Choline is crucial for maintaining cell membrane integrity and neurotransmission.

Benefits

Supports liver function and brain health, essential for cell membrane integrity.

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DL-Methionine
Good

DL-Methionine is an essential amino acid that supports protein synthesis and liver health. It is often added to pet foods to ensure adequate intake of sulfur-containing amino acids. This ingredient helps maintain urinary tract health by acidifying urine.

Benefits

Supports protein synthesis and urinary tract health.

Brewers Rice
Neutral

Brewers rice is a by-product of the rice milling process, providing a source of carbohydrates. It is less nutrient-dense compared to whole grains but can be a digestible energy source. Often used in pet foods for its affordability and digestibility.

Benefits

Provides a digestible source of carbohydrates for energy.

Rice Bran
Neutral

Rice bran is a by-product of rice milling, providing fiber and some essential nutrients. It can support digestive health but is less nutrient-dense than whole grains. Often used in pet foods for its fiber content and affordability.

Benefits

Provides fiber that can support digestive health.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food, but excessive intake can lead to health issues. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. In pet foods, it should be used in moderation to avoid potential health risks.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to health issues such as hypertension.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

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Potassium Chloride
Neutral

Potassium chloride is used as a potassium supplement and salt substitute in pet foods. It helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports muscle function. While beneficial in moderation, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to hyperkalemia, affecting heart and muscle function.

Benefits

Supports electrolyte balance and muscle function.

See more about Potassium Chloride →
Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but can be a catch-all term for various additives. They lack transparency, making it difficult to assess their true nature and potential health impacts. While derived from natural sources, they are processed and may contain allergens.

Risks

Potential allergen risk and lack of transparency in ingredient sourcing.

See more about Natural Flavors →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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