Wellness and Blue Buffalo are both premium natural dog food brands competing for health-conscious pet owners. Here's how these popular competitors compare in quality, value, and nutrition.
Brand Overview
Wellness
- Founded: 1997
- Headquarters: Tewksbury, Massachusetts
- Parent Company: WellPet LLC
- Philosophy: All-natural, whole-food nutrition
- Price Point: $$ - $$$
Blue Buffalo
- Founded: 2002
- Headquarters: Wilton, Connecticut
- Parent Company: General Mills
- Philosophy: Natural ingredients, "True Blue Promise"
- Price Point: $$ - $$$
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Wellness | Blue Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rating | 4.5/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Price (26-30 lb) | $50-70 | $55-70 |
| Signature Feature | Complete Health formula | LifeSource Bits |
| Made in USA | Yes | Yes |
| Product Range | Extensive | Extensive |
Ingredient Philosophy
Wellness
- Natural, whole-food ingredients
- No wheat, corn, or soy
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- Premium proteins
- Probiotics in some formulas
- Focus on balanced nutrition
Blue Buffalo
- Real meat first
- "True Blue Promise" standards
- LifeSource Bits (antioxidants, vitamins)
- No poultry by-products
- No corn, wheat, or soy (many formulas)
- Natural focus
Both brands emphasize natural ingredients and avoid common fillers.
Nutritional Comparison
Protein Content
- Wellness Complete Health: 24-26%
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection: 24-26%
- Wellness CORE: 34-38%
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness: 32-36%
- Similar ranges across comparable lines
Fat Content
- Wellness: 12-18% (varies by line)
- Blue Buffalo: 14-18%
- Comparable
Key Differences
Wellness:
- Probiotics in many formulas
- Balanced whole-food approach
- Consistent formulation
Blue Buffalo:
- LifeSource Bits (unique feature)
- More aggressive marketing
- Wider brand recognition
Product Lines
Wellness
- Complete Health: Core balanced line
- CORE: High protein, grain-free
- Simple: Limited ingredient
- Small Breed: Size-specific
- Large Breed: Size-specific
- Senior/Puppy: Life stages
Blue Buffalo
- Life Protection: Core line
- Wilderness: High protein, grain-free
- Basics: Limited ingredient
- Freedom: Grain-free
- True Solutions: Targeted health
- Size-specific/Life stage: Extensive
Both offer similar variety and specialization.
Price Comparison
Per 26-30 lb Bag
- Wellness Complete Health: $50-60
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection: $55-65
- Wellness CORE: $60-75
- Blue Buffalo Wilderness: $65-75
Wellness is often slightly less expensive.
Recall History
Wellness
- Fewer major recalls
- Generally good safety record
- Quality control appears consistent
Blue Buffalo
- Multiple recalls over the years
- 2016: Significant quality issues
- Settled lawsuit over ingredient claims
- Quality improved under General Mills
Wellness has a slightly better safety track record.
Who Should Choose Each
Choose Wellness If:
- Probiotics appeal to you
- You want slightly better value
- Fewer recalls matters
- Balanced nutrition focus
- Your dog does well on it
Choose Blue Buffalo If:
- LifeSource Bits appeal to you
- Brand recognition matters
- Wider availability preferred
- More specialized options needed
- Your dog thrives on it
Our Verdict
Nearly Equal
These brands are remarkably similar:
- Same quality tier
- Similar prices
- Comparable nutrition
- Both natural focus
Slight Advantages
Wellness:
- Better recall history
- Slightly better value
- Probiotics in formulas
Blue Buffalo:
- More brand recognition
- LifeSource Bits
- Wider availability
The Bottom Line
Either brand serves most dogs well. Choose based on your dog's preference, specific formula needs, or whichever is more available/affordable in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better quality?
They're comparable in quality. Neither is clearly superior. Both use quality ingredients and meet premium standards. Your dog's individual response matters more than brand.
Are LifeSource Bits actually beneficial?
LifeSource Bits contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants cold-formed to preserve potency. They're a legitimate benefit, though not transformative. Wellness achieves similar nutrition through their formulation.
Which is better for sensitive stomachs?
Both have sensitive stomach options. Wellness Simple is limited ingredient. Blue Buffalo Basics is also limited ingredient. Either works well—try whichever is more available.
Which has better grain-free options?
Both have grain-free lines (Wellness CORE, Blue Buffalo Wilderness). Both face FDA DCM concerns. Consider grain-inclusive options from either brand if concerned.
Can I switch between these brands?
Yes, transition gradually over 7-10 days. They're similar enough that most dogs adapt well.