Pure Balance vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food
As pet owners, we want nothing but the best for our furry friends. One of the most important decisions we make for them is choosing their food. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which brand to trust. Two popular options are Blue Buffalo and Pure Balance dog food. Let’s take a closer look at how these two brands stack up against each other.

Brand History
When it comes to choosing dog food, it’s important to consider the brand’s history. Blue Buffalo was founded in 2002 with a mission to provide high-quality, natural pet food. They offer a wide range of products, including dry and wet food, treats, and even cat food.
On the other hand, Pure Balance is a newer brand that was launched in 2012. It’s exclusive to Walmart stores and offers a variety of natural and grain-free options for dogs.
Ingredient Quality
Both Blue Buffalo and Pure Balance claim to use high-quality, natural ingredients. However, Blue Buffalo takes it a step further by using only real meat as their first ingredient in most of their products. They also avoid using artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors.
Pure Balance also uses real meat as their first ingredient and avoids artificial preservatives, but they do use some natural flavors and colors in their products.
Product Variety
Blue Buffalo offers a wider range of products compared to Pure Balance. In addition to their dry and wet dog food options, they also have specialized lines for puppies, seniors, and dogs with specific health conditions.
Pure Balance has a smaller product line, but they do offer grain-free and limited ingredient options for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Price Point
When it comes to price, Pure Balance is generally more affordable than Blue Buffalo. This is likely because Blue Buffalo uses higher-quality ingredients and offers a wider range of products.
However, it’s important to note that the cost of dog food can vary depending on the size and type of product. It’s always a good idea to compare prices based on the specific type of food you’re looking for.
Customer Reviews
Both Blue Buffalo and Pure Balance have received mixed reviews from customers. Some pet owners have reported that their dogs love the taste and have had positive health outcomes from both brands. Others have had issues with their dog’s digestion or have noticed a decline in their pet’s health.
It’s important to remember that every dog is different and may have different reactions to different foods. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between Blue Buffalo and Pure Balance dog food, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and your dog’s needs. Both brands offer high-quality, natural ingredients and have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
If you’re looking for a wider variety of products and are willing to spend a bit more, Blue Buffalo may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an affordable, natural option for your dog, Pure Balance may be the way to go. Regardless of which brand you choose, always remember to consult with your veterinarian and pay attention to your dog’s reactions to the food.
Pure Balance Dog Food Reviews
Pros:
Made with high-quality ingredients: Pure Balance dog food uses real meat as the main protein source and does not contain any corn, wheat, or soy. This is great for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to these common ingredients.
No artificial colors or preservatives: Pure Balance dog food is made with natural ingredients, which means there are no artificial colors or preservatives in their products. This is important for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those that may have reactions to artificial additives.
Wide variety of flavors: Pure Balance offers a variety of flavors and formulations to suit different dogs’ needs and preferences. Whether you have a small breed, large breed, or senior dog, there is a Pure Balance option for you.
Cons:
Higher price point: Pure Balance dog food can be more expensive than other brands, which may be a deterrent for some pet owners.
Some reports of contamination: There have been a few instances where Pure Balance dog food has been recalled due to contamination with bacteria or foreign objects. While this is not a common occurrence, it is something to be aware of.
Overall, Pure Balance dog food has received positive reviews from many pet owners and is considered a high-quality option for those looking to feed their dogs a natural, healthy diet. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and decide if it is the right fit for your dog and budget.
“I had to switch my dog from the food given to her at the shelter because the vet said she was allergic to it (she had diarrhea and was incredibly itchy). I switched her to Pure Balance Lamb and Rice and she has been doing great! No more scratching or diarrhea and she loves her food! Her coat is so shiny now too! I will never go back to that other food again! This is a great food for dogs who have allergies and I highly recommend it to any dog owners out there looking for a high-quality food that won’t hurt their dog’s belly or bank account.”
“My dog has been on Blue Buffalo for a year now. He is doing amazing on this food. I just switched him to the Pure Balance Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe and he loves it. This new food seems to be more filling than the Blue Buffalo. He is not hungry all the time like he was on the Blue Buffalo.”
Blue Buffalo Dog Food Reviews
Pros:
Many reviewers have reported that their dogs have shown improved coat and skin health after switching to Blue Buffalo dog food.
The ingredients used in Blue Buffalo dog food are high-quality and include real meat as the first ingredient.
Blue Buffalo uses a variety of protein sources in their formulas, including chicken, fish, and lamb, which can be beneficial for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.
Blue Buffalo does not use any chicken or poultry by-product meals in their formulas.
Some reviewers have reported that their dogs have had more energy and a better overall well-being after switching to Blue Buffalo dog food.
Cons:
Some reviewers have reported that their dogs experienced gastrointestinal issues after switching to Blue Buffalo dog food.
Some reviewers have noted that the kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
Some reviewers have reported that the price of Blue Buffalo dog food is higher compared to other brands.
Some reviewers have noted that the protein content in Blue Buffalo dog food is lower compared to other brands, which may not be suitable for very active dogs or those with high protein needs.
“I really like this dog food. My dogs like this dog food and it keeps them healthy. I only give my dogs the best and if I can afford Blue Buffalo, I will buy it for them. Both of my dogs are healthy and happy eating Blue Buffalo.”
“We have had 3 dogs, a German Shepherd, a Golden Retriever, and now a Black Lab. They all loved Blue Buffalo dog food. The vet recommended it as it is low in carbs. We have always cooked for our dogs, but when we went on vacation, we were told about Blue Buffalo dog food and decided to try it. Our Lab loved it!”
“I have been a Blue Buffalo fan for years. I love the quality and integrity of their products and am happy to see them now offering recipes for dogs with food allergies. I recommend this brand and their products to anyone who wants to give their dog quality nutrition without unnecessary fillers or additives.”
FAQs about Pure Balance vs Blue Buffalo Dog Food
We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about these two brands and help you decide which one is the right choice for your furry friend.
What is Pure Balance dog food, and how is it different from Blue Buffalo?
Pure Balance is a brand of dog food that offers a wide range of products made with high-quality ingredients. Their dog food is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors and contains real meat as the main ingredient. On the other hand, Blue Buffalo is also a high-quality dog food brand that uses premium ingredients, including real meat and whole grains, and avoids fillers, by-products, and artificial additives.
Which brand offers better quality ingredients?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo are known for their high-quality ingredients. Pure Balance uses real meat as the primary ingredient in their dog food and avoids using fillers like corn, soy, and wheat. Blue Buffalo also uses real meat and whole grains in their products, and their recipes are free from poultry by-product meals, artificial preservatives, and flavors.
Which brand is more affordable?
When it comes to affordability, Pure Balance is typically more budget-friendly than Blue Buffalo. Pure Balance offers a range of products at different price points, and their prices are generally lower than Blue Buffalo’s. However, it’s essential to note that the price can vary depending on the specific product and size.
Which brand has more flavor options?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer a wide variety of flavors and formulations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Pure Balance has several flavor options, including chicken, beef, salmon, and lamb. Blue Buffalo also offers a range of flavors, such as chicken, beef, fish, and lamb.
Which brand is better for dogs with allergies or dietary restrictions?
If your dog has allergies or specific dietary requirements, it’s crucial to choose a brand that offers products suitable for their needs. Pure Balance offers a range of limited ingredient diets, including grain-free options, to cater to dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Blue Buffalo also offers limited ingredient diets and has a range of products suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities or other dietary restrictions.
Which brand has a better reputation?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo are well-respected brands in the dog food industry. Pure Balance is a relatively new brand, but it has gained a loyal following due to its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial additives. Blue Buffalo has been around for longer and has established itself as a premium dog food brand that uses natural ingredients and avoids fillers and by-products.
Which brand offers better nutritional value?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer complete and balanced nutrition for dogs. Pure Balance uses real meat as the main ingredient and avoids using fillers, artificial preservatives, and colors. Blue Buffalo also uses real meat and whole grains in their recipes and avoids by-products and artificial additives. Both brands offer a range of formulas tailored to meet different life stages and specific dietary requirements.
Which brand is more widely available?
Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo are widely available in many retail stores, including pet stores and supermarkets. However, Blue Buffalo has a broader distribution network and is available in more locations than Pure Balance.
Which brand has better customer reviews?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo have positive customer reviews, but Blue Buffalo has more reviews overall due to its wider distribution. Customers have praised both brands for their high-quality ingredients and complete nutrition, but some have noted that Blue Buffalo can be more expensive.
Which brand is better for puppies?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer puppy-specific formulas that are tailored to meet the unique nutritional needs of growing puppies. These formulas contain a higher percentage of protein, calories, and essential nutrients needed for growth and development. However, it’s always essential to consult with your veterinarian before selecting a specific brand or formula for your puppy.
Which brand has better grain-free options?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer grain-free options for dogs with grain sensitivities or allergies. Pure Balance has a range of limited-ingredient diets that are grain-free and made with premium protein sources like salmon, lamb, and bison. Blue Buffalo also offers grain-free options, including their Freedom line, which features high-protein, grain-free formulas made with real meat.
Which brand has better options for senior dogs?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer formulas specifically designed for senior dogs. These formulas contain lower levels of fat and calories to help prevent weight gain and maintain muscle mass. Pure Balance offers a senior dog formula that features high-quality protein from chicken and salmon, and added glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Blue Buffalo offers a senior dog formula that includes their LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health.
Which brand is better for dogs with food allergies?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer limited ingredient diets that are designed for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. These diets feature a simplified ingredient list, with a single source of protein and limited carbohydrates to reduce the likelihood of triggering an allergic reaction. Pure Balance has a limited ingredient line that includes formulas made with bison, salmon, and duck. Blue Buffalo offers their Basics line, which includes a variety of limited ingredient options made with novel proteins like turkey and lamb.
Which brand is better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer formulas that are easy to digest and gentle on sensitive stomachs. Pure Balance has a sensitive stomach formula that features limited ingredients, including real salmon and rice, to help reduce the risk of digestive upset. Blue Buffalo offers a sensitive stomach formula that includes their LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support digestive and immune system health.
Which brand offers better value for money?
Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo are both premium dog food brands that offer high-quality ingredients and complete nutrition for dogs. However, Pure Balance is generally considered to be more affordable than Blue Buffalo, making it a better value for dog owners on a budget. Pure Balance uses real meat as the main ingredient and avoids using fillers and artificial additives, which can help keep costs down without sacrificing quality.
Which brand is more environmentally friendly?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility in their manufacturing processes. Pure Balance uses renewable energy sources in their production facilities, and their packaging is made from recycled materials. Blue Buffalo has implemented water conservation measures and uses sustainable packaging materials. Both brands also partner with organizations dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability.
Which brand offers better options for large breed dogs?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer formulas that are specifically designed for large breed dogs. These formulas feature a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and calories to support healthy growth and development. Pure Balance offers a large breed formula that features real chicken and brown rice and added glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Blue Buffalo offers a large breed formula that includes their LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health.
Which brand has better options for small breed dogs?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer formulas that are specifically designed for small breed dogs. These formulas feature smaller kibble sizes and a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and calories to support the unique needs of small dogs. Pure Balance offers a small breed formula that features real chicken and brown rice and added probiotics to support digestive health. Blue Buffalo offers a small breed formula that includes their LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support immune system health.
Which brand is better for dogs with weight management needs?
Both Pure Balance and Blue Buffalo offer formulas that are designed to help dogs manage their weight. These formulas feature reduced levels of fat and calories and increased levels of fiber to promote feelings of fullness and help support weight loss. Pure Balance offers a weight management formula that features real chicken and brown rice and added L-carnitine to help support a healthy metabolism. Blue Buffalo offers a weight management formula that includes their LifeSource Bits and features real chicken and brown rice.