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Pulsar Lamb Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Pulsar

Pulsar Lamb Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Verified Jun 7, 2026

Dog · Dry All Life Stages All Breed Sizes

This is a grain-free, lamb-based dry food for dogs of all ages and sizes, including large-breed puppies. It uses lamb meal and lamb as the primary protein sources, with lentils and peas providing most of the carbohydrates and added fiber. The recipe also includes flaxseed for omega fatty acids and added probiotics and taurine for additional nutritional support.

Over-the-counter AAFCO No recalls
Official product page
KibbleLab Score
7.8 out of 10

Nutritionally, this is a well-formulated, mid- to high-protein dry food suitable for most dogs, including large-breed puppies, with lamb as the primary animal protein source. It offers added taurine, probiotics, and omega fatty acids, which are nice nutritional extras. However, it is grain-free and relies heavily on lentils and peas, so I would be cautious using it as the sole long-term diet, especially in breeds with known heart concerns.

The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.

Ingredient composition Quality, beneficial additions, absence of artificial colors/flavors
Nutritional profile Protein, fat, fiber evaluated for stated life stage and food type
AAFCO compliance Complete and balanced certification; feeding trials valued higher
Health considerations Sensitivity profile, DCM risk, processing method
9.0 – 10 Top Pick
8.0 – 8.9 Strong Choice
7.0 – 7.9 Solid Option
6.0 – 6.9 Worth a Conversation
Below 6 Not Recommended

KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.


At a Glance

Health Benefits
Antioxidant Support Joint Care Skin Coat Health Heart Care Probiotic Support
Suitable For
All Life Stages All Breed Sizes
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Nutritional Perspective

KibbleLab Review

Strengths

  • Lamb meal and lamb provide solid animal protein sources at a moderate 26% protein level for an all-life-stages food.
  • Formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for all life stages, including growth of large-breed puppies.
  • Contains added taurine and a range of probiotics, which can help support heart function and healthy digestion.
  • Includes flaxseed and canola oil to supply omega fatty acids that support skin and coat health.

Considerations

  • This is a grain-free formula that relies heavily on lentils and peas, which have been linked in some studies to heart issues in certain dogs.
  • Contains lamb, which is a recognized protein allergen for some dogs with food sensitivities.
  • Protein level is moderate rather than high, so very athletic or working dogs may need a higher-protein option.
  • No AAFCO feeding-trial data are provided, so digestibility and real-world performance have not been trial-verified.
Scored using the rubric of an NAVC Certified Pet Nutrition Coach (PNCC). This is informational, not veterinary advice.

Full Ingredient List

LAMB MEAL, RED LENTILS, PEAS, PEA STARCH, LAMB, FLAXSEED, CANOLA OIL , CARROTS, APPLES, BROCCOLI, BOK CHOY, CABBAGE, BLUEBERRIES, SALT, DL-METHIONINE, FRUCTOOLIGOSACCHARIDES, HYDROLYZED YEAST, YUCCA SCHIDIGERA EXTRACT, TAURINE, DRIED ASPERGILLUS NIGER FERMENTATION EXTRACT, PINEAPPLE, DRIED TRICHODERMA LONGIBRACHIATUM FERMENTATION EXTRACT, DRIED RHIZOPUS ORYZAE FERMENTATION EXTRACT, DRIED ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS CASEI FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS ACIDOPHILUS FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED BIFIDOBACTERIUM BIFIDUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, DRIED LACTOBACILLUS PLANTARUM FERMENTATION PRODUCT, VITAMIN A ACETATE, VITAMIN D3 SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENT, VITAMIN B12 SUPPLEMENT, RIBOFLAVIN, NIACIN, FOLIC ACID, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, THIAMINE MONONITRATE, D-CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, BIOTIN, L-ASCORBYL-2-POLYPHOSPHATE (SOURCE OF VITAMIN C), FERROUS SULPHATE, IRON PROTEINATE*, ZINC SULPHATE, ZINC PROTEINATE*, MANGANOUS OXIDE, MANGANESE PROTEINATE*, COPPER SULPHATE, COPPER PROTEINATE*, CALCIUM IODATE, SELENIUM YEAST, MAGNESIUM OXIDE

Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.

Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.

Top 5 Ingredients Explained

01
Lamb
Lamb is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a high-quality animal protein that supplies essential amino acids, iron and B vitamins and is often chosen for its palatability or as a “novel” protein in elimination diets. It can be higher in fat and calories than some other meats and may still cause allergic reactions in sensitive animals, so owners of overweight pets or those with food sensitivities should consult a veterinarian and use proper handling/cooking practices if feeding raw or homemade lamb.
02
Lentil
Lentils are a plant-based source of protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber and micronutrients (notably folate and iron) commonly used in pet foods to add bulk, promote satiety and help moderate post-meal blood sugar. They can be a useful ingredient for dogs when properly processed and balanced with animal-derived amino acids, but lentil protein is less digestible and incomplete for obligate carnivores like cats; high legume inclusion can also increase gas or digestive upset and has been discussed in the context of diet-associated heart concerns in dogs, so lentils should be used in nutritionally complete, vetted formulations.
03
Pea
Pea is a plant-based ingredient used in pet foods as a source of protein, soluble and insoluble fiber, and micronutrients (often included as whole peas, pea flour, or pea protein concentrate) to boost protein content and improve texture. While peas can provide digestible carbohydrates, fiber, and some plant protein useful especially for dogs, they are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and — when overused, particularly in concentrated forms or as a major component of grain‑free diets — have been scrutinized for a possible association with canine dilated cardiomyopathy and can contribute to nutrient imbalances or excess calories, so balanced formulation and compliance with AAFCO nutritional profiles are important.
04
Pea Starch
Pea starch is used in pet foods primarily as a carbohydrate binder, thickener and texture agent to help form kibble and provide readily digestible energy, rather than as a protein or fiber source. It is a gluten‑free, highly digestible starch that can increase calorie density and glycemic load (important for overweight or diabetic pets) and, like other pea/legume ingredients used in high amounts in some grain‑free diets, should be part of a balanced formulation chosen with veterinary guidance for pets with special health concerns.
05
Lamb
Lamb is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a high-quality animal protein that supplies essential amino acids, iron and B vitamins and is often chosen for its palatability or as a “novel” protein in elimination diets. It can be higher in fat and calories than some other meats and may still cause allergic reactions in sensitive animals, so owners of overweight pets or those with food sensitivities should consult a veterinarian and use proper handling/cooking practices if feeding raw or homemade lamb.

Nutritional Breakdown

How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.
As Fed
Crude Protein (min)
26.00%
Low High
Crude Fat (min)
14.00%
Low High
Crude Fiber (max)
4.20%
Low High
Moisture (max)
10.00%
Low High
3730
kcal / Kg
418
kcal / Cup
Moderate
Calorie density category
What is calorie density How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.

Product Details & Brand

Product Specs

Lifestage All Life Stages
Breed size All Breed Sizes
Texture Kibble
Processing method Extruded
Food type Dry

AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.

Complete & balanced Yes
AAFCO life stages All Life Stages, Large Breed Growth (70+ lbs)
Substantiation Formulation
Horizon Pulsar Lamb Meal Formula for dogs is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages including growth of large size dogs (70 lbs or more as an adult)

Brand

Pulsar

Pulsar features single-protein, limited-ingredient recipes with pulses (lentils and peas) as sustainable carbohydrate sources, offering affordability while maintaining Horizon’s Canadian quality standards.

Visit Pulsar
Price tier $$$

Manufacturer

Company name Horizon Pet Nutrition Inc.
Founded 2006
Headquarters Rosthern, Saskatchewan, Canada
Manufacturing type In House
Manufacturing country Canada
Manufacturing region Saskatchewan
Manufacturing oversight

All products are manufactured in Horizon’s own human-grade production facility in Rosthern, Saskatchewan. The company maintains strict quality control, source traceability, and adheres to Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) standards, AAFCO nutritional guidelines, and HACCP-based food safety practices.

Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.

Recall History

No recalls on record

Pulsar Pulsar Lamb Grain-Free Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.

Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily

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KibbleLab food report
SOLID PICK.
7.8 /10 Grade B
Pulsar Lamb Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Pulsar · kibblelab.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Has Pulsar ever been recalled?

We have no recalls on record for Pulsar. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.

How does KibbleLab rate foods?

Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.

Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?

No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.

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KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.

Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.