When choosing the perfect pet food for your furry companion, navigating the wide range of options from premium brands like NULO can feel overwhelming. Two of NULO’s most popular high-protein product lines—NULO Medal Series and NULO Freestyle—often leave pet parents wondering: What’s the difference between them? Which one better suits my dog or cat’s needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into both NULO product lines—breaking down ingredients, nutrition profiles, target audiences, feeding recommendations, and more. Whether you’re comparing formulas for a high-energy athlete or a senior pet needing gentle digestion, this article will equip you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Understanding the NULO Brand Philosophy
Before diving into the differences between NULO Medal Series and Freestyle, it’s essential to understand what sets the NULO brand apart in the crowded pet food market. Founded in 2009, NULO (short for “Nutrient Logical”) focuses on providing pet nutrition that mimics the ancestral diet of cats and dogs by prioritizing:
- High-quality animal-based proteins
- Low carbohydrate content
- Minimal grains and fillers
- Added essential nutrients for overall health
NULO believes in using real meats as the primary ingredient and avoids artificial preservatives, colors, and by-product meals. By emphasizing lean proteins and functional ingredients like L-carnitine, probiotics, and omega fatty acids, NULO aims to support lean muscle development, healthy digestion, and a strong immune system.
This philosophy is reflected in both the Medal Series and Freestyle lines—but with distinct approaches tailored to different lifestyles and needs.
Overview of NULO Medal Series
The NULO Medal Series is designed for active pets—those with high energy demands due to athletic activity, working roles, or simply a high-octane lifestyle. Think of it as the “performance-grade” line in NULO’s portfolio, formulated to support endurance, strength, and recovery.
Key Features of NULO Medal Series
High Animal Protein Content
The standout feature of Medal Series formulas is their exceptionally high animal protein content, ranging from 38% to 55% depending on the product. These formulas often list real meat—like chicken, pollock, or anchovy—as the first and second ingredient.
For example:
– Medal Series Turkey & Salmon Recipe: Turkey is the first ingredient, with salmon meal as the second.
– Medal Series Pollock & Anchovy Recipe: Features wild-caught pollock and anchovy as primary protein sources.
Low Carbohydrates, High Fat for Energy
Medal Series formulations maintain a low glycemic index with minimal carbohydrates (typically under 20%) and higher fat content (around 15–20%), ideal for sustained energy. This suits active dogs and cats that burn more calories and need dense, nutrient-rich fuel.
Functional Additives for Performance
The Medal Series includes L-carnitine, which helps metabolize fat into energy—particularly useful for endurance athletes. It also features probiotics for digestive balance and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to support skin, coat, and joint health.
Grain-Free and Limited Ingredients
All Medal Series recipes are grain-free, making them suitable for pets with grain sensitivities. They also contain a limited number of ingredients to reduce the risk of allergic reactions—ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs.
Best For:
- Working dogs (e.g., herding, sled, or police dogs)
- Active or performance cats and dogs
- Pets needing calorie-dense diets
- Breeds prone to needing lean muscle support (e.g., Border Collies, Huskies)
Overview of NULO Freestyle
In contrast, the NULO Freestyle line takes a broader approach—offering high-protein, grain-inclusive, and grain-free options tailored for everyday feeding. Freestyle is designed for pet owners who want premium nutrition for general wellness, not necessarily for high-performance fuel.
Key Features of NULO Freestyle
Flexible Protein Sources
Freestyle offers a wider variety of protein blends, including chicken, lamb, fish, and grain-free turkey. While Freestyle maintains a high animal protein profile, it typically ranges between 30% and 36%, slightly lower than Medal Series.
One popular example is NULO Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Recipe, which contains both turkey and chicken as top ingredients, paired with chickpeas and lentils as grain alternatives.
More Carbohydrate Variety
Unlike the strictly low-carb Medal Series, Freestyle includes moderate carbohydrates (20–25%) derived from legumes and select grains. This makes Freestyle easier to transition to for pets not accustomed to ultra-low-carb diets.
Some Freestyle recipes (e.g., Freestyle Beef & Lentil Recipe) include chickpeas and lentils—common in grain-free diets—as alternative carbohydrate sources.
Balanced Nutrition for Daily Wellness
NULO Freestyle emphasizes balanced long-term health with ingredients like:
– Probiotics for digestive health
– Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
– Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables
– Taurine in cat formulas for heart and eye health
It supports a healthy immune system, skin and coat quality, and optimal weight, making it ideal for pets with average activity levels.
Grain-Inclusive and Grain-Free Options
A major differentiator is that NULO Freestyle offers both grain-free and grain-inclusive formulas. For example:
– Freestyle Turkey & Chicken Grain-Free: Uses legumes instead of grains
– Freestyle Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe: Includes brown rice for gentle energy release
This flexibility lets owners choose based on their pet’s dietary needs and sensitivities.
Best For:
- Average daily activity pets
- Puppies, adult, and senior dogs and cats
- Households with multiple pets having different dietary needs
- Owners seeking both grain-free and grain-inclusive options
Head-to-Head: NULO Medal Series vs. Freestyle
To clarify the differences, let’s break them down into essential comparison categories.
| Feature | NULO Medal Series | NULO Freestyle |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | High-performance nutrition | Everyday wellness |
| Protein Content | 38–55% (very high) | 30–36% (high) |
| Carbohydrate Level | Very low (<20%) | Moderate (20–25%) |
| Fat Content | 15–20% (higher for energy) | 10–16% (balanced) |
| Grain Content | 100% grain-free | Both grain-free and grain-inclusive options |
| Functional Additives | L-carnitine, probiotics, omegas | Probiotics, omegas, antioxidants |
| Best Life Stage | Adults, active seniors | Puppies to seniors (varies by formula) |
| Target Species | Dogs and cats (specific formulas) | Dogs and cats (wide range) |
Protein Quality: What Sets Them Apart?
Both product lines use real meat as the primary ingredient, but Medal Series emphasizes lean, single-source, or marine-based proteins for purity and performance. It often features salmon, pollock, or turkey as clean, low-allergen proteins ideal for active pets.
In contrast, Freestyle recipes blend multiple animal proteins—such as turkey and chicken—to increase palatability and amino acid diversity. While still high-quality, these blends are more geared toward general appetite appeal than athletic performance.
Carbohydrate Sources: Why It Matters
One of the most critical differences lies in carbohydrate sourcing:
- Medal Series limits carbohydrates to non-starchy sources like peas or potatoes and keeps them low to encourage fat metabolism.
- Freestyle uses legumes and select whole grains, such as brown rice and oatmeal, which provide slower-releasing energy and are easier on digestion for some pets.
While grain-free diets are popular, recent FDA investigations have explored a potential link between legume-heavy grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. Though the link is not fully established, some veterinarians recommend moderate inclusion of grains for long-term heart health—giving Freestyle an edge for pet owners concerned about DCM.
That said, Medal Series limits legumes in favor of animal fat as energy, which may reduce this risk for certain dogs.
Fat and Calorie Content: Performance vs. Maintenance
Here’s where the target audience really matters:
- Medal Series provides 450–500 kcal per cup, ideal for high-energy pets.
- Freestyle ranges from 360–430 kcal per cup, calibrated for maintenance.
For example:
– A 50-pound active Border Collie hiking daily may thrive on Medal Series.
– A 12-pound senior indoor cat may gain excess weight on Medal Series’ calorie load, making Freestyle a wiser choice.
Tip: Always consult your veterinarian before switching diets, especially for pets with existing conditions or weight concerns.
Lifestyle Fit: Who Benefits from Each Line?
Choose NULO Medal Series if:
- Your pet competes in agility, dock diving, or other dog sports.
- You have a working breed (e.g., German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd).
- Your pet struggles with low energy or muscle maintenance.
- You prefer a grain-free, low-carb diet rich in animal protein.
Choose NULO Freestyle if:
- Your pet has average daily activity (walks, indoor play).
- You want flexibility between grain-inclusive and grain-free.
- You’re feeding multiple pets with different tolerances.
- You prioritize digestive health and long-term wellness over intense performance.
Formulation for Cats: Do the Differences Apply?
Yes—though often overshadowed by dog food, NULO also offers Medal Series and Freestyle cat formulas with similar distinctions.
NULO Medal Series Cat Food
Designed for active or outdoor cats, Medal Series cat food features:
– 50% protein from real turkey and salmon
– Extremely low carbohydrates (under 10%)
– Taurine-rich formula for heart function
– High in omega-3s for coat health
This suits younger, energetic cats who hunt or explore and need lean muscle support.
NULO Freestyle Cat Food
Freestyle cat formulas, like Turkey & Chicken Recipe, are:
– High in protein (~45%)
– Grain-free and carb-reduced
– Enhanced with vitamin E and antioxidants
– More varied in texture and flavor profiles
While slightly less protein-dense than Medal Series, Freestyle remains superior to mass-market brands and is excellent for indoor adult cats with moderate activity.
When to Use Each for Cats:
- Medal Series: Ideal for young, active cats or those with higher protein needs due to health conditions (e.g., muscle wasting).
- Freestyle: Great for picky eaters, indoor cats, and multi-cat households wanting consistent, palatable nutrition.
Palatability and Acceptance by Pets
Taste matters—no matter how nutritious a food is. Here’s how the two lines compare in pet acceptance:
- Medal Series: Tends to have a more gamey or rich flavor profile due to marine proteins like anchovy or pollock. While loved by many active dogs, some finicky pets may reject the stronger taste.
- Freestyle: Uses familiar proteins like chicken and turkey in balanced blends, often resulting in higher palatability for average pets. The wider range of textures and kibble sizes also helps with picky eaters.
Pro Tip: If switching from a standard diet to Medal Series, ease into it with a 7–10 day transition period to avoid digestive upset and let your pet adjust to the richer formula.
Price Comparison and Value
Cost is an inevitable consideration. Let’s compare average retail prices (as of 2024):
| Product Line | Price (per 15 lb bag) | Cost per Cup | Value Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| NULO Medal Series (Dog) | $55–$65 | $2.50–$3.00 | Premium: high protein, designed for performance |
| NULO Freestyle (Dog) | $45–$55 | $2.00–$2.40 | Mid-Premium: excellent balance of quality and affordability |
| NULO Medal Series (Cat) | $35–$40 (6 lb) | $4.50–$5.00 | High value for carnivorous needs |
| NULO Freestyle (Cat) | $30–$35 (6 lb) | $3.80–$4.20 | Cost-effective for daily feeding |
While Medal Series commands a higher price—due to premium ingredients and sourcing—the value lies in targeted nutrition. If your pet doesn’t require performance fuel, Freestyle offers nearly equivalent quality at a more accessible price point.
Customer Reviews & Veterinarian Recommendations
Across platforms like Chewy, Petco, and Amazon, both lines earn strong ratings (~4.7 stars), but for different reasons:
- Medal Series reviewers often report:
- Improved stamina and muscle tone
- Shinier coats
Better focus during training sessions
Freestyle reviewers praise:
- Greater picky eater acceptance
- Stable digestion
- Suitability for multi-pet households
Veterinarians frequently recommend NULO products for pets needing high-protein, low-grain diets, though some caution that ultra-low-carb, high-protein diets like Medal Series should be reserved for dogs with specific needs due to long-term metabolic effects.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
The answer doesn’t lie in which is “better”—but which is better for your pet’s unique lifestyle and needs.
If Your Pet Is:
- An athlete or working companion → NULO Medal Series is worth the investment.
- A typical household dog or cat with balanced activity → NULO Freestyle provides excellent long-term nutrition.
- Transitioning from a basic diet to premium food → Start with Freestyle for smoother adaptation.
- Struggling with weight or energy imbalance → Consult your vet; Medal Series may help under-performance, while Freestyle avoids caloric overload.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Pet
Choosing between NULO Medal Series and NULO Freestyle ultimately comes down to your pet’s activity level, health profile, and your feeding goals. Both lines reflect NULO’s commitment to high-quality, protein-first nutrition, but they serve different roles in pet wellness.
- NULO Medal Series is the elite fuel for pets living at 100 mph—delivering maximum animal protein, low carbs, and performance-boosting nutrients.
- NULO Freestyle is the dependable daily driver—offering variety, digestibility, and balanced support for cats and dogs of all life stages.
Before making any dietary change, monitor your pet’s energy, coat condition, stool quality, and weight. Consider keeping a simple log during the first few weeks of transition. With the right choice, your furry friend will not just survive—they’ll thrive.
Whether you choose the precision of Medal Series or the versatility of Freestyle, you’re selecting a diet built on science, real meat, and a deep respect for your pet’s biological needs. That’s what true premium pet nutrition looks like.
What is the NULO Medal Series, and who is it designed for?
The NULO Medal Series is a premium line of pet food crafted specifically for active cats and dogs that require optimal nutrition to support high energy levels, endurance, and overall health. Developed with input from champions in canine and feline sports, this series emphasizes performance-grade ingredients, including high animal protein content and low glycemic carbohydrates. It’s formulated to meet the demanding nutritional needs of competition animals, working breeds, and energetic pets in active households.
Each recipe in the Medal Series is made with real meat as the first ingredient and contains added nutrients like L-carnitine for healthy metabolism and omega-3 fatty acids for joint and heart support. It avoids corn, soy, wheat, and artificial additives, focusing instead on clean, highly digestible ingredients. With limited grain inclusion and low-glycemic carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, this line is ideal for pets needing sustained energy without blood sugar spikes, making it a go-to choice for performance-focused pet owners.
How does NULO Freestyle differ from the Medal Series in terms of nutritional focus?
NULO Freestyle focuses on providing everyday nutrition for cats and dogs with moderate activity levels, emphasizing balanced diets that support overall wellness and long-term health. While it also features high animal protein content and grain-free options, the nutritional profile is designed for maintenance rather than performance. The Freestyle line includes a broader variety of protein sources and flavor options to cater to picky eaters and pets with different taste preferences.
Unlike the Medal Series, which prioritizes athletic performance and endurance, Freestyle emphasizes digestive health, immune support, and coat condition through added probiotics and essential fatty acids. The recipes are crafted with real ingredients like turkey, salmon, or lamb, and avoid fillers, artificial preservatives, and common allergens. It’s ideal for pet owners who want a high-quality, nutritionally sound diet without the specialized focus on high-intensity activity.
Are both NULO Medal Series and Freestyle grain-free?
Most recipes in the NULO Medal Series are grain-free or low-grain, utilizing alternative carbohydrate sources such as sweet potatoes and lentils to support sustained energy release and digestive health. This design helps minimize allergens and supports pets with sensitivities to traditional grains like corn, wheat, and soy. The emphasis on limited ingredients and clean nutrition makes it suitable for animals prone to food sensitivities.
Similarly, the majority of NULO Freestyle recipes are grain-free, promoting easy digestion and reducing the risk of allergic reactions. However, Freestyle offers a more diverse product range, including some recipes with ancient grains like chia and flaxseed, which provide fiber and omega fatty acids. While both lines focus on eliminating common grain allergens, Freestyle gives pet owners more flexibility, depending on their pet’s dietary requirements and veterinarian recommendations.
Which line is better for pets with high activity levels?
The NULO Medal Series is the superior choice for pets with high activity levels due to its performance-oriented formulation. With elevated levels of animal-based protein—often exceeding 35% in dry dog food recipes—it supports muscle development, repair, and endurance. The inclusion of low-glycemic carbohydrates ensures steady energy release, which is crucial for agility dogs, working breeds, or cats with highly active lifestyles.
Additionally, the Medal Series contains targeted supplements such as L-carnitine to promote fat metabolism and support lean body mass. It also includes higher levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to maintain joint health and reduce inflammation, common concerns in performance animals. For owners of athletic pets, this line delivers tailored nutrition that directly contributes to peak physical condition and recovery.
Can NULO Freestyle be fed to pets of all life stages?
Yes, many NULO Freestyle recipes are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by AAFCO for all life stages, meaning they are suitable for puppies, adult dogs, and even senior pets. This versatility makes Freestyle a convenient option for households with pets of varying ages. The balanced nutrient profile supports growth in younger animals while maintaining health and vitality in adults and seniors.
That said, pet owners should still check the specific product label, as not every Freestyle recipe is designed for all life stages. Some variants may be tailored for adult maintenance or specific dietary needs. When in doubt, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to ensure the chosen formula supports the unique metabolic and developmental needs of pets at different life stages.
How do ingredient sources compare between Medal Series and Freestyle?
Both the NULO Medal Series and Freestyle emphasize high-quality, real animal proteins as the primary ingredient, but Medal Series often sources leaner, more concentrated proteins suitable for athletic performance. For example, recipes may focus on deboned turkey, turkey meal, or salmon to deliver high protein density. These ingredients are selected not only for quality but also for digestibility and amino acid profile critical for active pets.
Freestyle, while also using premium proteins like whitefish, lamb, and duck, offers a wider variety of unique protein sources to cater to different taste preferences and potential allergies. It may include novel proteins or blends not found in the Medal Series, appealing to pet owners looking for rotation or variety in their pet’s diet. Both lines avoid by-products and use responsibly sourced ingredients, but Freestyle prioritizes flavor diversity and palatability for everyday feeding.
Is there a price difference between NULO Medal Series and Freestyle?
Yes, there is typically a price difference between NULO Medal Series and Freestyle, with Medal Series being more expensive due to its specialized formulation and premium ingredients. The added functional nutrients, performance-grade protein sources, and targeted development for high-activity pets contribute to the higher cost. This pricing reflects its niche positioning as a performance nutrition line.
On the other hand, NULO Freestyle is generally more affordable and offers better value for pet owners seeking high-quality nutrition without the performance-specific enhancements. While still a premium brand, its broader formulation allows for wider production scaling and cost efficiency. Owners can often purchase Freestyle in larger quantities or variety packs at a lower per-pound cost, making it more accessible for daily feeding routines.