Choosing the right food for your canine companion is a crucial decision for their overall health and well-being. Merrick dog food has emerged as a popular choice among pet owners, offering a diverse range of products designed to cater to various dietary needs and preferences. This review delves into the specifics of Merrick dog food, examining its sub-brands, ingredient quality, nutritional analysis, and recall history to help you make an informed decision.
Merrick dog food offers several distinct sub-brands, each formulated with specific goals in mind. Understanding these can help you select the best option for your dog.
- Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry: This line balances protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains like brown rice and oats. It features 9 recipes, all of which have received a 5-star rating, highlighting their quality. These recipes are formulated with Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids to support a healthy coat and skin.
- Merrick Grain-Free Dry: For owners seeking a grain-free option, this sub-brand is a popular choice. It contains 14 recipes made without corn, wheat, or rice, focusing on alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potato.
- Merrick Grain-Free Cans: This wet food line offers 14 grain-free recipes, available in chunky or fine-ground textures. They are formulated without corn, wheat, or barley, providing a nutritious alternative for dogs.
- Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Grain-Free: This innovative line features kibble coated with freeze-dried raw meat, fish, or poultry. It includes novel proteins like rabbit and venison across its 12 recipes, offering a taste of raw nutrition in a convenient kibble format.
- Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet: Designed for dogs with sensitivities or allergies, this line uses only 9 key ingredients per recipe to promote easier digestion. It includes 4 recipes, with a focus on single protein sources and easily digestible carbohydrates.
- Merrick Lil’ Plates Wet Dog Food: Specifically formulated for small dogs, this grain-free wet food line offers 8 recipes. It contains prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion and is free from corn, soy, and grains.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dry Dog Food In-Depth
The Merrick Classic Healthy Grains line, in particular, has garnered significant attention. This range comprises 9 recipes, each earning a 5-star rating. A key feature of these premium kibble recipes is the use of real meat as the primary ingredient, combined with a blend of whole grains. The line includes specialized formulas such as healthy weight, large-breed, and senior recipes. These formulas are USDA-certified and promote gut health with their healthy grains, being free from corn, wheat, and soy. However, it’s worth noting that these recipes are not a budget-friendly option.
The Merrick Healthy Grains Real Beef + Brown Rice formula, chosen for detailed analysis, showcases the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients. The estimated dry matter nutrient content reveals a protein level of 29.9%, fat at 17.4%, and carbohydrates around 41%. This aligns with the brand’s average protein content of 30.1% and fat of 16.9% across its dry food ranges.
Ingredient Analysis
A closer look at the ingredients in Merrick Healthy Grains Real Beef + Brown Rice reveals a focus on quality. The primary ingredient is deboned beef, a high-quality protein source. Brown rice and oat meal follow, providing complex carbohydrates and fiber. Pork meal and bone meal contribute additional protein and essential minerals like calcium. Barley offers further nutritional value.
Other notable ingredients include salmon meal, a concentrated source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and pork fat, which provides essential omega-6 fatty acids. The inclusion of flaxseed offers beneficial omega-3s and fiber, while taurine supports heart health. Chelated minerals, which are more easily absorbed by the body, are also present, indicating a higher standard of nutritional formulation.
Merrick Dog Food Recall History
Merrick has a recall history that prospective buyers should be aware of. While the Dog Food Advisor maintains a comprehensive list of recalls, it’s essential for owners to stay informed about any past or potential issues with pet food brands.
Manufacturing and Ownership
Merrick dog foods are proudly produced in the United States, with most dry and wet recipes manufactured in the company’s three owned facilities in Hereford, Texas. Merrick also owns Castor and Pollux Natural Petworks and produces Whole Earth Farms pet foods. In 2015, Merrick was acquired by Nestle Purina PetCare.
Our Verdict on Merrick Healthy Grains
The Dog Food Advisor rates Merrick Healthy Grains as an above-average, grain-inclusive kibble. The Classic recipes utilize a significant amount of named meat as their primary protein source, earning the brand a well-deserved 5-star rating. This makes Merrick Healthy Grains a highly recommended option for pet owners seeking nutritious and high-quality food for their dogs.
For those interested in exploring other Merrick options, reviews for various sub-brands, including Merrick Grain-Free, Backcountry, and Limited Ingredient Diets, are available on the Dog Food Advisor website. When choosing any dog food, always consider your dog’s specific breed, age, activity level, and any health conditions they may have. Consulting with your veterinarian is also recommended to ensure you are providing the best possible nutrition for your beloved pet.
