Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Mixers Review

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Review of Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Mixers

According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Mixers, we'll examine all 12 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.

While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.

  1. Chicken is a lean, easily digestible source of protein that provides essential nutrients for your dog's growth and maintenance. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

  2. Chicken liver is a nutrient-rich organ meat that provides your dog with protein, fat, and vitamin A. It's also a great source of iron, copper, niacin, zinc, and phosphorus.

  3. Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.

  4. Chicken broth is a flavorful, hydrating ingredient that adds moisture to your dog's food, making it more palatable. It also contains essential nutrients, like vitamins and minerals, to support your dog's overall health and well-being.

  5. Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.

  6. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your dog. They're rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function, and also provide fiber to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy weight.

  7. Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  8. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  9. Dried kelp is a natural source of essential minerals and trace elements, which help support your dog's thyroid function and overall health.

  10. Mixed tocopherols are natural antioxidants used to preserve the freshness of dog food, ensuring your pet receives the highest quality nutrients possible.

  11. Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  12. Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that can help protect your dog's body from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your dog's overall health and well-being, particularly in regard to joint health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 40.00%: This high protein content is primarily provided by the deboned chicken and chicken liver listed as the first two ingredients. Both are excellent sources of high-quality animal protein, which is essential for a pet's muscle development and overall health. Animal-based proteins typically have a complete amino acid profile, which is critical for pet nutrition.

Crude Fat (min) of 15.00%: The crude fat content is likely to come from the deboned chicken and chicken liver as well. Both ingredients contain natural animal fats, which are a crucial source of energy for pets and help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Fats also contribute to the taste and palatability of the pet food.

Crude Fiber (max) of 3.00%: The fiber in the product is probably derived from the peas, carrots, and apples. These ingredients are less digestible plant materials that aid in the digestive process by providing bulk to help move food through the gut. While the fiber content is not a primary focus in a high-protein, meat-based diet, it is still necessary for maintaining good digestive health.

Calories of 4151.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative measure of the energy provided by the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the food. The deboned chicken and chicken liver are calorie-dense ingredients due to their high protein and fat content. Peas also contribute to the caloric content by providing carbohydrates, in addition to proteins and fiber. While not a direct contributor to calories, ingredients like chicken broth, gelatin, and the fruits and vegetables present may also indirectly influence the caloric density by affecting the overall digestibility and metabolism of the food.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers generally appreciate the Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Mixers for their high-quality ingredients and appeal to pets, especially as a supplement to the brand's kibble. Some highlight that their dogs are more enthusiastic about mealtime when these mixers are added, indicating a significant improvement in palatability.

Many reviews emphasize the product's success with picky eaters or older dogs needing a protein boost. Pet owners have noticed increased interest in meals and better consumption when using these mixers. The mixers are also praised for their versatility, serving both as a treat and a meal topper.

While there are concerns about the price point, many customers feel the benefits justify the cost, as the mixers lead to less wasted food and can potentially improve their pet's health and eating habits. Some reviews mention that even dogs with dental issues find the mixers easy to eat, suggesting they are soft enough for pets with sensitivities.

It's worth noting that while there have been isolated incidents of foreign objects found in the food and some dogs initially refusing the mixers, these appear to be exceptions. Overall, the positive reviews suggest that Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Mixers are a hit with many dogs, particularly for those with specific dietary needs or preferences.