Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Wild Fields Recipe Review

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Review of Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Wild Fields Recipe

According to our data, this Merrick recipe provides complete & balanced nutrition for the maintenance of adult dogs. In other words, this formula is AAFCO approved.

Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Wild Fields Recipe is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for the maintenance of adult dogs.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Wild Fields Recipe, we'll examine all 49 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. Duck is a highly digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids, which support muscle development and energy in dogs.

  2. Chicken meal is a highly concentrated source of protein made from dehydrated and ground chicken. It provides essential amino acids for your dog's muscle development, tissue repair, and overall growth, making it a valuable ingredient for maintaining your dog's health and well-being.

  3. Turkey meal is a high-quality, protein-rich ingredient that provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for your dog. It supports lean muscle development, healthy organ function, and a strong immune system.

  4. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals for dogs, and are also high in fiber which can help keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly.

  5. Sweet potato is a highly nutritious and easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates for your dog. It provides essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting a healthy digestive system and immune function.

  6. Salmon meal is a high-quality protein source that also provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, as well as overall wellness.

  7. Potato protein is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle development and maintenance.

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

  9. Chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a source of essential fatty acids like omega-6 which help to maintain a healthy skin and coat. The tocopherols act as natural preservatives.

  10. Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.

  11. Rabbit is a lean, novel protein source that is easily digestible and can be beneficial for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.

  12. Quail is a novel protein source that is highly digestible and supports lean muscle development and overall health in dogs.

  13. 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.

  14. 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.

  15. Sunflower oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that promotes a healthy coat and skin.

  16. Salmon oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, immune system, and cognitive function.

  17. Dried organic alfalfa meal is a good source of fiber which aids in digestion, and also provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.

  18. While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.

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

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

  21. Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.

  22. Choline Chloride is an essential nutrient that aids in brain and liver function, muscle movement, and supports healthy metabolic processes.

  23. Iron amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable source of iron for dogs, which supports red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body. It helps maintain overall health and vitality for your furry friend.

  24. Zinc amino acid complex is a more digestible form of zinc that can support your dog's immune system, skin health, and coat quality.

  25. Zinc sulfate is a source of the essential mineral zinc, which supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and overall growth and development.

  26. Sodium selenite is a form of selenium, a necessary trace mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health in dogs.

  27. Manganese amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable form of manganese, an essential trace mineral that supports healthy bones, joints, and metabolism. This ingredient ensures that your dog receives the proper amount of manganese for optimal health.

  28. Copper amino acid complex is a highly bioavailable source of copper, an essential trace mineral that supports your dog's immune system, skin and coat health, and promotes red blood cell production.

  29. Potassium iodide is a chemical compound that can be used as a source of iodine in your dog's diet. Iodine is crucial for the proper functioning of your dog's thyroid gland.

  30. Cobalt proteinate is an organic form of cobalt, an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in the production of vitamin B12, which supports your dog's metabolism and overall health.

  31. Cobalt carbonate is a trace mineral that plays a role in the synthesis of vitamin B12, supporting your dog's metabolism, energy production, and overall health.

  32. Taurine is an essential amino acid that supports heart health, vision, and development and function of skeletal muscle.

  33. Yucca schidigera extract is a natural ingredient known for its ability to reduce unpleasant odors in your dog's waste. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support joint health and overall well-being.

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

  35. Vitamin E supplement is an essential nutrient that helps support your dog's immune system, skin health, and overall wellness.

  36. Vitamin B12 Supplement is an essential vitamin that helps support brain function and the formation of red blood cells.

  37. Vitamin A acetate is a form of vitamin A, which is essential for your dog's overall health. It supports healthy vision, immune function, and proper growth and development. Vitamin A acetate also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and coat, ensuring your dog looks and feels its best.

  38. D-Calcium Pantothenate is a source of pantothenic acid, a B-vitamin that helps in energy metabolism and the synthesis of important compounds in the body.

  39. Thiamine mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 that helps support your dog's nervous system function, energy metabolism, and overall health.

  40. Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is essential for a dog's metabolism and energy production, and supports healthy skin and coat.

  41. Riboflavin supplement is a source of Vitamin B2, which is crucial for your dog's energy production, cell function, and overall growth and development.

  42. Biotin is a B-vitamin that's important for maintaining healthy skin, coat, and nails in dogs.

  43. Vitamin D3 supplement is an essential vitamin that supports bone health, immune function, and overall well-being in dogs. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body, promoting strong and healthy bones.

  44. Folic acid is a crucial B-vitamin that aids in the synthesis of DNA and supports healthy cell growth. It's essential for maintaining your dog's overall health, particularly during periods of rapid growth.

  45. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your dog's nervous system function, immune health, and red blood cell production.

  46. The dried Lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product is a probiotic that aids in maintaining a healthy gut flora.

  47. Dried Lactobacillus casei fermentation product is a probiotic ingredient that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria in your dog, promoting optimal digestion and immune system function.

  48. Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product is a beneficial probiotic ingredient used in dog food. It helps support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This probiotic also aids in nutrient absorption and can improve your dog's overall immune system function.

  49. Dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product is a probiotic that can aid in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog's gut, supporting overall digestive health.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 38.00%: This high protein content is primarily contributed by the animal-based ingredients listed at the beginning of the ingredient list, such as deboned duck, chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, rabbit, quail, chicken, and chicken liver. Meals, in particular, are concentrated forms of animal proteins after water and fat have been removed, which significantly boosts the protein content.

Crude Fat (min) of 17.00%: The fat content is likely coming from the chicken fat, which is a high-quality source of energy for pets and is preserved with mixed tocopherols (a form of Vitamin E). Other contributors to the fat content include salmon oil and sunflower oil, which are also rich in essential fatty acids that are beneficial for a pet's skin and coat health.

Crude Fiber (max) of 3.50%: Fiber in this pet food comes from plant-based ingredients such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, and organic dried alfalfa meal. These ingredients provide the necessary fiber to aid in digestion and maintain gut health. The maximum value indicates that the product is not excessively high in fiber, which is suitable for a carnivorous diet that cats and dogs naturally require.

Calories of 3795.00 per kg: The caloric content is a cumulative measure of energy derived from all macronutrients - proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. The high-protein and fat ingredients like meats and oils contribute significantly to the calorie count, while carbohydrates from potatoes and sweet potatoes also add to the overall energy content. This high caloric density makes the food particularly suitable for active pets that require a lot of energy.