Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food
A quarter of this cup is starch, the lowest tenth of everything we have measured. Protein leads at 38.0%, and the first five ingredients are all animal or whole food.
- Protein
- 38.0%
- Starch, derived
- 24.5%
- Kcal / cup
- 395
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Deboned Turkey
The clean flesh of the turkey, with or without skin, used fresh.
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Turkey Meal
Turkey that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal...
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Chicken Meal
Chicken that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal,...
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Sweet Potatoes
The tuber of the sweet potato plant, cooked and used as a...
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Potatoes
The tuber of the potato plant, cooked and used as a grain-free...
Salt is listed at #18. The 15 ingredients after it are present in trace amounts.
| Crude protein, minimum | 38.0% |
| Crude fat, minimum | 17.0% |
| Crude fiber, maximum | 3.5% |
| Moisture, maximum | 11.0% |
| Ash assumed, not published | 6.0% |
| Starch, derived by us | 24.5% |
| Calories | 395 kcal/cup |
The Open Score
Computed from this food's own figures, not from an opinion. Every line below shows what it awarded and why. Read the full method.
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Protein, dry matter 42.7% 30/30
Protein is 42.7% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 38%, but that figure includes the water. This food is at or above 38% dry matter, which is a high-protein food by any measure.
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Carbohydrate load 27.5% 21/25
Estimated carbohydrate is 27.5% dry matter, between 20% and 30% dry matter, low. No manufacturer publishes this figure. We derive it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total.
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First five ingredients 3 named 15/25
The first five ingredients are Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes and Potatoes. 3 of them are a named animal protein.
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Flagged additives none found 10/10
None of the additives on our flagged list appear in the ingredients.
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Brand recall history 1 on record 9/10
1 FDA recall matched to this brand, 0 of them in the last three years. This reflects the manufacturer, not this specific recipe.
A score is a summary of measurable things. It cannot tell you whether your dog will do well on this food, and it does not account for price, availability or a condition your vet is managing.
Nutrition, dry matter
The guaranteed analysis on the bag is measured "as fed", which includes the water. Converting to dry matter removes the water so this food can be compared with any other, wet or dry. This food is 89% dry matter.
| Nutrient | As fed | Dry matter | Reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 38% | 42.7% | very high |
| Fat | 17% | 19.1% | |
| Fibre | 3.5% | 3.9% | |
| Carbohydrate (estimated) | 24.5% | 27.5% | low |
Carbohydrate is not published by any manufacturer. We estimate it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total. This food carries 3,731 kcal per kilogram, or 395 kcal per cup.
How much to feed
We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,731 kcal/kg), using the resting energy formula vets use. It is a starting point to adjust from, not a prescription. A pregnant dog, a dog recovering from illness, or one on a prescription diet needs a figure from your vet.
Recall history: Backcountry Raw Infused
1 FDA recall on record for Backcountry Raw Infused.
Get told if this changes
Recalls are announced without warning. We will email you when one is published. No newsletter, no sharing your address, one click to stop.
Assessing Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food
Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food is a popular choice among dog owners, with mixed feedback. Let’s take a closer look at the main ingredients and how they contribute to various aspects of dog health and well-being.
Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, and Chicken Meal
The inclusion of deboned turkey, turkey meal, and chicken meal as the primary sources of protein in this dog food is a positive aspect. These ingredients provide essential amino acids for muscle development and overall energy levels. Many dog owners have reported increased energy in their pets after switching to this brand.
One customer mentioned that their 10-year-old Rottweiler thrives on this food, even without any additional ingredients mixed in. This indicates that the combination of turkey and chicken in the kibble is enticing enough to satisfy a picky eater.
Additionally, a review from a Golden Retriever owner highlighted the positive impact of this food on the dog’s coat and digestion. This suggests that the protein-rich ingredients contribute to a healthy and shiny coat, as well as improved digestive health.
Sweet Potatoes and Potatoes
The presence of sweet potatoes and potatoes as the main sources of carbohydrates in this formula provides dogs with a steady release of energy. These ingredients are a good alternative to grains for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
One customer mentioned that their Goldendoodle puppy loves this food and has a lot of energy. This could be attributed to the easily digestible carbohydrates in the form of sweet potatoes and potatoes.
Freeze-Dried Raw Bits
One unique feature of Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food is the inclusion of freeze-dried raw bits. These raw bits are meant to provide additional flavor and nutrition to the kibble.
While some customers have praised the presence of these freeze-dried raw bits, others have expressed disappointment with their absence. Some bags have reportedly contained very few or no freeze-dried pieces at all.
However, for those who have received bags with an adequate amount of freeze-dried bits, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Several customers have noticed increased enthusiasm in their dogs during mealtime and improved energy levels after consuming the raw bits.
Overall Impressions
Based on customer feedback, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food has proven to be a hit among many dogs. The high-quality protein sources, such as deboned turkey, turkey meal, and chicken meal, contribute to improved energy levels and coat condition.
The inclusion of sweet potatoes and potatoes as the main sources of carbohydrates ensures a steady release of energy for active dogs. However, the presence and quantity of freeze-dried raw bits can be inconsistent, leading to mixed experiences among customers.
It’s important to note that individual dogs may have different dietary needs and preferences. While this brand has received positive feedback from many dog owners, there have been reports of digestive issues and picky eaters not enjoying the flavor.
Considering Canine Longevity
When it comes to assessing a dog food’s impact on canine longevity, it’s essential to consider the overall health and well-being of the dog. A balanced diet that includes high-quality protein sources, such as the ones found in Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food, can contribute to a dog’s overall longevity.
The positive feedback from customers regarding increased energy levels, improved coat condition, and digestive health suggests that this dog food has the potential to positively impact a dog’s overall well-being. However, it’s important to monitor how individual dogs respond to the specific ingredients in this formula.
While Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Game Bird Recipe Dry Dog Food is generally well-regarded, it may not be suitable for every dog. As with any dietary change, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best food option for your dog’s specific needs.
Remember, a dog’s longevity is influenced by various factors, including genetics, exercise, veterinary care, and a balanced diet. Choosing the right dog food is just one piece of the puzzle in ensuring a long and healthy life for your furry friend.
