Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food
Starch works out at 29.5% of this cup, comfortably below the site average. Protein leads at 34.0%, and the first five ingredients are all animal or whole food.
- Protein
- 34.0%
- Starch, derived
- 29.5%
- Kcal / cup
- 386
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Deboned Salmon
The flesh of salmon, an oily cold-water fish, used fresh.
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Salmon Meal
Salmon that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal...
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Whitefish Meal
Whitefish that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal...
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Brown Rice
Rice with only the inedible outer hull removed, so the bran and...
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Oatmeal
Oats that have been rolled or ground, used as a whole grain...
Salt is listed at #14. The 14 ingredients after it are present in trace amounts.
| Crude protein, minimum | 34.0% |
| Crude fat, minimum | 16.0% |
| Crude fiber, maximum | 3.5% |
| Moisture, maximum | 11.0% |
| Ash assumed, not published | 6.0% |
| Starch, derived by us | 29.5% |
| Calories | 386 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 38.2% 30/30
Protein is 38.2% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 34%, 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 33.1% 15/25
Estimated carbohydrate is 33.1% dry matter, between 30% and 40% dry matter, around the middle of the catalogue. 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 Salmon, Salmon Meal, Whitefish Meal, Brown Rice and Oatmeal. 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 | 34% | 38.2% | very high |
| Fat | 16% | 18% | |
| Fibre | 3.5% | 3.9% | |
| Carbohydrate (estimated) | 29.5% | 33.1% | moderate |
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 3,650 kcal per kilogram, or 386 kcal per cup.
How much to feed
We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,650 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.
Analyzing Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food
Ingredients for Canine Longevity
When it comes to selecting the right dog food for your furry friend, it’s important to consider the ingredients and their impact on their overall health and longevity. Let’s take a closer look at the main ingredients of Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food:
– Deboned Salmon: Salmon is a high-quality source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to a healthy coat and skin. According to customer reviews, dogs that consume this food have experienced improvements in their coat condition and overall energy levels.
– Salmon Meal: Salmon meal is a concentrated form of salmon protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle development and maintenance. This ingredient offers a highly digestible source of protein, which is important for a dog’s overall well-being.
– Whitefish Meal: Whitefish meal is another excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support brain health and reduce inflammation. This ingredient has been positively received by dog owners, who have noticed improvements in their pets’ energy levels and coat condition.
– Brown Rice: Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides dogs with sustained energy throughout the day. It also contains fiber, which aids in healthy digestion. Some customers have reported improved digestion in their dogs after switching to this food.
– Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a gluten-free grain that is easily digestible for most dogs. It is a good source of dietary fiber, which can promote digestive health. The inclusion of oatmeal in this dog food has been appreciated by owners who have seen positive changes in their pets’ digestion.
Customer Feedback and Health Benefits
The customer feedback for Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food has been generally positive. Many dog owners have reported improvements in their pets’ overall health and well-being after switching to this brand. Let’s explore some of the key benefits mentioned in the reviews:
1. Improved Coat Condition: Several customers have noticed a positive change in their dogs’ coat condition, with fur becoming shinier and healthier. This can be attributed to the high-quality proteins and omega-3 fatty acids found in the salmon and whitefish ingredients.
2. Increased Energy Levels: Dog owners have reported that their pets have more energy and vitality after switching to this food. This could be attributed to the balanced nutrition provided by the combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
3. Enhanced Digestion: Many customers have observed improvements in their dogs’ digestion, with fewer instances of upset stomachs and firmer stools. The inclusion of easily digestible ingredients like brown rice and oatmeal may contribute to these positive digestive changes.
4. Positive Impact on Overall Well-being: Dog owners have expressed satisfaction with the overall health and well-being of their pets after feeding them this brand. Some have even recommended it to others based on the positive changes they’ve seen in their own dogs.
Considerations and Drawbacks
While the majority of reviews for Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food have been positive, it’s important to consider some of the drawbacks mentioned by customers:
1. Inconsistency in Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces: Some customers have expressed disappointment with the inconsistency in the amount of freeze-dried raw pieces in the food. While some bags contain a satisfactory amount, others may have very few or none at all. These pieces are enjoyed by dogs and contribute to the overall appeal of the food.
2. Fishy Smell: A few customers have mentioned that the food has a strong fishy smell, which may deter some dogs from eating it. However, it’s important to note that dogs have individual preferences, and what one dog dislikes, another may love.
3. Price: Some customers have mentioned that this dog food is on the pricier side compared to other brands. However, they emphasize that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on their dogs’ health justifies the additional cost.
Conclusion
Overall, Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Pacific Catch Recipe + Grains Dry Dog Food appears to be a popular choice among dog owners who prioritize high-quality ingredients and are willing to invest in their pets’ health. The main ingredients, such as deboned salmon and whitefish meal, contribute to a healthy coat, increased energy levels, improved digestion, and overall well-being. While there have been some concerns about consistency and the fishy smell of the food, the majority of customers have seen positive results in their dogs’ health and longevity. Remember, it’s always important to consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your specific dog’s needs.
