Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food
Two fifths of this cup is starch, close to the site average. Protein comes in at 23.0%, and the first five ingredients are all animal or whole food.
- Protein
- 23.0%
- Starch, derived
- 40.5%
- Kcal / cup
- 390
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Deboned Lamb
The clean flesh of sheep, used fresh.
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Salmon Meal
Salmon 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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Barley
The grain of the barley plant, one of the older cultivated cereals.
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Oatmeal
Oats that have been rolled or ground, used as a whole grain...
Salt is listed at #11. The 16 ingredients after it are present in trace amounts.
| Crude protein, minimum | 23.0% |
| Crude fat, minimum | 16.0% |
| Crude fiber, maximum | 3.5% |
| Moisture, maximum | 11.0% |
| Ash assumed, not published | 6.0% |
| Starch, derived by us | 40.5% |
| Calories | 390 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 25.8% 13/30
Protein is 25.8% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 23%, but that figure includes the water. This food is between 22% and 26% dry matter, adequate but unremarkable.
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Carbohydrate load 45.5% 9/25
Estimated carbohydrate is 45.5% dry matter, between 40% and 50% dry matter, high. 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 2 named 10/25
The first five ingredients are Deboned Lamb, Salmon Meal, Brown Rice, Barley and Oatmeal. 2 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 | 23% | 25.8% | moderate |
| Fat | 16% | 18% | |
| Fibre | 3.5% | 3.9% | |
| Carbohydrate (estimated) | 40.5% | 45.5% | high |
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 3,680 kcal per kilogram, or 390 kcal per cup.
How much to feed
We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,680 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: Classic Healthy Grains
1 FDA recall on record for Classic Healthy Grains.
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.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food: An Analysis of Canine Longevity
The Power of Quality Ingredients
When it comes to choosing the right dog food for your furry companion, the quality of the ingredients is of utmost importance. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food offers a promising combination of main ingredients: deboned lamb, salmon meal, brown rice, barley, and oatmeal. Let’s dive deeper into how these ingredients contribute to canine longevity based on customer feedback.
Energy and Vitality
One of the key factors in ensuring a long and healthy life for our dogs is providing them with the energy they need to stay active. Many dog owners have reported positive experiences with Merrick Classic Healthy Grains. They have noticed significant improvements in their dogs’ energy levels and overall vitality.
One dog owner shared how their Yorkie’s knee condition improved after switching to this food, thanks to the glucosamine and chondroitin levels in the recipe. This anecdote highlights the potential benefits of incorporating these joint-supporting ingredients into your dog’s diet.
Coat Condition
A shiny and healthy coat is often an indicator of a dog’s overall well-being. Numerous customers have praised Merrick Classic Healthy Grains for its positive impact on their dogs’ coat condition. Dogs that previously experienced skin issues or fur loss have seen significant improvements after switching to this food.
Digestive Health
Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for a dog’s overall well-being. Some dog owners have reported that their dogs experienced improved digestion after transitioning to Merrick Classic Healthy Grains. Loose stools and digestive upsets became a thing of the past, giving both dogs and their owners peace of mind.
Palatability and Variety
Ensuring that your dog enjoys their food is important for their overall satisfaction and well-being. Merrick Classic Healthy Grains has received positive feedback regarding its palatability. Even picky eaters have been won over by the flavor of this dog food.
Additionally, the variety of flavors offered by Merrick allows dog owners to provide their pets with a range of taste experiences. This not only keeps mealtime interesting but also prevents dogs from getting bored with their food.
The Importance of Individual Preference
While the majority of reviews for Merrick Classic Healthy Grains are positive, a few customers have reported that their dogs did not respond well to this food. It’s important to remember that just like humans, dogs have individual preferences and dietary needs. What works for one dog may not work for another.
It’s always recommended to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can provide guidance based on your dog’s specific requirements and help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food has received positive feedback from many dog owners. The quality ingredients, such as deboned lamb and ancient grains, contribute to energy levels, coat condition, and digestive health.
While the majority of dogs have benefited from this food, it’s important to consider individual preferences and consult with a veterinarian. Every dog is unique, and finding the right food that promotes their longevity and overall well-being is key.
By prioritizing quality ingredients and paying attention to your dog’s specific needs, you can make an informed decision to support your furry friend’s health and happiness for years to come.
