Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Starch works out at 43.5% of this cup, above the site average. Protein comes in at 21.0%, and the first five ingredients are all animal or whole food.
- Protein
- 21.0%
- Starch, derived
- 43.5%
- Kcal / cup
- 382
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Deboned Chicken
The clean flesh of the chicken, with or without skin, used fresh....
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Chicken Meal
Chicken 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 #10. The 8 ingredients after it are present in trace amounts.
| Crude protein, minimum | 21.0% |
| Crude fat, minimum | 14.0% |
| Crude fiber, maximum | 4.5% |
| Moisture, maximum | 11.0% |
| Ash assumed, not published | 6.0% |
| Starch, derived by us | 43.5% |
| Calories | 382 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 23.6% 13/30
Protein is 23.6% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 21%, but that figure includes the water. This food is between 22% and 26% dry matter, adequate but unremarkable.
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Carbohydrate load 48.9% 9/25
Estimated carbohydrate is 48.9% 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 Chicken, Chicken 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 | 21% | 23.6% | low |
| Fat | 14% | 15.7% | |
| Fibre | 4.5% | 5.1% | |
| Carbohydrate (estimated) | 43.5% | 48.9% | 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 3,606 kcal per kilogram, or 382 kcal per cup.
How much to feed
We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,606 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: Limited Ingredient Diet
1 FDA recall on record for Limited Ingredient Diet.
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.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
The Importance of Quality Ingredients for Canine Longevity
As responsible dog owners, we all want our furry friends to live long, healthy lives. One crucial factor in promoting canine longevity is providing them with a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. When it comes to dog food, the quality of ingredients plays a vital role in their overall health and well-being.
One brand that has gained attention in the market is Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. Let’s take a closer look at its main ingredients and how they contribute to canine health.
Deboned Chicken and Chicken Meal: A Protein Powerhouse
Protein is an essential component of a dog’s diet, and Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food does not disappoint in this regard. The inclusion of deboned chicken and chicken meal as the first ingredients provides dogs with a high-quality source of animal protein. Protein is necessary for energy production, muscle development, and supporting a healthy immune system.
Brown Rice, Barley, and Oatmeal: Complex Carbohydrates for Sustained Energy
Complex carbohydrates are an important energy source for dogs, and Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food incorporates brown rice, barley, and oatmeal in its formula. These ingredients provide dogs with a steady release of energy throughout the day, helping to maintain their activity levels and overall vitality.
Customer Feedback: A Glimpse into Real-World Experiences
While the ingredient list of Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is impressive, it is essential to consider the experiences of dog owners who have fed this product to their pets.
Some customers have expressed concerns about changes in the product that have affected their dogs’ willingness to eat it. One reviewer mentioned a strange chemical smell that made their dogs refuse to eat the food. This experience highlights the importance of maintaining consistent product quality to ensure palatability and enjoyment for dogs.
Another customer mentioned that the addition of canola oil to the formula was a disappointment. For dogs with specific dietary needs, unexpected changes can be problematic. This feedback emphasizes the significance of transparency and consistency in the ingredients used in dog food.
Promoting Digestive Health and Overall Well-being
Digestive health is a crucial aspect of a dog’s overall well-being, and Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food aims to support this with its limited ingredient formula. By using a simplified recipe, this dog food minimizes the risk of triggering food sensitivities or allergies in dogs with dietary restrictions.
Furthermore, the positive feedback regarding Merrick’s customer service indicates a commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction. While some customers may not have had success with this specific formula, Merrick offers a range of other options, such as their Raw Infused Hero line, which might better suit individual dogs’ preferences and needs.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dog Food for Longevity
When it comes to selecting the right dog food for your beloved pet, it is essential to consider the ingredients and how they contribute to their overall health and longevity. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food offers a promising blend of high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and limited ingredients to support canine well-being.
However, it is crucial to note that individual dogs may have unique preferences and dietary needs. While some customers have reported issues with palatability, it is worth exploring other options within Merrick’s product range to find the best fit for your furry companion.
Remember, promoting longevity in our dogs goes beyond just their diet. Regular exercise, veterinary care, and a loving environment also play vital roles in ensuring our four-legged friends live their best lives.
