Merrick Pet Food Review (Brand) - Complete Buyer’s Guide

Petful is reader supported. As an affiliate of platforms like Amazon and Chewy, we may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page. There is no extra cost to you.
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- Wide variety of product lines and flavors
- No fillers or artificial preservatives
- Manufactured in the USA with rigorous safety certifications
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other brands
- Reports of some dogs refusing certain formulas
Product Comparison
| Product Line | Product Name | AAFCO |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Healthy Grains | Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy Recipe | G |
| Classic Healthy Grains | Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Small Breed Recipe | M |
| Classic Healthy Grains | Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Beef and Brown Rice | M |
| Classic Healthy Grains | Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Real Chicken and Brown Rice | M |


Don't Guess When It Comes To Your Pet's Care
Sign up for expert-backed reviews and safety alerts all in one place.
Merrick Pet Food Key Information
This comprehensive Merrick pet food review is brought to you by Petful, the leading source for pet food recalls for over a decade. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure you make an informed purchase.
Rating: Is Merrick Pet Food Good?
Highest rating as of April 8, 2024, follow the links to see updated ratings.
Pros and Cons
Merrick Pet Food Recalls
- There have been Merrick Pet Food recalls. Check the updated Merrick recall history here. Check our updated Pet Food Recall Center here.
Recall disclaimer: Recalls don’t necessarily reflect a brand’s overall quality. They are often precautionary, aimed at ensuring pet safety. Consider the specifics of each recall when choosing products.
Complaints, Issues, and Controversies
- Customer Affairs: https://www.merrickpetcare.com/online-support-form/ ConsumerAffairs: Merrick Cat Food 1-star reviews
- Amazon: Merrick Grain Free Dry Dog Food Chicken 1-star reviews
Products and Ingredients
Controversial Ingredients and Additives
- Pea Protein: Often considered controversial due to its use as a cheaper protein source that may not be as beneficial as whole animal proteins.Check out American Kennel Club's: "Study Warns Peas May Be Linked to Canine Heart Disease"
- Natural Flavor: Can be controversial because it's vague and may come from various sources, not all of which might be desirable or transparent.
- Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Synthetic Vitamin K3): Controversial because it's a synthetic form of vitamin K, which has been linked to health issues in high doses.Check out DogFoodAdvisor's: "The Controversy Over Menadione in Dog Food"
The presence of certain ingredients doesn't alone determine a dog food's quality. It depends on the overall recipe, ingredient quality, and the dog's unique needs. Opinions on these ingredients vary among experts, and research is ongoing.
Merrick Pet Food Overview
Merrick positions itself as a brand committed to quality nutrition, aiming to cater to pet parents who believe their pets deserve nothing but the most natural, nutritious, and delicious meals. Since its inception in Garth Merrick's family kitchen in Hereford, Texas, in 1988, the brand claims to maintain its original vision and beliefs by crafting and testing every recipe to ensure high-quality standards.
Merrick aims to deliver industry-leading levels of proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats using fresh, real whole foods sourced from trusted farmers, without the inclusion of preservatives, fillers, or artificial ingredients. The brand also emphasizes its commitment to giving back to communities and supporting the well-being of pets and pet parents, striving to ensure every pet lives the healthiest, happiest life possible.
Petful's Merrick Pet Food Review
Merrick pet food emerges as a premium choice for pet parents, priding itself on crafting high-quality, nutritious meals since 1988 in Hereford, Texas. Renowned for its wide variety of options, Merrick caters to all dogs, including those with specific dietary needs, by offering grain-free, healthy grain, and limited ingredient diets among others. Popular products, such as the grain-free and Backcountry ranges, highlight Merrick's commitment to using real, whole ingredients, with deboned meat always taking precedence.
However, while Merrick positions itself as a leader in the natural pet food sector, potential cons include its higher price point and relatively high carbohydrate and fat content in some recipes, which may not suit less active dogs. In conclusion, Merrick pet food is highly recommended by pet parents and professionals alike for its focus on quality and nutrition, though it's important to choose the right product within the brand to match your pet's individual needs and activity level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Purina acquired Merrick Pet Food in 2015
Merrick's Limited Ingredient Diet range is an excellent choice. They only use a limited number of carefully selected ingredients to provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs with food sensitivities and sensitive stomachs.
Explore More Options for Dog Food
- Freshpet Dog Food Rachael Ray Dog Food Nutro Dog Food
A Final Word (Disclaimer)
At Petful, our review integrity is paramount; we never exchange special treatment in our reviews for monetary or material rewards.
Nonetheless, when our readers click through to online merchants (including Chewy or Amazon), we receive a referral commission. This supports the running of our free blog, and we appreciate your backing.
For additional information, kindly refer to our Disclaimer and Discourse Section.
Petful Verdict
Recommended
Petful Review
Conclusion
Based on its commitment to quality ingredients and rigorous manufacturing practices, Merrick pet food is recommend as a brand that supports the health and well-being of pets.
Sources
- Dog Food Advisor
- Dog Food Advisor
- Wag!
Reviewed By
Vet-Approved Content - Reviewed By The <a href="/team/" title="Petful team">Petful Team</a>
Petful is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on this page.

Don't Guess When It Comes To Your Pet's Care
Sign up for expert-backed reviews and safety alerts all in one place.