Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Coconut + Botanical Oils For Large Dogs Review
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Review of Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Coconut + Botanical Oils For Large Dogs
According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.
Review of Ingredients
In our review of Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Coconut + Botanical Oils For Large Dogs, we'll examine all 14 ingredients and highlight the nutritional contribution of each ingredient.
While the first few ingredients typically dominate the recipe's composition, ingredients in small quantities can still have a meaningful impact on the overall nutritional profile of the recipe.
Pea starch is a carbohydrate source derived from peas, providing an alternative to grains for dogs with sensitivities. It serves as a source of energy, supports healthy digestion, and contributes to the overall balance of your dog's diet. Pea starch also has a low glycemic index, which can help manage blood sugar levels in dogs with diabetes or weight management needs.
Tapioca starch is a grain-free carbohydrate source derived from the root of the cassava plant. It is used in dog food as a binding agent and energy source. Tapioca starch is easily digestible, making it a suitable ingredient for dogs with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies.
Vegetable glycerin is used as a natural sweetener and texture enhancer in dog foods.
Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.
Natural flavor is added to dog food to enhance its taste and make it more appealing to your pet. This can help encourage your dog to eat a balanced and nutritious diet, supporting their overall health and well-being.
Coconut Oil is a source of healthy fats which can support your dog's skin and coat health, and it also possesses some antimicrobial properties.
Gum arabic is a natural plant-derived substance used as a thickening agent and binder in dog food. It helps maintain the texture and consistency of the food, making it more palatable and enjoyable for your dog to eat. Additionally, gum arabic has prebiotic properties, which support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote a healthy digestive system.
Fruit juice color is a natural food coloring derived from fruit sources, providing a safe and visually appealing appearance to your dog's food.
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice that can help support your dog's joint health, immune system, and overall well-being.
Sunflower oil is rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid that promotes a healthy coat and skin.
Peppermint oil not only provides a pleasing flavor, but it can also aid in digestion and offer a natural breath freshener for your dog.
Lemongrass oil has natural antimicrobial properties that can help maintain a healthy digestive system and may act as a natural flea and tick repellent.
Turmeric oleoresin is a concentrated form of turmeric that provides its natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It can help support your dog's joint health, immune system, and overall well-being.
Oil of rosemary is often used in dog food as a natural preservative. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your dog's health.
Review of Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein (min) of 13.00%: The protein content in this pet food product is likely derived from ingredients such as gelatin, which is a protein obtained from animal by-products. The percentage indicates that there is a minimum of 13% crude protein in the food, which is essential for the dog's muscle development and overall health. While the plant-based ingredients like tapioca starch and pea starch may contribute a small amount of protein, they are primarily sources of carbohydrates.
Crude Fat (min) of 0.50%: The minimum crude fat content of 0.50% is relatively low, indicating this is not a high-fat product. The coconut oil listed in the ingredients is the most likely contributor to this value, providing essential fatty acids that are beneficial for the dog's skin and coat health. The low-fat content is suitable for maintaining a healthy weight in dogs.
Crude Fiber (max) of 2.50%: The maximum crude fiber content is set at 2.50%, which is important for digestive health and regular bowel movements. This fiber likely comes from the pea starch and possibly the tapioca starch, as these are carbohydrate sources that typically contain some level of dietary fiber. The botanical oils listed, while not significant sources of dietary fiber, may contribute to overall digestive health through their functional properties.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Customers are generally pleased with the Merrick Fresh Kisses dental treats, citing improved dental hygiene in their dogs and noting that even their veterinarians are impressed with the cleanliness of their pets' teeth. Dogs seem to enjoy the flavor, with many looking forward to their daily treat before bedtime.
Some owners have found these dental chews to be a lifesaver for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, as they contain simple ingredients and no poultry. The treats have also been successful in freshening breath and keeping teeth clean, with several customers commenting on the noticeable improvement in their dogs' breath after regular use.
While there were instances of dogs experiencing digestive issues, these seem to be isolated cases, often related to individual sensitivities. For the majority, dogs digest the treats well, and the chews have become a staple in their dental care routine.
A few dogs were picky with dental treats but took to Merrick Fresh Kisses enthusiastically, adding variety to their diet and dental care. Owners appreciate the natural ingredients and the fact that their dogs perceive them as treats, making dental care easier.
Despite some dogs finishing the chews quickly, many owners believe they are still effective in promoting dental health. The infusion of coconut and botanical oils is a hit among owners who are conscious of the ingredients in their dogs' treats. Some owners did note that they had to supervise their dogs to prevent pieces from getting stuck, but overall, the product is well-received.
For those concerned about the cost or size of the treats, there is a recognition that the benefits for their dogs' dental health and the enjoyment the dogs get from the chews often outweigh these factors. Owners of dogs with sensitive stomachs have particularly praised the chews for not causing any upset, which can be a common issue with other dental treats.
