Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Coconut + Botanical Oils For Small Dogs Review
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Review of Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Coconut + Botanical Oils For Small 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 Small 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
The guaranteed analysis of the Merrick Fresh Kisses product begins with a Crude Protein minimum of 13.00%. This value indicates the amount of protein that the product contains. The ingredients that most likely contribute to this protein content are gelatin and possibly the natural flavor, depending on its source. Gelatin is a protein derived from collagen obtained from various animal by-products, and it's commonly used in pet foods as a source of protein and as a gelling agent.
Next, we have a Crude Fat minimum of 0.50%. This is a relatively low fat content, which reflects the product's design as a dental chew rather than a main dietary source. The coconut oil listed in the ingredients is the most likely contributor to this value. Coconut oil is a source of fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides, which can be beneficial for skin and coat health in dogs.
Lastly, the Crude Fiber maximum is set at 2.50%. Fiber is an important component in pet foods for digestive health. The ingredients contributing to this fiber content are likely the tapioca starch, pea starch, and possibly some of the botanical oils if they contain any undigestible components. Tapioca and pea starches are carbohydrates that can also contain dietary fibers.
It's important to note that while the guaranteed analysis provides a basic understanding of the nutritional content, it doesn't give a complete picture of the quality or digestibility of the ingredients. However, it does ensure that the product meets certain minimum or maximum levels of key nutrients.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Customers have expressed a strong preference for Merrick Fresh Kisses, noting that their dogs not only enjoy the taste but also experience benefits such as cleaner teeth and fresher breath. One customer highlighted that their dog, Barney, loves the chews and has had no digestive issues, unlike with other brands.
Several reviews commend the natural ingredients and the ability of these chews to freshen their dogs' breath. Owners appreciate that the chews are infused with coconut and botanical oils, and some have observed an improvement in their dogs' dental hygiene since starting to use the product.
While a few dogs were initially hesitant or disinterested in the chews, some of these pets eventually warmed up to them, suggesting that it might take time for certain dogs to acquire a taste for them. One owner observed that their dog, who was picky at first, began to eat the chews occasionally.
In response to the few negative reviews where dogs experienced digestive issues, it is important to note that individual dogs can have different sensitivities, and what works well for one may not suit another. However, the majority of feedback indicates that dogs not only love the taste but also benefit from the dental cleaning properties of Merrick Fresh Kisses.
Positive experiences often mention how dogs look forward to receiving these chews as treats and how owners are reassured by the quality ingredients. The product is frequently described as a favorite compared to other dental chews, with many dogs showing immediate interest and enjoyment.
