Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Real Mint For Medium Dogs Review

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Review of Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Infused With Real Mint For Medium 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 Real Mint For Medium Dogs, we'll examine all 10 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.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Vegetable glycerin is used as a natural sweetener and texture enhancer in dog foods.

  4. Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.

  5. 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.

  6. Sunflower lecithin is a natural emulsifier that helps improve the texture and consistency of dog food. It also provides essential fatty acids, choline, and inositol to support brain function, skin and coat health, and overall well-being.

  7. Calcium alginate is a natural thickening agent derived from seaweed, which helps maintain the texture and consistency of your dog's food. It can also provide a source of dietary fiber, which aids in healthy digestion and supports overall gastrointestinal health.

  8. Alfalfa Extract is a concentrated form of Alfalfa, a plant rich in vitamins and minerals. It can aid in digestion and provide a boost of antioxidants to support overall health.

  9. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant spice that can help support your dog's joint health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  10. Spearmint Oil is often used for its pleasant aroma and potential digestive benefits. It can also contribute to freshening your dog's breath.

Review of Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein (min) of 13.00%: The crude protein content in this pet food product is primarily derived from the gelatin and to a lesser extent from the pea starch. Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen and is often used in pet foods as a gelling agent that also contributes to the protein content. Pea starch, while being a carbohydrate source, also contains some level of protein, although it is not as concentrated a protein source as animal-based ingredients.

Crude Fat (min) of 0.50%: The very low crude fat content is likely due to the absence of traditional animal fats or oils in the ingredient list. The minimal amount of fat present could be attributed to the natural flavor (which might contain trace amounts of fat depending on its source) and the sunflower seed lecithin, which is a fat-rich substance used as an emulsifier. However, since the fat content is so low, these ingredients are not present in large quantities.

Crude Fiber (max) of 2.50%: The crude fiber content is likely coming from the pea starch and perhaps some from the tapioca starch. These ingredients are plant-based and naturally contain dietary fiber. While starches are primarily used as carbohydrate sources, they also contribute a small amount of dietary fiber to the overall composition of the food. The low fiber percentage indicates that these ingredients are processed to remove most of the fiber, leaving behind the starch.

Summary of Customer Reviews

Customers generally express satisfaction with Merrick Fresh Kisses Double-Brush Mint Breath Strip Infused Medium Dental Dog Treats, highlighting their effectiveness in cleaning teeth and freshening breath. Many dogs seem to enjoy the taste, with pet owners noting that even picky eaters are keen on these treats. The minty flavor is frequently mentioned as a positive attribute, contributing to better-smelling breath in dogs.

Despite some negative feedback, the overall consensus is that these dental chews are well-received by dogs and appreciated by their owners for the oral health benefits they provide. Some reviewers have reported that their dogs have shown significant improvements in dental hygiene and breath odor since starting these treats. The grain and potato-free formula is also a plus for owners who are conscious about their pets' dietary needs.

While there are instances where dogs have not taken to the treats, or where the treats have been too hard for some pets, these cases are relatively few compared to the number of positive experiences shared. Some dogs have had adverse reactions, but these seem to be isolated incidents rather than a common issue with the product. The treats are also praised for their US-made origin and safe ingredients.

The unique double-brush design is frequently mentioned as a benefit, as it seems to help with maintaining dental hygiene. The treats are not only a hit with dogs, but also provide peace of mind to pet owners who are looking for a reliable solution to manage their pets' oral health. Overall, Merrick Fresh Kisses treats are recommended by many for keeping dogs' teeth clean and breath fresh.