Merrick Lil' Plates Small Salmon Recipe Small Breed Treats Review
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Review of Merrick Lil' Plates Small Salmon Recipe Small Breed Treats
According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.
Review of Ingredients
In our review of Merrick Lil' Plates Small Salmon Recipe Small Breed Treats, we'll examine all 23 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.
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals that support your dog's immune system, brain function, and skin and coat health.
Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals for dogs, and are also high in fiber which can help keep your dog's digestive system running smoothly.
Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.
Potato protein is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle development and maintenance.
Potato starch is a carbohydrate source that can provide energy for your dog while being gentle on their digestive system.
Organic cane molasses is a natural sweetener that can enhance the taste of the food, while also providing minor amounts of minerals like calcium and potassium.
Vegetable glycerin is used as a natural sweetener and texture enhancer in dog foods.
While brown sugar is not a necessary ingredient in dog food, it can be used in small quantities to add natural sweetness and flavor to the food, making it more palatable for your dog.
Cultured whey is a byproduct of cheese production and is rich in probiotics, which can help support your dog's gut health and promote a healthy immune system.
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.
Gelatin is a natural source of collagen, which helps maintain healthy joints and promotes a shiny, healthy coat for your dog.
Flaxseed is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and essential nutrients, which can support your dog's skin, coat, and digestive health.
Safflower oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols) is a valuable source of omega-6 fatty acids, which support your dog's skin and coat health, as well as overall immune function.
Pea fiber is a natural source of dietary fiber for dogs that helps support digestive health and overall well-being. It also aids in weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness, making it a valuable addition to dog food formulas.
Citric acid is a natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of dog food. It also acts as an antioxidant, which can help protect your dog's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for your dog. They're rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function, and also provide fiber to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy weight.
While salt is a necessary component of a dog's diet, providing essential minerals such as sodium and chloride for proper cellular function, it should be provided in moderation to avoid health issues like hypertension or kidney damage.
Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.
Natural smoke flavor adds a delicious, smoky taste to your dog's food, making it more enjoyable and enticing. This ingredient encourages a healthy appetite, ensuring that your dog receives the necessary nutrients for overall health and vitality.
Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.
Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.
Inulin is a natural prebiotic fiber that supports the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut, promoting digestive health and overall immune function.
Rosemary extract is a natural antioxidant that can help protect your dog's body from the harmful effects of free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can support your dog's overall health and well-being, particularly in regard to joint health.
Review of Guaranteed Analysis
The guaranteed analysis value for crude protein of a minimum of 15.00% is likely influenced most by the deboned salmon, which is the first ingredient and a high-quality source of animal protein. Potato protein also contributes to the overall protein content, as it is a concentrated form of protein extracted from potatoes. Peas may also add a small amount of protein to the treats.
The crude fat minimum of 7.00% is primarily derived from the deboned salmon, which naturally contains fats that are beneficial for a dog's coat and skin health. Safflower oil, preserved with mixed tocopherols (a source of Vitamin E), is another ingredient that contributes to the fat content. Flaxseed can also be a source of healthy fats, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Crude fiber's maximum value of 5.00% is influenced by ingredients such as peas, pea fiber, and potato starch. These are all sources of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion. Apples and blueberries may also contribute to the fiber content, though they are likely present in smaller amounts compared to the peas and pea fiber. Inulin, a type of soluble fiber often extracted from chicory root, can also contribute to the fiber content while serving as a prebiotic to support gut health.
Summary of Customer Reviews
Many customers have found the Merrick Lil' Plates Small Salmon Recipe Small Breed Treats to be a hit with their pets, especially for those with small breeds. Dogs seem to enjoy the salmon flavor, and the treats are praised for being the perfect size for training, offering a low-calorie reward without overfeeding.
Owners of both small and large dogs have commented on the versatility of these treats. They're small enough for little dogs and make excellent training aids for bigger breeds due to their size and low calorie count. The treats are also soft enough for dogs with sensitive teeth or older dogs who may have dental issues.
Despite a few dogs not taking to the flavor, the majority of reviews are positive, with pets showing excitement at the sight of the treats. The unique shapes and the ability to reseal the bag to maintain freshness have also been noted as benefits. Additionally, some owners appreciate the grain-free aspect due to their dogs' allergies.
For those concerned about the calorie intake of their pets, these treats have been a great option. They allow for frequent treating without the worry of weight gain, making them a favorite for owners who like to reward their pets throughout the day.
Lastly, some reviews have highlighted the importance of paying attention to FDA warnings and vet recommendations regarding pet food brands. While some concerns were raised about Merrick in general, it seems that these treats specifically have not been implicated, and many dogs continue to enjoy them safely.
