Merrick Power Bites Big Bites Real Chicken Recipe Review

PawDiet has been helping pet owners since 2015. To fund our efforts, articles may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission.


Review of Merrick Power Bites Big Bites Real Chicken Recipe

According to our most recent data, this product is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.

Review of Ingredients

In our review of Merrick Power Bites Big Bites Real Chicken Recipe, we'll examine all 25 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. Chicken is a lean, easily digestible source of protein that provides essential nutrients for your dog's growth and maintenance. It's also a great source of vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

  2. 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.

  3. Peas are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. They can contribute to your dog's overall health and provide necessary nutrients.

  4. Potato protein is a high-quality, easily digestible protein source that provides essential amino acids necessary for your dog's muscle development and maintenance.

  5. Potato starch is a carbohydrate source that can provide energy for your dog while being gentle on their digestive system.

  6. 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.

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

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

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

  12. 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.

  13. 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.

  14. 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.

  15. 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.

  16. 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.

  17. Potassium chloride is an essential mineral supplement that helps maintain your dog's electrolyte balance and supports healthy nerve and muscle function.

  18. 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.

  19. 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.

  20. Apple is a natural source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support your dog's digestive health, immune system, and overall well-being.

  21. Blueberry is a nutrient-rich fruit that provides antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

  22. Glucosamine hydrochloride is a vital supplement that supports joint health and mobility in dogs. It helps maintain the cartilage in joints, reducing inflammation and promoting overall joint comfort.

  23. Chondroitin sulfate is a vital component in maintaining healthy joints and cartilage in dogs. It helps to reduce joint inflammation, support joint mobility, and slow down the progression of arthritis.

  24. L-carnitine is an essential nutrient that helps your dog's body convert fat into energy, promoting a healthy weight and supporting their overall well-being.

  25. 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

Crude Protein (min) of 15.00%: The primary contributor to the crude protein content is the deboned chicken, which is a high-quality source of protein. Additionally, potato protein, present in the ingredients, also contributes to the overall protein content. Peas can also be a source of protein, albeit to a lesser extent compared to animal-based proteins.

Crude Fat (min) of 7.00%: The crude fat content is likely derived from the deboned chicken, which naturally contains fat. Safflower oil, listed in the ingredients, is another significant contributor to the fat content, along with the natural fats present in flaxseed. The vegetable glycerin may also contain some fat content, although it is primarily used as a binder or sweetener.

Crude Fiber (max) of 5.00%: The fiber content is most likely provided by the plant-based ingredients such as peas, pea fiber, potato starch, and the various fruits and vegetables included in the recipe (carrots, apples, and blueberries). These ingredients contain dietary fibers which contribute to the overall crude fiber guarantee. Flaxseed also contains fiber, which would add to this content.