Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 1

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 11

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 5

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 3

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 2

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 4

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 6

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food – Gallery Image 7

Merrick Lil' Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

Part of the Lil' Plates product line →

Top 5 ingredients of Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food are Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, and Oatmeal. According to the guaranteed analysis, we calculated the starch ratio as 36.5%.

Deboned Lamb The clean flesh of sheep, used fresh.
Lamb Meal Lamb that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal, with most of the water removed.
Brown Rice Rice with only the inedible outer hull removed, so the bran and germ stay on the grain.
Chicken Meal Chicken that has been cooked, dried and ground into a concentrated meal, with most of the water and fat removed.
Oatmeal Oats that have been rolled or ground, used as a whole grain carbohydrate.

Guaranteed Analysis	Value
Crude Protein (min.)	27%
Crude Fiber (max.)	3.5%
Crude Fat (min.)	16%
Moisture (max.)	11%
Calories	3,732 kcal/kg, 407 kcal/cup

Nutrition, dry matter

The guaranteed analysis on the bag is measured "as fed", which includes the water. Converting to dry matter removes the water so this food can be compared with any other, wet or dry. This food is 89% dry matter.

Nutrient	As fed	Dry matter	Reading
Protein	27%	30.3%	high
Fat	16%	18%
Fibre	3.5%	3.9%
Carbohydrate (estimated)	36.5%	41%	high

Carbohydrate is not published by any manufacturer. We estimate it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total. This food carries 3,732 kcal per kilogram, or 407 kcal per cup.

63 out of 100

The Open Score

Computed from this food's own figures, not from an opinion. Every line below shows what it awarded and why. Read the full method.

Protein, dry matter 30.3% 20/30

Protein is 30.3% dry matter. As printed on the bag it reads 27%, but that figure includes the water. This food is between 26% and 32% dry matter, a typical mainstream level.
Carbohydrate load 41% 9/25

Estimated carbohydrate is 41% dry matter, between 40% and 50% dry matter, high. No manufacturer publishes this figure. We derive it by subtracting protein, fat, fibre, moisture and an assumed 6% ash from the total.
First five ingredients 3 named 15/25

The first five ingredients are Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal and Oatmeal. 3 of them are a named animal protein.
Flagged additives none found 10/10

None of the additives on our flagged list appear in the ingredients.
Brand recall history 1 on record 9/10

1 FDA recall matched to this brand, 0 of them in the last three years. This reflects the manufacturer, not this specific recipe.

A score is a summary of measurable things. It cannot tell you whether your dog will do well on this food, and it does not account for price, availability or a condition your vet is managing.

How much to feed

We calculate this from your dog's weight and this food's actual calorie density (3,732 kcal/kg), using the resting energy formula vets use. It is a starting point to adjust from, not a prescription. A pregnant dog, a dog recovering from illness, or one on a prescription diet needs a figure from your vet.

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food: A Comprehensive Analysis

Dog owners are constantly searching for the best food to ensure the longevity and well-being of their furry companions. One brand that has garnered attention in recent years is Merrick. In this article, we will delve into the benefits and drawbacks of Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food, based on customer feedback and scientific research.

The Ingredients: A Key to Canine Health

When it comes to assessing the impact of a dog food on longevity, the ingredients play a crucial role. Let’s take a closer look at the main ingredients of Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe:

Deboned Lamb: Lamb is a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle development and overall energy levels.
Lamb Meal: This concentrated form of lamb provides additional protein and is a valuable source of essential amino acids.
Brown Rice: Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy and is easily digestible for most dogs.
Chicken Meal: Another protein source, chicken meal is a highly concentrated form of chicken that contributes to muscle health and overall vitality.
Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a wholesome grain that provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health.

From the ingredients alone, it is clear that Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe is formulated to provide dogs with the essential nutrients they need for optimal health and longevity. The combination of deboned lamb, lamb meal, and chicken meal ensures that dogs receive a highly digestible and protein-rich diet, necessary for maintaining lean muscle mass and supporting energy levels.

Customer Feedback: Real-world Experiences

Now, let’s turn our attention to the insights provided by dog owners who have fed their pets Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe.

Many customers have praised the size of the kibble, particularly for small breed dogs. One reviewer mentioned that the kibble is just the right size for their little puppy, making it easier for them to chew. Another customer appreciated the small size of the kibble, as it was suitable for their Yorkie who had difficulty with larger pieces. It is worth noting that while the kibble size seems to be ideal for small breeds, it may be too tough for senior dogs or puppies with weaker teeth. Mixing the kibble with wet food or warm water can help alleviate this issue.

A significant number of reviewers reported improvements in their dogs’ overall health and well-being after switching to Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe. One reviewer mentioned that their Yorkie’s knee condition improved significantly, potentially due to the inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin in the food. Another customer expressed satisfaction with their dog’s coat condition, noting that it became soft and shiny after switching to this brand. Several reviewers also mentioned that their dogs’ digestive health improved, with firmer stools and fewer gastrointestinal issues.

Positive feedback regarding taste and variety was also prevalent among the reviews. Dogs seemed to enjoy the flavor of the food, as mentioned by multiple reviewers. One customer appreciated the fact that Merrick offers a range of flavors, allowing them to provide their dog with variety and prevent food boredom. Additionally, the affordability of Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe was highlighted by several reviewers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality dog food without breaking the bank.

While the majority of the feedback was positive, a few customers had concerns. One reviewer felt that the food smelled like alfalfa or livestock feed, rather than dog food. They also mentioned that their dog, who had previously been fed Merrick puppy food, refused to eat it. Another customer reported that their Goldendoodle did not enjoy the taste of the food, even when mixed with chicken and gravies. It is important to note that taste preferences can vary among dogs, and what works for one may not work for another.

Conclusion

Based on the ingredient analysis and customer feedback, it is evident that Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food has several benefits for canine longevity. The high-quality protein sources, such as deboned lamb and chicken meal, contribute to muscle development and energy levels. The inclusion of brown rice and oatmeal ensures a balanced diet with sustained energy and improved digestive health.

Customer feedback further supports the positive impact of this dog food on overall well-being. Dogs experienced improvements in coat condition, energy levels, and digestive health. The taste and variety of flavors were also appreciated by both dogs and their owners.

While a small number of customers had concerns about the smell or taste of the food, it is important to remember that individual preferences can vary. Ultimately, it is crucial to consider your own dog’s specific needs and preferences when choosing a dog food.

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food offers a promising option for dog owners looking to provide their pets with a nutritious and balanced diet that supports their longevity and overall well-being. Remember to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food Ingredients

Deboned Lamb, Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Oatmeal, Barley, Dried Egg Product, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavor, Quinoa, Carrots, Apples, Flaxseed, Whitefish Meal, Potassium Chloride, Salt*, Chicory Root (source of Inulin), Organic Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Choline Chloride, Minerals (Iron Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Amino Acid Complex, Zinc Sulfate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Amino Acid Complex, Copper Amino Acid Complex, Potassium Iodide, Cobalt Proteinate, Cobalt Carbonate), Taurine, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Acetate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Folic Acid, Niacin, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Citric Acid for freshness, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product

Nutrition Distribution of Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food

According to the guaranteed analysis, Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food has 27% protein, 16% fat, 3.5% fiber, and 11% moisture. Assuming there is 6% ash, then this dog food has 36.5% starch.

The largest proportion of Carbohydrates in dog food is provided by starch and indeed dogs don't have carbohydrate requirement at all.

We calculated the starch ratio in Merrick Lil’ Plates Real Lamb + Brown Rice Recipe with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food as 36.5%. Basically, around two fifths of the food you feed to your dog is starch.

Average starch ratio of dry dog foods on inthekibble.com is 38.51% - and that means this Lil' Plates kibble has less starch ratio than the average.

Discover Other Flavors of Lil' Plates Merrick