9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Human-grade fresh-frozen meals made in USDA-inspected kitchens with real deboned meat as the first ingredient, offering higher digestibility than traditional kibble.
• Significant palatability improvements observed in testing, with dogs showing increased mealtime enthusiasm and visible health benefits including shinier coats and firmer stools.
• Premium pricing at $200-400+ monthly for medium to large dogs makes it cost-prohibitive for many owners, though competitive within the fresh food category.
• Grain-inclusive formulation with brown rice strategically chosen over grain-free alternatives following DCM concerns, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• All Life Stages AAFCO certification allows feeding to puppies through seniors, though portion adjustment and monitoring are essential for optimal results.
Merrick Fresh represents the brand’s entry into the human-grade, fresh-frozen dog food segment, a category that’s grown rapidly as owners look for alternatives to traditional kibble. The line features recipes built around real deboned meat, brown rice, and cooked vegetables, all prepared in USDA-inspected kitchens and shipped frozen to your door. It’s a departure from Merrick’s traditional dry and canned offerings, and it signals the company’s intent to compete with brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom, and Ollie in the premium fresh space.
For owners who’ve fed Merrick’s grain-free or Backcountry lines, Fresh Selects might feel like a natural next step. For those new to the brand, it’s a chance to try Merrick without committing to bags of kibble. Either way, understanding what’s in these meals, how they’re made, and whether they deliver on the promise of visible health improvements is essential before you clear out freezer space and adjust your budget.
Merrick Pet Care was founded in 1988 by Garth Pierce Merrick in his family kitchen in Hereford, Texas. The brand built its reputation on whole-food ingredients, local sourcing, and recipes free from artificial preservatives. In 2015, Nestlé Purina PetCare acquired Merrick, though the company has maintained its independent operations and continues to emphasize the values that made it a favorite among natural-food advocates.
Merrick’s core philosophy centers on simplicity and quality. The brand sources ingredients from trusted farmers, avoids sourcing from China, and uses minimal processing steps to preserve nutritional integrity. In 2012, Merrick became the first pet food manufacturer certified organic under the USDA National Organic Program for both dry and wet foods, a milestone that underscored its commitment to transparency and ingredient standards.
Today, Merrick operates across multiple product lines, including grain-free kibble, limited-ingredient diets, Backcountry raw-coated recipes, and now Fresh Selects. The brand positions itself in the premium mid-to-upper tier, appealing to owners who want recognizable ingredients and nutritional rigor without the ultra-premium price tags of boutique brands. Distribution is broad, with products available at major pet retailers, online platforms, and independent stores nationwide.
| Price per pound | $6.50 – $12.00 |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Beef, Turkey, Pork |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes – All Life Stages |
| Formula options | 4 Fresh Selects recipes |
| Availability | Major pet retailers + online |
Merrick Fresh Selects leads with real deboned meat as the first ingredient in every recipe. You’ll see chicken, beef, turkey, or pork listed at the top, with no meat meals or by-products in the formula. This is a meaningful distinction from many kibbles, where rendered meals dominate the protein content. The use of whole muscle meat contributes to higher moisture content, better digestibility, and more appealing aroma and taste for most dogs.
Protein percentages in Fresh Selects typically land in the 28–35% range on a dry matter basis, which is competitive with other fresh brands and well above AAFCO minimums for adult maintenance. The quality of these proteins is high, sourced from USDA-inspected facilities and free from antibiotics or added hormones. For dogs with sensitivities to chicken, the beef and pork options provide solid alternatives.
Brown rice serves as the primary carbohydrate in most Fresh Selects recipes. It’s a whole grain that’s easier to digest than corn or wheat, provides steady energy, and carries a lower allergenic profile for many dogs. You’ll also see sweet potatoes and peas in smaller amounts, contributing fiber and micronutrients without overwhelming the formula with starches.
This grain-inclusive approach is deliberate. Following concerns about grain-free diets and potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, Merrick made a strategic choice to anchor Fresh Selects in safe, digestible grains rather than legume-heavy formulas. For owners who’ve been wary of grain-free trends, this is reassuring.
Fat content in Fresh Selects ranges from 15–20% on a dry matter basis, sourced primarily from the meat itself and supplemented with flaxseed. Flaxseed provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support coat health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to cognitive function in puppies and seniors. The fat profile is balanced, offering energy density without excess that could lead to weight gain in less active dogs.
Cooked vegetables like carrots, green beans, and broccoli appear throughout the ingredient list. These aren’t just filler—they provide fiber for digestive health, antioxidants for immune support, and vitamins like A and C. The fact that they’re cooked rather than raw improves bioavailability, meaning your dog can actually absorb and use the nutrients rather than passing them through undigested.
Merrick also includes probiotics and vitamins tailored to support gut health and overall vitality. These functional additions align with the brand’s broader push into health-focused formulas, particularly in their Healthy Grains Functional line, which targets immune and digestive support.
Merrick Fresh avoids meat by-products, artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. There’s no corn, wheat, or soy, and no ingredients sourced from China. For owners who scrutinize labels, this is a clean formula that prioritizes whole foods over fillers and chemical additives.
Merrick Fresh Selects meets AAFCO standards for All Life Stages, meaning it’s formulated to support puppies, adults, and seniors alike. The guaranteed analysis typically shows protein at 28–35%, fat at 15–20%, fiber around 3–5%, and moisture in the 65–75% range, reflecting the fresh-frozen format. On a dry matter basis, these numbers are competitive with other human-grade brands and exceed the minimums for growth and maintenance.
The protein-to-fat ratio is well-balanced for most dogs. Active breeds and working dogs will find enough energy density, while less active or weight-prone dogs can manage portions without excess calories. The fiber content supports healthy digestion and regular stools, and the moisture level—much higher than kibble—contributes to hydration, which is especially beneficial for dogs who don’t drink enough water.
Micronutrient profiles include adequate calcium and phosphorus for bone health, taurine for heart function, and a spectrum of vitamins and minerals that support everything from vision to immune response. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is favorable, typically around 5:1 to 10:1, which helps manage inflammation and supports skin and coat health.
One consideration is that some owners report their dogs seem hungrier on fresh food compared to kibble. This isn’t necessarily a flaw—it’s often because fresh food is more digestible and lower in volume per calorie. Adjusting portion sizes based on your dog’s body condition and energy level, rather than relying solely on feeding guidelines, is important.
Merrick Fresh works well for adult dogs with normal activity levels who don’t have extreme dietary needs. The recipes are also formulated for All Life Stages, so puppies and seniors can eat them safely, though you’ll want to adjust portions and monitor growth or weight closely. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or mild food sensitivities often do well on Fresh Selects because the ingredient list is short, recognizable, and free from common irritants like corn, wheat, and soy.
If your dog has struggled with dry, dull coat or low energy on kibble, switching to a fresh food like Merrick can make a noticeable difference within a few weeks. The higher moisture content and whole-food ingredients are easier to digest, and many owners report improvements in coat shine, stool quality, and overall vitality. Dogs who are picky eaters also tend to respond well—the aroma and texture of real meat and cooked vegetables are more appealing than processed kibble.
Merrick Fresh is also a solid choice for owners who want convenience without sacrificing quality. The pre-portioned packs make feeding straightforward, and the human-grade certification offers peace of mind if you’re particular about what goes into your dog’s bowl.
If your dog has severe food allergies or requires a prescription diet, Merrick Fresh isn’t the right fit. The recipes aren’t hypoallergenic, and while they avoid common allergens like corn and wheat, they still include chicken, beef, and grains that can trigger reactions in sensitive dogs. In those cases, a limited-ingredient or veterinary-formulated diet is a better starting point.
Dogs with highly active lifestyles or extreme energy needs—think working dogs, sled dogs, or competition athletes—may find Fresh Selects doesn’t provide enough calorie density. You’d need to feed large volumes to meet their energy requirements, which becomes expensive and impractical. A high-performance kibble or a custom fresh plan with higher fat content would be more appropriate.
Owners on a tight budget should also think carefully. Fresh food is more expensive than kibble, and feeding a medium to large dog exclusively on Merrick Fresh can run $200–$300+ per month. If that’s not sustainable, consider a mixed feeding approach—fresh for one meal, quality kibble for the other—to balance cost and nutrition.
Palatability is one of Merrick Fresh’s strong points. The food looks and smells like real food, which is a stark contrast to kibble. When you open a pack, you’ll see chunks of meat, rice, and vegetables—it’s visually closer to what you might serve yourself than what you’d expect from a dog food. Most dogs respond enthusiastically, and even picky eaters who’ve turned their noses up at other brands often dive right in.
The texture is soft and moist, easy to chew for dogs with dental issues or missing teeth. Puppies and seniors both manage it well, and you can mash it slightly if needed for very young or very old dogs. The aroma is mild but meaty, appealing without being overpowering or off-putting in your kitchen.
Recipe variety includes chicken, beef, turkey, and pork, giving you options to rotate proteins or find one that suits your dog’s preferences. Some owners report their dogs prefer certain proteins over others—beef and chicken tend to be the most popular, while turkey and pork are hit-or-miss depending on the individual dog.
Transition is generally smooth if you follow the standard protocol: start with 25% fresh mixed with 75% of your current food, then gradually shift the ratio over 7–10 days. A few dogs experience mild digestive upset during the switch, typically loose stools or gas, but this usually resolves as their system adjusts to the higher moisture and different ingredient profile.
Merrick Fresh is priced in the premium fresh food category, comparable to brands like Nom Nom, Ollie, and The Farmer’s Dog. Expect to pay roughly $8–$15 per day for a medium-sized dog, depending on the recipe and your dog’s caloric needs. For a 50-pound dog, that translates to $240–$450 per month for full fresh feeding. Smaller dogs bring the cost down to $120–$200, while large breeds can push monthly costs above $500.
Is it worth it? That depends on what you value. If you’re comparing Merrick Fresh to premium kibble like Orijen or Acana, the fresh food is more expensive, but you’re paying for human-grade ingredients, higher digestibility, and the convenience of pre-portioned meals. If you’re comparing it to other fresh brands, Merrick is competitively priced—not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either. Curious about other fresh options? Check out our Farmer’s Dog review for another take on human-grade meals.
The quality of ingredients justifies the price for many owners. You’re getting whole muscle meat, USDA-inspected kitchens, and transparent sourcing—things you don’t typically find in mid-tier kibble. The health benefits—better digestion, shinier coat, more energy—also factor into the value equation. If those changes mean fewer vet visits, less grooming, or just a happier dog, the cost starts to make more sense.
That said, Merrick Fresh isn’t a budget option. If you’re feeding multiple dogs or a very large breed, the expense can become unsustainable. A mixed feeding approach—fresh for one meal, quality kibble for the other—is a practical compromise that keeps costs manageable while still delivering some of the benefits of fresh food.
Merrick Fresh is produced in USDA-inspected kitchens in the United States, a distinction that sets it apart from most kibble manufacturers. These facilities meet human-grade standards, meaning the same safety and sanitation protocols that apply to food for people also apply to Merrick’s dog food. Ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers, with no materials from China, and the company emphasizes minimal processing steps to preserve nutritional integrity.
The production process involves gently cooking the ingredients at low temperatures, then flash-freezing the meals to lock in nutrients and freshness. This method avoids the high heat and extrusion used in kibble manufacturing, which can degrade vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids. The result is a product that’s closer to whole food in both composition and digestibility.
Merrick has a generally clean recall history. There have been a few minor recalls over the years, typically related to isolated batches or voluntary precautionary measures, but nothing on the scale of major contamination events that have plagued some larger brands. The acquisition by Nestlé Purina in 2015 raised concerns among some consumers about potential changes in quality or sourcing, but Merrick has maintained its independent operations and continues to emphasize the same ingredient standards that built its reputation.
Quality control measures include batch testing for pathogens, nutrient verification, and traceability of ingredients from farm to bowl. While Merrick doesn’t publish third-party audit results or detailed facility information, the USDA certification and AAFCO compliance provide baseline assurance that the food meets established safety and nutritional standards.
Merrick emphasizes local sourcing and partnerships with trusted farmers, which reduces transportation emissions and supports regional agriculture. The brand’s commitment to avoiding ingredients from China also aligns with a shorter, more transparent supply chain. However, detailed information on sustainability initiatives—carbon footprint reduction, renewable energy use, water conservation—isn’t readily available, which leaves some questions unanswered for environmentally conscious consumers.
Packaging for Fresh Selects includes insulated boxes, dry ice, and vacuum-sealed pouches. The insulation is typically recyclable, but the pouches themselves are not, which is a common challenge across the fresh food category. Merrick hasn’t made public commitments to shift to compostable or fully recyclable packaging, though this is an area where many brands are still catching up to consumer expectations.
On the ethical side, Merrick sources meat from suppliers that don’t use antibiotics or added hormones, and the company became the first USDA-certified organic pet food manufacturer in 2012. While the Fresh Selects line isn’t labeled organic, the brand’s history suggests a commitment to higher welfare standards for livestock. There’s no public information on third-party animal welfare certifications, so if that’s a priority, you’ll need to reach out to the company directly for specifics.
Merrick also supports community initiatives and local charities, a tradition that dates back to the company’s founding in Texas. While this doesn’t directly impact the food’s environmental footprint, it reflects a broader philosophy of social responsibility that resonates with some owners.
I work at a dog shelter, and we had the chance to test Merrick Fresh with one of our residents, a three-year-old Beagle mix named Clover. Clover came to us a few months ago after her previous owner could no longer care for her. She’s a sweet, easygoing dog with a moderate energy level and a tendency to put on weight if we’re not careful with portions. She’d been eating a mid-tier kibble since arriving, and while she did fine on it, she wasn’t particularly excited about meals—she’d eat when she was hungry, but there was no enthusiasm.
We decided to try Merrick Fresh to see if a change to real, whole-food ingredients would make a difference in her energy and interest in food. We started with the chicken recipe, mixing it with her kibble over the first week to avoid any digestive upset.
Clover noticed the difference immediately. The first time we added a scoop of Merrick Fresh to her bowl, she sniffed it thoroughly, then ate it first before touching the kibble. Over the next few days, as we increased the ratio of fresh food, her excitement at mealtime grew. By the end of the transition week, she was waiting by her bowl and wagging her tail—something we hadn’t seen with the kibble alone.
Clover loved the food. She cleaned her bowl every time, and there was no hesitation or pickiness. The texture seemed easy for her to eat, and the aroma was clearly appealing. We also tried the beef recipe after finishing the chicken, and she took to it just as well. There was no drop-off in enthusiasm, which can sometimes happen when dogs get bored with a single protein.
After about three weeks on Merrick Fresh, we noticed a few changes. Clover’s coat, which had been a bit dull and rough, started to look shinier and felt softer when you pet her. Her stools were firmer and smaller than they’d been on kibble, which made cleanup easier and suggested better digestibility. She also seemed to have more consistent energy throughout the day—not hyperactive, but more engaged during play and walks.
Weight-wise, Clover maintained her current condition without gaining, even though the fresh food is more calorie-dense than her previous kibble. We adjusted her portions based on the feeding guidelines and monitored her body condition, and it worked out well.
Feeding Clover on Merrick Fresh was straightforward. The packs thaw quickly in the fridge, and portioning was easy. The only adjustment was making sure we had freezer space and remembered to move packs to the fridge the night before. It’s a small extra step, but not a hassle once you get into the routine. For Clover, the trade-off was worth it—she was clearly happier at mealtime, and the health benefits were visible.
Consumer feedback on Merrick Fresh is largely positive, with most reviews highlighting improvements in palatability, digestion, and coat quality. On platforms like Chewy and Amazon, the Fresh Selects line consistently earns ratings in the 4.5–5 star range, with users praising the food for being “as close to real food as it gets” and noting that their dogs “actually get excited to eat.”
Common themes in positive reviews include:
One owner shared: “Boomer’s coat has never been shinier, and his energy level is off the charts! Not to mention his digestive issues seem to have disappeared too.” Another wrote: “She’s got shiny fur and tons of energy, so I couldn’t be happier with that! Also, Bailey had some issues with weight gain in the past, but with Merrick’s recipe that prioritizes high-quality proteins and low carbs, she has managed to maintain a healthier weight.”
On the flip side, negative reviews tend to focus on cost, occasional palatability issues, and rare digestive problems. About 6–8% of users report their dog wouldn’t eat the food or lost interest after an initial period. A small percentage (5–6%) mention diarrhea or loose stools, often during the transition phase or when switching too quickly. A few isolated reports describe strange odors or inconsistent batches, though these are uncommon and typically resolved through retailer or company intervention.
Price complaints are the most frequent criticism, with 12–14% of reviewers noting that the food is “too expensive for what you get” or that they had to switch back to kibble due to budget constraints. For owners of large or multiple dogs, the cost can become prohibitive, even if the quality is high.
Long-term users—those who’ve fed Merrick Fresh for six months or more—tend to be the most satisfied, often stating they “can’t imagine switching after what we’ve seen” and crediting the food with sustained health and vitality in their dogs.
Merrick Fresh competes directly with brands like The Farmer’s Dog, Nom Nom, Ollie, and Spot & Tango in the human-grade fresh food category. Here’s how it stacks up:
The Farmer’s Dog offers a similar personalized meal plan approach with pre-portioned packs and transparent ingredient sourcing. The main difference is that The Farmer’s Dog emphasizes customization based on a detailed questionnaire, while Merrick Fresh is more of a one-size-fits-most formula you buy off the shelf. The Farmer’s Dog tends to be slightly more expensive, but the personalization can be worth it for dogs with specific needs.
Nom Nom is another strong competitor, with veterinary-formulated recipes and a broader range of proteins, including turkey and pork alongside chicken and beef. Nom Nom’s recipes are slightly higher in protein on average, and the brand offers automatic recipe rotation for variety. Pricing is comparable, and both brands deliver consistent quality, though Nom Nom’s packaging and portion control are slightly more refined.
Ollie positions itself similarly to Merrick Fresh, with human-grade ingredients and a focus on whole foods. Ollie offers a baked option alongside fresh, which can lower costs and reduce freezer space needs. The baked option is a unique differentiator, and Ollie’s marketing leans heavily into the health benefits of fresh food. Merrick Fresh, by contrast, is more straightforward—no baked option, just fresh-frozen meals.
Spot & Tango offers both fresh and UnKibble, a fresh-dry hybrid that’s more affordable and convenient than fully fresh feeding. If you’re looking for a middle ground between kibble and fresh, Spot & Tango’s UnKibble is worth considering. Merrick Fresh doesn’t have a comparable hybrid option, so it’s all-in on the fresh-frozen format.
Compared to premium kibble like Orijen, Acana, or Taste of the Wild, Merrick Fresh is more expensive but offers higher digestibility, better moisture content, and more transparent ingredient sourcing. If you’re already feeding top-tier kibble and wondering whether fresh food is worth the jump, the answer depends on your dog’s specific needs and your budget. Fresh food isn’t inherently better for every dog, but for those with digestive issues, low energy, or dull coats, the difference can be significant. If you’re weighing Merrick Fresh against other natural brands, our Wildology review covers another option focused on sustainable sourcing and ethical ingredients.
Merrick Fresh is best suited for adult dogs with normal to moderate activity levels who don’t have extreme dietary restrictions or performance demands. It works well for dogs transitioning from kibble who could benefit from higher digestibility and whole-food ingredients. Puppies and seniors can also eat Merrick Fresh, as it’s formulated for All Life Stages, though you’ll need to adjust portions carefully and monitor growth or weight.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs, mild food sensitivities, or a history of digestive upset on kibble often do well on Merrick Fresh. The short ingredient list, absence of common allergens like corn and wheat, and higher moisture content make it easier to digest than many dry foods. If your dog has struggled with dull coat, low energy, or irregular stools, switching to a fresh food like Merrick can produce noticeable improvements within a few weeks.
Picky eaters also tend to respond well. The aroma and texture of real meat and cooked vegetables are more appealing than processed kibble, and the variety of proteins—chicken, beef, turkey, pork—gives you options to find what your dog prefers.
On the other hand, Merrick Fresh isn’t ideal for dogs with severe food allergies, prescription diet needs, or highly active lifestyles that demand extreme calorie density. It’s also not the best fit for owners on a tight budget or those without adequate freezer space. If any of those apply, you’ll want to consider a mixed feeding approach or look at other options that better match your dog’s needs and your practical constraints.
Yes, Merrick Fresh is a high-quality, well-formulated fresh dog food that delivers on its promise of real, whole-food ingredients and visible health benefits. The recipes are built around human-grade muscle meat, digestible grains, and cooked vegetables, all prepared in USDA-inspected kitchens. The nutritional profile is balanced, the ingredient sourcing is transparent, and the palatability is strong. For dogs who need better digestion, more energy, or a shinier coat, Merrick Fresh can make a real difference.
That said, it’s not the right choice for every dog or every owner. The price is a significant factor—feeding a medium to large dog exclusively on Merrick Fresh can run $200–$400+ per month, which is out of reach for many budgets. If you’re feeding multiple dogs or a very large breed, the cost becomes even more prohibitive. A mixed feeding approach—fresh for one meal, quality kibble for the other—is a practical way to capture some of the benefits without breaking the bank.
I’d recommend Merrick Fresh for owners who value ingredient quality and convenience and are willing to invest in their dog’s nutrition. If your dog has been sluggish, itchy, or uninterested in meals on kibble, this is worth trying. The pre-portioned packs make feeding straightforward, and the improvements in coat, energy, and digestion are well-documented by both users and my own experience with Clover at the shelter.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a medium-sized dog with digestive sensitivities or low energy, and I had the budget and freezer space, yes. I’d start with a mixed feeding plan to manage costs, and if the improvements were clear, I’d consider going full fresh. If I had a very large dog or multiple dogs, I’d probably stick with a high-quality kibble and use fresh food as a topper or occasional meal rather than the primary diet.
Honestly, Merrick Fresh is a solid entry in the human-grade fresh food market. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s competitively priced against other fresh brands, and the quality is there. If you’re already considering fresh food and want a brand with an established reputation and transparent sourcing, Merrick Fresh is a trustworthy choice.
For a medium-sized dog (around 50 pounds), expect to pay roughly $240-$450 per month for full fresh feeding with Merrick Fresh. Smaller dogs bring costs down to $120-$200 monthly, while large breeds can push expenses above $500. Daily feeding costs range from $8-$15 depending on your dog’s size and caloric needs. This makes it comparable to other premium fresh brands like The Farmer’s Dog and Nom Nom.
Yes, you’ll need adequate freezer space to store the pre-portioned packs. The meals come frozen and need to be kept that way until you’re ready to feed. You’ll also need to plan ahead by moving packs from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before feeding so they can thaw properly. This is a small extra step but becomes routine once you get used to it.
Yes, Merrick Fresh is formulated for All Life Stages, meaning it meets AAFCO standards for puppies, adults, and seniors. However, you’ll need to carefully adjust portions based on your puppy’s growth needs or your senior dog’s activity level and monitor their body condition closely. The soft, moist texture is particularly beneficial for seniors with dental issues.
Many dogs with sensitive stomachs or mild digestive upset do well on Merrick Fresh. The short ingredient list, absence of common irritants like corn and wheat, and higher moisture content make it easier to digest than many kibbles. Users commonly report firmer stools, less gas, and fewer digestive problems after switching. However, dogs with severe allergies or those requiring prescription diets should consult their vet first.
Follow the standard transition protocol: start with 25% Merrick Fresh mixed with 75% of your current food, then gradually shift the ratio over 7-10 days. Some dogs may experience mild digestive upset like loose stools or gas during the switch, but this usually resolves as their system adjusts to the higher moisture and different ingredient profile.
Merrick Fresh uses human-grade ingredients prepared in USDA-inspected kitchens, while regular Merrick kibble is produced in standard pet food facilities. Fresh contains real deboned meat as the first ingredient with no meat meals, has much higher moisture content (65-75% vs 10% in kibble), and includes cooked vegetables for better nutrient bioavailability. The fresh format is also more digestible but significantly more expensive.
It depends on your dog’s specific needs and your budget. If your dog has struggled with digestive issues, dull coat, low energy, or pickiness on kibble, the improvements from fresh food can be significant and justify the cost. However, if your dog is thriving on quality kibble, the switch may not provide enough additional benefit to warrant the expense. A mixed feeding approach—fresh for one meal, kibble for the other—can be a practical compromise.
Merrick Fresh offers chicken, beef, turkey, and pork recipes. All feature real deboned meat as the first ingredient with no meat meals or by-products. Beef and chicken tend to be the most popular with dogs, while turkey and pork acceptance varies by individual preference. The variety allows you to rotate proteins or find the one your dog prefers most.
While possible, the cost can become prohibitive for multiple dogs or very large breeds. A 100-pound dog could cost $600+ monthly to feed exclusively on fresh food. Consider a mixed feeding approach or look at high-quality kibble as the primary diet with fresh food as a topper or occasional meal to manage expenses while still providing some benefits.
Once thawed in the refrigerator, Merrick Fresh should be used within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. Don’t leave thawed food at room temperature for more than 2 hours, and never refreeze food that has been thawed. Plan your thawing based on your dog’s eating schedule to minimize waste.
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