Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Real Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food
In a Nutshell
- Enjoyed by dogs as a topper or treat
- Concerns about hardness and price
- Some plastic contamination issues reported
Quick Verdict
Merrick's freeze-dried dog food is enjoyed by many dogs but has issues with hardness and price, leading to mixed reviews.
Quick Stats
Pet Compatibility
Critical Warnings
Hard and difficult to chew for some dogs
Prevention: Ensure product is broken up into smaller pieces before serving
Potential plastic contamination
Prevention: Inspect product carefully before use
Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Taste and Enjoyment (4)
Many dogs love the taste and enjoy eating it.
-
Effective Supplement (2)
Useful as a supplement in dog foods.
Cons
-
Too Hard to Chew (4) major
The product can be too hard for some dogs to chew.
-
Price Issues (2) major
Many users find the product overpriced.
Quality Trend: Declining
A few recent reviews mentioning degradation in taste and appearance.
mostly positive to neutral
negative due to hardness
Who Is This For?
✓ Best For
- • Dog owners with picky eaters — Enhances the flavor of main diets
- • Owners need a high-protein supplement — Good as a protein supplement for aging or underweight dogs
✗ Skip If
- • Budget-conscious buyers — High cost relative to other similar products
Durability & Care
Factors: Storage conditions, How frequently used
Cleaning Methods
Care Tips from Users
- 💡 Store in a cool, dry place
- 💡 Use within 1-2 months of opening
Floor Compatibility
Rating Distribution
Common Questions
What is the shelf life of Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw?
It should be used within 1-2 months of opening.
Can this product be used as a standalone meal?
It's less commonly used as a standalone but rather as supplement to the main meal.
Highlighted Reviews
"My pooch absolutely loves these! Sometimes I use them as a treat, sometimes I add them to his food, either way, they are his fave."
"I have been ordering and using the Merrick freeze dried dog food for several years now as a topper on her dog food. This time it is hard as a rock and hard to break up and difficult for her to eat. Did not see a ‘use by date’ or expiration date on package. Very disappointed to spend that much mo..."
Bottom Line
If you're looking for a high-quality, albeit pricey, topper for your dog that they will likely enjoy, this product could be a good fit. However, be aware of the potential issues with hardness and plastic contamination.