Merrick Classic Puppy Recipe 12 Lbs

Merrick Classic Puppy Recipe is a grain-inclusive dry dog food built around real deboned chicken as the number one ingredient. Formulated specifically for growing puppies of all breeds, this recipe delivers 26% crude protein, DHA for brain development, and 800 mg/kg each of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support developing hips and joints. With wholesome ancient grains and no potato, corn, wheat, or soy, it provides complete and balanced nutrition during the critical early growth stages.

Quick Product Snapshot

Why Pet Owners Choose This Food

• Real deboned chicken is the number one ingredient - no fillers or by-products leading the label
• 26% crude protein supports healthy muscle development during the critical growth phase
• DHA (0.07% min.) supports healthy brain and cognitive development in growing puppies
• Ancient grains including quinoa, brown rice, and barley support digestive health without potato, corn, wheat, or soy
• Omega-6 (2.80% min.) and omega-3 (0.30% min.) fatty acids support healthy skin and coat from an early age
• 800 mg/kg each of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate support developing hips and joints
• Controlled calcium (max. 1.20%) and phosphorus (min. 1.00%) levels support healthy bone development
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives - made in the USA in FDA-compliant facilities

Ingredient Transparency

The first five ingredients - deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, peas, and barley - establish a protein-rich, whole food foundation appropriate for puppy growth. Ancient grains including quinoa contribute digestible carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Salmon meal provides DHA and omega-3 fatty acids. Chicken fat supplies additional essential fatty acids. No potato, corn, wheat, or soy is used. Four probiotic strains (Lactobacillus plantarum, L. casei, Enterococcus faecium, L. acidophilus) support digestive wellness. No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Nutritional Positioning

This formula delivers 26% crude protein (min.) and 12% crude fat (min.), with a maximum of 3.7% crude fiber and 11% moisture. DHA is at 0.07% minimum. Omega-6 fatty acids are at 2.80% minimum and omega-3 fatty acids at 0.30% minimum. Calcium is controlled at a maximum of 1.20% with phosphorus at 1.00% minimum to support healthy bone development. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are each at 800 mg/kg minimum. Caloric content is 3,770 kcal/kg (391 kcal/cup). This recipe meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth and reproduction, suitable for puppies of all breeds.

Texture, Palatability, and Feeding Experience

Merrick Classic Puppy Recipe is formulated as a dry kibble sized appropriately for growing puppies of all breeds. The chicken-forward flavor profile is highly palatable for most puppies. The grain-inclusive formula provides a familiar, digestible texture suitable for developing digestive systems. Puppies transitioning from mother's milk or wet food typically adapt well to this kibble format.

Feeding Guidance and Portion Use

Feed as a complete daily meal for growing puppies. Adjust portions based on your puppy's weight, age, and activity level - puppies generally require more calories per pound than adult dogs to support growth. When transitioning from another food, gradually introduce Merrick Classic Puppy over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with the current food. Always provide fresh, clean water alongside each feeding. Consult your veterinarian for feeding recommendations tailored to your puppy's specific development needs.

Safety, Storage, and Handling

Store in a cool, dry place. Reseal the bag tightly after each use to maintain freshness. Keep out of reach of children and other animals. Discard any uneaten food left out for extended periods.

Product Highlights

• Real deboned chicken as the number one ingredient
• 26% crude protein to support healthy muscle development
• DHA for brain and cognitive development
• Ancient grains - quinoa, brown rice, and barley
• No potato, corn, wheat, or soy
• 800 mg/kg glucosamine and chondroitin for developing joints
• Controlled calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone development
• Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
• No artificial additives - made in the USA

Merrick Classic Puppy Recipe delivers complete, balanced nutrition built around real chicken and wholesome ancient grains, formulated specifically for the growth and development needs of puppies of all breeds. With DHA, controlled mineral levels, and no potato, corn, wheat, or soy, it is a practical daily feeding choice for puppies and owners who prioritize ingredient clarity in their premium dry dog food from day one.

Product Specifications

Commercial

• Brand: Merrick
• Product Line: Classic Recipe
• SKU: 022808353249

Physical

• Package Size: 12 lb bag
• Weight: 12 lbs
• Form: Dry kibble

Nutritional

• Primary Protein: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal
• Crude Protein (min.): 26%
• Crude Fat (min.): 12%
• Crude Fiber (max.): 3.7%
• Moisture (max.): 11%
• DHA (min.): 0.07%
• Calcium (max.): 1.20%
• Phosphorus (min.): 1.00%
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 2.80%
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.30%
• Glucosamine (min.): 800 mg/kg
• Chondroitin Sulfate (min.): 800 mg/kg
• Caloric Content: 3,770 kcal/kg (391 kcal/cup)

Dietary

• Grain-Inclusive: Yes (brown rice, barley, quinoa)
• No potato, corn, wheat, or soy
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Suitability

• Life Stage: Puppy (growth and reproduction)
• Breed Size: All breeds

Manufacturing

• Country of Origin: USA (Hereford, TX)