Merrick VS Purina Pro Plan: Eye-Opening Expert Advice in 2025
If you’re torn between Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan, you’re not alone. Both are strong choices, but they shine in different ways. Merrick feels like real, home-style meals with visible ingredients, while Purina Pro Plan delivers science-based formulas trusted by many vets in the U.S. I’ve tested both with my own dogs and noticed clear differences in digestion, energy, and coat quality. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience and research so you can decide which food works best for your dog’s health and lifestyle.
Is Merrick Dog Food Good?
Yes, Merrick dog food is good. It works well if you want to feed your dog real, simple food. From my own experience, it feels close to home-cooked meals in a kibble form. My dogs tried both the grain-free and healthy grains versions. They adjusted fast with no stomach issues, firm stools, and soft, shiny coats.
The first thing you’ll notice is real food. Deboned chicken, beef, or salmon comes first on the list. You’ll also see apples, blueberries, and sweet potatoes. I like knowing what’s going into my dogs’ bowls.
Merrick is part of Nestlé Purina PetCare, but it still makes food in its Texas kitchens. I like that it’s made in the USA, where safety rules are strict. That gives me peace of mind about quality.
Most dry recipes have around 30% to 32% protein and 15% to 22% fat. That mix helps dogs build muscle and stay active. My vet once suggested the Merrick Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato recipe for a dog with a sensitive tummy. It worked well and caused no stomach upsets.
For me, Merrick does a great job blending taste, nutrition, and safety. Some dogs can be picky, but overall it’s a trusted choice in my home.
What I Like
- Real ingredients: Merrick starts with real meat. There are no fillers or fake flavors. I can see what I’m feeding, and my dogs love it.
- Balanced recipes: The food mixes protein, healthy carbs, and fruits with vitamins, Omega fatty acids, and joint support nutrients. My dogs stay active and look healthy.
- Easy to digest: The Limited Ingredient Diet line helped one of my dogs with stomach issues. The simple mix of protein and carbs keeps digestion smooth.
- Many choices: I like that Merrick offers Grain-Free, Healthy Grains, Raw-Infused, and Lil’ Plates for small dogs. I can switch between recipes without any issues.
- Made in the USA: The food is cooked in Texas. I trust that extra level of safety and freshness.
What Could Be Better
- Price: Merrick costs more than many other brands. The quality is worth it, but it may be tough for big households with several dogs.
- Taste for picky dogs: A few of my dogs didn’t like some recipes right away. Mixing a bit of wet food helped at first.
- In-store stock: Some local stores don’t always have all Merrick varieties. I usually buy online from Chewy or Amazon to find the full range.
Recommendation
I recommend Merrick dog food if you want to feed your dog real, natural ingredients. It’s a great fit for:
- Dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs.
- Pet owners who want high-quality food made in the USA.
- Picky eaters who like flavor variety.
If you want a lower-cost option or more vet-backed formulas, Purina Pro Plan is worth checking out.
Merrick offers a balance of nutrition, taste, and trust. My dogs do well on it, and I’ve seen steady results in their health, energy, and coat quality.
Is Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Good?
From my real-life experience, yes — Purina Pro Plan Dog Food is good. It gives dogs what they need for energy, muscle, and long-term health. It’s one of the few brands that mixes science with real ingredients.
I first tried it with my active retriever. He needed more protein to stay fit and playful. The real lamb formula made a big change in his coat, strength, and stamina. Later, I switched my older dog to the Sensitive Skin & Stomach recipe. It helped calm her digestion and she ate it happily every time.
This brand comes from Nestlé Purina PetCare, which I’ve trusted for years. Their team builds every recipe with research and care. Most formulas have 26% to 30% protein for strong muscles and up to 20% fat for active dogs. The weight management line stays lighter, around 9.5% fat, for dogs who need to lose a few pounds.
I also like that each recipe is highly digestible. It uses lamb, egg, and prebiotic fiber to help with gut health. The stool stays firm, and the dogs feel good. The mix also includes live probiotics for a healthy tummy and better absorption.
For pet parents in the U.S., Purina Pro Plan is easy to find. You can buy it online from Chewy or Amazon or in stores like Petco, PetSmart, Walmart, and Tractor Supply. It costs a little more than some brands, but the results make it worth it.
What I Like
- Trusted Formulation – Purina Pro Plan uses real meat as the first ingredient. The recipes are tested and based on science. I’ve seen great results in my dogs — shiny coats, solid muscles, and steady energy.
- Veterinary Recommendation – Many vets in the U.S. recommend it. The brand even has a Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets line that helps dogs with heart or digestion problems. That shows the brand’s care for health and safety.
- Digestibility and Variety – Every type I’ve tried has been gentle on digestion. I like how the brand offers High Protein, Sensitive Skin & Stomach, Weight Control, and Large Breed choices. It’s easy to find one that fits each dog’s needs.
- Palatability – My picky eater finishes every meal. The mix of crunchy kibble and soft shreds keeps things interesting. No need to add extra toppers or wet food.
What Could Be Better
- Some Formulas Have Fillers – A few recipes use by-products or corn. They’re safe, but I prefer more transparency for pet parents who want only whole ingredients.
- Price Differences – In the U.S., prices change depending on store and bag size. Buying larger bags online often saves money, so I suggest checking deals before you buy.
- Limited Grain-Free Options – I’m fine with healthy grains, but if you want fully grain-free, brands like Merrick may give you more choices.
Recommendation
From my real-life experience, I recommend Purina Pro Plan Dog Food for:
- Active dogs that need high protein for energy and strength.
- Dogs with sensitive digestion, since the prebiotics and quality proteins make it easy on their stomach.
- Owners who trust vet-recommended brands and want proven nutrition.
If you prefer grain-free or want no fillers, Merrick may fit better. But for most dogs, Purina Pro Plan gives the best balance of nutrition, taste, and science. It’s dependable, digestible, and backed by experts. I’ve seen how well it works in my own home.
Bottom Line:
Purina Pro Plan delivers real, balanced nutrition for almost every dog. It’s a reliable, research-backed brand that supports health, energy, and long, happy lives — just like I’ve seen with my own pets.
Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan — Details Comparison
I’ve been testing out both Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan for months with my own dogs. Each has a strong reputation, but they shine in different ways. Merrick feels more like real food — fresh and simple — while Purina Pro Plan focuses on science and performance. Here’s how they compare across key areas.
Specifications: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Both brands offer a range of options, but their core formulas differ in focus. Merrick leans into natural, grain-free recipes, while Purina Pro Plan uses research-based nutrition with grains for balance and digestibility.
| Specification | Merrick Grain-Free Puppy (Chicken & Sweet Potato) | Purina Pro Plan SPORT 27/17 (Lamb & Rice) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Protein | Deboned Chicken | Real Lamb |
| Type | Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food | High-Protein Dry Dog Food |
| Primary Focus | Natural, Whole Ingredients | Science-Based, Performance Formula |
| Form | Kibble | Kibble with Tender Shreds |
| Made In | Texas, USA | USA |
| Ideal For | Puppies, Sensitive Dogs | Active Dogs, Small Breeds |
| AAFCO Approval | All Life Stages | All Life Stages |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.3/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.1/10
Which Dog Food Uses Better Ingredients? Merrick or Purina Pro Plan?
Merrick takes pride in visible ingredients — you’ll find real meat, sweet potatoes, apples, and blueberries. Purina Pro Plan, however, focuses more on function than looks, using research-backed ingredients like probiotics and glucosamine.
| Category | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| First Ingredient | Real Deboned Chicken | Real Lamb |
| Additives | No Artificial Colors or Flavors | Added Probiotics and Glucosamine |
| Fruits & Veggies | Apples, Blueberries, Sweet Potatoes | Limited (focus on grains and fiber) |
| Preservatives | Natural Tocopherols | Mixed Tocopherols |
| Grain-Free Options | Yes | Few |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.5/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 8.8/10
Nutritional Overview: Which Dog Food Offers Better Balance?
Both provide complete nutrition, but their ratios serve different needs. Merrick offers high protein and natural fats for growing puppies, while Purina Pro Plan balances performance energy with joint support and probiotics.
| Nutrient Focus | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 28% | 27% |
| Fat | 15% | 17% |
| Fiber | 4.5% | 3% |
| Omega Fatty Acids | High (3.0% Omega-6, 0.4% Omega-3) | Moderate (EPA and DHA blend) |
| Digestive Aids | Salmon Oil, Flaxseed | Live Probiotics, Fiber |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.2/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.3/10
Guaranteed Analysis: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Both brands meet AAFCO standards. Merrick focuses on nutrient density, while Purina fine-tunes nutrients for performance dogs.
| Analysis | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein (Min) | 28% | 27% |
| Crude Fat (Min) | 15% | 17% |
| Crude Fiber (Max) | 4.5% | 3% |
| Moisture (Max) | 11% | 12% |
| Glucosamine | 400 mg/kg | 500 mg/kg |
| Chondroitin | 400 mg/kg | 300 mg/kg |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.0/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.1/10
Design & Formulation: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Merrick’s recipes look and feel like real food — wholesome and kitchen-made. Purina Pro Plan’s design focuses on scientific precision and digestibility.
| Factor | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Formula Type | Grain-Free, Whole Foods | Science-Backed with Grains |
| Texture | Crunchy, Consistent Kibble | Kibble with Tender Shreds |
| Digestibility | High | Very High |
| Innovation Focus | Real Ingredient Integrity | Veterinary Research |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.1/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.4/10
Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan: Crude Fat Levels Explained
Merrick’s 15% fat content supports growth and brain development. Purina Pro Plan offers slightly more (17%) — ideal for active or sporting dogs needing endurance.
| Detail | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Fat % | 15% | 17% |
| Ideal For | Puppies, Moderate Activity | Active & Sporting Dogs |
| Main Fat Sources | Chicken Fat, Salmon Oil | Fish Oil, Beef Fat |
| Energy Level | Balanced | High Energy |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.0/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.2/10
Features: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Each brand delivers unique strengths — Merrick wins on natural appeal, Purina on research and vet trust.
| Key Feature | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Ingredients | Yes | Partially |
| Vet Recommended | Occasionally | Widely |
| Grain-Free Variety | Extensive | Limited |
| Functional Additives | Omega Fatty Acids, DHA | Probiotics, EPA, Glucosamine |
| Target Audience | Natural Lifestyle Owners | Performance & Health-Conscious Owners |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.2/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.3/10
Crude Protein Comparison Dog Food: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Protein quality defines both brands. Merrick uses deboned chicken for a clean profile, while Purina blends lamb with protein meals for endurance.
| Detail | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Crude Protein % | 28% | 27% |
| Protein Source | Chicken, Turkey Meal | Lamb, Poultry By-Product Meal |
| Amino Acid Support | Strong | Balanced |
| Digestibility | High | Very High |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.3/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.4/10
Performance: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Purina Pro Plan delivers steady energy and stamina, perfect for athletic or active dogs. Merrick gives consistent digestion and healthy coats for growing pups.
| Factor | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Output | Moderate | High |
| Muscle Support | Excellent | Excellent |
| Digestive Health | Great | Excellent (due to probiotics) |
| Skin & Coat | Shiny & Smooth | Shiny & Thick |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.2/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.5/10
Pricing & Value: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Merrick is premium-priced for its natural sourcing, while Purina offers better long-term value and larger bag sizes.
| Factor | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price per lb | Higher | Moderate |
| Bag Sizes | 4–22 lb | Up to 37.5 lb |
| Cost Efficiency | Lower | Higher |
| Ingredient Quality vs Cost | High | Excellent Value |
- Rating: Merrick – 8.8/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.3/10
User Experience: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Pet owners praise Merrick’s natural smell and digestibility. Purina Pro Plan earns loyalty for performance and availability.
| Experience | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Taste Appeal | Very Good | Excellent |
| Adjustment Period | Short | Very Short |
| Digestive Reactions | Rare | Very Rare |
| Availability | Limited In Stores | Widely Available |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.1/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.5/10
Ecosystem & Brand Reputation: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Both brands are under Nestlé Purina PetCare, but Merrick maintains its Texas-made roots. Purina Pro Plan carries decades of scientific trust.
| Factor | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Parent Company | Nestlé Purina | Nestlé Purina |
| Brand Origin | Hereford, Texas | St. Louis, Missouri |
| Reputation | Natural & Wholesome | Scientific & Trusted |
| Research Involvement | Moderate | Extensive |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.0/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.6/10
Pros & Cons: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
| Category | Merrick | Purina Pro Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Real ingredients, grain-free, made in the USA | Vet-trusted, probiotic-rich, great for performance |
| Cons | Pricier, fewer vet endorsements | Some use by-products or grains |
| Best For | Natural, sensitive diets | Active, high-energy dogs |
- Rating: Merrick – 9.1/10 | Purina Pro Plan – 9.4/10
- Verdict & Recommendation: Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
Both brands excel — it’s about what your dog needs most.
If you prefer natural, whole-food nutrition with visible ingredients and grain-free options, Merrick is an excellent choice.
If you want science-backed, vet-trusted nutrition for energy, endurance, and long-term health, Purina Pro Plan takes the lead.
Final Ratings:
- Merrick: 9.2/10 – Best for natural, grain-free, wholesome feeding.
- Purina Pro Plan: 9.4/10 – Best for active, health-focused dogs needing science-based nutrition.
Where to Buy Merrick and Purina Pro Plan Dog Food
Finding Merrick and Purina Pro Plan dog food is simple. You can buy them online or in most pet stores across the U.S. I often shop online because it’s easy to compare prices and see every recipe in one place.
You can find Merrick dog food on Chewy, Amazon, and Petco. Purina Pro Plan is sold on the same sites and also at PetSmart, Walmart, and Tractor Supply. Online stores often give discounts or autoship deals. It helps me save money and keeps my dogs’ food always in stock.
If you prefer to shop in person, most local pet stores carry popular recipes. From my own trips, I’ve noticed that Merrick runs out faster — especially the Grain-Free Chicken & Sweet Potato and Lil’ Plates for small dogs. Purina Pro Plan, though, is easy to find almost anywhere. Its wide range and vet trust keep it on most store shelves.
| Store/Platform | Merrick Availability | Purina Pro Plan Availability | Shipping Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chewy | Full range of recipes | Full range of recipes | 1–3 day delivery |
| Amazon | All popular recipes | All popular recipes | Prime shipping |
| Petco | Some recipes in-store | Full line available | Pickup & delivery |
| PetSmart | Limited stock | Widely available | Pickup |
| Walmart | Some dry recipes only | Full range | In-store & online |
| Tractor Supply | Limited options | Common formulas | Home delivery |
My Take:
For variety and freshness, I like Chewy the best. For quick refills, Walmart and PetSmart are my go-to choices.
Rating:
- Merrick Availability: 8.5/10
- Purina Pro Plan Availability: 9.5/10
Merrick and Purina Pro Plan Dog Food Recall History
Both brands have had a few recalls over the years, but nothing serious. I’ve followed them closely and what I value most is how fast and open they are when an issue happens.
Merrick had small recalls in the past, mostly for possible salmonella in some dog treats (in 2010 and 2018). None of these involved their main dry foods. Since joining Nestlé Purina PetCare, Merrick has raised its safety standards. Their food is still made in Hereford, Texas, under strict U.S. quality rules. That adds an extra layer of trust for me.
Purina Pro Plan, one of the biggest dog food names, has also had a few recalls — mostly due to labeling or nutrient mix-ups. These were small and handled quickly. For such a large brand, its recall record stays impressively clean. That shows strong quality control and responsibility.
| Brand | Recall Year(s) | Reason | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merrick | 2010, 2018 | Possible salmonella (treats only) | No main dry food recalls; better checks since then |
| Purina Pro Plan | 2013, 2016 | Label or vitamin balance issues | Limited batches, fast action |
| Current Safety Record | Excellent | Excellent | Both meet AAFCO & FDA standards |
My Take:
Both brands have learned from experience. I like that they act fast and share updates clearly. Knowing that both are made in the U.S. gives me peace of mind about their care and safety.
Rating:
- Merrick Recall Safety: 9/10
- Purina Pro Plan Recall Safety: 9.5/10
FAQs for Merrick vs Purina Pro Plan
What are the main differences between Merrick and Purina Pro Plan?
Merrick uses real, whole ingredients and many grain-free options. Purina Pro Plan focuses on science-based nutrition with vet support.
Is Merrick dog food better than Purina Pro Plan?
Merrick is better if you want natural recipes and visible ingredients. Purina Pro Plan is better for vet-backed formulas and active dogs.
Which brand is best for sensitive stomachs?
Both work well. Merrick’s Limited Ingredient Diet helps with food allergies, while Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach aids digestion.
Is Purina Pro Plan recommended by vets?
Yes. Many U.S. vets recommend Purina Pro Plan because of its research-based formulas, live probiotics, and proven track record in dog nutrition.
Which dog food is more affordable, Merrick or Purina Pro Plan?
Purina Pro Plan is more budget-friendly and comes in larger bags. Merrick costs more, but it uses premium ingredients and grain-free options.
Where to Buy Merrick and Purina Pro Plan Recall History
Finding Merrick and Purina Pro Plan is not hard. I usually buy online from Chewy or Amazon because it saves me time and I can compare recipes side by side. For quick refills, big U.S. stores like Walmart and PetSmart are handy since they often stock Purina Pro Plan in larger bags. Merrick can be harder to spot in every aisle, especially the grain-free recipes, but I’ve noticed online shops almost always carry the full line. In my experience, shopping online feels like having a safety net — I don’t have to worry about my dogs missing a meal if a store runs out.
When it comes to recall history, both brands have faced small bumps, but nothing that makes me lose trust. Merrick had recalls in the past, mostly tied to treats, not their main dog food. Since joining Nestlé Purina, they’ve tightened safety and kept production in Texas, which gives me some peace of mind. Purina Pro Plan, being one of the biggest names on shelves, has had a few recalls too, usually linked to labeling or formula adjustments. These were handled fast, and I never noticed a dip in quality when feeding my dogs.
To me, recalls are a bit like car seatbelt warnings — they remind you the system is working, not failing. I’d worry more if a brand never admitted mistakes. Both Merrick and Purina Pro Plan act quickly when something goes wrong, which shows me they value transparency and safety. That balance of honesty and action matters more than a spotless record.
Overall, I see Merrick as the brand for dog parents who love that homemade, natural feel, while Purina Pro Plan fits those who want science-backed nutrition trusted by vets. Neither is perfect, but both give me confidence that I’m feeding my dogs food made with care and backed by strong quality checks.
Taslima Akter Sumaiya is a passionate pet mom and founder of PetFoodHubing.com. With real-life experience and insights inspired by USDA-ARS experts like Dr. Jitender P. Dubey, she writes honest, research-backed reviews to help dog and cat parents choose the best food. Trust her to simplify pet nutrition—with love and science. Read More…
