This post is sponsored by Merrick Pet Care and the BlogPaws Pet Influencer Network. Even though we are being compensated for helping create awareness around the Merrick Classic Refresh, we only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Merrick Pet Care is not responsible for the content of this article.

We were very interested to hear that Merrick recently did a refresh of their Classic line. We were among a handful of bloggers chosen to review the food post-change. With a jam-packed schedule these past several months, it was a conscious decision that I would be feeding a commercially prepared dog food. I also expected to be taking a closer look at several brands this year, and the Merrick Classic changes brought about the perfect opportunity.

So what are these changes?

This year Merrick has added some exciting elements to their Classic line, which includes five recipes. These recipes include the same wholesome, natural nutrition that Merrick is known for, yet with the added benefits of ancient grains , chia seeds and are now potato-free. With the changes inside there are also visible changes outside, in the form of new, colorful packaging.

First of all, what are ancient grains?

Ancient grains have been around for centuries, and unlike modern grains, have not been subjected to GMOs (Genetically Modified Organisms) or hybridization (crossing strains). While the original intent of GMOs and hybridization of grains may have been to increase production, profitability, improve shelf life and bring down costs for consumers, it has long been suspected that these things inadvertently created changes that have ultimately led to the dietary intolerances to wheat we see today. There are many grain-free dog foods on the market today, and this is why.

Ancient grains are in their original form, higher in fiber and protein than their altered counterparts, and have a more pleasing taste. They have enjoyed massive popularity in the human health market in the last few years, and their benefits have been widely touted. They can be very easy on the digestive system, and aid in maintaining blood sugar levels. For these reasons and more, they have become more widely accepted in the pet food marketplace as well.

The addition of one of my own favorite foods–quinoa–was very exciting to me as it is a regular staple in my own home and has been fed to my dogs for years.

Chia Seeds

Far from the days of the “ch-ch-ch-chia” tune that rang through many of our heads, chia seeds have become increasingly important in the health food industry. Rich in dietary fiber, omega 3s, protein, healthy fats and antioxidants, chia seeds are amazing. They have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and are helpful with auto-immune disorders as well. They are being seen as an alternative to using flax seeds (which need to be ground and often go rancid quicker), which we have been using in our dogs’ food since the early 90s. So you can imagine our interest in the use of chia seeds in these recipes!

In addition to these changes in formula, we cannot overlook the first ingredient, which is de-boned meat. Farm fresh fruits and vegetables such as peas, apples, blueberries and carrots, along with other super healthy ingredients like organic alfalfa meal and oatmeal all come together for an even more palatable, even more easily digestible mealtime experience for the Best Dog Ever–yours.

These five new and improved recipes are not only cooked in the USA in Merrick’s own kitchens, there are absolutely no ingredients at all from China, and no wheat, corn, soy or potato. Further pluses are not only age-specific but breed specific formulations.

We were sent samples of their Classic Real Chicken + Green Peas Recipe With Ancient Grains to try. Since Rama had eaten Merrick’s Chicken formula before, I wanted to see how she liked this reboot.

merrick classic with dog — “Can I eat dis now?”

Think your #BestDogEver would like to try new & improved Merrick Classic recipes? Merrick is giving away 50 bags to 50 lucky dogs on their Facebook page – click here to sign up for a chance to win: http://bit.ly/1Lw2H1X

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Merrick. The opinions and text are all mine.