Sam’s Club is well-known for bulk buys and budget-friendly prices, but did you know they also offer their own brand of dog food? Member’s Mark dog food is positioned as an affordable option, often stocked alongside popular brands like Purina. For pet owners looking to manage their budgets without compromising on their dog’s nutrition, exploring store brands like Member’s Mark at Sam’s Club can be tempting. Let’s take a closer look at what Member’s Mark dog food offers, specifically the Exceed Performance variety, and see how it stacks up.
Member’s Mark Exceed Performance Dog Food: Ingredient Spotlight
The Member’s Mark Exceed Performance Chicken & Rice Formula lists chicken as the first ingredient, which is a positive sign, indicating a decent protein source. Looking further into the ingredient list provides a more detailed picture:
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal (a natural source of glucosamine), corn gluten meal, brewers rice, and animal fat.
- Ingredient Breakdown: The formula includes grains like ground yellow corn and ground wheat, as well as dried beet pulp and dried egg product. It also contains added vitamins and minerals to meet nutritional requirements.
- Guaranteed Analysis: A quick look at the guaranteed analysis reveals:
- Crude Protein: 30% (min)
- Crude Fat: 20% (min)
- Crude Fiber: 4% (max)
- Moisture: 12% (max)
This analysis suggests a relatively high protein and fat content, geared towards active dogs, as indicated by the “Performance” label.
Member’s Mark Dog Food: How Does It Compare to Name Brands?
The original reviewer noted that Member’s Mark Exceed Performance could be considered “on par with foods like Iams or Eukanuba.” These are mid-range brands known for decent quality and availability. While not positioned as premium dog foods like Canidae (mentioned in the original text), Iams and Eukanuba are reputable and widely used.
Compared to Purina, another brand often found at Sam’s Club, Member’s Mark Exceed Performance shares some similarities in ingredient composition and guaranteed analysis with Purina’s mid-tier lines. However, the perception of ingredient quality and sourcing can vary among pet owners.
Pros and Cons of Choosing Member’s Mark Dog Food at Sam’s Club
Potential Pros:
- Affordability: Store brands like Member’s Mark are generally priced lower than comparable name brands, making them budget-friendly. Buying in bulk at Sam’s Club can further enhance savings.
- Decent Protein Source: Chicken as the first ingredient and a 30% protein guarantee are respectable for aPerformance formula.
- Availability at Sam’s Club: Convenient for Sam’s Club members who already shop there regularly.
Potential Cons:
- “Controversial Fillers”: The original review mentions “a few controversial fillers.” This likely refers to ingredients like corn gluten meal, ground yellow corn, and ground wheat, which, while providing energy and nutrients, are sometimes debated in terms of digestibility and allergenic potential for some dogs.
- Not a “Top-Tier” Food: While decent, Member’s Mark Exceed Performance is not positioned as a premium, limited-ingredient, or grain-free dog food. For dogs with specific dietary needs or sensitivities, or for owners seeking the highest quality ingredients, other options might be preferable.
The Verdict: Is Sam’s Club Dog Food Right for Your Dog?
Member’s Mark Exceed Performance dog food at Sam’s Club appears to be a reasonable, budget-conscious option for dog owners. It offers a decent protein content and is formulated to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, indicating it provides complete and balanced nutrition.
However, like with any dog food, it’s essential to consider your dog’s individual needs, activity level, and any sensitivities they might have. If your dog is thriving on their current food, especially a high-quality brand like Canidae, there might not be a compelling reason to switch solely for cost savings.
Ultimately, the best dog food is one that keeps your dog healthy, energetic, and happy. If you’re considering Member’s Mark at Sam’s Club, carefully review the ingredient list, guaranteed analysis, and consider your dog’s specific requirements before making a decision.
