Ingredients
Deboned Chicken
Chicken meat that has been removed from the bones. It is a high-quality source of protein for puppies and provides essential amino acids for growth and development.
Chicken Meal
Chicken meat that has been cooked and ground into a meal. It is a concentrated source of protein and contains essential nutrients for puppies.
Sweet Potatoes
A nutritious carbohydrate source that provides energy for puppies. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Potatoes
A starchy vegetable that serves as a source of carbohydrates for puppies. It provides energy and contains some essential nutrients.
Salmon Meal
Salmon that has been cooked and ground into a meal. It is a high-quality source of protein and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a puppy's skin and coat health.
Peas
Peas are a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber. They also provide vitamins and minerals for puppies.
Chicken Fat
A source of energy and essential fatty acids for puppies. It adds flavor to the food and helps with nutrient absorption.
Pea Protein
A plant-based protein derived from peas. It is a supplementary protein source that helps support muscle development in puppies.
Natural Flavor
A natural ingredient that enhances the taste of the food. It provides a palatable flavor for puppies.
Flaxseed
A source of omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber. It promotes healthy skin and coat in puppies.
Dried Yeast
A source of B vitamins and minerals. It supports a healthy immune system and aids in digestion for puppies.
Potassium Chloride
A mineral that helps maintain proper electrolyte balance in puppies. It is essential for nerve and muscle function.
Salt
A small amount of salt is added for flavor. It should be used in moderation as excessive salt intake can be harmful to puppies.
Choline Chloride
A nutrient that supports brain development and liver function in puppies.
Apples
Apples are a source of vitamins and dietary fiber. They provide antioxidants and promote good digestion in puppies.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. They support a healthy immune system and provide additional flavor to the food.
Salmon Oil
A source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for a puppy's skin, coat, and overall health.
Zinc Amino Acid Complex
A form of zinc that is easily absorbed by puppies. It supports immune function, growth, and development.
Iron Amino Acid Complex
A form of iron that is easily absorbed by puppies. It is essential for the production of red blood cells and overall growth.
Sodium Selenite
A source of selenium, which is an essential mineral for puppies. It supports a healthy immune system and thyroid function.
Manganese Amino Acid Complex
A form of manganese that is easily absorbed by puppies. It plays a role in bone development and antioxidant function.
Copper Amino Acid Complex
A form of copper that is easily absorbed by puppies. It supports the formation of connective tissues and aids in iron absorption.
Calcium Iodate
A source of iodine and calcium for puppies. Iodine is important for thyroid function, while calcium is essential for bone health.
DL-Methionine
An essential amino acid that supports healthy skin, coat, and nail growth in puppies.
Taurine
An amino acid that is important for heart health and vision development in puppies.
Vitamin E Supplement
A vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and supports a healthy immune system in puppies.
Vitamin B12 Supplement
A vitamin that is important for nerve function and the production of red blood cells in puppies.
Vitamin A Supplement
A vitamin that supports vision, immune function, and overall growth in puppies.
Niacin
A B vitamin that aids in energy metabolism and supports a healthy nervous system in puppies.
Thiamine Mononitrate
A B vitamin that is important for carbohydrate metabolism and overall growth in puppies.
Riboflavin Supplement
A B vitamin that supports energy production and healthy skin in puppies.
d-Calcium Pantothenate
A B vitamin that is important for energy metabolism and the production of hormones in puppies.
Folic Acid
A B vitamin that supports cell growth and development in puppies.
Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex
A source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health in puppies.
Biotin
A B vitamin that supports healthy skin, coat, and nail growth in puppies.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
A B vitamin that is important for brain development and the production of neurotransmitters in puppies.
Vitamin D3 Supplement
A vitamin that supports calcium absorption and bone health in puppies.
Mixed Tocopherols for freshness
A natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness and quality of the food.
Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product
A probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system in puppies.
Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product
A probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system in puppies.
Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product
A probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system in puppies.
Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product
A probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system in puppies.
Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product
A probiotic that supports a healthy digestive system in puppies.
Guaranteed Analysis
| Crude Protein | 28.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 15.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.5% max |
| Moisture | 11.0% max |
| Calcium | 1.2% min |
| Phosphorus | 1.0% min |
| DHA | 0.05% min |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 2.0% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 0.3.0% min |
| Glucosamine | 500 mg/kg min |
| Chondroitin SulFate | 500 mg/kg min |
Crude Protein
Crude protein is an essential nutrient for puppies as it helps in their growth and development. The minimum value of 28.0% in this dry puppy food indicates a good protein content, which is beneficial for puppies' overall health and muscle development.
Crude Fat
Crude fat is an important energy source for puppies and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The minimum value of 15.0% in this dry puppy food is considered appropriate for puppies' growth and energy needs.
Crude Fiber
Crude fiber is necessary for maintaining healthy digestion in puppies. The maximum value of 4.5% in this dry puppy food ensures a balanced fiber content, which promotes regular bowel movements and digestive health in puppies.
Moisture
Moisture content refers to the amount of water present in the food. The maximum value of 11.0% in this dry puppy food indicates a relatively low moisture content, which helps in preserving the food and preventing bacterial growth.
Calcium
Calcium is crucial for the development of strong bones and teeth in puppies. The minimum value of 1.2% in this dry puppy food ensures an adequate calcium level, which supports proper skeletal growth and overall bone health.
Phosphorus
Phosphorus works in conjunction with calcium to promote healthy bone development in puppies. The minimum value of 1.0% in this dry puppy food ensures a balanced calcium-phosphorus ratio, which is essential for optimal bone growth and strength.
DHA
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an omega-3 fatty acid that plays a vital role in brain and eye development in puppies. The minimum value of 0.05% in this dry puppy food indicates a sufficient DHA content, which supports cognitive and visual development in puppies.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to healthy skin and coat in puppies. The minimum value of 2.0% in this dry puppy food suggests a good omega-3 fatty acid content, which promotes skin and coat health in puppies.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat in puppies. The minimum value of 0.3% in this dry puppy food indicates an adequate omega-6 fatty acid content, which supports skin and coat health in puppies.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural compound that supports joint health and mobility in puppies. The minimum value of 500 mg/kg in this dry puppy food ensures a sufficient glucosamine level, which promotes healthy joints and helps prevent joint issues in puppies.
Chondroitin SulFate
Chondroitin sulfate is a substance that helps maintain the structure and function of cartilage in puppies' joints. The minimum value of 500 mg/kg in this dry puppy food indicates a beneficial chondroitin sulfate content, which supports joint health and mobility in puppies.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient
- Grain-free formula
- Includes sweet potatoes, peas, and apples for added nutrition
- Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health
- Includes probiotics for digestive health
Cons
- Some puppies may not like the taste
- May not be suitable for puppies with chicken allergies
Evaluation
Pet Food AI has assigned 4 stars to Merrick Lil' Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Dry Dog Food Puppy Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe.
This food is a good option for small breed puppies. It contains high-quality ingredients such as real chicken, sweet potatoes, and salmon meal. The grain-free formula is beneficial for puppies with grain sensitivities. The inclusion of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin, supports healthy skin, coat, and joint health. However, some puppies may not enjoy the taste, and it may not be suitable for those with chicken allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this food healthy for puppies?
Yes, this food is healthy for puppies. It contains high-quality ingredients and provides essential nutrients for their growth and development.
Can this food cause allergies?
This food includes chicken as one of the main ingredients, so it may cause allergies in puppies with chicken sensitivities or allergies.
Should this food be combined with others?
It is not necessary to combine this food with others, as it provides a complete and balanced diet for puppies. However, if you choose to combine it with other foods, make sure to adjust the proportions accordingly and choose complementary ingredients.