Merrick Dog Lil Plates Grain Free Senior Chicken And Sweet Potato 12Lb

Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Senior Real Chicken & Sweet Potato is a dry dog food formulated specifically for aging small breed dogs. Built around real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, this grain-free recipe delivers reduced-calorie nutrition with targeted joint support and digestive health ingredients to meet the distinct needs of senior dogs in their later years.

Quick Product Snapshot

Why Pet Owners Choose This Food

• Real deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality animal protein to preserve lean muscle mass in aging dogs
• Reduced calories and fat help senior dogs maintain a healthy weight as activity levels naturally decline
• Glucosamine (1,200 mg/kg) and chondroitin sulfate (900 mg/kg) support joint health and everyday mobility
• L-carnitine supports healthy metabolism in less active senior dogs
• Five-strain probiotic blend and prebiotic chicory root inulin support consistent digestive health
• Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon meal and salmon oil promote healthy skin and coat condition
• Small kibble size is designed for tiny mouths and aging teeth common in small breeds

Ingredient Transparency

The formula leads with deboned chicken and chicken meal, delivering concentrated animal protein. Sweet potatoes, peas, and potatoes provide digestible carbohydrate energy. Salmon meal and salmon oil contribute omega-3 fatty acids. Apples and blueberries add natural antioxidant support. This recipe contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Cooked in Merrick's Hereford, TX kitchen in facilities that follow strict FDA guidelines.

Nutritional Positioning

• Crude Protein (min.): 32.0%
• Crude Fat (min.): 12.0%
• Crude Fiber (max.): 3.5%
• Moisture (max.): 11.0%
• Glucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg/kg
• Chondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg/kg

This recipe meets the nutritional levels established by AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance. The protein-to-fat ratio is calibrated to support lean muscle retention while managing caloric intake for less active senior dogs.

Texture, Palatability, and Feeding Experience

The small dry kibble is sized specifically for small breed dogs, making it easier to pick up, chew, and digest. The chicken-forward flavor profile is well-suited to dogs that prefer poultry-based recipes. Palatability is consistent with Merrick's Lil' Plates line, which is formulated to appeal to smaller dogs with more selective appetites.

Feeding Guidance and Portion Use

Feed as a complete daily meal. Adjust portions based on your dog's weight, age, and activity level to maintain ideal body condition. Transition gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with your dog's current food to support digestive comfort.

• 3-5 lbs: 1/3 - 1/2 cup daily
• 5-10 lbs: 1/2 - 3/4 cup daily
• 10-15 lbs: 3/4 - 1 cup daily
• 15-20 lbs: 1 - 1 1/4 cups daily

Safety, Storage, and Handling

Store in a cool, dry place. Seal the bag tightly after each use to preserve freshness. Always provide fresh, clean water alongside meals. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has specific dietary needs or health conditions.

Product Highlights

• Real deboned chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Grain-free and gluten-free formula
• Reduced calories and fat for senior weight management
• Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint mobility support
• L-carnitine for healthy metabolism
• Five-strain probiotic blend for digestive health
• Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon for skin and coat
• Small kibble designed for small breed mouths and aging teeth
• Made in the USA - Hereford, TX

Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Senior Chicken & Sweet Potato is a practical, ingredient-forward dry dog food built for the daily nutritional needs of aging small breed dogs. Consistent feeding supports weight management, joint comfort, and digestive regularity through the senior years.

Product Specifications

Commercial

• Brand: Merrick
• Product Line: Lil' Plates Grain Free
• Recipe: Senior Real Chicken & Sweet Potato
• SKU: 022808260110

Physical

• Package Size: 12 lbs.
• Shipping Weight: 14.29 lbs.
• Form: Dry kibble
• Kibble Size: Small

Nutritional

• Primary Protein: Deboned Chicken
• Crude Protein (min.): 32.0%
• Crude Fat (min.): 12.0%
• Crude Fiber (max.): 3.5%
• Moisture (max.): 11.0%
• Glucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg/kg
• Chondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg/kg

Dietary

• Grain-Free: Yes
• Gluten-Free: Yes
• No corn, wheat, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors

Suitability

• Life Stage: Senior
• Breed Size: Small breed
• AAFCO: Meets nutritional levels for adult maintenance

Manufacturing

• Country of Origin: USA
• Manufacturing Location: Hereford, TX