Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken & Sweet Potato | 12 lbs

Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe is a puppy-specific dry dog food formulated for the growth and development needs of small breed puppies. Positioned as a grain-free, AAFCO growth-compliant formula, it leads with real deboned chicken as the first ingredient and includes DHA for brain and eye development, controlled calcium for proper bone formation, and glucosamine and chondroitin for developing joints.

Quick Product Snapshot

Why Pet Owners Choose This Food

• Real deboned chicken first - Poultry protein leads the ingredient list, delivering 28% minimum crude protein calibrated for healthy puppy growth.
• DHA for brain and eye development - Salmon oil provides DHA (min. 0.05%) to support cognitive and visual development during critical growth stages.
• Controlled calcium for bone formation - 1.2% minimum calcium supports proper skeletal development in small breed puppies.
• Joint support from day one - Glucosamine (1,200 mg/kg) and chondroitin sulfate (900 mg/kg) support developing joints and cartilage.
• Digestive health support - Five probiotic strains plus prebiotic chicory root inulin promote a balanced digestive system for easier nutrient absorption.
• Pint-sized kibble design - Sized specifically for small breed puppy mouths; crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup.
• Made in the USA - Crafted in Merrick's Hereford, TX kitchen under strict FDA guidelines.

Ingredient Transparency

Deboned chicken is the first ingredient, followed by chicken meal as a concentrated protein source, with potatoes, peas, and sweet potatoes as primary carbohydrates. Salmon oil and flaxseed oil provide DHA and omega-3 fatty acids. Apples and blueberries contribute natural antioxidants. This formula contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.

Nutritional Positioning

This puppy recipe delivers 28% minimum crude protein and 17% minimum crude fat - a balanced growth profile appropriate for small breed puppies with higher energy needs relative to body size. DHA (min. 0.05%) and controlled calcium (min. 1.2%) are specifically included to support brain, eye, and bone development. The formula meets nutritional levels established by AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth.

Guaranteed Analysis:

• Crude Protein (min.): 28.0%
• Crude Fat (min.): 17.0%
• Crude Fiber (max.): 4.7%
• Moisture (max.): 11.0%
• Calcium (min.): 1.2%
• DHA (min.): 0.05%
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.50%
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 3.0%
• Glucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg/kg
• Chondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg/kg

Texture, Palatability, and Feeding Experience

This dry puppy food features a pint-sized, crunchy kibble designed specifically for small breed puppy mouths. The smaller kibble size supports comfortable chewing during early development. The crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup as puppy teeth develop. Palatability is driven by real chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources.

Feeding Guidance and Portion Use

Feed as a complete daily meal based on your puppy's age and expected adult weight. Puppies under 6 months should be fed 3-4 times daily; reduce to 2 times daily after 6 months. Transition gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts with your puppy's current food.

Typical Daily Feeding Guidelines (by expected adult weight):

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

Safety, Storage, and Handling

Store in a cool, dry place. Seal bag tightly after each use to preserve freshness. Always provide fresh, clean water alongside meals. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on transitioning to adult food as your puppy matures.

Product Highlights

• Real deboned chicken is the #1 ingredient
• 28% minimum crude protein calibrated for puppy growth
• DHA (min. 0.05%) for brain and eye development
• Controlled calcium (1.2%) for proper bone formation
• Grain-free formula - no corn, wheat, or soy
• Glucosamine and chondroitin for developing joint support
• Five probiotic strains plus prebiotic fiber for digestive health
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat
• Pint-sized crunchy kibble for small breed puppy mouths
• AAFCO complete and balanced for growth
• Made in the USA - Hereford, TX

Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken + Sweet Potato is a practical, ingredient-forward choice for owners who want a puppy-specific, complete dry dog food built around the developmental needs of small breed puppies. The 12 lb bag provides a consistent supply through the growth stage. Feed consistently, transition gradually, and adjust portions as your puppy grows.

Product Specifications

Commercial

• Brand: Merrick
• Product Line: Lil' Plates Grain Free
• SKU: 022808260103
• Barcode: 022808260103

Physical

• Package Size: 12 lbs
• Form: Dry kibble
• Texture: Pint-sized crunchy kibble

Nutritional

• Primary Protein: Deboned Chicken
• Crude Protein (min.): 28.0%
• Crude Fat (min.): 17.0%
• Crude Fiber (max.): 4.7%
• Moisture (max.): 11.0%
• Calcium (min.): 1.2%
• DHA (min.): 0.05%
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.50%
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 3.0%
• Glucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg/kg
• Chondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg/kg

Dietary

• Grain-Free: Yes
• No Corn, Wheat, or Soy: Yes
• No Artificial Preservatives, Colors, or Flavors: Yes

Suitability

• Life Stage: Puppy (Growth)
• Breed Size: Small Breed
• AAFCO Statement: Meets nutritional levels for growth

Manufacturing

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