{"product_id":"merrick-lil-plates-grain-free-puppy-real-chicken-and-sweet-potato-recipe-12-lbs","title":"Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Puppy Real Chicken \u0026 Sweet Potato | 12 lbs","description":"\u003cp\u003eMerrick 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eQuick Product Snapshot\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"border-collapse:collapse; width:100%;\"\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary Protein\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eDeboned Chicken\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Type\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eDry Dog Food (Kibble)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTexture\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003ePint-sized kibble, crunchy\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLife Stage\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003ePuppy (Growth)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBreed Size Suitability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eSmall Breed\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiet Positioning\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eGrain-Free, No Corn\/Wheat\/Soy\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding Purpose\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eComplete and balanced for growth\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Feature\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003eDHA for brain development, glucosamine \u0026amp; chondroitin, probiotics\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n  \u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePackage Size\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"border:1px solid #ccc; padding:6px 10px;\"\u003e12 lbs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy Pet Owners Choose This Food\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal deboned chicken first\u003c\/strong\u003e - Poultry protein leads the ingredient list, delivering 28% minimum crude protein calibrated for healthy puppy growth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDHA for brain and eye development\u003c\/strong\u003e - Salmon oil provides DHA (min. 0.05%) to support cognitive and visual development during critical growth stages.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eControlled calcium for bone formation\u003c\/strong\u003e - 1.2% minimum calcium supports proper skeletal development in small breed puppies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJoint support from day one\u003c\/strong\u003e - Glucosamine (1,200 mg\/kg) and chondroitin sulfate (900 mg\/kg) support developing joints and cartilage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDigestive health support\u003c\/strong\u003e - Five probiotic strains plus prebiotic chicory root inulin promote a balanced digestive system for easier nutrient absorption.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePint-sized kibble design\u003c\/strong\u003e - Sized specifically for small breed puppy mouths; crunchy texture helps reduce plaque buildup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMade in the USA\u003c\/strong\u003e - Crafted in Merrick's Hereford, TX kitchen under strict FDA guidelines.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIngredient Transparency\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeboned 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eNutritional Positioning\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGuaranteed Analysis:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Protein (min.): 28.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Fat (min.): 17.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Fiber (max.): 4.7%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoisture (max.): 11.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium (min.): 1.2%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDHA (min.): 0.05%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOmega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.50%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOmega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 3.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGlucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg\/kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg\/kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eTexture, Palatability, and Feeding Experience\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding Guidance and Portion Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTypical Daily Feeding Guidelines (by expected adult weight):\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e3-5 lbs: 1\/3 - 2\/3 cup daily\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5-10 lbs: 2\/3 - 1 cup daily\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e10-15 lbs: 1 - 1 1\/3 cups daily\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e15-20 lbs: 1 1\/3 - 1 2\/3 cups daily\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSafety, Storage, and Handling\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStore 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Highlights\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReal deboned chicken is the #1 ingredient\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e28% minimum crude protein calibrated for puppy growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDHA (min. 0.05%) for brain and eye development\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eControlled calcium (1.2%) for proper bone formation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrain-free formula - no corn, wheat, or soy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGlucosamine and chondroitin for developing joint support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFive probiotic strains plus prebiotic fiber for digestive health\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOmega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePint-sized crunchy kibble for small breed puppy mouths\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAAFCO complete and balanced for growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMade in the USA - Hereford, TX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMerrick 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommercial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrand: Merrick\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProduct Line: Lil' Plates Grain Free\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSKU: 022808260103\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBarcode: 022808260103\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhysical\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePackage Size: 12 lbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eForm: Dry kibble\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTexture: Pint-sized crunchy kibble\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNutritional\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrimary Protein: Deboned Chicken\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Protein (min.): 28.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Fat (min.): 17.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCrude Fiber (max.): 4.7%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoisture (max.): 11.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCalcium (min.): 1.2%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDHA (min.): 0.05%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOmega-3 Fatty Acids (min.): 0.50%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOmega-6 Fatty Acids (min.): 3.0%\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGlucosamine (min.): 1,200 mg\/kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChondroitin Sulfate (min.): 900 mg\/kg\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDietary\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGrain-Free: Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo Corn, Wheat, or Soy: Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo Artificial Preservatives, Colors, or Flavors: Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuitability\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLife Stage: Puppy (Growth)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreed Size: Small Breed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAAFCO Statement: Meets nutritional levels for growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eManufacturing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCountry of Origin: USA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eManufacturing Location: Hereford, TX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Merrick","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48418245443813,"sku":"022808260103","price":66.56,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0773\/7648\/7653\/files\/022808260103-2_74aabc67-6344-421e-a5af-ae86b574601f.jpg?v=1775355375","url":"https:\/\/petsperfect.com\/products\/merrick-lil-plates-grain-free-puppy-real-chicken-and-sweet-potato-recipe-12-lbs","provider":"Pets Perfect","version":"1.0","type":"link"}