Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Senior Chicken & Sweet Potato | 4 lbs

Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Senior Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe is a dry dog food crafted specifically for aging small breed dogs. This high-protein, grain-free formula is nutritionally positioned to support senior dogs with reduced calories, joint-supporting nutrients, and digestive health ingredients - all built around real deboned chicken as the first ingredient.

Quick Product Snapshot

Why Pet Owners Choose This Food

• Real deboned chicken first - Animal protein leads the ingredient list, supporting lean muscle maintenance in senior dogs.
• Reduced calories and fat - Formulated to help less active senior dogs maintain a healthy weight without sacrificing nutrition.
• Joint support built in - Glucosamine (1,200 mg/kg) and chondroitin sulfate (900 mg/kg) support mobility and joint comfort.
• Digestive health support - Five probiotic strains plus prebiotic chicory root inulin promote a balanced digestive system.
• Omega-3 fatty acids - Salmon meal and salmon oil contribute to healthy skin and coat condition.
• Small kibble design - Sized specifically for small breed mouths and aging teeth.
• 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 and sweet potatoes as primary carbohydrate sources. Peas, potatoes, and pea protein round out the macronutrient profile. Salmon meal and salmon oil provide 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 recipe delivers 32% minimum crude protein and 12% minimum crude fat - a reduced-fat profile appropriate for senior dogs with lower activity levels. Caloric density is managed to support healthy weight maintenance. The formula meets nutritional levels established by AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance. L-carnitine is included to support healthy metabolism.

Guaranteed Analysis:

• 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

Texture, Palatability, and Feeding Experience

This dry dog food features a small, crunchy kibble designed for small breed mouths and aging teeth. The kibble size supports comfortable chewing for senior dogs. Palatability is driven by real chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources. Most small breed dogs transition well to this formula when introduced gradually over 7-10 days.

Feeding Guidance and Portion Use

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

Typical Daily Feeding Guidelines:

• 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 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 is 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 probiotic strains plus prebiotic fiber for digestive health
• Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil for skin and coat
• Small kibble size designed for small breed mouths
• No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives
• Made in the USA - Hereford, TX

Merrick Lil' Plates Senior Chicken & Sweet Potato is a practical, ingredient-forward choice for owners who want a structured, complete dry dog food built around the specific needs of aging small breed dogs. Feed consistently, transition gradually, and adjust portions to your dog's individual condition.

Product Specifications

Commercial

• Brand: Merrick
• Product Line: Lil' Plates Grain Free
• SKU: 022808260080
• Barcode: 022808260080

Physical

• Package Size: 4 lbs
• Shipping Weight: 4.25 lbs
• Form: Dry kibble
• Texture: Small crunchy kibble

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, or Soy: Yes
• No Artificial Preservatives, Colors, or Flavors: Yes

Suitability

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

Manufacturing

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