9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
Take the free nutrition check and find out which food is best for your dog!
Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
Let’s start with what’s in the bag. Chicken is the first ingredient, which is exactly what you want to see in a puppy food. Real, named meat protein should always lead the lineup, and Purina gets that right. Chicken provides essential amino acids that support muscle development, and it’s generally well-tolerated by most dogs. So far, so good.
The second ingredient is rice, a digestible carbohydrate that provides steady energy without the digestive upset that some puppies experience with other grains. Rice is also gentle on sensitive stomachs, which is helpful during the transition period when you’re switching your pup from breeder or shelter food.
After chicken and rice, you’ll find poultry by-product meal. This is where things get a little contentious. By-product meal includes parts like necks, feet, and organs—essentially, everything except muscle meat. While it’s not as appealing to us humans, it’s actually highly digestible and nutrient-dense for dogs. It’s regulated by AAFCO, and it does provide concentrated protein and minerals. That said, some owners prefer foods that stick to named muscle meats, and I understand that preference.
You’ll also see corn gluten meal, which boosts the protein content but comes from plant sources rather than animal. It’s not harmful, but it’s not as biologically valuable as meat-based protein. The inclusion of dried egg product and fish meal helps round out the amino acid profile and adds omega fatty acids, which are great for brain and eye development.
This formula includes whole grain corn and wheat alongside rice. These grains provide energy and fiber, and they’re perfectly safe for most puppies. However, if your pup has a grain sensitivity or allergy, this food won’t be a good fit. Corn and wheat are among the more common canine allergens, so keep that in mind if your puppy shows signs of itching, ear infections, or digestive upset.
The formula is grain-inclusive, which is actually a positive in light of the FDA’s investigation into grain-free diets and potential links to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Grain-containing foods like this one haven’t been implicated in that concern, so you can feed it with confidence on that front.
One ingredient that raises eyebrows is menadione sodium bisulfite complex, a synthetic form of vitamin K. Some experts have flagged it as potentially problematic in high doses, though it’s approved for use in pet food and appears in many commercial formulas. Purina includes it to ensure adequate vitamin K levels, but if you’re particularly cautious about synthetic additives, this might be a consideration.
Animal fat preserved with mixed tocopherols is another ingredient worth noting. Mixed tocopherols are a natural form of vitamin E used as a preservative, which is a positive. However, the term “animal fat” is vague—it doesn’t specify the source. While it’s likely poultry or beef fat, the lack of specificity can be a transparency issue for some consumers.
| Price per pound | $2.67 (based on $0.59 per 100g) |
| Primary protein | Chicken |
| By-products | Yes (poultry by-product meal) |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes + feeding trials |
| Formula options | Small breed puppy formula |
| Availability | Major retailers + online (Chewy, Amazon, Walmart) |
Numbers matter when you’re feeding a growing puppy, so let’s look at what this formula delivers on a dry matter basis (DMB), which removes moisture and gives you a true sense of nutrient density.
The formula contains 37.5% protein and 22.7% fat on a DMB. That’s well above AAFCO’s minimum requirements for puppies, which call for at least 22.5% protein and 8.5% fat. The high protein content supports rapid growth and muscle development, while the fat provides concentrated calories and essential fatty acids for brain and coat health.
Small breed puppies have higher energy needs per pound of body weight than large breeds, and this formula addresses that with a caloric density of 431 kcal per 100 grams. That means even a small portion packs a lot of fuel, which is exactly what a tiny, active puppy needs.
The estimated carbohydrate content is around 36.4% DMB. That’s moderate and typical for a grain-inclusive kibble. The crude fiber maximum is 3.4% DMB, which is on the lower side and generally beneficial for puppies. Lower fiber means higher digestibility, and that translates to smaller, firmer stools—something every puppy owner appreciates.
This formula includes DHA at a minimum of 0.1%, sourced from fish oil. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that supports cognitive development and vision, and it’s especially important during the first year of life. The inclusion of 600 million CFU per pound of Bacillus coagulans, a probiotic, is another standout feature. Probiotics support gut health and immune function, which can help reduce digestive upset and improve nutrient absorption.
Calcium and phosphorus levels are also appropriate for growth, with 1.1% calcium and 0.9% phosphorus as-fed. These minerals are essential for bone development, and Purina has balanced them carefully to avoid the skeletal issues that can arise from excess or deficiency.
When you’re feeding a puppy, peace of mind matters. You want to know that the food is safe, consistent, and backed by a company that takes quality seriously.
As of November 2025, Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed has no product-specific recalls on record. That’s a strong track record and one of the reasons this formula has maintained its reputation over the years. The broader Purina Pro Plan line did experience a recall in early 2023 for a prescription formula (EL Elemental) due to elevated vitamin D, but that issue did not affect this puppy food.
Compared to competitors, Purina’s recall history is relatively clean, though Royal Canin edges slightly ahead in this area. Still, no food manufacturer is immune to occasional issues, and Purina has been transparent and responsive when problems have occurred.
This formula is manufactured in the United States, specifically at Purina facilities that follow HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) protocols. The company conducts internal quality assurance testing, though detailed third-party test results for contaminants like heavy metals or pathogens are not publicly available. That’s fairly standard in the industry, but more transparency would be welcome.
Purina has also passed AAFCO feeding trials, which means the formula has been tested on live animals to confirm it supports healthy growth. That’s a higher standard than simply meeting nutrient profiles on paper, and it adds an extra layer of confidence.
Purina Pro Plan is produced by Nestlé Purina PetCare, one of the largest and most established pet food manufacturers in the world. The company has been around for decades and invests heavily in research and product development. That scale and experience translate into consistent quality and supply chain reliability.
However, being part of a massive conglomerate like Nestlé also means the company prioritizes efficiency and cost control. Some smaller, boutique brands offer more transparency about sourcing and processing, but they also come with higher price tags and less consistent availability. Purina strikes a balance between quality and accessibility, which is part of why it’s so widely recommended by veterinarians.
The company does not publicly disclose the credentials of its in-house nutritionists or provide batch-level traceability for consumers, which is a limitation if you value maximum transparency. Still, Purina’s long-standing reputation and veterinary endorsements suggest that their formulation and quality control processes are sound.
Let’s put this formula head-to-head with two of its main competitors: Royal Canin Puppy Small Breed and Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini.
Royal Canin offers 28% protein and 18% fat on a DMB, which is lower than Purina Pro Plan’s 37.5% protein and 22.7% fat. Royal Canin’s formula is also significantly more expensive, at about $1.16 per 100 grams compared to Purina’s $0.59. That’s nearly double the price for a formula with less protein and fat.
Royal Canin does have a slightly cleaner recall history and uses highly digestible ingredients, but the nutritional and economic value of Purina Pro Plan is hard to beat. If your budget allows and you prefer Royal Canin’s approach, it’s a solid choice—but Purina offers more bang for your buck.
Hill’s sits in the middle in terms of both nutrition and price. It offers 31% protein and 21% fat on a DMB, which is closer to Purina’s levels but still slightly lower. At $0.86 per 100 grams, it’s more expensive than Purina but less than Royal Canin.
Hill’s has a strong reputation for veterinary backing and clinical research, and some owners prefer its ingredient list, which emphasizes barley and chicken meal. However, Purina’s higher protein content and lower price make it the more practical choice for most small breed puppy owners.
If you’re curious about how Purina’s other formulas perform, you might want to check out our Purina Pro Plan Sport dog food review to see how the brand handles active adult dogs.
Customer feedback is one of the best ways to gauge how a food performs in real-world conditions, beyond the lab and the label. Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed consistently earns high marks across major retailers like Chewy, Walmart, and Amazon, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. About 94% of reviews are five stars, which is impressive for any product, let alone one as scrutinized as puppy food.
The most common praise centers on visible improvements in coat quality and energy levels. Many owners report that their puppies’ coats became shinier and softer within a few weeks of switching to this formula. That’s likely due to the combination of quality protein, omega fatty acids, and the added DHA.
Another recurring theme is palatability. Even picky eaters seem to enjoy this kibble, which is a huge relief if you’ve struggled to find a food your puppy will consistently eat. The small kibble size is also frequently mentioned as a positive—it’s easy for tiny mouths to chew and doesn’t pose a choking risk.
Owners also appreciate the digestibility. Many report that their puppies have firm, well-formed stools and no digestive upset, even during the transition period. That’s a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the inclusion of probiotics.
The most frequent criticism is price. While Purina Pro Plan is more affordable than Royal Canin or Hill’s, it’s still more expensive than budget brands like Iams or Pedigree. Some owners feel the cost adds up quickly, especially if they have multiple puppies or a larger small breed dog.
A smaller subset of reviews mentions concerns about menadione, the synthetic vitamin K source. While this ingredient is approved and widely used, some owners prefer to avoid synthetic additives entirely and opt for brands that use natural alternatives.
Occasionally, owners report that their puppies didn’t take to the food or experienced mild digestive upset. This is relatively rare and can happen with any food during a transition, but it’s worth noting if your puppy has a particularly sensitive stomach.
Not every food works for every dog, so let’s break down who this formula is best suited for—and who might want to look elsewhere.
If you decide to give this formula a try, here are a few tips to make the transition smooth and maximize the benefits.
Even though this food is highly digestible, introduce it slowly over 7 to 10 days. Start by mixing a small amount with your puppy’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion of Purina Pro Plan while decreasing the old food. This helps prevent digestive upset and gives your puppy’s system time to adjust.
The feeding guide on the bag is a good starting point, but every puppy is different. Monitor your puppy’s weight and body condition and adjust portions as needed. Small breed puppies grow quickly, so you may need to increase portions every few weeks. If you’re unsure, your vet can help you dial in the right amount.
Keep an eye on your puppy’s coat, energy levels, and stool quality during the first few weeks. Shiny coat, firm stools, and consistent energy are all signs that the food is working well. If you notice itching, ear infections, or loose stools, it could indicate a sensitivity to one of the ingredients, and you may need to explore alternative formulas.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed is a well-formulated, veterinarian-recommended food that delivers on its promises. The ingredient list is solid, with real chicken as the first ingredient and functional additions like DHA and probiotics. The nutritional profile is robust, with high protein and fat levels that support healthy growth and energy. The safety record is clean, and customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
Yes, there are some considerations. The inclusion of by-products and menadione may not appeal to everyone, and the price is higher than budget brands. But when you weigh the quality, palatability, and real-world results, this formula offers excellent value for small breed puppy owners.
If you want a food that’s backed by science, trusted by vets, and proven to work in thousands of homes, Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed is a smart choice. It ticks the boxes for nutrition, safety, and practicality, and it’s likely to support your puppy through those critical first months of growth. For more insights into Purina’s range, take a look at our broader Purina Pro Plan review to see how the brand performs across different formulas.
You should feed Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed until your dog reaches adult size, which typically happens between 9-12 months for most small breeds. Some toy breeds may transition as early as 7-8 months, while slightly larger small breeds might need puppy food until they’re a full year old. Watch for signs that your pup has stopped growing rapidly and consult your vet about the right time to transition to adult food. The high calorie density that’s perfect for growing puppies can lead to weight gain once growth slows down.
The main differences are kibble size and caloric density. Small breed puppies have tiny mouths and higher energy needs per pound of body weight compared to larger breeds. This formula features smaller kibble that’s easier for little jaws to chew, plus it packs 431 kcal per 100 grams—more concentrated calories than standard puppy formulas. The protein and fat levels are also optimized for the rapid metabolism of small breeds.
It’s not recommended for large breed puppies, as they have different nutritional requirements, particularly around calcium and phosphorus ratios to support proper bone development. Medium breed puppies could technically eat it, but the high caloric density might lead to excessive weight gain. Stick to formulas designed for your puppy’s expected adult size—Purina makes specific formulas for large breed puppies that better match their growth patterns.
Many owners report good digestibility with this formula, thanks to ingredients like rice and the inclusion of probiotics. The rice is gentle on sensitive stomachs, and the Bacillus coagulans probiotic supports gut health. However, if your puppy has severe sensitivities or a history of digestive issues, you might want to consider Purina’s Pro Plan Focus line, which includes formulas specifically designed for sensitive digestion. Always transition gradually over 7-10 days regardless of which food you choose.
Poultry by-product meal is actually highly nutritious, despite the negative perception. It includes organ meats, necks, and feet—parts that are nutrient-dense and naturally part of a dog’s ancestral diet. By-product meal is regulated by AAFCO and provides concentrated protein and essential minerals. While whole muscle meat sounds more appealing to us, by-products offer nutritional value that dogs can utilize effectively. If you prefer to avoid by-products, there are other premium options available, though they typically cost more.
Follow the feeding guide on the bag as a starting point, but adjust based on your puppy’s individual needs. Small breed puppies typically need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day, divided into 3-4 meals for very young pups. Monitor your puppy’s body condition—you should be able to feel the ribs easily but not see them prominently. Since small breed puppies grow rapidly, you’ll likely need to increase portions every few weeks. Your vet can help you fine-tune the amount during regular checkups.
The nutritional quality and ingredient sourcing justify the price difference for most owners. This formula offers 37.5% protein and 22.7% fat on a dry matter basis, plus functional ingredients like DHA and probiotics that budget foods typically skip. The higher digestibility means less waste, and many owners see visible improvements in coat quality and energy levels. While budget brands meet basic nutritional requirements, they often use lower-quality protein sources and lack the research backing that Purina Pro Plan provides.
Yes, mixing with compatible wet food is perfectly fine and can increase palatability for picky eaters. Purina makes Pro Plan wet puppy formulas that pair well with this kibble. Just remember to account for the calories from both foods to avoid overfeeding. Wet food adds moisture and can make meals more appealing, which is helpful if your puppy is reluctant to eat or if you want to slow down a fast eater by making them work through a more interesting texture.
First, make sure you’re transitioning gradually from the previous food rather than switching abruptly. Some puppies need time to adjust to new flavors and textures. Try warming the kibble slightly with a little warm water to enhance the aroma, or mix in a small amount of wet food. If your puppy still refuses after a week of gradual transition, they may simply prefer a different flavor profile. Purina Pro Plan offers other puppy formulas with different protein sources that might be more appealing.
While this isn’t specifically a dental formula, the kibble texture does provide some mechanical cleaning action when your puppy chews. The high-quality protein sources and balanced nutrition can contribute to overall oral health. However, for significant puppy breath or dental concerns, you’ll want to establish a proper dental care routine with brushing and dental chews. The small kibble size makes it less effective for dental benefits compared to larger kibbles, but that trade-off is necessary for small breed safety and comfort.
9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food.
Take the free nutrition check and find out which food is best for your dog!
2,847+ dog owners already did
