Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Dry Dog Food Shredded Blend Lamb

The Verdict

Some small-breed dog foods feel like an afterthought — just the regular formula crushed into smaller pieces. The Purina Pro Plan Small Breed Shredded Blend Lamb is different, and it starts with the texture. This isn’t uniform kibble. As shown in the product image, you get a mix of crunchy bites and soft, shredded lamb pieces that gives the food a varied mouthfeel your dog will actually notice. For a picky eater, that contrast can make the difference between a clean bowl and a wasted meal.

What’s actually in the bag

You’re getting a 5-pound or 11-pound bag of dry food formulated specifically for dogs under 20 pounds. The first ingredient is lamb, not a by-product meal or grain filler. Protein sits at 30%, which is solid for small breeds with fast metabolisms. The formula includes omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, plus guaranteed live probiotics — a detail that matters if your dog has a sensitive stomach. The kibble itself is noticeably smaller than standard formulas, roughly the size of a pea, which makes it manageable for toy breeds with tiny jaws.

How it performs in real life

The shredded blend is the standout feature. Owners consistently report that dogs who turned their noses up at other foods will eat this one. One reviewer put it plainly: “My 4-pound Yorkie is the pickiest eater I’ve ever owned. She licks the bowl clean with this food.” The crunch of the kibble also helps with dental health, and the soft pieces give older dogs with dental issues something they can manage without struggling.

The lamb formula seems to be a winner for dogs with chicken or beef sensitivities. Several reviewers mentioned switching from chicken-based foods after their dogs developed itchy skin or digestive issues, and the lamb version cleared things up within a couple of weeks. That’s a strong signal for owners dealing with common protein allergies.

Where it falls short

Let’s be direct about the downsides. First, the smell. Lamb-based foods have a distinctive aroma, and multiple owners note it’s stronger than chicken or salmon formulas. If you’re sensitive to pet food odors, you’ll notice it every time you open the bag. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s real.

Second, this is not a grain-free formula. The second ingredient is rice flour, and it contains other grains. If your vet has confirmed a grain allergy — not a trendy preference, an actual diagnosis — this food isn’t for you. Purina makes grain-free Pro Plan options, but this isn’t one of them.

Third, the price. This sits above budget brands like Pedigree or Iams. You’re paying for the higher protein content and the shredded blend. For a small dog that eats maybe a cup a day, the cost difference is modest, but it’s still worth noting.

Who should buy this

This food is ideal for three types of owners: those with picky small-breed eaters, those managing chicken or beef sensitivities, and those with toy breeds that need smaller kibble. It’s also a solid choice for senior small dogs with dental issues who still want crunchy food but need some softer pieces mixed in.

Skip it if you need a grain-free formula, if your dog is a non-picky eater on a budget, or if you’re looking for a fish-based protein source.

FAQ

Q: Can I mix this with wet food? Yes. The shredded pieces mix well with canned food, and the smaller kibble size means it won’t create a texture mismatch that picky dogs reject.

Q: How much should I feed my 10-pound dog? For a 10-pound adult dog, you’re looking at roughly ½ to ¾ cup per day, split into two meals. The bag has a feeding chart, but your dog’s activity level and age will shift those numbers.

Q: Is this good for puppies? This specific formula is labeled for adult dogs. Purina makes a Pro Plan Small Breed Puppy formula with the same shredded blend if you have a pup under one year.

The Verdict

Buy it if: You have a picky small-breed dog, a dog with chicken or beef sensitivities, or a toy breed that struggles with standard kibble sizes. The shredded texture is a genuine differentiator, not a gimmick.

Skip it if: You need grain-free, you’re on a tight budget, or your dog eats anything without complaint and doesn’t need the premium price.

Rating: 4.6/5 — It delivers on its promises with quality ingredients and a texture dogs actually respond to. The smell and the grain content keep it from a perfect score, but for most small-breed owners, this is a reliable, high-quality choice that gets results.

Where to Buy

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.