{"product_id":"hills-science-diet-puppy-small-mini-chicken-meal-brown-rice-recipe-dry-dog-food-4-5-lb-bag","title":"Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small \u0026 Mini Chicken Meal \u0026 Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food, 4.5 lb bag","description":"\u003ch2\u003eChicken and Brown Rice Dry Puppy Food for Small and Mini Breeds\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eProduct Description\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHill's Science Diet Puppy Small \u0026amp; Mini Chicken \u0026amp; Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is made for small and mini breed puppies, with a kibble size and nutrient profile designed for their smaller frames and faster metabolisms. ActivBiome+ Digestion supports the gut microbiome, DHA from fish oil aids brain and eye development, and vitamin E at 1005 IU\/kg delivers strong antioxidant immune support. The 4.5 lb bag is a great starting point for owners wanting to trial a formula built for small and mini puppies from weaning through 12 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBenefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTailored for Small and Mini Breeds:\u003c\/strong\u003e The kibble size, nutrient ratios, and caloric density are all tailored to the unique developmental needs of small and mini breed puppies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eActivBiome+ Digestion:\u003c\/strong\u003e A breakthrough prebiotic fiber blend supports the gut microbiome and promotes healthy digestion in growing small and mini breed puppies throughout daily feeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDHA for Brain and Eye Development:\u003c\/strong\u003e DHA sourced from fish oil plays a key role in healthy brain and eye development throughout the puppy's critical developmental period from weaning to one year old.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Vitamin E for Immune Support:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vitamin E at 1005 IU\/kg delivers strong antioxidant support for the developing immune system, making this one of the highest vitamin E puppy formulas in the range.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLean Muscle Growth:\u003c\/strong\u003e High-quality chicken as the first ingredient provides the complete protein needed to fuel healthy lean muscle development in small and mini breed puppies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrong Bones and Teeth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Calcium at 1.58% and phosphorus at 1.31% dry matter are balanced to support healthy skeletal and dental development throughout the puppy's first year.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFor Pregnant and Nursing Dogs:\u003c\/strong\u003e Verified by AAFCO feeding tests for gestating and lactating adult female dogs as well as growing puppies up to 1 year old.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eVariants\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.5 lb\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIngredients\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChicken, Whole Grain Oats, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Pea Protein, Whole Grain Corn, Cracked Pearled Barley, Soybean Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Corn Protein Meal, Pork Liver Flavor, Dicalcium Phosphate, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Soybean Oil, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Oil, Dried Citrus Pulp, Calcium Carbonate, Iodized Salt, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Tripolyphosphate, Choline Chloride, vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Pressed Cranberries, L-Threonine, L-Lysine, DL-Methionine, L-Tryptophan, minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Taurine, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eGuaranteed Analysis\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable height=\"541\" style=\"width: 60.806%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNutrient\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDry Matter %\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProtein\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e28.9%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFat\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e19.7%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarbohydrate \/ NFE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e40.6%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrude Fiber\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2.3%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCalcium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.58%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePhosphorus\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.31%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotassium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.86%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSodium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.49%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMagnesium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.135%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVitamin C\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e214 ppm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVitamin E\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1005 IU\/kg\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTotal Omega-3 FA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.68%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"170\" style=\"width: 55.0162%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTotal Omega-6 FA\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"138\" style=\"width: 44.7681%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.25%\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCalorie Content:\u003c\/strong\u003e 3780 kcal\/kg | 418 kcal per cup\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eRecommended-Usage Chart\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ctable height=\"414\" style=\"width: 61.8759%;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight of Dog - lbs (kgs)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnder 4 Months \/ Pregnancy Weeks 7-9 - cups (grams)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4 to 9 Months \/ Pregnancy Weeks 5-6 - cups (grams)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e10 to 12 Months \/ Pregnancy Weeks 1-4 - cups (grams)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 lbs (0.9 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/2 (55 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3\/8 (40 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1\/3 (35 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5 lbs (2.3 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7\/8 (95 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3\/4 (85 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5\/8 (70 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8 lbs (3.6 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 1\/3 (145 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 1\/8 (125 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e7\/8 (95 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e10 lbs (4.5 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 1\/2 (165 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 1\/3 (145 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 (110 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e15 lbs (6.8 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 1\/8 (235 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 3\/4 (195 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 3\/8 (150 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e20 lbs (9.1 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 2\/3 (295 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 1\/4 (250 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 3\/4 (195 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"84\" style=\"width: 14.9227%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e25 lbs (11.3 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"162\" style=\"width: 28.5868%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3 (330 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"156\" style=\"width: 27.5081%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 2\/3 (295 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd width=\"161\" style=\"width: 28.0475%;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 (220 g)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDisclaimer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Product information and usage guidelines are provided by the manufacturer. Always use products as directed on the label and consult your veterinarian before use if you have any concerns regarding your pet's health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDirections for Use\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eComplete the Full 7-Day Transition: \u003c\/strong\u003eTake the full week and slowly work more of the new kibble into their current food each day for a smooth and comfortable changeover.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStart with the Right Age Bracket: \u003c\/strong\u003eSmall and mini breed puppies need very different amounts at each stage of growth. Before measuring each serving, make sure you are using the age column of the chart that matches where your puppy is right now.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReassess at Every Vet Visit: \u003c\/strong\u003eSmall and mini breed puppies burn through energy faster than larger breeds, which means their daily needs can shift more quickly. At every routine vet visit check that portions are still on track for your puppy's age and size.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFresh Water Accessible Always:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep fresh drinking water available to the puppy throughout the day, as adequate hydration supports healthy daily nutrition for all puppies eating dry food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdditional Information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePrecautions\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFor Small and Mini Breed Puppies and Pregnant Dogs:\u003c\/strong\u003e This formula is tailored for puppies up to 1 year old that will weigh 25 lbs or less as adults, and for pregnant or nursing adult female dogs. It is not appropriate for adult dogs, Adult 7+ dogs, or obese-prone dogs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNot for Large or Medium Breed Puppies:\u003c\/strong\u003e This formula is designed for the unique developmental needs of small and mini breeds. Medium and large breed puppies should be fed the Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken \u0026amp; Brown Rice Recipe or Puppy Large Breed Chicken \u0026amp; Brown Rice Recipe instead.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTransition Gradually When Introducing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Whether switching from a previous brand or introducing this formula to a newly weaned small breed puppy, the full 7-day gradual transition helps prevent temporary digestive upset from an abrupt dietary change.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePossible Side Effects\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDigestive Sensitivity During Food Change:\u003c\/strong\u003e Some puppies experience temporary loose stools or stomach discomfort when switching foods. Taking the full 7 days to transition gradually helps avoid this before fully replacing the previous diet.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eStorage Information\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"disc\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStore in Original Bag:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the food in its original bag after opening, as the bag provides a fat barrier that helps retain the best flavor and freshness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCool and Dry Environment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Store in a cool, dry place below 100°F (38°C) to prevent vitamin degradation and oxidation of fats that can lead to rancidity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKeep Packaging Away:\u003c\/strong\u003e Store the packaging safely out of reach of both pets and children at all times to prevent potential suffocation hazards.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Return\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe offer ground, express, and priority delivery; see our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/shipping-policy\" title=\"Shipping policy | hardypaw\" aria-label=\"Shipping policy | hardypaw\"\u003eshipping policy\u003c\/a\u003e for details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor return instructions or product concerns, please refer to our detailed \u003ca href=\"\/policies\/refund-policy\" title=\"Refund policy\" aria-label=\"Refund policy\"\u003erefund policy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ1: Why do small and mini breed puppies need a different formula from standard puppy food?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small and mini breed puppies have faster metabolisms, smaller stomachs, and different energy needs compared to medium and large breed puppies. This formula is tailored specifically to those differences with an adjusted nutrient profile, kibble size, and caloric density designed to support healthy development in puppies expected to weigh 25 lbs or less as adults, rather than applying a one-size formula to all breed sizes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ2: What is the vitamin E level in this small and mini puppy formula and why is it notable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e At 1005 IU\/kg dry matter, the vitamin E level in this formula is among the highest in the Hill's Science Diet puppy range. This reflects a deliberate focus on strong antioxidant support for immune system development in small and mini breed puppies. Antioxidants play an important role during puppyhood when the immune system is actively developing, making this a meaningful nutritional distinction for this formula.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ3: Is the 4.5 lb bag a practical size for trialing this formula with a new small breed puppy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, the 4.5 lb bag is ideal for trialing this formula before stepping up to the 12.5 lb bag. There is enough food to work through the full 7-day transition and monitor the puppy's acceptance and digestion over a few weeks. When you are happy it suits your puppy. The 12.5 lb bag is the natural next step for less frequent restocking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ4: How does this small and mini puppy formula differ from the standard Hill's puppy chicken and brown rice recipe?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e The small and mini formula uses whole grain oats as the second ingredient rather than brown rice, and includes whole grain oats and cracked pearled barley alongside brown rice as the carbohydrate base. It also delivers a higher vitamin E level at 1005 IU\/kg versus 564 IU\/kg in the standard puppy formula, and the feeding chart covers puppies up to 25 lbs rather than 120 lbs, reflecting its breed-size-specific nutritional calibration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ5: Can I feed this small and mini puppy formula to my pregnant small breed dog?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, this formula is AAFCO verified for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating adult female dogs. The feeding chart covers pregnancy-specific amounts by gestation week for small breed pregnant dogs. When first introducing this food during pregnancy, take the full 7 days to transition gradually for a comfortable dietary change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ6: How many cups per day does a 5 lb small breed puppy need in the 4 to 9 month bracket?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e For a 5 lb puppy in the 4 to 9 month age bracket, the manufacturer's feeding chart recommends approximately 3\/4 cup per day as a starting amount. This is a reference point and should be adjusted based on the puppy's individual body condition, activity level, and growth rate, with a vet confirming the appropriate daily amount at each routine checkup throughout the first year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQ7: When should I transition my small breed puppy from this formula to a Hill's adult small dog food?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAns:\u003c\/strong\u003e This formula is recommended for small and mini breed puppies up to 1 year old. Once the puppy reaches approximately 12 months, transitioning to Hill's Science Adult Small \u0026amp; Mini Chicken \u0026amp; Brown Rice Recipe dry dog food is the natural next step. That formula is calibrated for the faster metabolism and specific nutritional needs of adult small and mini breed dogs rather than growing puppies, and the switch should be completed gradually over 7 days.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HardyPaw","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46630800523427,"sku":"9094","price":23.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0720\/7790\/1987\/files\/hills-science-diet-puppy-small-mini-chicken-meal-brown-rice-recipe-491.jpg?v=1778120055","url":"https:\/\/mymaxpet.com\/products\/hills-science-diet-puppy-small-mini-chicken-meal-brown-rice-recipe-dry-dog-food-4-5-lb-bag","provider":"My Max Pet","version":"1.0","type":"link"}