Australian Lamb Meal Formula Small Bites Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 3, 2026
This is a limited-ingredient dry dog food using lamb meal as the single animal protein source and potato as the main carbohydrate, designed for small-bite kibble feeders. Its moderate protein and fat levels suit most dogs needing an all-life-stages formula (excluding large-breed puppies), and the streamlined ingredient list can be helpful for some dogs with food sensitivities. Added taurine and a full vitamin–mineral blend round out the nutrient profile, with berries providing a small boost of antioxidants.
A well-formulated, limited-ingredient dry food centered on lamb meal and potatoes, this diet is a solid option for small dogs and other dogs who do well on a single-protein, grain-free formula. The nutrient profile is appropriate for most life stages and body conditions, and the small kibble size makes it easier for little mouths to manage. It’s best suited for dogs without issues related to higher-carbohydrate, potato-based diets and is not appropriate for large-breed puppies.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
KibbleLab may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through a link. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
At a Glance
What "not formulated for" means
Life stages this food isn't certified complete and balanced for, based on its AAFCO statement.KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Single primary animal protein (lamb meal) and a short ingredient list, which can be useful for some dogs with suspected food sensitivities or for elimination-style feeding under veterinary guidance.
- AAFCO complete and balanced for all life stages except large-breed growth, so it can cover puppies, adults, and seniors within that range.
- Includes supplemental taurine plus a full complement of trace minerals (many in chelated form) and vitamins, supporting overall nutritional completeness.
- Small-bite kibble specifically sized for small dogs or dogs that prefer smaller pieces.
Considerations
- Grain-free and potato-based; while potatoes are not in the highest DCM-risk group like peas and lentils, this is still a higher-carbohydrate, grain-free diet, so it’s wise to discuss with your vet if heart health is a concern for your dog.
- Contains chicken fat, which usually doesn’t trigger chicken-protein allergies but could still be a concern for very sensitive dogs with a strict chicken avoidance plan.
- Formulated for all life stages except large-breed puppies, so it should not be used as the primary food for growing dogs expected to reach 70 lb or more as adults.
Full Ingredient List
Ingredients and analysis reflect manufacturer data at the time of our last update and can change without notice. Always check the actual product packaging before feeding.
Ingredient filtering helps identify compatible options but is not a substitute for a veterinary elimination diet.
Top 5 Ingredients Explained
01
Lamb
Lamb is commonly used in dog and cat foods as a high-quality animal protein that supplies essential amino acids, iron and B vitamins and is often chosen for its palatability or as a “novel” protein in elimination diets. It can be higher in fat and calories than some other meats and may still cause allergic reactions in sensitive animals, so owners of overweight pets or those with food sensitivities should consult a veterinarian and use proper handling/cooking practices if feeding raw or homemade lamb.
02
Burbank Potato
Burbank potato is a variety of cooked white potato used in pet foods primarily as a digestible carbohydrate source and binder, contributing starch, some dietary fiber, potassium and B vitamins and often serving as a grain‑free alternative. It is generally well tolerated but is high in digestible carbohydrates (so may be unsuitable for obese or diabetic pets) and should always be cooked because raw or green potatoes can contain solanine, a naturally occurring toxin.
03
Norkotah Potato
Norkotah potato is a cultured potato variety used in pet foods primarily as a digestible carbohydrate and source of dietary fiber, starch, vitamin C and potassium while contributing low fat and good palatability. Cooked potatoes are commonly included in limited-ingredient or grain-free formulas and are generally well tolerated by dogs (and in small amounts by cats), but they are high‑glycemic so should be used cautiously in overweight or diabetic pets and never fed raw because of solanine and reduced digestibility.
04
Chicken Fat
Chicken fat is used in dog and cat foods as a concentrated energy and flavor source that supplies essential fatty acids (notably linoleic acid) and aids absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins, improving palatability and supporting skin and coat health. Because it is calorie‑dense, diets must account for added fat to prevent weight gain, and quality (proper rendering and antioxidant protection to prevent rancidity) is important; although fats are less commonly allergenic than proteins, pets with poultry sensitivities may still react in some cases.
05
Mixed Tocopherol
Mixed tocopherols are a blend of natural vitamin E compounds (alpha, beta, gamma and delta tocopherols) used in pet foods primarily as a natural antioxidant and preservative to protect fats and fat‑soluble nutrients and extend shelf life. They also supply dietary vitamin E—an essential antioxidant for immune function, skin and coat health and cellular integrity in dogs and cats—and are generally safe at typical use levels, though they are not a substitute for a complete vitamin formulation and may be less effective in animals with fat‑absorption disorders.
Nutritional Breakdown
How to read As Fed versus Dry Matter
As fed shows the numbers straight off the label, water included. Dry matter removes the water so you can compare a wet food and a dry food fairly.What is calorie density
How many calories the food packs per unit. Denser foods mean smaller portions for the same calories.Product Details & Brand
Product Specs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional
adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.
What is AAFCO
Association of American Feed Control Officials. It sets the nutritional adequacy standards US pet foods are measured against.Brand
FirstMate is the flagship brand of FirstMate Pet Foods, offering premium, grain-free and limited-ingredient diets for dogs and cats. The brand focuses on nutrition, sustainability, and ingredient traceability, appealing to pet owners looking for high-quality, family-made Canadian pet food.
Visit FirstMateManufacturer
FirstMate Pet Foods owns and operates its own manufacturing facilities, ensuring complete control over production, quality, and safety standards. The company complies with HACCP and ISO safety and quality standards and follows CFIA and FDA guidelines.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
FirstMate Australian Lamb Meal Formula Small Bites Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
Sign up for the full picture
Feeding Calculator
Personalized portion sizes based on your pet's weight, age, and activity level.
Get startedSimilar Foods
Post your dog's report card and challenge friends to check their food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has FirstMate ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for FirstMate. We monitor the FDA Pet Food Recall Database daily.
How does KibbleLab rate foods?
Our scores are based on ingredient composition, nutritional profile, AAFCO compliance, and health considerations. We don't penalize by-products, grains, or synthetic preservatives. Brands cannot pay for higher scores.
Is KibbleLab a substitute for veterinary advice?
No. KibbleLab provides data-driven food analysis, not medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for pets with health conditions.
KibbleLab provides informational content only. This is not veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.
KibbleLab may earn affiliate commissions through product links. No one can pay for a higher score, or to change what we recommend for your pet.
Product data sourced from manufacturer websites, AAFCO statements, and FDA recall database. Last verified dates reflect our most recent data check.
Continue with Google
Continue with Facebook