Puppy Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 14, 2026
This is a complete dry puppy food using lamb, poultry by-product meal, and corn protein meal as its main protein sources, with rice and whole grain corn providing carbohydrates. It includes added DHA from fish oil to support brain and vision development, plus probiotics and beet pulp to help with healthy digestion. The formula has been proven in AAFCO feeding trials for all life stages, including large-breed growth, so it’s suitable for puppies of any size when fed as directed.
Nutritionally, this is a well-balanced, evidence-based puppy formula that provides appropriate protein, fat, and key nutrients for growing dogs, including large breeds. I like that it relies on multiple animal protein sources, contains DHA from fish oil for developing brains and eyes, and uses a probiotic strain with a solid track record in pet foods. It’s a strong option for many puppies, though it may not be ideal for dogs with sensitivities to common proteins like lamb, poultry, egg, soy, or corn.
The KibbleLab Score (1–10) is assessed from publicly available product data. Our evaluation is science-based, not marketing-based.
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At a Glance
KibbleLab Review
Strengths
- Backed by AAFCO feeding trials for all life stages, including growth of large-breed puppies, which is the strongest level of nutritional validation.
- Robust nutrient profile for growth with 28% protein, 18% fat, and appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels for developing bones, including in large breeds.
- Multiple high-quality animal protein sources (lamb, poultry by-product meal, fish meal, dried egg product) provide a complete amino acid profile for growth.
- Includes DHA from fish oil for brain and vision development, plus probiotics (Bacillus coagulans) and beet pulp to support digestive health and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat.
Considerations
- Contains several common allergen sources (lamb, poultry by-product meal, egg, soybean oil, fish), so it would not be suitable for puppies with known sensitivities to these proteins.
- Uses corn protein meal and whole grain corn as significant components; while nutritionally valuable, some very sensitive dogs may not tolerate corn well.
- Includes garlic oil in small amounts, which is commonly considered safe at these levels in commercial diets but may concern some owners of dogs with a history of unusual gastrointestinal or red blood cell issues.
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
Rice
Rice is a common carbohydrate source and binder in dog and cat foods, supplying readily digestible energy and often used in formulations for sensitive stomachs or hypoallergenic diets. White rice is gentle and easy to digest while brown rice provides more fiber and micronutrients, but rice is low in essential amino acids, has a relatively high glycemic index, and can accumulate trace arsenic, so it should not be relied on as a primary protein and portions should be considered for diabetic or weight‑management pets.
03
Poultry By-Product
Poultry by-product is used primarily as a concentrated protein, fat and micronutrient source in pet foods and consists of rendered poultry parts such as internal organs, bones and connective tissues that supply amino acids, minerals (notably calcium and phosphorus) and B‑vitamins. It can be a cost‑effective source of bioavailable nutrients, but composition and quality vary by source and processing—owners of pets with poultry allergies or who prefer named-meat ingredients may choose alternatives, and safety depends on reputable rendering and adherence to regulatory standards.
04
Corn Protein
Corn protein is a plant-derived concentrated protein (often from corn gluten meal or corn protein isolate) used in dry pet foods to increase crude protein content and aid kibble texture; it supplies digestible plant-based amino acids but is lower in certain essential amino acids, particularly lysine, compared with animal proteins. It is an economical and sustainable ingredient but should be balanced with complementary animal proteins or supplemented amino acids—especially for cats, which need high-quality animal-based protein—and some pets can be sensitive or allergic to corn.
05
Whole Grain Corn
Whole grain corn is commonly used as a carbohydrate and energy source in pet foods, providing digestible starch, dietary fiber, some protein, and B vitamins and minerals while retaining more nutrients than refined corn. It is generally economical and well-tolerated by most dogs and many cats, but because cats are obligate carnivores animal-based proteins are nutritionally more important, and pets with grain sensitivities, certain metabolic conditions, or requirements for low-carbohydrate diets may need alternatives; proper sourcing and processing also reduce mycotoxin risk and improve digestibility.
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
Purina Pro Plan is Nestlé Purina’s flagship veterinary- and research-backed premium line, designed for pets with specific dietary needs and active lifestyles. It is supported by extensive nutritional science and AAFCO feeding trials.
Visit Purina Pro PlanWSAVA publishes criteria for evaluating a manufacturer (qualified nutritionists, feeding trials, published research); it does not certify or endorse brands.
Manufacturer
Nestlé Purina operates its own manufacturing facilities in the United States and globally with rigorous quality assurance programs. Facilities comply with FDA and USDA standards and implement HACCP-based food safety systems. The company conducts AAFCO feeding trials and employs board-certified veterinary nutritionists.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Purina Pro Plan ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Purina Pro Plan. 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.
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