Small Breed Organic Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Verified Jun 20, 2026
This is a grain-free dry kibble designed for small-breed dogs and puppies, using organic chicken and chicken meal as the main protein sources. Peas, chickpeas, and potato-based ingredients provide most of the carbohydrates, while added fish oil and flaxseed supply omega fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. It’s formulated to be complete and balanced for all life stages, except for large-breed puppy growth, with small kibble pieces tailored to smaller mouths.
Nutritionally, this is a well-balanced small-breed kibble that can work for both puppies and adults, as long as they are not expected to reach large-breed size. The protein and fat levels are appropriate for most small dogs, and the added EPA and DHA are especially helpful for growing puppies and cognitive health. It’s a grain-free, legume-based formula, so it may suit dogs that truly need a grain-free option, but it also brings some heart-health considerations to keep in mind.
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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
- Chicken and chicken meal provide clear, animal-based protein sources as the foundation of the diet.
- Formulated to meet AAFCO requirements for all life stages, so it can be used for both small-breed puppies and adults.
- Includes EPA and DHA from fish oil, which support brain and eye development in puppies and overall health in adults.
- Organic ingredients and mixed tocopherols as preservatives offer a clean formulation without artificial colors or flavors.
Considerations
- Chicken appears in several forms, so this food is not a good fit for dogs with chicken allergies or sensitivities.
- This is a grain-free, legume-heavy formula using peas and chickpeas, which some studies have linked to heart issues in certain dogs.
- The fiber level is relatively high at 7% max, which may be too much for some dogs with very sensitive digestion.
- Protein is moderate at 26%, which is fine for most dogs but lower than some higher-protein small-breed options.
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
Chicken
Chicken is a common animal-based protein in dog and cat foods, supplying essential amino acids, B vitamins, and energy-dense fats that support muscle maintenance, growth, and overall health; for cats it also contributes toward dietary taurine but must be present in sufficient amounts or provided via supplementation. It is prized for its digestibility and palatability, though some pets develop sensitivities or allergies to chicken, and nutritional value and safety depend on ingredient quality and processing—raw chicken carries pathogen risks and whole bones can pose choking or GI hazards.
02
Chicken
Chicken is a common animal-based protein in dog and cat foods, supplying essential amino acids, B vitamins, and energy-dense fats that support muscle maintenance, growth, and overall health; for cats it also contributes toward dietary taurine but must be present in sufficient amounts or provided via supplementation. It is prized for its digestibility and palatability, though some pets develop sensitivities or allergies to chicken, and nutritional value and safety depend on ingredient quality and processing—raw chicken carries pathogen risks and whole bones can pose choking or GI hazards.
03
Pea
Pea is a plant-based ingredient used in pet foods as a source of protein, soluble and insoluble fiber, and micronutrients (often included as whole peas, pea flour, or pea protein concentrate) to boost protein content and improve texture. While peas can provide digestible carbohydrates, fiber, and some plant protein useful especially for dogs, they are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and — when overused, particularly in concentrated forms or as a major component of grain‑free diets — have been scrutinized for a possible association with canine dilated cardiomyopathy and can contribute to nutrient imbalances or excess calories, so balanced formulation and compliance with AAFCO nutritional profiles are important.
04
Chickpea
Chickpeas are a legume commonly used in pet foods as a plant-based protein, source of digestible carbohydrates, and supply of soluble and insoluble fiber that helps with stool quality and satiety. They can be a useful ingredient for dogs but are not a complete protein for obligate carnivores like cats and may cause gas or digestive upset if underprocessed; additionally, high inclusion of legumes in some grain‑free diets has been discussed as a potential factor in canine dilated cardiomyopathy so diets should be balanced and any concerns discussed with your veterinarian.
05
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is used in pet foods as a plant-based source of alpha‑linolenic acid (ALA) omega‑3, soluble and insoluble fiber, and modest protein, often added to support skin and coat condition, digestive health, and kibble texture; ground seed or flaxseed oil is more digestible than whole seed. Dogs can partially convert ALA to long‑chain EPA/DHA but cats convert ALA poorly and therefore still need marine sources for essential DHA/EPA; flax is calorie‑dense, prone to oxidation if not stabilized, and contains lignans (phytoestrogens) and trace cyanogenic compounds, so it should be processed and used in moderation.
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
Tender & True is a premium to super-premium pet food brand offering USDA-certified organic, antibiotic-free, and sustainably sourced dog and cat foods. The brand caters to pet owners seeking ethically produced, environmentally responsible, and high-quality nutrition options for their pets.
Visit Tender & TrueManufacturer
All Tender & True products are made in the United States in facilities following USDA Organic and Global Animal Partnership (GAP) certification standards. The company prioritizes quality control, traceability, and ethical sourcing through partnerships with certified humane farms and audited suppliers. Their products meet AAFCO nutritional standards.
Manufacturing details are compiled from public sources and not independently verified; they may not reflect contract manufacturing or co-packing.
Recall History
Tender & True Small Breed Organic Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food has no recalls since 2014.
Source: FDA Pet Food Recall Database · Monitored daily
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Frequently Asked Questions
Has Tender & True ever been recalled?
We have no recalls on record for Tender & True. 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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