Merrick Lil' Plates Chicken & Sweet Potato

Name: Merrick Lil' Plates Chicken & Sweet Potato (4lb)
Brand: Merrick
SKU: B00U3SKGE4
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.7 (2126 reviews)

Words · Craig & Sammy · ASIN B00U3SKGE4 · Filed under Dry Food & Kibble

“Sammy's been on this for six months now. Kibble size is spot-on for a 3.2kg dog, coat's improved, and he actually finishes his bowl—which is rare.”

Yorkies with grain sensitivities often struggle to find food that agrees with their delicate digestive systems, and Merrick Lil Plates offers a premium solution. This grain-free formula features real deboned chicken as the first ingredient, providing the high-quality protein your Yorkshire Terrier needs. The small kibble pieces are specifically designed for tiny mouths, making mealtime comfortable for your Yorkie instead of a struggle. Sweet potato provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy without the grains that can cause tummy troubles in sensitive pups. This recipe includes omega fatty acids from salmon oil to support your Yorkie's luxurious coat and healthy skin.

Probiotics are added to support digestive health, which is particularly beneficial for the sensitive Yorkie stomach. Made in the USA in Merrick's own Texas kitchens, you can trust the quality and safety of every bag. The 4 lb size is perfect for a Yorkie household, staying fresh while providing weeks of nutritious meals. No corn, wheat, soy, or artificial preservatives means cleaner nutrition for your beloved companion. Check Amazon for the current price on this premium grain-free Yorkie food.

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The Notes

Sizing: Sized for Yorkies 4–7 lb · check the printed chest measurement
Source: Amazon · ASIN B00U3SKGE4
Filed: Dry Food & Kibble
Brand: Merrick
Reviews: 4.7 · 2126 ratings
Verdict: Buy again

What owners loved

+ Small kibble size specifically designed for small breed mouths—40 of 44 reviewers specifically praise the bite size fit
+ Clean ingredient list with grain-free formula; 25 of 26 reviewers note quality ingredients and real chicken as standout
+ Most dogs show excellent digestibility with no stomach upset (34 of 43 positive digestibility mentions), though some sensitivity cases exist
+ High palatability—dogs consistently finish their bowls; 20 of 28 flavor mentions are positive
+ Yorkies and small breeds clearly favored by reviewers; dedicated Lil' Plates line shows brand understands the 3–15kg market

Watch for

− Price is a sticking point: 11 of 33 value-for-money mentions flag it as expensive, though reviewers often accept the premium for quality
− Digestibility not universal—9 of 43 digestibility mentions cite stomach upset or loose stools in sensitive dogs, and odor complaints sometimes follow
− Mixed odor feedback (4 negative vs 6 positive): some report pleasant smell, others note strong odor or gas in their dog post-feeding

What owners say

From the reviews.

This is a genuinely well-regarded product across 2,126 reviews (4.7 rating). Quality and kibble size dominate the positive feedback—the small bite is clearly what sets it apart for Yorkie-sized dogs. Digestibility and palatability are strong, though not universal; a minority of dogs show sensitivity. The main friction point is price, which reviewers accept but flag, and a small but vocal segment reports odor or gut issues. Overall, owners treating it as a premium small-breed staple are satisfied; it's not a bargain option but delivers what it promises.

Source · 2126 verified Amazon reviews · Average 4.7 stars

Customer questions

Things people ask.

Q01. Is the kibble size really suitable for tiny dogs like Yorkies? +

Yes. 40 of 44 reviewers specifically praise the small bite size as ideal for small breed mouths. Multiple verified reviews mention 3–15 lb dogs (including Yorkies, chihuahuas, and maltipoos) finishing bowls without difficulty. One reviewer noted it's easier for elderly small dogs with missing teeth.

Q02. Will this food cause stomach upset or digestive issues? +

For most dogs, no—34 of 43 digestibility mentions are positive, with reviewers reporting firm stools and no issues. However, 9 mention stomach upset or loose stools, particularly in sensitive dogs. One reviewer's dog developed diarrhea; another's improved after a transition period. Introduce gradually if your dog is sensitive.

Q03. How much does this food cost compared to other small-breed brands? +

It's positioned at a premium. 11 of 33 value-for-money mentions explicitly flag it as pricey, though 22 of 33 say it's worth the cost. One reviewer compared it favorably to 'REALLY expensive' brands and called it a great deal for the bag size. Expect to pay more than grocery-store kibble.

Q04. Do dogs actually eat this, or is it picky-eater bait? +

Most do eat it readily. Multiple reviews from owners of picky eaters (golden doodles, chihuahuas with sensitivities) report their dogs finish every bowl and even ask for more. Flavor is noted as a strength, though 8 of 28 flavor mentions are negative—very rare for a small segment.

Q05. Is the grain-free formula actually beneficial? +

Reviews cite visible improvements: one owner reported their dog's coat improved after switching to grain-free; another noted funky breath cleared up and stools improved within days. The grain-free claim is backed by 25 of 26 ingredient-related mentions being positive. No veterinary claims should be assumed, but owners report real-world benefits.

The verdict