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Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice, 5 lb Bag

Purina Pro Plan · 5 lb · Dog

Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice Dog Food Dry Formula with Probiotics for Dogs - 5 lb.
$3.32/ lb·$16.58total

Verified 15 days ago on Amazon. Best-seller rank #54.

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Overview

For dogs who appreciate a little variety in their dinner bowl, Purina Pro Plan's Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken and Rice formula offers a unique dining experience. This food moves beyond standard kibble by combining crunchy, bite-sized pieces with tender, shredded morsels that are rich in real chicken. This dual-texture approach is designed to satisfy a dog's natural craving for different textures, keeping mealtime exciting. Developed as a cornerstone diet, the 'Complete Essentials' name signifies a food that provides a fully balanced nutritional profile for the everyday health of an adult dog. It's built around high-quality protein to support lean muscle mass and an active lifestyle. A key feature of this specific recipe is its inclusion of guaranteed live probiotics, which are added to promote healthy digestion and support the immune system from the inside out. It's a thoughtfully crafted meal that brings together taste, texture, and targeted nutrition from one of the most recognized names in pet food.

Key features

  • Blends crunchy kibble with tender, shredded pieces for a unique texture.
  • Real chicken is a primary ingredient to support lean muscle.
  • Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health.
  • Provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.
  • Rich in antioxidants, including Vitamin A and E, for a healthy immune system.
  • Formulated with an optimal protein-to-fat ratio to help maintain ideal body condition.

Pros

  • The interesting mix of textures can be highly effective at enticing picky or fussy eaters.
  • Chicken-first recipe provides a strong foundation of high-quality animal protein.
  • Guaranteed live probiotics are a significant plus for supporting a dog's gut health.
  • Comes from a well-established brand known for extensive scientific research in pet nutrition.
  • The price per pound is significantly more affordable than the median for small-bag dry dog foods.

Cons

  • The small 5 lb bag is not very economical for large breed dogs or multi-dog households.
  • Some dogs might selectively eat only the kibble or only the shreds, potentially unbalancing their nutrition.
  • As a chicken-based formula, it is not suitable for dogs with known poultry allergies or sensitivities.
  • Contains rice and likely other grains, which may not be ideal for pet owners seeking a grain-free diet.

Best for

This Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials formula is an ideal choice for owners of adult dogs who need a reliable, mainstream diet that also caters to picky eaters. The dual-texture format is its standout feature, making it particularly well-suited for dogs who get bored with standard kibble. Furthermore, it's a strong option for pet parents looking to proactively support their dog's digestive wellness, thanks to the inclusion of live probiotics. This food represents a solid nutritional foundation for healthy dogs without specialized dietary needs, backed by the research and reputation of a major pet food manufacturer.

Feeding guide

The right amount of food varies based on your dog's age, size, activity level, and metabolism. As a general guideline, most adult dogs need about 1/2 to 2/3 of a cup of food per 10 pounds of body weight per day. This total daily portion should be divided into two separate meals. For instance, a 30-pound dog may require around 1.5-2 cups daily. Always keep an eye on your dog's body condition—you should be able to feel their ribs but not see them—and adjust feeding amounts accordingly. To ensure you are feeding the correct amount of this specific formula, refer to the official feeding chart on the Purina Pro Plan bag. Always provide access to plenty of fresh, clean water.

Ingredients & nutrition note

This product page does not contain a full, legally-mandated ingredient list. Based on the name 'Chicken and Rice Formula', this recipe features chicken as a key protein source and rice as a primary carbohydrate. Dry foods in this category typically contain a mix of animal proteins, grains, fats and oils, and a comprehensive vitamin and mineral pack. This formula is specifically advertised to include live probiotics. For the complete, guaranteed analysis and ingredient panel, please consult the product's packaging.

Price comparison

At $3.32 per pound, this 5 lb bag of Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Shredded Blend offers exceptional value within the small-bag dry dog food category. Its price point sits comfortably well below the category median of $6.25/lb and dramatically lower than the average of $18.24/lb. For a scientifically-formulated product from a leading national brand that includes premium features like probiotics and a dual-texture blend, this price is highly competitive, making it far more accessible than most premium or specialty boutique brands.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main benefit of a "shredded blend" dog food?

The primary benefit is enhanced palatability. The mixture of crunchy kibble and tender, meaty shreds provides a more interesting texture that can stimulate the appetite of picky dogs who might otherwise ignore a uniform, dry kibble.

Is this food grain-free?

No, this is not a grain-free formula. The product is named "Chicken and Rice Formula," indicating that rice is a key ingredient. It may contain other grains as well, which provide carbohydrates for energy.

What life stage is Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials for?

This formula is designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for healthy adult dogs. It is not formulated for the specific growth needs of puppies or the unique requirements of senior dogs. Purina Pro Plan offers other lines, like 'Puppy' and 'Senior', for those life stages.

How do the probiotics in this food help my dog?

Guaranteed live probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help support a healthy gut environment. This contributes to better digestion, more efficient nutrient absorption, and can also play a crucial role in supporting a strong immune system.

Is the 5 lb bag a good value?

For its price-per-pound, it's an excellent value compared to other brands in its category. However, the 5 lb bag itself is best for small dogs or for trying out the food. If you have a medium or large dog that enjoys this formula, purchasing a larger bag size would be more economical in the long run.

What does "Complete Essentials" mean?

'Complete Essentials' is Purina's branding for a line of food that provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for the maintenance of a healthy adult dog. It signifies that the food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs for daily life, without requiring additional supplements.

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