Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb

Common questions

Is Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb healthy?

Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This puppy food contains beneficial ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and whole grain oats, which provide essential nutrients and support digestive health.

How processed is Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb?

Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Chicken, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal count in its favor; Soybean Meal is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

See more

Hill's Science Diet Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dry Puppy Food2 Lb

Bioengineered
65 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 5
Harmful ingredients 1
Category Meat and Seafood
Summary

This puppy food contains beneficial ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and whole grain oats, which provide essential nutrients and support digestive health. However, the presence of pea protein and soybean meal, which are heavily processed and have lower bioavailability compared to animal proteins, detracts from its overall nutritional quality. The product's processing level further limits its score, as it is not minimally processed.

Key ingredients 10

Whole Grain Oats
Very Good

Whole grain oats are a source of soluble fiber and nutrients. They are minimally processed and support digestive health. Oats provide sustained energy and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Risks

Generally safe, but may contain gluten if not certified gluten-free.

Benefits

Rich in soluble fiber, which supports heart health and digestion.

See more about Whole Grain Oats →
Chicken
Good

Chicken is a high-quality source of protein that supports muscle development. It is minimally processed and provides essential amino acids. Compared to plant-based proteins, it offers a richer amino acid profile.

Risks

Potential allergen for some individuals.

Benefits

Rich in essential amino acids and supports muscle growth and repair.

See more about Chicken →
Brown Rice
Good

Brown rice is a whole grain that provides fiber and essential nutrients. It is less processed than white rice, retaining more nutritional value. It supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.

Risks

Contains phytic acid, which can inhibit mineral absorption.

Benefits

Good source of fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium and selenium.

See more about Brown Rice →
Chicken Meal
Good

Chicken meal is a concentrated source of protein and nutrients. It is made by rendering chicken to remove moisture, resulting in a nutrient-dense ingredient. It provides essential amino acids and supports muscle maintenance.

Risks

Potential allergen for some individuals.

Benefits

High protein content supports muscle growth and maintenance.

Chicken Fat
Good

Chicken fat is a source of energy and essential fatty acids. It is minimally processed and provides palatability to pet foods. It supports healthy skin and coat in pets.

Risks

High in calories, which may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides essential fatty acids that support skin and coat health.

See more about Chicken Fat →
Whole Grain Wheat
Neutral

Whole grain wheat is a source of carbohydrates and fiber. It is less processed than refined wheat, retaining more nutrients. However, it may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Risks

Contains gluten, which can be problematic for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients like B vitamins.

See more about Whole Grain Wheat →
Whole Grain Corn
Neutral

Whole grain corn is a source of carbohydrates and fiber. It is less processed than refined corn products, retaining more nutrients. It provides energy but is less nutrient-dense compared to other grains.

Risks

Potential allergen for some individuals and may contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates for energy and some fiber.

Pea Protein
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

May cause digestive issues in some individuals and is less bioavailable than animal proteins.

Benefits

Provides a plant-based protein source for those avoiding animal products.

See more about Pea Protein →
Hydrolyzed
Neutral

Hydrolyzed ingredients are broken down into smaller components for easier digestion. This process can reduce allergenic potential. It is often used in hypoallergenic diets.

Benefits

May reduce allergenic potential and improve digestibility.

Soybean Meal
Bad

Soybean meal is a byproduct of soybean oil extraction and is used as a protein source. It is heavily processed and may contain anti-nutrients that affect mineral absorption. Compared to animal proteins, it offers a less complete amino acid profile.

Risks

Contains anti-nutrients like phytic acid and may cause allergic reactions.

Benefits

Provides a plant-based protein source with some essential amino acids.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Meat and Seafood