Get to Know Your Little Dog's Big Needs With the Help of The Nutro Company

NATURAL CHOICE(R) Small Breed Dog Food Specializes in the Needs Specific to Your Small Breed Pooch


NASHVILLE, TN--(Marketwire - October 6, 2010) -  Small breed dogs are the fastest growing dog population, with an increase of 8 million to 28 million dogs since 20011, so it is very fitting that America's #1 Natural Dog Food Brand in Pet Specialty2,3, the NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® brand, is launching Small Breed formulas.

Taking steps to promote your dog's health is a big priority for pet parents, as more than 90 percent of pet owners consider their pet to be either a friend or family member4. Plus, small breed dogs can live up to one and a half times longer than larger dogs, making them long-time companions for many pet owners.

"Small dogs are excellent companions for many people because of their mobility and adaptability, especially in urban environments. While they may be popular, small breed dogs can have very different health needs compared to larger dogs, so knowing your small breed pup is important to ensuring they have a long and healthy life," said veterinarian Dr. Marty Becker. "Finding a diet specific to your dog's size and breed is one of the first steps in caring for your dog."

Small breeds are prone to certain issues like periodontal disease due to overcrowding of the teeth, with prevalence rates ranging as high as 60-80 percent. They are also known to be pickier eaters than larger breed dogs. NATURAL CHOICE® Small Breed Dog Food has unique kibble designed to naturally reduce plaque and tartar for healthy gums and is made with wholesome, natural ingredients like real chicken, whole brown rice and sunflower oil to provide great taste your four legged pooch will love.

Of course, small breed dogs have specific metabolic and nutritional needs as well. NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® Small Breed Dog Food formulas have the right ratio of protein and fat to provide the energy and nutrients that small breed dogs need, so they can run, jump and fetch to their heart's desire.

To learn more about the unique attributes of small breed dogs and browse breeds based on dimensions of their personality, visit KnowYourSmallBreed.com and watch videos with tips and facts about small breed dogs at TheNutroCompany.com. Check out Facebook.com/NutroProducts for the "Small Breed Showdown," in which users can submit photos of their small pups, compare them to dogs in the same category and challenge other dogs to see how their dog ranks.

NUTRO® NATURAL CHOICE® Small Breed Dog Food is available at pet stores nationwide. The NATURAL CHOICE® Small Breed line includes Puppy and Adult varieties in Dry Kibble.

About The Nutro Company
The Nutro Company is a leading manufacturer of natural pet food products fortified with added vitamins & minerals sold exclusively at pet specialty stores. The company has been making "The World's Best Pet Food" for more than 80 years and is dedicated to quality, excellence and innovation in dog and cat nutrition offering healthful formulas for every pet's life stage, activity level and size. The Nutro Company's family of NUTRO® brands includes MAX®, NATURAL CHOICE® and ULTRA pet food brands. The GREENIES® brand is a global leader in pet dental chews and treats. For more information, please visit www.TheNutroCompany.com.

®/™ Trademarks © The Nutro Company 2010. Patent Pending.

1 Mars Petcare Usage and Attitude Study
2 Based on volume and dollar sales.
3 Natural fortified with vitamins, minerals & taurine
4 According to the US Census

Contact Information:

CONTACT
Monica Barrett
The Nutro Company
615-628-5387
monica.barrett@effem.com

Allison Hickey
Edelman, on behalf of The Nutro Company
312-233-1382
allison.hickey@edelman.com