I know this has been discussed numerous times and I have gone back and read the threads. I would like advice on these brands specifically: Orijen, Evo, Canidae, Nature's Valley Instinct.
I have a 2 year old chihuahua and a 12 week old yorkie girl. I used to feed my Chi purina little bites but after much reading I wanted to switch to healthier food. My Chi also has a LOT of trouble chewing kibble he was getting so thin we started feeding him soft foods.
Is there any reason he has started to have trouble? At only 2 years, he shouldn't be having any trouble. Have you seen the vet to look at his mouth/teeth? I tried the Solid Gold Wee Bites. He loved it and it was small enough but his fur began to fall out around his face and on his paws and legs. We thought maybe he has a fish allergy or maybe it was something else in the solid gold. So we switched to Evo. Then I read Evo can cause kidney and liver damage and dogs throw up bile or something like that.
That happens in some dogs, but not all. Some of their tummies are more sensitive than others..How was he doing with the Evo?My new puppy came to me eating Orijen puppy and she loves it and my chi tries to sneak it but I didn't know if he should have it because it has fish. I like that it has the herbs and botanicals. I think it makes breath and poop not stink so much.
Have you tried him on the Orijen yet? You're right..it is an excellent food and I think it is all life stages so both your babies can eat it. Some people have problems with it, but it might work out for you!
I am thoroughly confused. I want them to be on the same food. I am scared about high protein and liver/kidney damage.
High protein foods are ok for dogs if they don't already have liver problems. If he has checked out ok in that department, he should be alright. I just want them to be healthy. I also read about Chicken Soup and Royal Canin but I wasn't sure if they are good because they have grains such as rice.
They are both good foods, but there are better foods out there. I wouldn't trust RC..they have had a few too many recalls with other foods for my liking. Cali was on CS puppy for a long while and did great on it. When I switched her over to the adult food, she decided she was over it.. 
I thought we are supposed to feed grain free kibble.
Some people choose to do this, mostly because of allergies to wheat, corn, etc. And while grains should never be the number one ingredient, I think they are still ok if there are some in there..it's not going to hurt your babies. My husband is against feeding raw but thinks homecooked meats is fine. Truth is I don't know that I could cook them food everyday. We are very busy and I hate cooking. LOL I am open to hearing any advice. Please no bashing I just want what is best for my pets.