Feeding your puppy the right diet is crucial for their overall health and development. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know what’s best for your pup.
Should you feed them puppy food or just small amounts of dog food? Can they eat regular dog food? In this blog, we explore these questions and more to ensure you provide the proper nourishment for your growing puppy.
Meeting your puppy’s nutritional needs
First and foremost, puppies have different nutritional needs compared to adult dogs. They require a diet specifically formulated for their young bodies until they are at least 12 months old. Large breed puppies may even need puppy food until 15 or 18 months of age, depending on their size. So, it’s important to choose a high-quality puppy food that meets their specific requirements.
When selecting puppy food, look for brands that follow the guidelines set by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. Make sure the food is balanced and complete, meaning it provides all the necessary nutrients your puppy needs. We understand that everyone’s budget is different, so our advice is to choose the best food you can that fits your budget.
The size and any medical conditions of your puppy should also be taken into consideration. Large breed puppies, for example, should be fed a special diet that promotes controlled growth to prevent skeletal and joint issues. Consulting with your vet is highly recommended to determine the best food options for your puppy’s unique needs.
Puppies under six months of age should be fed small quantities of good puppy food three times a day. Once they reach six months, you can reduce feedings to two meals a day. Stick to a consistent schedule to help regulate their digestion and establish a routine.
You should start transitioning your puppy to adult dog food when they reach around 90% of their expected adult weight. This usually happens between 9 to 12 months of age, depending on the breed. Follow the recommended feeding guidelines on the packaging and monitor your puppy’s weight to ensure a smooth transition.
What about homemade food?
When it comes to feeding your puppy, it’s important to understand their nutritional needs and provide them with a diet that supports their growth and development. While occasional table scraps may not be harmful, it is best to avoid feeding your puppy people food. Overindulging in people food can disrupt their balanced nutrition, cause gastrointestinal upset, and potentially lead to obesity.
Treats should be reserved for training purposes and given in small quantities. It’s crucial to avoid giving your puppy foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, avocados, or lollies flavoured with artificial sweeteners. These foods can be harmful and even life-threatening to dogs.
When offering people food treats, limit the amount and ensure it is safe for your puppy. Lean meats such as turkey, chicken, and lean beef can be given in small amounts as they provide protein. Cooked or raw vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and asparagus are also suitable options that provide essential vitamins and minerals.
It’s also worth noting that puppies are often lactose intolerant, so it’s best to avoid feeding them milk or dairy products. This can help prevent digestive issues such as diarrhoea. Instead, opt for a specially formulated puppy food that meets their specific nutritional needs.
Need some personalised puppy feeding advice?
Every puppy is unique, and their nutritional needs may vary. If you have any concerns about your puppy’s nutrition or weight, please get in touch. Our experienced vets can provide personalised guidance and recommendations to help ensure that the food you are giving to your puppy is helping them to grow up healthy and strong.
To make an appointment with our Loganholme vet practice, you can book online, call us on 07 3801 1744 or drop by our clinic at 141 Bryants Road Loganholme.