Puppies start life nourished by their mother's milk. Weaning onto solid food is a crucial step in their development. It's important to note that puppies should remain with their mother until at least 8 weeks of age.
Puppy food should be fed from weaning until 9 months to 2 years of age, depending on the breed and size of the dog. Growth rates and nutritional requirements vary significantly between breeds. For example, a Chihuahua's needs differ greatly from those of a Bernese Mountain Dog.
Large breed puppies are particularly susceptible to issues caused by overfeeding. Excessive calorie intake can lead to rapid growth, potentially causing musculoskeletal problems. Choose an appropriate large or giant breed puppy food and follow your veterinarian's guidance on feeding amounts.
Small breed puppies require high-quality protein and higher calorie foods to support their rapid growth rates. Look for complete diets specifically formulated for small breeds diet that has been recommended by your vet.
To support their growth and maintain digestive health, puppies need frequent meals:
As your puppy approaches adulthood, their nutritional needs change. Begin introducing adult food when your puppy reaches about 90% of their expected adult weight. Transition slowly between diets to avoid digestive upset.
Regular weighing can help you track growth. Learning to assess your dog's body condition score as they become an adult is valuable for guiding future feeding decisions.