Puppy Nutrition 101: Feeding for Optimal Growth
Congratulations! You’ve just welcomed a new member to the family. Now your home’s filled with chaos and laughter. If your puppy hasn’t been fully house-trained yet, chances are, you’re constantly cleaning up after them. Oh, the joys of being a puppy parent!
Presuming this is all new, you’re probably thinking about their diet and how best to ensure they get the proper nutrition.
Thankfully, most commercial dog foods are packed with all the yummy goodness needed for a healthy, happy doggie. You only need to know what to look for in a quality product.
This article will help you make an informed choice about your puppy’s nutrition.
How Often Should I Feed My Puppy?
Most first-time pet parents ask this question. Blue Cross suggests giving your baby four meals a day between eight weeks and four months. To get them into an early routine, feed them at the same time every day and stick to the schedule.
Once they reach four months, you can reduce their meals to three times throughout the day. By six months, they should be getting by on two meals – morning and evening.
Also, avoid any strenuous activity after their feeding times. This could cause vomiting or bloating.
What Puppy Food is Best?
Experts advise that all puppies between six and 12 weeks must be fed specialized puppy food. Store-bought brands are specially formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of growing pets.
There are tons of pet food options out there. From wet dog food to freeze-dried to kibble, things can be overwhelming for new dog owners. Large-breed puppies should have a diet of only dry puppy food.
If you’re confused by how much dog food to feed your pup, the serving recommendations on the packaging are pretty straightforward. However, The Puppy Academy says it’s best to consult your veterinarian as some breeds are predisposed to certain health issues.
Open Farm suggests starting your pup on a nutritious high-protein diet. This is the main nutrient needed for healthy development. Don’t forget that the optimal protein range is 22 to 32% if feeding your puppy kibble.
Other vital nutritional requirements are fat, calcium and digestible carbohydrates.
My Puppy’s Overweight. What Now?
It’s a conundrum many pet parents face. Puppies can overeat in the first few months. PetMD recommends reducing the amount of food given at meal times. Increase activity by taking them on walks.
Overall, there’s no need to worry. Your pup’s body weight will start balancing out as they grow.
When Do I Transition to Adult Dog Food?
This depends on your pet’s breed, size and activity level. Generally speaking, BetterVet states that puppies are considered adults once they reach a year. But there are other factors to consider…
Always chat with your vet when switching to adult dog food. They can advise which brand to choose based on your pet’s nutritional needs.
Purchase quality pet food that lists animal protein as its main ingredient. Avoid brands with artificial flavors or preservatives.
Transition your dog’s food gradually. Combine 75% of your puppy’s food with 25% of the adult version. Monitor your pup. If you see any changes in their mood, stool consistency or appetite, consult your vet.
Things to Avoid
Discourage bad habits from a young age. It can be less hassle if you leave out their meals instead of during specified feeding times.
Your puppy might become a picky eater and expect food to be there when they want to eat. The habit will also defeat potty training as their toilet times will become unpredictable.
Some foods that are healthy for us may be toxic to our fur babies.
Avocados contain persin that is poisonous to dogs. If digested, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Broccoli is another superfood your puppy should stay away from. Their stalks could get stuck in your baby’s throat and lead to choking.
Some pet parents feed their little furry friends chicken or turkey skin as a treat for good behavior. Rather throw them out. Animal skin is high in fat and could cause acute pancreatitis.
The same goes for chicken and turkey bones. It’s tempting to give your doggie something to chew on, but smaller bones can obstruct the bowels or damage their insides.
Now that you know what to feed your puppy, the next step is to ensure they stay healthy and strong. With a balanced diet, it shouldn’t be hard. Remember, if in doubt, talk to your vet or pet nutritionist. They’ll advise you on the best course of action.
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