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Life Stage Nutrition

Puppy Nutrition

Puppies aren't just small dogs — they have specific nutritional needs for rapid growth and development. Feeding adult food to a puppy can cause deficiencies, while overfeeding can cause skeletal problems, especially in large breeds. Getting puppy nutrition right sets the foundation for a healthy life.

🔥
2x
Calories per lb vs adult dogs
📅
12-24mo
When to switch to adult food
🍽️
3-4x
Meals per day (young puppies)
🥩
22-32%
Protein content for puppies

✓ Advantages

  • •Proper nutrition supports healthy development
  • •Sets foundation for lifelong health
  • •Prevents developmental issues from malnutrition

✗ Considerations

  • •Overfeeding can cause rapid growth (harmful for large breeds)
  • •Underfeeding can stunt development
  • •Puppy food is more expensive

🔍 What to Look For

AAFCO Puppy Statement

Food must say "formulated for growth" or "for all life stages." Adult food doesn't meet puppy needs.

Large Breed Puppy Formula

Large breed puppies (>50 lbs adult weight) need controlled calcium to prevent orthopedic problems.

DHA for Brain Development

DHA (an omega-3) supports brain and eye development. Look for it in the ingredients.

Appropriate Calcium Levels

More isn't better! Excess calcium causes bone problems, especially in large breeds.

💡 Expert Tips

1

Feed puppy food until 12 months (18-24 months for large breeds)

2

Large breed puppies need specific large breed puppy formula

3

Feed 3-4 times daily until 4 months, then 2-3 times daily

4

Don't free-feed - scheduled meals help with training

5

Monitor body condition and adjust portions accordingly

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I feed my puppy?▼
8-12 weeks: 4 meals per day. 3-6 months: 3 meals per day. 6-12 months: 2 meals per day. Free-feeding is generally not recommended as it makes house training harder and can lead to obesity.
When should I switch to adult food?▼
Small breeds: around 12 months. Medium breeds: 12-14 months. Large/giant breeds: 12-24 months (they mature slower). Switch when your puppy reaches approximately 80% of expected adult weight.
Can I feed my puppy adult food?▼
Not recommended. Adult food doesn't have the extra calories, protein, and nutrients puppies need for growth. It may also have inappropriate calcium levels for developing bones.
My puppy seems hungry all the time. Should I feed more?▼
Puppies often act hungry even when fed appropriately. Use body condition (visible waist, feel ribs) rather than hunger cues. Overfeeding causes too-rapid growth, especially problematic for large breeds. Consult your vet if unsure.

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