There’s not much more exciting than a new puppy! It’s easy to get distracted by all the cuddles and licks! but taking care of a pup is serious business and one of the most important things to think about is their diet.
Just like babies, puppies need the right complete and balanced nutrition to support their rapid growth.
Why Complete and Balanced Nutrition Matters for Puppies
Anyone who’s seen a puppy grow knows how quickly it happens! This crucial time in their development paves the way for great health in later years.
Puppies need particularly good nutrition and more calories, as it helps them grow at the right rate and reduces their chances of being overweight. Quality complete and balanced meals formulated for all life stages provide the higher nutrient levels puppies need to help the joints, limbs, muscles, and immune system develop properly.
How long does my puppy need complete and balanced nutrition for growth?
Your puppy will need meals that support their growth phase for about 12 to 18 months, depending on your dog’s breed and size.
What to look for in complete and balanced puppy nutrition
Not only do puppies have faster metabolisms (thus needing more calories), but they also need larger amounts of some minerals and vitamins for excellent health.
Particular attention needs to be paid to feeding enough protein, fat, and calcium.
- Protein – found in red meat, fish, and chicken – provides the fuel energetic puppies need and ensures they take in enough amino acids for general health and building tissue.
- Fat provides crucial fatty acids (like omega 3, omega 6 and DHA) critical for energy and the absorption of some vitamins.
- Calcium is required for healthy skeletal development.
Puppies also need more phosphorus (found in meat, poultry, fish, and eggs) than adult dogs.
Top tip: Choose complete, balanced meal solutions that meet the standards set out in the dog nutrient profiles by the Association of American Feed Control (AAFCO) and that are formulated for all life stages (or for growth). These meals are designed to provide everything your puppy needs in one bowl, no supplements or specialty products required.
How often should puppies be fed?
Once weaned and up to six months of age, puppies should eat three or four times a day.
After this time, twice a day is typical. Use the serving sizes recommended on the food packaging or advised by your vet.
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