Transition to adult foods

Some breeds reach the adult stage before others. Small breed puppies need to switch to an adult food between 8-12 months of age, medium breeds at 12-15 months of age, and large breeds at 15-18 months of age. Because different breeds have very different nutritional needs.

This ensures that every puppy can start with the correct nutritional basis. The best guarantee for healthy growth.

A quick overview

1. Food is given to pups at 3 weeks of age. Over the weeks, their diet changes slowly.

2. Choose high-quality puppy food that has 25 to 30 percent protein content.

3. Purchase dog food that mentions both AAFCO (Association of American Feeding Control Officials) and Animal Feeding Trials (or Animal Feeding Tests) on its label.

4. Make it into gruel with warm water or a commercially prepared milk replacer.

5. Feed your puppy three to four times a day until they’re 5 to 6 months of age.

6. Check with your veterinarian to find out the correct amount of food to give your puppy at each feeding. Or check the package of puppy food, which may provide guidelines based on size. Avoid overfeeding.

7. Use puppy food specifically made for large breeds to encourage growth. Use puppy food specifically made for large breeds to encourage slow growth for large-breed puppies.

Feed him puppy food for up to 12 to 18 months, depending on the breed.

8. Observe your puppy weekly for appearance of weight gain. Puppies should gain 2 to 4 g per day per kg of anticipated adult weight for the first 5 months of life. Be sure to choose a reputable brand of dog food. Check with your veterinarian for recommendations.

A healthy diet for dogs

*Select a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog’s age, weight, activity level or size.

Make sure to feed your dog dry food as well as moist canned food to help keep his teeth clean.

*Be sure that protein ratios are correct for his breed and age. Typically, dog food with 20 to 30 percent protein content provides a healthy balance.

*Avoid overfeeding, since obesity can lead to a variety of medical problems, including musculoskeletal problems, and can aggravate hip dysplasia (abnormal growth or development of the hip joint).

*Avoid feeding your dog table scraps; it encourages begging and may not be good for his digestive system. If you must give her people food, put the scraps in her dog bowl after the family has finished the meal. Be careful to avoid giving her onions or chocolate.

*Feed your dog a measured amount twice daily, but keep in mind that some dogs prefer to eat one meal a day.

*When switching dog foods, do it gradually over a week by increasing the ratio of new food to old food. This will help avoid digestive upsets.

*Do not over supplement your dog’s diet with vitamins and minerals. Excess dietary supplements cause nutritional imbalance and medical disorders. Some vitamins and minerals are toxic in high dosages. Never feed your dog chocolate. Chocolate is toxic.

How to choose brands

1. Choose food that mentions both the AAFCO (Association of American Feeding Control Officials) and Animal Feeding Trials on its label.

2. Pick food that provides all nutrients for your pet, including water, energy, protein (essential amino acids and nitrogen), essential fatty acids, minerals and vitamins.

3. Select pet food that’s balanced. Nutrients must be present in the proper proportions.

4. Choose food that’s digestible. Nutrients must be easily broken down and made available to the animal.

4. Recognize that feeding directions on labels can only be estimated and must be modified to fit individual pet needs. Check with your veterinarian.

5. Consider the manufacturer’s reputation when selecting brands. Generally, you should purchase brands that are priced higher.