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Understanding
Puppy Nutrition:
What to Feed
Your New Best Friend
Proper nutrition is one of the most important factors in your puppy’s growth and development. The right diet provides energy, strong bones, a shiny coat, and a healthy immune system.
This guide will help you understand puppy nutrition basics, including:
✔ Choosing the best puppy food
✔ Creating a feeding schedule
✔ Portion sizes based on age and breed
✔ Healthy treats and foods to avoid
Let’s ensure your puppy gets the nutrition they need for a happy, healthy life!
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Step 1:
Choosing the
Right Puppy Food
Puppies need food rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to support rapid growth.
Types of Puppy Food:
🐾 Dry Kibble – Most popular, helps with dental health.
🐾 Wet/Canned Food – Higher moisture content, but can be messy.
🐾 Raw Diet – Natural, but requires careful preparation.
🐾 Homemade Diet – Must be vet-approved to ensure proper nutrition.
🐶 What to Look for in Quality Puppy Food:
✔ High-quality animal protein (chicken, beef, fish, turkey).
✔ Healthy fats (omega-3 and omega-6 for coat health).
✔ No artificial additives (avoid fillers like corn and soy).
✔ Balanced vitamins & minerals (for bone and brain development).
🐾 Pro Tip: Always choose food labeled for puppies—it has the right nutrients for growth!
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Step 2:
Puppy Feeding
Schedule by Age
Puppies need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. Here’s a guide:
| Puppy Age: | Meals Per Day: | Portion Size (Per Meal): |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | 4 meals | ¼ to ½ cup |
| 3-6 months | 3 meals | ½ to ¾ cup |
| 6-12 months | 2 meals | ¾ to 1 cup |
🐾 Pro Tip: Feed your puppy at the same time every day to establish a routine and aid digestion.
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Step 3:
Healthy Puppy Treats
& Snacks
Treats should only make up 10% or less of your puppy’s daily calories.
Safe & Healthy Puppy Treats:
✔ Carrot sticks (great for teething)
✔ Blueberries (antioxidant-rich)
✔ Plain cooked chicken (protein boost)
✔ Peanut butter (xylitol-free)
🚫 Avoid These Dangerous Foods:
❌ Chocolate – Toxic to dogs
❌ Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure
❌ Onions & Garlic – Can lead to anemia
❌ Xylitol (found in sugar-free foods) – Highly toxic
🐶 Healthy Snack Tip: Use treats for training rewards, but don’t overdo it!
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Step 4: Hydration –
How Much Water
Should Your Puppy Drink?
Puppies need constant access to fresh water.
✔ Puppies drink about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.
✔ Always monitor hydration, especially after playtime.
✔ If your puppy seems excessively thirsty, consult a vet—it could be a sign of illness.
🐾 Pro Tip: Keep water bowls in multiple places to encourage drinking!
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Step 5:
Transitioning to
Adult Dog Food
Around 12 months of age, your puppy will need to switch to adult dog food.
How to Switch Puppy Food Safely:
✔ Day 1-2: 75% old food + 25% new food
✔ Day 3-4: 50% old food + 50% new food
✔ Day 5-6: 25% old food + 75% new food
✔ Day 7: 100% new food
🐶 Why Transition Slowly? A sudden change can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.
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FAQs About
Puppy Nutrition
Some human foods are safe, but many can be harmful. Always research before feeding table scraps.
A healthy puppy has consistent energy levels, a shiny coat, and a stable weight gain. If they seem lethargic or underweight, consult a vet.
No — scheduled meals help with potty training and portion control.
Top-rated brands include Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. Choose one with high-quality ingredients.
Puppies don’t digest cow’s milk well, which can cause diarrhea. Instead, opt for puppy-specific milk replacers if needed.
Use a slow-feeder bowl or place a tennis ball in their food dish to slow them down.
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Final Thoughts
on Puppy Nutrition
A balanced, nutritious diet is key to raising a happy, healthy puppy. By choosing the right food, maintaining a proper feeding schedule, and avoiding harmful foods, you’re setting your pup up for a lifetime of good health.
🐶 Looking for a loving puppy to bring home? Visit Lady Paws Puppies to find a healthy, well-cared-for furry friend! 🐾💕