What to Feed Your Puppy 0-18 Months

Puppy-specific foods are formulated to meet the high nutritional demands of growing puppies. These foods are generally higher in protein and fat content compared to adult dog food. When choosing a puppy food, look for high-quality ingredients and avoid foods with excessive fillers or artificial additives.

While commercial puppy foods are convenient and nutritionally balanced, some pet owners prefer homemade diets. If you choose to prepare homemade meals for your puppy, it's crucial to ensure that their dietary needs are met. When it comes to puppy care, consulting a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist is advisable when opting for homemade diets.

For newborn puppies, mother's milk is the best food source as it provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies to protect them from diseases. A study has shown that colostrum, produced by the mother, is pivotal in the early stages of puppy development. 

If the mother is not available, a high-quality puppy formula can be used as a substitute and this should be what you feed a puppy up to the age of 3-4 weeks without a mum.

Puppy formulas are specially designed to replicate mother's milk but it is important to choose a formula suitable for puppies and follow the feeding guidelines strictly.

Healthy puppies should be active, have a healthy coat, and gain weight consistently. Regular check-ups with a vet can ensure they are developing properly.

As puppies grow, their nutritional needs change. During this phase, they require more calories and nutrients to support their rapid growth, especially larger breeds, such as golden retrievers.

Calcium is vital for bone development. Puppy food should have the correct calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to ensure proper bone growth and avoid health issues.

Continue feeding three to four times a day, adjusting the portion size to their growth rate and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to obesity.

Around six months, you can start transitioning to adult dog food. The transition should be gradual over a week to avoid digestive issues.

Monitor your puppy's weight and body condition regularly. A healthy puppy should have a visible waist and you should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard.

Treats and snacks should only make up a small portion of your puppy's diet. Choose healthy options and use them sparingly.

Small breed puppies have a higher metabolism. Their diets should be rich in protein and fat to support their energy needs.

Due to their small size and rapid metabolism, they are at risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Frequent, nutrient-dense meals are crucial.

Adequate calcium and phosphorus levels are important for their bone health, considering their petite bone structure.

• High-quality, small-breed specific puppy kibble that is easier for their small mouths to chew.

• Wet food can be mixed with dry food to encourage eating and provide hydration.

Medium-breed puppies require a balanced diet that promotes steady growth.

A good balance of protein and fat is essential for muscle development and sustained energy levels.

They often benefit from diets that include probiotics and easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates for optimal gut health.

• Commercial puppy foods specifically formulated for medium-breed puppies.

• Consider foods that include lean meats, healthy fats, whole grains, and vegetables.

Large-breed puppies need diets that promote slow, steady growth to prevent bone and joint problems.

Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can be beneficial for joint health, given their propensity for joint issues.

They require a carefully controlled caloric intake to prevent rapid weight gain, which can strain their developing bones and joints.

Lean meats like chicken and turkey are excellent protein sources for puppies, although we wouldn't recommend feeding your puppy raw meat as this carries a bacteria risk. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair. These meats are also rich in essential amino acids and vitamins like B vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism and neurological development.

Fish is a good protein source and is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cognitive development and maintaining healthy skin and coat. It also provides vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin), as well as minerals like iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium, and potassium.

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, which is good for digestion. They are also beneficial for dental health. Rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A, K, and potassium, carrots support vision and immune system health.

Sweet potatoes are a great source of fibre, which aids in healthy digestion. They are high in beta-carotene, converting to vitamin A in the body, essential for growth, eye health, and immunity.

High-quality commercial puppy foods are formulated to meet all of a puppy's nutritional needs. They are balanced in terms of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Homemade diets can be tailored to individual needs and preferences, however, they require careful planning to ensure they meet all nutritional requirements. Always consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist when preparing a homemade diet.

Grain-free diets are often chosen for puppies with specific grain allergies or sensitivities. They typically contain alternative carbohydrate sources like sweet potatoes. It's important to ensure that a grain-free diet is well-balanced and meets your puppy's nutritional needs.

Both wet and dry foods are suitable for puppies. Wet food can be easier for young puppies to eat, while dry food is good for dental health. The choice depends on your puppy's preference and dietary needs.

Puppies under 3 months old typically need three to four meals a day. As they grow older, this can be reduced to two meals a day.