Puppy Nutrition for Small and Medium Breeds
In this Section:
More Energy, More Protein
One Size Does Not Fit All
Choosing Foods
The Switch to Adult Food
Feeding Your Puppy
AFrom the time your puppy is weaned until 4 months of age, you should feed your puppy 2-3 meals a day based on the guidelines of the food label. After 4 months of age, your puppy should be fed twice a day on a regular schedule. Always have fresh water available.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Not all puppies have the same nutritional needs. Small-breed puppies have higher metabolism rates per kg of body weight and reach their mature adult weight faster than larger-breed puppies. And small & medium-breed puppies need higher levels of protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus to support growth and development of bones, muscles and other tissues. So giving your puppy a food specially formulated for his breed size is the easiest way to make sure he’s getting the right balance of nutrients for his growth rate.
Choosing Foods
Aside from energy and protein, there are other important nutrients and ingredients vital to your puppy’s diet:
- vitamin-rich fish oils to support overall health
- essential vitamins and minerals to help support the immune system and help your puppy stay healthy during this critical stage of growth
- animal-based protein sources to help nourish growing muscles, vital organs and skin and coat
- a fibre source that will help keep your puppy’s sensitive digestive system healthy, so more nutrition stays in your puppy
- ideal levels of calcium and phosphorus to help your puppy develop strong teeth and bones
The Switch to Adult Food
Small & Medium-breed puppies reach their adult weight by about 12 months—faster than large breed puppies that aren’t fully mature until 24 months of age. You can probably begin feeding adult dog food at 10 to 12 months. Your dog may not welcome the change at first, but don’t worry. You can help ease the transition by gradually introducing the adult food. Try mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of his puppy food then gradually change the proportions over the next three days until he’s eating 100% adult food.
More Energy, More Protein
Research shows that puppies need up to 4 times the energy of adult dogs in their first growth phase. Dramatic growth at this stage means your puppy requires an energy-rich, nutrient-dense, complete and balanced diet. Puppies also require more protein than adult dogs. High-quality, animal-based protein will help your puppy create new body tissue.
