Proper nutrition is very important for new puppies. It is important, because puppies will go
through an accelerated growth phase during the first 15 months of their lives, and having a diet
that can provide the optimum base for stable growth without exceeding or the depleting of
necessary elements is very, very important.
Protein for example is needed in larger amounts by growing puppies than it is by the adult dog,
due to the rapid growth of the puppy’s muscles, joints and bones. The energy requirements for a
puppy are considerably higher also making it essential for them to receive food nutritionally rich
and calorie dense.
There are many different puppy foods on the market. This is to counteract the fact that certain
breeds of puppies require specific nutritional elements in specific amounts. Little breed puppies
for example, have a much higher metabolism than those of bigger dogs meaning that they need
a different calorie density food than bigger dogs need.
When feeding, try to feed according to your veterinarian’s suggested guidelines, or those set out
on the label of the dog food bag. Usually, puppies are fed three times per day, dropping to two
daily feedings after the pup is four months of age.
If you do not feed your puppy properly it can come up with all kinds of health problems. If you
find that your dog has less energy, check its dog food. If your dog has diarrhea, check into how
many feedings would be best for your dog.
A dog that is fed properly is frisky, playful and happy. You are happy to see your dog so happy
so it is a lovely circle.
Feeding will depend on the breed and size of your dog so be sure to check with your Vet before
starting a good feeding program. If you find a dog food that you like, check the label for feeding
instructions. Of course, if feeding does not go as well as you hoped for, get a good opinion from
your Vet and maybe start all over again with a new food. You will love your pet dog, regardless,
but it is so much better to get off to a good dog feeding start from the beginning. This sure beats
all kinds of trial and error runs on your new dog.
