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Are you looking for some tips on how to feed your new puppy? Keep in mind that a puppy’s nutritional requirements varies greatly from those of an adult dog. They require sufficient nutrition to support their rapid growth.
Puppy food is specifically designed for puppies. You can also give your puppy professionally prepared dog food branded for all life stages.
The amount of daily feedings is determined by your puppy’s age:
- 2 to 3 months old: 4 meals a day
- 3 to 6 months: 3 meals a day
- 6 to 12 months (up to 24 months for the largest breeds): 2 meals a day
Between the ages of 3 and 4 weeks, a puppy can usually begin weaning from its mother’s milk or substitute milk. Weaning might take up to three weeks once it is started.
Veterinarians recommend soaking the puppy food with enough warm water to form a soupy gruel to assist your dog adjust to solid meals.
Puppies enjoy playing with their food, so you may have to encourage them into eating it. Dip your finger into the food and offer it to your dog to lick.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
Your puppy requires a balanced diet, which may be found in many store-bought dog diets or produced at home with your veterinarian’s guidance. A well-balanced meal offers your pal energy, keeps their brain and body running smoothly, and aids in their growth.
When purchasing puppy food, look for the following words on the label:
- “Complete and balanced nutrition”
- “Meets the nutritional requirements of puppies established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)”
- “Complete and balanced nutrition for puppies based on AAFCO feeding trials”
Puppy food with those labels will provide your puppy with all of the nutrients they require. The following are the essential nutrients:
Proteins: Proteins help build your puppy’s tissues.
Fats: Fats aid in the maintenance of their skin and hair. They also aid in the development of your puppy’s brain and vision.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide energy to your puppy.
Vitamins and minerals: Puppy diets that are complete and balanced include the proper levels of vitamins and minerals.
Water: Although canned puppy chow contains up to 78 percent water, it will only meet a part of your dog’s water requirements. All dogs, regardless of their age, should have access to fresh, clean water.
Treats and Table Scraps
It’s fine to give your puppy a treat now and then. Treats and table scraps should never account for more than 10% of your puppy’s daily calorie intake, according to most experts.
Obesity can result from overeating, which can lead to health issues including diabetes and heart disease.
Also, keep in mind that some human food can be harmful to your dog. Never give your dog food:
- Alcohol
- Avocados
- Bread dough
- Caffeinated drinks
- Chocolate
- Garlic and onions
- Grapes or raisins
- Xylitol (a sweetener)
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