Proper nutrition is essential for puppies as it helps them to reach their full genetic potential. A puppy’s nutritional needs can vary depending on a variety of factors such as breed, age, size and activity level.

Therefore, it is important to understand the basics of how to nutritionally feed your puppy, to provide a balanced and complete diet that meets all of their nutritional requirements.

 

Nutritional Requirements

For puppies up to 1-year-old, it is crucial to feed them a diet that’s high in protein and fat to support their growth and development.

A balanced diet should include the proper amount of vitamins and minerals. Look for food that contains a minimum of 26-30% protein, 18-22% fat, 4-7% fibre, 2-5% calcium, 0.3-0.8% phosphorus, and 0.1-0.2% sodium.

 

Choosing the Right Food

When choosing a puppy food, it is important to look at the label and make sure that the product meets certain criteria:

• Contains high-quality protein ingredients such as chicken, lamb or fish
• Contains a source of healthy fats such as flaxseed or fish oil
• Contains vitamins and minerals
• Free from any artificial flavours, colours or preservatives

It is also important to note that every puppy has different dietary needs, so it is important to consult your vet for advice on the best type of food for your pup.

 

Calculating Feeding Portions

The quantity of food a puppy requires relies on its age, size, and activity level. If your puppy is under six months old, it is important to use a measuring cup or scale to provide the recommended amount specified on the food packaging.

Monitor your puppy’s body condition regularly to ensure they are getting the correct nutrients. Adjust their food portions if you observe that they are either too thin or overweight.

 

Feeding Schedule

To make sure your puppy’s diet is balanced, it’s crucial to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Aim to feed your pup at the same time every day and always keep water available in between meals.

Puppies under six months should be fed three to four times per day and then adjust to one to two meals per day afterwards based on their energy requirements.

 

Treats and Snacks

In addition to providing a balanced diet, it is important to also provide your puppy with healthy treats or snacks. Some good options include plain boiled chicken breast, carrots, apples or blueberries.

It is important to remember that treats should not make up more than 10% of your puppy’s daily food intake.

 

Takeaway

Proper nutrition is essential for puppies to reach their full potential. It is important to choose the right food, calculate feeding portions and establish a consistent feeding schedule.

To ensure your puppy gets all the nutrients they need, consult your vet for professional advice on the best type of food for your pup.

If you are looking for a furry companion, check out our puppies for sale.