Providing proper nutrition is an essential component for the growth, health, and happiness of our beloved companion. That’s why we have prepared an article that will provide you with comprehensive information related to feeding your valued family member. So, take your seat and get ready to raise a healthy puppy!
Nutritional Requirements of the Puppy
Like babies, puppies have unique nutritional needs, and meeting these needs is crucial for their proper development. Puppies need a high-quality, protein-rich diet to develop muscle and tissue. Therefore, it is preferable to give preference to foods that are labeled as “complete and balanced.” This influential detail will help you make sure that the food contains the right amount of protein.
For the proper functioning of the nervous system, puppies need an adequate supply of fat. Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are especially important for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat, along with mental development. As a responsible pet parent, you should also know that carbohydrates provide your little friend’s energy source, while fiber foods aid in digestion.
Vitamins and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are also essential components of a balanced diet. However, since excessive amounts of certain nutrients can cause growth problems, it’s important to carefully control portions in consultation with a nutritionist.
How Often Should You Feed Your Puppy?
Feeding frequency depends on the age, size, and breed of the puppy. Up to 6 weeks after birth, the puppy is fed with the mother’s milk or a suitable milk substitute every 2-3 hours. Usually, puppies don’t transition to solid food until 3-4 weeks.
Between 6 weeks and 3 months, once the puppy starts eating solid food, try to feed it often, but in modest portions. As a rule, at such a time, 4 meals a day are recommended. This approach to feeding helps maintain energy levels and prevents the puppy’s small stomach from being overloaded. In the period from 3 to 6 months, reducing the frequency of feeding and providing food 3 times a day is also recommended.
Practice indicates that from 6 months, the majority of puppies switch to feeding twice a day. However, if your puppy is a large breed, it’s advised that you continue to feed it on a three-time feeding schedule until it becomes 1 year old.
Keep in mind that to maintain a healthy weight, food portions should be appropriate for your furry friend’s size and activity level. Therefore, always follow the instructions on the package of puppy food and consult a nutritionist for individual recommendations.
Food Allergy
Food allergies in companion animals appear when the immune system perceives the ingredients in its food as substances harmful to health and starts an immune fight against them. Common symptoms of food allergies in dogs include itching, rashes, hives, diarrhea, chronic ear infections, and breathing problems.
Identifying a specific allergen can be difficult, however, common food allergens in companion animals typically include dairy, eggs, wheat, and soy. But still, it’s important to remember that in individual cases any ingredient can cause an allergic reaction in our beloved family members. The way to confirm a food allergy is through an elimination diet. In such a case, potential allergens are gradually excluded from the dog’s diet, and symptoms are closely monitored.
Management of food allergies in dogs involves strict dietary control. At such a time, you should carefully read the list of ingredients on the label and you should refuse such foods that contain allergens. Fortunately, today you can buy hypoallergenic dog food that will help your loyal friend develop at its best.
Recognizing the symptoms of food allergies, getting the proper testing, and following an appropriate diet are critical steps in managing food allergies and improving the quality of life for our beloved companions.
The Process of Transitioning to Adult Dog Food
The transition from puppy food to adult dog food is a turning point in the development of our valued friends. To avoid problems related to the digestive system, it is advisable to make this change gradually.
For a gradual change, we recommend mixing small amounts of adult dog food into the puppy food gradually. Continue this action for about a week and gradually increase the portion of adult dog food. Loose stools or other problems with the digestive system may indicate the need to slow down the transition process. Therefore, at the same time as eating, carefully monitor the digestion process and make sure that an important member of your family has unhindered access to clean water.
Before making any dietary changes, we recommend that you consult with your veterinarian and plan the process based on the breed, size, and individual needs of your companion animal.
Importance of Monitoring the Puppy’s Weight & Health
Remember that regular veterinary check-ups are vital to assessing your puppy’s health. Consistently monitoring your valued family member’s weight and health and taking a proactive approach to the issue will help your puppy grow into a healthy and delighted adult dog.
Weight monitoring can help you track your furry friend’s growth and make sure it’s developing at the best for the breed. In addition to weight, pay attention to other health indicators and make sure that, along with good eyesight, the puppy has healthy gums and strong teeth. Watch for any changes in behavior or appetite and contact your vet immediately if you find something disturbing.