The right diet for young dogs
Feeding puppies correctly
Whether you are a breeder or a new puppy owner - the right nutrition for a puppy lays the foundation for its health and well-being for the rest of its life. You can find out what is important when feeding puppies here.
A healthy start to a dog's life
Growing dogs must be optimally supported and cared for in their development. Because in the first few months of life, the dog's body performs at its best.
Depending on the size and breed of the dog, the small puppy matures into an adult dog within 12 months (small breeds) or around 24 months (large breeds).
The most important challenges in puppy feeding at a glance:
- Rapid growth
- Sensitive digestive system
- Development of the immune system
- High nutritional requirements
- Flavour and texture of the food
- For dry food: kibble size
The puppies are normally suckled by of female dog for the first 3-4 weeks of their lives. After that, the breeder and later the new owner come into play. Everyone is responsible for ensuring that the little ones want for nothing.
Why puppy food?
Puppies and young dogs have completely different requirements for their food than adult dogs. They need more energy for their growth and their nutritional requirements are also different. It is therefore essential to provide them with food labelled as puppy food .
Feeding puppies food for adult dogs can lead to serious deficiency symptoms and growth disorders.
Recognising good puppy food
Due to their relatively rapid growth and high demands on their feed, it is essential that high-quality nutrients are contained in the feed in the correct dosage.
In detail, this means...
- High-energy food: As puppies need a lot of energy and strength for their growth, their food must contain more calories than that for adult dogs.
- Easily digestible proteins: The most important building material for a dog's heart, brain and muscles is protein. This is why it is particularly important in a puppy's diet. For the sensitive digestive system of puppies, the proteins must be easily digestible, such as poultry and fish.
- Needs-based vitamins and minerals: Vitamins and minerals play an important role in the development of strong bones, healthy teeth, beautiful skin and a shiny coat. Puppies have a higher requirement for nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc and vitamin D.
- Kibble size: A factor that should not be underestimated in a puppy's diet is a kibble size that is adapted to their teeth. This is particularly important for small breed dogs.
Dog food for puppies
- Chew sticks for puppies
- supportive during the change of teeth
- gluten and grain free
- with seaweed and DHA
- Ideal for the weaning stage – tailored to the needs of young puppies
- High-quality protein sources – with free-range chicken and herring for healthy growth
- Pumpkin & pomegranate – provide valuable fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals
- Glucosamine & chondroitin – supports joints, tendons and cartilage right from the start
- Grain-free & gluten-free recipe – also suitable for puppies with dietary sensitivities
- Low glycaemic index – ensures a steady supply of energy
- Specially formulated for puppies, young dogs and pregnant or nursing female dogs – tailored to their increased nutritional needs
- Contains high-quality animal proteins – depending on the variety, with chicken, lamb and herring for a species-appropriate diet
- With chondroitin & glucosamine – supports joints, cartilage and balanced growth
- Grain-, gluten- and potato-free recipe – also ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Low glycaemic index – supports a steady release of energy throughout the day
- With pumpkin & functional ingredients – a high-fibre recipe to support good digestion
- Supports intestinal function - ideal for diarrhoea and malabsorption
- Highly digestible formula - optimises nutrient absorption during growth
- Omega-3 fatty acids - protect the intestinal mucosa and have an anti-inflammatory effect
- Adapted calcium-phosphorus ratio - supports healthy bone development
- With glucosamine & chondroitin - promotes joint formation and cartilage development
- With electrolytes & vitamins - stabilises the balance after digestive problems
- Specially formulated for puppies and pregnant dogs – ideal for periods of increased energy and nutritional requirements
- High-quality animal proteins – with fresh chicken and herring for a species-appropriate protein supply
- With chondroitin & glucosamine – supports joints, cartilage and balanced growth
- Grain-free & gluten-free recipe – also ideal for dogs with sensitive digestive systems or food intolerances
- Low glycaemic index – supports a steady release of energy throughout the day
- Gently produced – cold-infusion technology to preserve valuable vitamins and sensitive nutrients
How the change of food works
Puppies' digestive systems are very sensitive and therefore food changes should be made slowly and with great sensitivity. Sudden food changes can lead to diarrhoea, constipation and abdominal pain, as they can put a lot of strain on the puppy's sensitive gastrointestinal tract .
The PERRO changeover recommendation is therefore:
| Period | Proportion of known food | Proportion of new food |
| Day 1 and 2 | 75% known feed | +25% new feed |
| Day 3 and 4 | 50% known feed | +50% new feed |
| Day 5 and 6 | 25% known feed | +75% new feed |
| Day 7 | - | 100% new feed |
How many times a day should puppies be fed?
Puppies up to 6 months of age should be fed several times a day in small portions. The breed and size should also be taken into account . Small dogs naturally have smaller stomachs, which is why they should be given smaller portions even more often a day. We recommend the following guideline:
- Large breeds: 3 x daily
- Small breeds: 4 x daily
The right amount of food for puppies
It is not possible to make a generalised statement about the right amount of food, as it depends on the breed and the size of the dog. In general, however, it is important to follow the manufacturer's feeding recommendations. Because both too much and too little can have a negative effect on the puppy's development.
If a puppy is given too much food, it will not get fat at first, but will grow faster. However, this can have a negative effect , especially in old age , because too rapid growth can lead to diseases of the musculoskeletal system, e.g. arthrosis. Reputable feed manufacturers communicate their feeding recommendations clearly and simply. A look at the feeding recommendations for PERRO Basic Junior provides clear information about the optimum diet for puppies.
Dry food or wet food?
We are often asked whether puppies can also eat wet food? Of course they can eat wet food - it should just be a special wet puppy food.special wet puppy foodwet puppy food. The wet food is usually labelled "Junior". And it should be a complete food - this simply ensures that the puppy is provided with all the important nutrients it needs.
Puppies usually take to wet food well, simply because it tastes and smells good. Wet food contains more moisture . For puppies that tend to drink less, high-quality wet food can ensure hydration . This can be particularly helpful on hot summer days.
But alsoDry food for puppiesalso has its advantages. It is easier to dose, has a longer shelf life and is usually less intense in odour . Nevertheless, it contains all the necessary nutrients that a puppy needs for healthy development. Ultimately, it is a matter of taste whether dry or wet food is given.
Discover our large selection of suitable puppy food!
Is it all in the mix?
Can you mix dry and wet food for puppies? A frequently asked question with no clear answer. Our recommendation: Always give wet and dry food in separate meals.
The two types of food have different digestion times and can cause digestive problems such as flatulence or even diarrhoea if given together, especially in sensitive young dogs.
