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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 during 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 Demands on their food than adult dogs. They need more energy for their growth and also the need for Nutrients is also different. Therefore they must absolutely with one as Puppy food declared as puppy food food.
Feeding puppies with food for adult dogs can lead to severe 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.
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:
| Day 1 and 2: 75% known food + 25% new food |
| Day 3 and 4: 50 % known food + 50 % new food |
| 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 fed several times a day in small portions several times a day. 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. This is because both too much and too little will 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. 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 their hydration . This can be particularly helpful on hot summer days.
But dry food also 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.
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.
