Advice on Feeding Puppies, Featuring Premium Brands like Merrick and Stella & Chewy
Getting a new puppy is one of the most exciting experiences in life. But alongside the cuddles, toys, and training, lies a responsibility that lays the foundation for your puppy’s lifelong health—nutrition.
Choosing the right food for your puppy can feel overwhelming with so many brands and conflicting advice out there.
Why Puppy Nutrition Is Different from Adult Dogs
Puppies are in their critical growth stage, meaning their food needs to support:
- Bone and joint development
- Brain growth
- Stronger immune system
- Healthy skin and coat
- Energy for play and training
Feeding your puppy food meant for adult dogs can lead to malnutrition, stunted growth, or obesity. That’s why it’s crucial to feed puppy-specific formulas designed for their age, breed size, and health needs.
Key Nutrients Your Puppy Needs
1. Protein
Puppies require higher protein than adult dogs to support their rapid development. Look for formulas where meat is the first ingredient such as chicken, beef, lamb, or turkey.
2. Fats and Fatty Acids
Fat provides energy and supports brain development. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids (especially DHA) also help develop your pup’s nervous system and shiny coat.
3. Calcium and Phosphorus
Essential for growing strong bones and teeth. Large breed puppies need a balanced ratio to avoid skeletal issues.
4. Vitamins & Antioxidants
Vitamins like A, D, and E support vision, bone health, and immune function. Antioxidants like blueberries, spinach, or sweet potatoes help fight off disease.
5. Probiotics and Prebiotics
A healthy digestive tract helps with nutrient absorption and prevents tummy troubles.
Dry vs Wet vs Raw: Which Type of Puppy Food is Best?
Each type of food has its pros and cons. The best choice depends on your puppy’s needs, lifestyle, and your budget.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
| Dry Kibble | Convenient, affordable, good for teeth | Lower moisture content |
| Wet Food | Highly palatable, hydrating | Can be expensive, spoils faster |
| Raw/Freeze-Dried | Mimics ancestral diets, nutrient-dense | Can be costly, requires careful handling |
A great approach is mixing dry with wet or raw toppers to get the benefits of both.
Premium Puppy Food Brands to Trust
1. Merrick Puppy Recipes
Merrick is known for its high-quality, USA-sourced ingredients, rich protein content, and no artificial fillers.
Top Pick: Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Recipe with Real Chicken & Sweet Potato
Why It’s Great:
- Deboned chicken is the first ingredient
- Includes DHA for brain development
- Glucosamine for joint health
- No corn, wheat, or soy
2. Stella & Chewy’s Raw-Coated Kibble and Freeze-Dried Raw
If you’re leaning toward more natural or raw diets, Stella & Chewy offers freeze-dried and raw-coated kibble that preserves nutrients and mimics your pup’s ancestral diet.
Top Pick: Stella & Chewy’s Stella’s Essentials – Cage-Free Chicken Puppy Recipe
Why It’s Great:
- 65% animal protein
- Enriched with probiotics
- Grain-free and gluten-free
- Freeze-dried raw coating boosts flavor and nutrients
How Much Should I Feed My Puppy?
Feeding Chart Example (Small-Medium Breed Puppy):
| Puppy Weight | Age 2–4 Months | Age 4–6 Months | Age 6–12 Months |
| 5–10 lbs | 1 – 1.5 cups/day | 1.25 cups/day | 1 cup/day |
| 10–20 lbs | 1.5 – 2.5 cups/day | 2 cups/day | 1.75 cups/day |
Note: Always refer to the feeding guide on your dog food package and consult your vet.
Feeding Schedule: How Often Should You Feed Your Puppy?
| Age of Puppy | Feedings Per Day |
| 6–12 Weeks | 4 times |
| 3–6 Months | 3 times |
| 6–12 Months | 2 times |
Stick to a consistent schedule and remove uneaten food after 20 minutes to encourage good eating habits.
Transitioning to New Food: Do It Gradually
Sudden changes in food can upset your puppy’s stomach. Use the 7-day transition rule:
- Day 1–2: 25% new food, 75% old food
- Day 3–4: 50% new, 50% old
- Day 5–6: 75% new, 25% old
- Day 7: 100% new food
Common Puppy Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfeeding: Leads to obesity and orthopedic issues
- Feeding table scraps: Can cause diarrhea or behavioral problems
- Inconsistent feeding schedule: Disrupts digestion
- Ignoring breed-specific needs: Small vs. large breed diets vary
When to Switch to Adult Dog Food
Most puppies can transition to adult food around 12 months, but:
- Small breeds (under 20 lbs): May transition at 10–12 months
- Large breeds (over 50 lbs): Should stay on puppy food until 15–18 months
Consult your vet based on your puppy’s growth and development.
FAQs About Puppy Nutrition
Q1. What’s the best puppy food brand?
Merrick and Stella & Chewy are both top-tier brands with high-quality ingredients, ideal for growing puppies.
Q2. Is grain-free food good for puppies?
Grain-free diets can be beneficial for puppies with allergies, but not all puppies need grain-free food. Always check with your vet.
Q3. Can I give my puppy human food?
Some are safe (like plain cooked chicken or carrots), but many human foods are toxic to dogs—avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic.
Q4. How can I tell if my puppy is allergic to a food?
Signs include scratching, ear infections, loose stools, or vomiting. If symptoms occur, consult your vet and consider switching to a limited-ingredient diet.
Q5. Do I need to give my puppy supplements?
Not usually if you’re feeding a complete, balanced puppy food. Supplements should only be given under veterinary guidance.
Q6. Why is my puppy not eating much?
It could be teething, stress, or illness. Try mixing in wet food or a tasty topper and monitor closely. If it persists, visit your vet.
Q7. How do I know if my puppy is getting enough food?
You should be able to feel (but not see) your puppy’s ribs, and they should have a noticeable waist. Monitor weight and energy levels weekly.
Final Thoughts
Feeding your puppy the right food is one of the best investments in their future health and happiness.
Your puppy only gets one chance to grow up strong—make it count with smart feeding choices from the start.
