Walking into a pet store to choose a puppy food can feel like a test you didn’t study for. Every bag has beautiful pictures and promises of perfect health, but the ingredient lists are long and confusing. How do you know which claims are just marketing and which ones actually matter? The key is learning to read the label like an expert. Understanding what to look for—and what to avoid—is the most important skill you can develop as a new puppy parent. This guide will simplify everything. We’ll break down the essential ingredients, explain what the “guaranteed analysis” really means, and show you how to spot a truly great, vet recommended puppy food that will nourish your growing companion.
Key Takeaways
- Puppy Food is Non-Negotiable: A puppy’s rapid growth requires a diet high in calories, protein, and specific nutrients like DHA. Adult dog food is designed for maintenance and won’t provide the essential building blocks your new companion needs for healthy development.
- Become a Label Expert: The best foods list a real meat source, like chicken or lamb, as the first ingredient and have an AAFCO seal confirming the formula is “complete and balanced” for a puppy’s growth stage.
- Choose Food Based on Breed Size: Small and large breed puppies have very different needs. Small breed formulas offer calorie-dense, tiny kibble, while large breed foods control growth with specific mineral levels to protect developing joints.
Puppy vs. Adult Dog Food: What’s the Difference?
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, and one of the first things on your to-do list is figuring out what to feed them. You might wonder if you can just give them a smaller portion of an adult dog’s food, but the answer is a definite no. Puppy food and adult dog food are formulated very differently because puppies and adult dogs have completely different nutritional needs. Think of your puppy as a tiny athlete in training; their body is growing at an incredible rate, building everything from strong bones to a healthy brain.
To fuel all that development, puppy food is packed with more calories, protein, and fat than adult formulas. It’s also enriched with specific nutrients that are vital for growth. According to what vets recommend, key ingredients like DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) are crucial for brain and eye development, while carefully balanced levels of calcium and phosphorus help build a strong skeletal system. Adult dog food, on the other hand, is designed for maintenance. It has fewer calories and different nutrient ratios to help a grown dog maintain a healthy weight, not to support the explosive growth your puppy is experiencing.
Why Your Growing Puppy Needs Special Nutrients
A puppy’s first year is a period of intense development, and their diet is the foundation for a long and healthy life. Their little bodies are working overtime, and they need a specific blend of high-quality ingredients to keep up. This isn’t just about getting bigger; it’s about developing a strong immune system, healthy organs, and robust muscles. That’s why specially formulated puppy food is so important. It provides the balanced vitamins and essential fats they need to thrive. You’ll want to keep your new companion on puppy food until they reach maturity, which is typically around one year of age. For some larger breeds, this can extend up to two years. To learn more about your specific pup, check out our breed information guides.
More Calories, More Often: A Puppy’s Diet
Puppies have tiny stomachs but burn through energy like little furnaces. Because they can’t eat a lot in one sitting, they need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. For puppies under six months old, it’s best to feed them three to four small meals spread throughout the day. This keeps their energy levels stable and ensures they’re getting the calories they need without overwhelming their digestive system. As they get a bit older, you can gradually transition them to two meals a day. Don’t be surprised if your puppy still seems hungry after finishing a meal; their high metabolism means they might genuinely need a little extra food to feel satisfied.
What Do Vets Say? Choosing a Quality Puppy Food
Walking into a pet store can feel overwhelming. With countless bags of puppy food lining the shelves, all promising the best nutrition, how do you choose the right one for your new best friend? The best way to cut through the noise is to listen to the experts: veterinarians. Vets base their recommendations on science, research, and years of experience, focusing on what will truly help your puppy grow up healthy and strong. They can help you understand the key factors that matter most, from specific ingredients to trusted brand history. Making an informed choice now sets the foundation for a lifetime of health for the newest member of your family.
Look for the AAFCO Seal of Approval
Here’s a simple first step that makes a huge difference: flip the bag over and look for a specific statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). You should see wording that says the food is “complete and balanced” for a puppy’s growth. AAFCO sets the nutritional standards for pet food in the United States. While they don’t technically “approve” or endorse specific brands, this statement is your assurance that the food meets the minimum nutritional requirements your puppy needs to thrive. It’s a non-negotiable seal of quality that vets recommend you look for on any food you consider.
Why Quality Ingredients and Brand Trust Matter
Beyond the AAFCO statement, the quality of the ingredients inside the bag is what truly counts. Growing puppies need a diet rich in high-quality, easily digestible proteins and beneficial fats to build strong muscles and support their developing systems. Vets often recommend brands that invest heavily in scientific research and have a long track record of quality control. These companies formulate their recipes based on proven nutritional science, not just marketing trends. They prioritize whole ingredients and avoid unnecessary fillers or common allergens that can upset a puppy’s sensitive stomach. Trusting a brand with a solid reputation gives you peace of mind that you’re providing a safe and nutritious meal.
Match the Food to Your Puppy’s Life Stage
Puppy-specific food is essential—it’s not just a smaller kibble. A growing puppy’s body is working overtime, and their food is the fuel for that development. Puppy formulas are packed with more calories, protein, and fat to support this rapid growth. They also contain higher levels of crucial nutrients like DHA for brain and eye development, plus carefully balanced calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth. Your puppy should stay on this special food until they are at least one year old. For some larger dogs, your vet may recommend a puppy formula for up to two years. Knowing your specific breed information will help you and your vet create the perfect feeding plan.
Vet-Approved: Top Puppy Food Brands to Consider
Walking down the pet food aisle can feel overwhelming, but you can simplify your choice by starting with brands that veterinarians consistently trust. These companies invest heavily in research, quality control, and nutritional science to create formulas that support your puppy from their very first bite. While every puppy is unique, these five brands have earned a reputation for excellence and are a fantastic starting point for finding the perfect food for your new family member. They offer a variety of formulas tailored to different needs, ensuring you can find a great match.
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy
Hill’s Science Diet is a name you’ll hear often in vet offices, and for good reason. The brand is built on extensive scientific research, and its puppy formula is a perfect example of that dedication. It’s packed with a clinically proven blend of antioxidants to help build a strong immune system from the start. Plus, it uses high-quality protein as a primary ingredient to support healthy muscle growth, which is crucial for all the playing and exploring your little one will be doing. This is a solid, science-backed choice that gives your puppy a foundation for lifelong health.
Royal Canin Puppy Formulas
Royal Canin takes a highly specialized approach to puppy nutrition, offering formulas tailored to a puppy’s specific size and stage of development. They understand that a tiny Yorkie has very different needs than a growing Golden Retriever. Their food is designed with the right kibble size for your puppy’s jaw, making it easier to chew and digest. The nutritional profile is precisely balanced to support healthy growth, a shiny coat, and healthy skin. This attention to detail makes it an excellent option for ensuring your specific puppy breed gets exactly what it needs during these critical early months.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy
Developed by a team of over 500 scientists, including veterinarians and nutritionists, Purina Pro Plan is another top-tier choice. Their puppy formulas are specifically designed to strengthen the immune system while promoting the development of lean muscle. One of the standout features is the inclusion of live probiotics, which are fantastic for supporting digestive health and ensuring your puppy’s tummy stays happy. If you’re looking for a food that combines high-quality nutrition with a focus on gut health, Purina Pro Plan is a reliable and popular option among pet owners and professionals alike.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy
For puppy parents who prioritize natural ingredients, Blue Buffalo is a go-to brand. Their “Life Protection” formula starts with real deboned meat, like chicken or lamb, as the very first ingredient. It’s rounded out with wholesome whole grains, garden vegetables, and fruit. What’s also important is what they leave out: you won’t find any poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors and preservatives. This commitment to high-quality, natural ingredients provides the essential vitamins and minerals your puppy needs for overall health and well-being, which is a top priority we discuss in our FAQs.
Wellness Complete Health Puppy
Wellness focuses on creating natural, thoughtfully sourced recipes. Their Complete Health puppy food is made with high-quality proteins and wholesome grains, providing a balanced diet for your growing pup. They also offer excellent grain-free and limited-ingredient options, which can be a lifesaver for puppies that show signs of food sensitivities or allergies. If your puppy has a sensitive stomach, the simple, high-quality ingredient list in a Wellness formula can make a world of difference. This brand is a fantastic choice for owners seeking a premium, natural food that caters to specific dietary needs.
The “Must-Have” Ingredients for Your Puppy’s Food
Walking down the pet food aisle can feel overwhelming, with countless bags all promising the best for your new friend. So, how do you cut through the noise? It starts with learning to read the label and knowing which ingredients are non-negotiable for a growing pup. Think of it like building a house—you need the highest quality materials for a strong foundation. For your puppy, that foundation is built with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals.
Choosing the right food is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your puppy’s long-term health. Their bodies are growing at an incredible rate, and the fuel you provide directly impacts everything from their bone structure to their brain development. While every puppy is unique, and you can find more specific breed information to understand their individual needs, there are a few key ingredients that every quality puppy food should contain. We’ll break down the top three “must-haves” to look for on the ingredient list, so you can feel confident you’re giving your new companion the best possible start in life.
Always Look for Real Meat First
The single most important thing to look for on a puppy food label is a high-quality protein source listed as the very first ingredient. This means you should see a whole meat, like “deboned chicken,” “lamb,” or “beef,” right at the top. This is crucial because protein provides the essential amino acids your puppy needs to build strong muscles and tissues. Vague terms like “meat by-products” are less ideal, as the quality can be inconsistent. By choosing a food that prioritizes real meat, you’re ensuring your pup gets the digestible, high-quality protein they need to thrive during their critical growth phase.
Fuel Brain Development with DHA
You’ve probably heard about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for humans, and they’re just as important for your puppy. Specifically, look for DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) on the ingredient list. This powerhouse nutrient is a key component in the development of the brain and eyes. A diet rich in DHA helps support cognitive growth, which can lead to a more trainable and alert puppy. It’s naturally found in mother’s milk, so a good puppy food will include sources like fish oil to continue providing this essential building block for a sharp and healthy mind. It’s a simple ingredient that makes a huge difference in their early development.
Build Strong Bones with Calcium and Phosphorus
Puppies seem to grow overnight, and their skeletal system is working hard to keep up. To support this rapid growth, they need the right balance of minerals, especially calcium and phosphorus. These two work together to build strong bones and teeth. Puppy-specific formulas are carefully crafted to contain higher levels of these essential nutrients than adult dog food. This precise balance is vital; too much or too little can lead to developmental issues, particularly in larger breeds. Always choose a food formulated for puppies to ensure their growing frame gets the exact support it needs to become a strong, healthy adult.
Ingredients to Avoid in Your Puppy’s Bowl
Just as important as knowing what to look for in your puppy’s food is knowing what to avoid. The ingredient list on a bag of puppy food can be long and confusing, but a few key red flags are easy to spot once you know what they are. Choosing a food free from unnecessary additives and low-quality fillers helps set your new friend up for a lifetime of good health, a shiny coat, and boundless energy.
Think of it as becoming a savvy shopper for your pet. By learning to identify ingredients that offer little to no nutritional value, you can ensure every bite your puppy takes is packed with goodness. High-quality food supports everything from their immune system to their cognitive development. Let’s walk through the main ingredients that have no place in your puppy’s bowl, so you can feel confident in the food you choose.
Say No to Artificial Colors and Preservatives
Have you ever noticed how some kibbles have bright, colorful specks? Those colors are for you, not your puppy. Dogs don’t care if their food is red, green, or brown, but manufacturers add artificial dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 2 to make the product more appealing to human eyes. These additives provide zero nutritional benefits and can sometimes trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities. Instead, look for foods that use natural preservatives like mixed tocopherols (a source of Vitamin E) or rosemary extract to maintain freshness. A top-tier puppy food relies on the quality of its ingredients, not artificial enhancements, to prove its worth.
Steer Clear of Fillers and By-Products
Fillers are cheap ingredients used to add bulk to pet food without adding much nutritional value. Common fillers include corn, wheat gluten, and soy. While not all grains are bad, these specific ingredients are often linked to digestive issues and allergies in puppies. Similarly, be cautious of generic terms like “meat and bone meal” or “animal by-products.” These can include a mix of low-quality parts that you wouldn’t typically choose for your pet. A quality food will always name its protein source specifically, like “deboned chicken” or “lamb meal.” Knowing your puppy’s specific dietary needs, which can vary by breed type, will help you select a food with the right ingredients.
How to Spot Common Food Allergens
Just like people, puppies can have food allergies or sensitivities. The most common culprits are often proteins like beef, chicken, dairy, and wheat. While these ingredients are perfectly healthy for most dogs, they can cause problems for others. If your puppy is constantly scratching, has recurring ear infections, or experiences digestive upset, a food allergy could be the cause. When you first bring your puppy home, it’s wise to start with a food that has a simple, limited ingredient list. This makes it easier to pinpoint any potential allergens if an issue arises. If you have questions about your puppy’s health, our FAQs page is a great resource for new pet parents.
Does Size Matter? Matching Food to Your Puppy’s Breed
When you walk down the pet food aisle, you’ll notice bags labeled for “small breeds,” “large breeds,” and everything in between. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick—a puppy’s nutritional needs are dramatically different depending on their projected adult size. A tiny Yorkshire Terrier has a completely different developmental path than a Golden Retriever, and their food should reflect that.
Think of it this way: small breeds mature much faster, while large breeds have a long, slow journey to their full size. The right food provides the precise building blocks they need at the right time. It ensures their bones, joints, and organs develop correctly. Choosing a formula tailored to your puppy’s size category is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. From the size of the kibble to the specific balance of calories and minerals, the right food sets the foundation for a happy, healthy life. Whether you’re bringing home a tiny teacup or a gentle giant, we can help you find the perfect match in our pet boutique.
Feeding Your Small Breed Puppy
Small breed puppies, like Pomeranians or French Bulldogs, are little bundles of energy with fast metabolisms. They burn through calories quickly and need nutrient-dense food to keep up. Because their stomachs are tiny, they benefit from smaller, more frequent meals. Look for a high-quality puppy food specifically formulated for small or toy breeds. A key feature of these formulas is the kibble size; it’s made to be smaller, making it much easier for their little jaws to chew and digest properly. Brands like Royal Canin offer excellent formulas that cater to these unique requirements, ensuring your little one gets the right concentration of protein, fat, and carbohydrates without overfilling their tiny tummy. You can learn more about your puppy’s specific needs by checking out our breed-specific information.
Nutritional Needs of Large Breed Puppies
For large breed puppies, such as Labradors or Bernese Mountain Dogs, the goal is slow and steady growth. If they grow too quickly, it can put immense strain on their developing skeletal system, potentially leading to joint problems later in life. That’s why choosing a food specifically for large breed puppies is so critical. These formulas are carefully designed with lower levels of fat, calcium, and phosphorus to manage their growth rate. This controlled approach helps ensure their bones and joints form correctly and can support their future weight. Never feed a large breed puppy a standard puppy food, as it can accelerate their growth to a dangerous degree. Providing the right foundation is key to a long and active life.
How to Read a Puppy Food Label Like a Pro
Walking down the pet food aisle can feel overwhelming. The bags are covered in marketing claims, cute puppy photos, and lists of ingredients that look like they belong in a science textbook. But once you know what to look for, reading a puppy food label is actually pretty straightforward. Think of it as a cheat sheet for your puppy’s health. By focusing on two key areas—the guaranteed analysis and the ingredient list—you can confidently choose a food that will help your new best friend thrive.
Learning to decipher these labels is one of the best skills you can develop as a pet parent. It allows you to see past the flashy packaging and make an informed decision based on what’s actually inside the bag. This ensures your puppy gets the high-quality nutrition they need during their most critical growth period. Let’s break down exactly what you should be looking for.
Decode the “Guaranteed Analysis” Section
The “Guaranteed Analysis” is the box on the label that lists the minimum percentages of crude protein and fat, and the maximum percentages of crude fiber and moisture. While these numbers are helpful, the most important thing to find in this area is the nutritional adequacy statement. You’re looking for a sentence that says the food is “formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.”
AAFCO, or the Association of American Feed Control Officials, sets the standards for pet food. A “complete and balanced” statement means the food contains all the essential nutrients your growing puppy requires. It’s the gold standard for ensuring your puppy’s daily meals are supporting their overall health, from their bones to their brain.
Understand What the Ingredient List Tells You
This is where you can really see the quality of the food. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so the first few items make up the majority of the recipe. The very first ingredient should always be a high-quality, real meat source, like deboned chicken, beef, or fish. This provides the essential protein your puppy needs to build strong muscles.
Beyond protein, look for other powerhouse ingredients. Healthy fats like omega fatty acids support skin and coat health, while DHA is crucial for brain and eye development. You also want to see easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, brown rice, or oats. Steer clear of foods that list fillers like corn or soy, by-products, or artificial colors and preservatives high on the list. The more whole, recognizable ingredients you see, the better.
Switching Foods? Here’s How to Do It Safely
So, you’ve decided to change your puppy’s food. Whether you’re upgrading their diet or transitioning them from what the breeder provided, making the switch requires a little patience. A puppy’s digestive system is sensitive, and a sudden change can lead to an upset stomach. The good news is that a slow and steady approach makes the process smooth and keeps your new best friend feeling great. By following a few simple steps, you can introduce a new food without any tummy troubles.
Follow the 7-Day Transition Rule
The golden rule for switching puppy food is to do it gradually over a week to ten days. A sudden swap can shock your puppy’s system, so a slow transition is key. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food—about 25%—with 75% of their old food. Every couple of days, adjust the ratio. Increase the new food a little more while decreasing the old. This gives their digestive system time to adapt. By the end of the week, you should be feeding them 100% of the new formula. This simple method is the best way to prevent digestive upset and ensure your pup happily accepts their new meals.
Watch for Tummy Troubles and Warning Signs
Keep a close eye on your puppy during the transition period. A little bit of gas can be normal, but you’ll want to watch for more serious signs of digestive distress. If you notice your puppy has diarrhea, starts vomiting, or seems weak or lethargic, it’s a sign that the transition might be moving too quickly or the food isn’t agreeing with them. If these symptoms appear, it’s best to contact your veterinarian for advice. While true food allergies are uncommon in young puppies, issues like excessive itching or tummy troubles can sometimes point to other things. Our team is always here to answer questions, and you can find more information on our FAQs page.
Common Puppy Feeding Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s greatest joys, but it also comes with a lot of questions, especially around feeding. It’s easy to make a few missteps when you’re staring into those adorable, hungry eyes. Don’t worry—we’ve all been there! The good news is that establishing healthy eating habits from day one is straightforward once you know what to look out for.
Getting feeding right is about more than just filling a bowl; it’s about setting your new companion up for a long, healthy, and happy life. A proper diet supports everything from bone growth and brain development to a shiny coat and boundless energy. Every puppy is unique, and their specific dietary needs can vary based on their size and energy levels. It’s always helpful to understand your puppy’s specific breed information to better tailor their diet. From choosing the right food to getting the portions just right, these early decisions make a huge difference. Let’s walk through two of the most common feeding mistakes new puppy parents make and cover the simple ways to correct them, ensuring your furry friend gets the best possible start.
The Dangers of Overfeeding
It’s so tempting to give your puppy extra treats or a bigger scoop of food, especially when they look at you with that “I’m still hungry” face. However, overfeeding is one of the biggest risks to a growing puppy’s health. Puppy food is specially formulated to be dense in calories, fat, and protein to fuel their rapid growth. While essential, this also means a little extra goes a long way and can quickly lead to unhealthy weight gain.
Instead of free-feeding or guessing portion sizes, start by following the guidelines on your puppy food bag, which are based on age and weight. Pay attention to your puppy’s body condition—you should be able to feel their ribs but not see them. If your puppy still seems hungry after a meal, it’s okay to add a tiny bit more, but be mindful to avoid starting a habit of overindulgence.
Why a Consistent Schedule Is Key
Puppies thrive on routine, and their digestive systems are no exception. A consistent feeding schedule helps regulate their digestion, making potty training much easier because you’ll have a better idea of when they need to go outside. It also prevents them from feeling anxious about when their next meal is coming. For a young puppy under six months, it’s best to feed them three or four small meals spread throughout the day.
As they mature, you can transition to two meals a day—one in the morning and one in the evening. The key is consistency. Try to serve their food at the same times each day in the same spot. This simple routine provides a sense of security and structure that helps your new puppy feel safe and settled in their new home. If you need help creating the perfect schedule, our Puppy Concierge is always here to help you prepare.
When Is It Time to Switch to Adult Dog Food?
That little fluffball sprinting around your living room won’t be a puppy forever. One of the most common questions new pet parents have is when to make the switch from puppy food to an adult formula. It’s a great question, because timing this transition correctly is key to setting your dog up for a long, healthy life. Puppy food is specially designed with extra calories, protein, and fat to fuel their incredible growth spurts. It’s also packed with essential nutrients like DHA for brain development and the right balance of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones.
Once your puppy reaches maturity, their nutritional needs change. They stop growing and become less active, so continuing to feed them high-calorie puppy food can lead to unhealthy weight gain. Adult dog food is formulated for maintenance, providing all the necessary nutrients without the extra calories designed for growth. The tricky part is that there’s no single magic age for every dog. The right time to switch depends on their breed and individual signs of maturity. Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through exactly what to look for.
Know the Guidelines for Your Puppy’s Breed
The most important factor in determining when to switch foods is your dog’s breed size. Different breeds mature at vastly different rates, so a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t work. Getting familiar with your puppy’s specific breed characteristics is the best place to start.
Generally, small breeds mature the fastest and can be ready to transition to adult food between 9 and 12 months of age. Medium-sized dogs usually hit maturity around the 12-month mark. Large and giant breeds, however, take much longer to fully develop. They may need to stay on puppy food for 18 months or even up to two years to ensure their bones and joints are properly supported throughout their extended growth period. Many brands offer breed-specific formulas with appropriate kibble sizes and nutrient profiles to make this even easier.
Look for These Signs of Maturity
While breed guidelines give you a great starting point, you should also pay close attention to your individual dog. Puppies don’t just wake up one day as adults; it’s a gradual process. One of the clearest signs is that their growth will slow down significantly. They’ll reach their full adult height, though they may continue to fill out and build muscle for a few more months.
Veterinary experts explain that this is the point when their caloric needs decrease. You might also notice a slight shift in their energy levels—they may still love to play, but the frantic, non-stop puppy energy starts to settle down. Typically, this happens anywhere from 6 to 14 months for most dogs, but again, it can be later for larger breeds. Watching for these physical cues will help you pinpoint the perfect time to begin transitioning to an adult diet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
My puppy always seems hungry after meals. Does this mean I should feed them more? It’s completely normal for a growing puppy to have a big appetite! Their metabolisms are working overtime. However, it’s important to resist the urge to constantly top off their bowl. Puppy food is very calorie-dense, and overfeeding can lead to unhealthy weight gain that puts stress on their developing joints. Start by following the portion guidelines on the food bag, and then watch your puppy’s body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs easily but not see them. If you’re concerned, a quick chat with your vet can help you find the perfect portion size.
There are so many good brands. How do I choose the single best one for my puppy? Finding the perfect food can feel like a huge decision, but you can simplify it. First, narrow your options to formulas designed for your puppy’s specific breed size—small, medium, or large. This is the most critical factor. From there, look at the ingredient list. Choose a food that lists a real, whole protein like chicken or lamb as the first ingredient. The “best” food is ultimately the one that meets these quality standards and that your individual puppy thrives on, showing good energy levels and a healthy coat.
Is it okay to give my puppy table scraps or human food as a treat? As tempting as it is to share your dinner when they give you those puppy-dog eyes, it’s best to avoid it. Many human foods are too rich, fatty, or salty for a puppy’s sensitive digestive system, and some, like onions or chocolate, are toxic. Giving them table scraps can also encourage picky eating and begging habits down the road. It’s much safer and healthier to stick with high-quality treats that are specifically formulated for a growing puppy’s nutritional needs.
What should I do if my puppy refuses to eat the food I’ve chosen? A puppy turning their nose up at food can be stressful. First, make sure they aren’t feeling unwell; a sudden loss of appetite is always worth a call to the vet. If they get a clean bill of health, it might just be a case of preference. You can try adding a small amount of warm water to the kibble to enhance the aroma. If you decide to switch brands, remember to do it very gradually over a week to avoid upsetting their stomach, mixing a little of the new food in with the old.
When exactly do I switch from puppy food to adult food? The right time to make the switch depends entirely on your dog’s breed size, as they all mature at different rates. Small breeds are typically ready between 9 and 12 months old. Medium-sized dogs usually make the transition right around their first birthday. For large and giant breeds, you’ll want to keep them on a puppy formula much longer, often until they are 18 to 24 months old, to support their prolonged bone and joint development.
