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Puppies grow fast. Pet owners need to understand their pets’ nutrition and dietary needs so that they can take care of their tiny canines. How much do you feed a puppy regularly? Puppy’s age, breed size, and body mass index have the answer to this question. Puppy feeding also relates to the pet’s health condition and activity level. Time- and food-restricted meals make puppy feeding controlled. This blog discusses a complete puppy feeding chart that helps puppy owners understand how often to feed a puppy.
Puppy Nutrition Explained
During the initial 365 days, puppies grow at a fast pace. This period ensures puppies grow up with strong bones and muscles. From protein to calories to nutrients, everything plays a big role. That is why a puppy feeding guide solves the issue of nutritional needs.
- Carbohydrates for remaining active and playful.
- Fats for energizing brain development.
- Min 22–32% protein for muscle growth.
- Minerals for better immunity.
- Vitamins for vision.
- Calcium for dental and bone health.
Puppies’ Daily Feeding Schedule
Budding puppies always feel starved. They have small stomachs, but they need high energy. Moreover, they eat in small portions but frequently. Below is a daily feeding schedule for puppies.
| Puppy Age | Meals Per Day | Example Timing |
| 6–12 weeks | 4 | 2 in the morning; 2 in the evening |
| 3–6 months | 3 | 1 in the morning; 2 in the evening |
| 6–12 months | 2 | 1 in the morning; 1 in the evening |
| 1 year+ | 1–2 | Morning and evening |
(Source: AAFCO, American Kennel Club)
As a pet owner, maintain regularity in puppy feeding times.
Food Portions to Feed a Puppy
Like humans, puppies should eat as per fixed schedules. The right answer is that the amount of food for the puppy depends on various factors. Here, consider the weight, age, and size. Moreover, this consideration should match caloric needs. Look at the puppy food portions by age, shared below according to weight.
| Weight | Daily Food Quantity | Age (Months) |
| 1–4 kg | ½–1 cup | 2–4 |
| 5–10 kg | 1–1½ | 2–6 |
| 11–25 kg | 1½–2½ | 2–6 |
| 26–40 kg | 2½–4 | 2–6 |
| 40+ kg | 4–6 | 2–6 |
(Source: AAFCO, American Kennel Club)
Always follow vet-approved guidelines. Also consider the puppies’ body condition score to adjust the food portion. Consistency in feeding time is the secret to developing good habits, and yes, a tiny celebration with a mini dog cupcake now and then is wonderful for a growing pup!
Picking the Better: Wet Food vs. Dry Food
Dry and wet foods for dogs come with different pros. You can feed puppies with any one of them. In addition, vets also suggest a mixed portion of both food types for a better balance. It is ideal to have 1/3 of dry food with 1/4 of wet food. Get rid of excessive calories. Again, the bigger question is what should I feed my puppy? Many puppy owners always ask the same question. Here comes an ideal table showing the usefulness of both foods for puppies.
| Type | Benefits | Considerations |
| Dry Food (Kibble) | Supports dental health Easy to store, Cost-effective | May lack moisture Ensure water access |
| Wet Food (Canned) | Hydrating Palatable for picky eaters | Expensive Spoils faster |
| Mixed food | Balanced nutrition Taste | Portion adjustment No overfeeding |
(Source: AAFCO, American Kennel Club)
When it comes to transitioning puppies to a new food, do it gradually. It is vital to prevent stomach upset in pets. For the first two days, 75% old food and 25% new food should be introduced. Then, make the ratio of new and old food 50:50. After a week, increase the amount of new food to 75%. Next, 100% new food is ok.
5. Feeding Your Puppy Like a Professional
The health and growth of any puppy require some changes. It is possible with some small adjustments. As a dog owner, you need to know what goes in your puppy’s favor.
- Set a feeding routine to make pets acclimatized to the fixed schedules.
- Feed pets in a quiet area regularly.
- Don’t introduce human food to puppies. It may upset their digestion.
- Watch the body condition of pets regularly.
- Introduce slow-feeder bowls to avoid bloating and choking risks.
- Track pets’ weight thrice a month during the first 6 months.
- Keep the dog hydrated at regular intervals.
- Flat mats may help puppies slow down food naturally.
6. Homemade Puppy Food (Optional)
Busy pet owners have to feed puppies with outside food due to their tight professional and social schedules. If they can invest time in the kitchen, home-cooked meals can do wonders. Don’t forget to follow veterinary guidance to make nutrient-rich food with no deficiencies.
- 10% healthy fats from fish and olive oil
- 30% sweet potato and cooked rice
- Vet-approved calcium supplement
- 1/4th boiled chicken for high protein
- 1/5th steamed vegetables, including carrots
It is a homemade meal for a puppy weighing 10 kg. Apart from homemade food, you also have other options from online bakeries. Try healthy dog treats.
Opt for dog cakes to add freshness to the regular diet.
Conclusion
Proper puppy feeding keeps your pet active and happy. Try the above shared puppy feeding guide for a balanced diet to support the puppy’s growth and immunity.
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