As soon as you reach a pet food shop, you will become overwhelmed due to the numerous options you can find, especially if you own a puppy. Back in the day, cat and dog foods were utterly different due to their limited amounts. 

However, the industry became more involved and popular due to increased dog owners, which is why you can find a wide array of options available on the market. Some of them come with specialized diet formulas that will ensure your puppy’s health.

We recommend you to check here to learn more about the dogs’ nutrient requirements. 

The main goal is to understand your nutritional requirements before you make up your mind. Remember that each puppy is different and comes with specific needs, nutritional health, feeding schedule, and other factors.

That is why you should talk with a veterinarian or breeder to ensure the best course of action. Another important question most people ask is how long they should give a puppy food. 

In the further article, we wish to explain a timeline of dietary needs until it reaches the first year.

Let us start from the beginning.

A First-Year Timeline

• 6-12 Weeks – Throughout this period, growing puppies should eat specific food for them. Therefore, they will have unique requirements, which will help you ensure their development. If you give it adult dog food, you will reduce the number of nutrients it requires. It is vital to do it at least four times a day to ensure the best course of action. If you own a large breed, you should implement dry food by the ninth week, while small dogs should start consuming dry food by the twelfth week.
• 3-6 Moths – Remember that you should reduce the number of meals to three dailies throughout this period, which is essential to ensure the best development. As a result, a puppy will lose pudginess and potbelly after the twelfth week. It would be best to feed it with properly-sized portions until it reaches body maturity.
• 6-12 Months – It is vital to reduce meals to twice daily. During this period, you should neuter or spay your canine friend, which will reduce energy requirements. After a procedure, you should implement adult maintenance food. If you have a large breed, you should start making a switch at the twelfth month, while small ones should switch at the seventh. It is better to provide your dog with puppy nutrients longer than it should instead of not long enough, which is an essential consideration to remember.

It is vital to visit this link: petnewsandviews.com to learn about the best toys you can offer to your dog. 

How Much Food Should You Give to a Puppy?

The best way to determine the amount of food you should give to your puppy is by watching it react to it. Everything depends on its body condition, which is why you should avoid watching the dish and urging it to eat everything.

You can create portion sizes based on specific body type, metabolism, requirements that vary based on the particular situation. If your puppy skips a particular meal, you can rest assured because it will always eat based on its needs. 

Therefore, you should reduce the number of meals, which will help you get a healthy puppy.

At the same time, you should start with treat-based training, which will help you create a specific mealtime based on your situation. As soon as you train it with treats, it would be best to keep it small and practical.

How Often Should You Do It?

From the very start, puppies require small meals more frequently each day. At the same time, you should find food that features specific nutrients. 

Keep in mind that most of them will finish their meals fast, which means you should find ways to discourage bad habits by feeding them on schedule with regular amounts.

The best way is to ask a breeder for guidance or visit a vet to determine the nutrient requirements.

Wet, Dry, or Both?

Numerous companies have developed formulas that can help both small and large-breed dogs. Still, you should be aware and careful because dogs should have a balanced diet to the ensure right amount of nutrients. Canned food is expensive but more likable for dogs.

You can also find semi-moist options that are in single-serving packets. The most economical option is kibble, which will ensure a balance for dogs, but you should check out the recommendations beforehand.