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Feeding Schedule
Previously the norm was to feed a puppy only one time a day, but now it has been observed that it is better to feed smaller amounts about four times a day.
You should continue to feed the same puppy food for some time - a week or so - even if you plan to change to a different type of food; and switch to the new diet schedule gradually to prevent intestinal upset. Puppy-hood is a time of rapid development and they require nearly double the amount of nutrients than older dogs. A puppy has to be fed a specific amount 3 times a day at regular intervals until he is 6 months old. His increasing size will automatically change the daily intake of food. He may also occasionally ‘go off his food’ when cutting new teeth. Do not get panicky. If the kibble is a hard crunchy food then try wetting it with some water for about an hour to soften it before feeding.
A few important facts :
- Left-over scraps are a definite no:
Dogs have a tendency to "beg" at the dinner table, but do not offer it to them as it could cause gastrointestinal problems. Table scraps fill them up, but do not provide the nutrients their rapidly growing bodies need.
- Cow's milk can cause problems: Dogs do not have the enzyme lactase that is necessary to digest milk. They often develop diarrohea or softer stools when given it. Dogs also do not need fresh milk. Water: Puppies as compared to dogs need ample water because they are growing. It is okay to schedule when your puppy drinks on a daily basis, but you must allow it to consume whenever it needs.
Providing fresh water is important to reduce the risk of diseases such as leptospirosis, giardia.
Feeding schedule outlined-
- The first eight weeks: Puppies should be fed on their mother’s milk till they are 8 weeks old to provide them with the nutrition and antibodies they need to become healthy dogs. At three to four weeks, they can start eating some solid food. Try mixing three parts food with one part water to make the food easily digestible. The puppy will easily adjust if it starts on solids before coming home.
- Six to eight weeks:- Your puppy will eat 3-4 times a day. Be sure to provide it with the right amount of protein and calcium. Meat should be introduced now.
- After 8 weeks:- Food to be given only twice a day.
- 3 to 6 months:- Like any other baby, your puppy might create a fuss over food, as it will be teething now, but continue giving it nutritious food twice a day.
- 6 to 10 months year:- The puppy should still be fed on puppy food for added nutrition during the entire first year. Consult a vet as to when to switch to adult food. Make sure the adult food is a balanced diet with the first ingredient being meat.
- 10 months to one year:- Feeding can be reduced to once a day.
- 2 years:-
Smaller breeds can start on adult food when they are a year old. Larger breeds should stay on puppy food until they are fully mature which is about 2 years. Ask your vet when to put your dog off puppy food.