The owner’s main task is to provide the puppy with the most balanced nutrition possible. While the baby is growing, he needs a diet that will provide the growing body with vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrates. It is at this age that the foundation of health is laid, with which the dog will live its entire life. Nutritional flaws during this period will definitely make themselves felt at a conscious age. From the article you will learn how to choose the right food, what to look for when choosing dry food, what are the feeding rules and much more.
Puppy Nutrition Basics
From the age of two months, the puppy begins to feed on its own; during this period, the diet should contain an increased percentage of proteins and fats. When feeding your puppy food, you must follow the following rules:
- serving size - do not overfeed the dog to avoid unnecessary stress on the internal organs and prevent early obesity. The portion is calculated based on the weight of the puppy - for each kilogram take 20 grams of dry food. If in doubt, you should check the table that each manufacturer places on the food packaging;
- An additional measure that helps to avoid obesity is that the food bowl is put out at the same time and removed immediately after the dog loses interest in food. In addition, it helps to develop a routine;
- soaking dry granules. It is permissible to soak them with water. Do not use fermented milk products or milk. This can cause gastrointestinal upset and lead to dehydration of the dog;
- Mixing with wet food is effective during the period when the puppy is changing teeth. Dry food becomes softer and does not injure the baby’s inflamed gums;
- change of feed. If the puppy was fed a specific brand at the breeder's house, it is necessary to provide him with similar nutrition. If you plan to change food, introduce it gradually - mixing part of the new food with a portion of the old one;
- number of feedings - up to 5 months, portions of dry food are given to the puppy up to 5 times a day, from six months they are switched to three meals a day. From the age of one year, the dog is fed twice a day;
- access to water. Clean, fresh water is a must when feeding your dog dry food.
Important: do not leave a bag of dry food in a place where a baby, or even an adult dog, can reach it and eat on their own. For babies, the granules are made very small; if inhaled, they can suffocate.
Dosage
How much dry food to give a puppy is determined according to the table placed by the manufacturers on the packaging. The daily norm is usually indicated there, which should be divided by the number of meals.
These data are approximate. How much a particular baby needs to eat is determined empirically. If the puppy quickly eats the offered portion and then actively licks the bowl, it means that he does not have enough, the portion should be increased slightly. If the dog regularly leaves some of the food, the amount of food offered should be reduced.
Also, when determining the individual norm, you should evaluate the puppy’s appearance and weight. The dog should be neither thin nor fat. However, it must be taken into account that during the period of rapid growth the puppy will increase in height and, accordingly, in the length of the body. In this state, babies do not gain weight even if the portion is increased. The puppy's height-to-weight ratio normalizes after it goes through the intensive growth stage.
Classification of dry food
All dry food on the market is usually divided into classes. The classification is not based on the cost of the feed, but depends on the quality of the ingredients used in the production of the feed and production technology.
Important: this division is conditional. There are no legally established norms and rules that define the requirements for a particular category. The division was proposed by veterinary specialists and breeders who know from their own experience what effect certain components have on the dog’s health.
Economy
From the name it becomes clear that this food is low in cost. It is due to the low cost of the ingredients used by the manufacturer. When choosing this type of food, you need to understand that it is absolutely not suitable for feeding a young dog.
A special feature of economy feeds is the presence of allergenic cheap ingredients: corn, soy, by-products. This type of food contains practically no meat; flavor enhancers are used, which are quickly addictive. In addition, the nutritional value of economy feed is very low, which will require a large consumption of pellets.
Premium
The composition of food for puppies with o is not much different from economy class. But you can already find higher quality ingredients in them. Distinctive features:
- more detailed composition;
- most often cereals come first, but meat components can also be found;
- artificial colors and preservatives are used;
- often found on the shelves of large supermarkets.
We can say that premium puppy food consists of only 30% meat (most of which is by-products, that is, production waste). About 65% is carbohydrates, and less than 10% is minerals and vitamins. This class is not suitable for young dogs.
Super premium
Distinctive features of the feed class are:
- presence on the packaging of a mark about the age, condition of the animal, breed;
- the packaging contains explanations of how this or that ingredient works and what effect it has on the dog’s health;
- detailed formula;
- up to 35% meat, a small proportion of offal;
- Fish is often found containing beneficial ingredients necessary for the puppy’s health;
- there are specialized useful additives that have a narrowly targeted effect - chondoprotectors, increased calcium content, etc.;
- only natural preservatives;
- no artificial colors or flavor enhancers are used;
- a variety of vitamin supplements.
Super premium food is suitable for feeding a young dog. Most often they are sold through a network of specialized pet stores and veterinary pharmacies.
Holistic
The holistic approach to medicine aims to prevent rather than cure disease. Dog food manufacturers have adopted this philosophy, believing that a balanced diet with the maximum amount of natural ingredients from different groups will help raise a healthy and strong puppy. This health will remain with him for the rest of his life.
Peculiarities:
- use of specific formulas;
- a lot of meat;
- use of phyto-components;
- natural preservatives.
These dog foods are quite expensive.
"Biological Compliance"
A class of dog food that has appeared relatively recently. The “biologically appropriate” label means that the manufacturer adheres to the point of view that the dog’s DNA is almost 99% identical to the DNA of the wolf. Even the smallest puppy's diet should contain meat, not grain and waste. In such food, the manufacturer tries to replicate the diet that a dog could get in the wild.
Don't feed your dog this: dangerous compounds in industrial feeds
When choosing food for your pet, you need to carefully read the composition of the food. harmful substances are hidden behind obscure abbreviations . Components familiar to humans may also be unsafe.
- Yeast has virtually no nutritional value and can cause an allergic reaction. Found in “Dibaq”, “Bozita” feeds, etc.
- Potassium chloride often causes gastrointestinal disorders. Found in “Perfect Fit”, “Advance”, “Bosch”.
- Animal/Poultry Fat - This ingredient is generally not quality controlled. Found in the products “True Friends”, “Provipet”, “Hill's Science Plan”.
Soy (can cause bloating), whey (a strong allergen) and sucrose (causes diarrhea), as well as digestates (additives made from unsuitable remains for food (hooves, horns, feathers, etc.)) are undesirable in the feed.
BHA (butylated hydroanisole; Butylated Hydroxyanisole, E 320) and BHT are hazardous to health - preservatives that can cause allergies and are harmful to the liver and kidneys; Sodium metabisulfite is again a preservative that has a bad effect on the nervous system. As well as a sweetener, ethylene glycol , and a flavor enhancer, sodium monoglutamate.
Attention! Manufacturers do not always accurately indicate the composition of the product, so it is important to monitor the condition of your pet.
Rating of the best dry food for puppies
The rating presents the best food for young dogs, according to veterinary experts and owners. Despite the fact that economy class food is not suitable for constant feeding of a puppy, we suggest considering ready-made diets for young dogs in this category.
Food for small breed puppies
Puppies of small decorative breeds grow faster than their relatives, who grow into giants. You should definitely choose food that has a mark on it - for puppies of small breeds. In addition, some manufacturers offer puppy diets divided by breed. For example, there are diets for Yorkshire terriers, French bulldogs, etc.
Bosch
The food belongs to the super-premium segment. The diet is based on chicken meat (about 26%). Rice and millet are the most gentle ingredients for the puppy’s stomach as a source of carbohydrates. The food granules are adapted to the size of the baby's mouth, and the special (not too dry) structure does not injure the delicate mucous membrane.
The food formula contains an increased percentage of fatty acids, which have a positive effect not only on the appearance, but also on the intellectual development of the dog.
The disadvantage of the food is the presence of components that can cause allergies.
ROYAL CANIN Size Mini Starter
Royal Canin Starter food is suitable not only for small breed puppies, but also for pregnant (nursing) bitches. A special feature of the ready-made diet is that it is intended for the little ones - you can start feeding the puppy with it from the moment it is weaned from its mother. The food formula is supplemented with special nutrients that will not cause harm to the baby’s gastrointestinal tract. The granules are easily soaked in water and have an attractive taste. They help the baby’s gastrointestinal tract painlessly transition from milk to porridge, and then granules.
Royal Canin dog food – reviews and analysis of the line
TRAINER Fitness (duck, rice)
Italian food intended for feeding dogs aged 3 months to one year. It is a complete monoprotein nutrition. The composition is based on: freeze-dried duck meat (20%) and rice (35%). Suitable for dogs prone to food allergies. Contains a special mix of herbs, roots and the patented Echinacea complex to protect the dog's growing body and activate immune processes.
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Small & Mini (chicken)
Special small granules contain:
- docosahexaenoic acid - for the development of the dog's brain;
- high-quality protein for muscle development;
- minerals for bone strength;
- a mixture of natural antioxidants.
Hill's dog food - complete review of the line
Food for medium breed puppies
Food for dogs that grow up to weigh 25-27 kg. These include Labrador, German Shepherd, Bull Terrier, English Bulldog, Husky, etc.
Monge (Puppy and junior)
Italian food Monge is suitable for puppies and young dogs. Suitable for animals from 2 months to 1 year. There are three flavors in the line for your pet to choose from: chicken, salmon, and lamb. Advantages:
- first place for meat ingredients - about 30% dehydrated meat and about 12% fresh;
- carbohydrates are represented by rice, beets and oats;
- rich vitamin supplement.
Cons : contains corn.
Monge food for dogs - reviews from veterinarians and a detailed analysis of the line
Eukanuba medium breed
The food is produced in the USA, Russia, and Holland. The composition practically does not change depending on whether the puppy is a small, medium or large breed. The choice of flavors includes chicken, rice and lamb. Carbohydrates are represented by corn, rice, and wheat. Rich vitamin component. The meat content reaches 35%. One of the disadvantages of the composition is the presence of corn, which can cause allergies in the baby.
Eukanuba dog food - reviews and composition analysis
SIRIUS for puppies and young dogs
The product from the Russian company is suitable for any puppies and young dogs under 12 months. Sirius brand food contains: pectin complex, chamomile, echinacea, dried cranberries, Yucca Schidigera. Only natural antioxidants are used. Ingredients: dehydrated meat 29% poultry and 8% lamb, rice, wheat, corn, dietary fiber, dry yeast, salmon fat, special ProStor Bio Care complex.
Sirius dog food – advantages and disadvantages, reviews from veterinarians
Brit Care Puppy (grain-free)
Grain-free food for puppies of all breeds with salmon and potatoes. The product does not contain chemical ingredients, GMOs or hormones. A daily portion of food satisfies all the needs of a young dog for vitamins and minerals. The pleasant aroma of salmon oil attracts even the most demanding animals with its natural aroma. The absence of grains allows the food to be quickly absorbed and does not cause bloating and flatulence. In addition, the product is suitable for puppies prone to allergies.
Brit dog food - expert reviews and detailed analysis of the composition
Food for large breed puppies
Food for puppies of such giants as Cane Corso, St. Bernard, Alabai, etc.
Grandorf
Holistic from Belgium is presented in two versions: from 3 weeks of age and from 4 months. It is based on lamb and rice, turkey. The meat component reaches 60%, because protein is so important for large dogs during the period of active growth. The carbohydrate component is rice and a complex of dried fruits. There are no synthetic additives or GMOs in the composition.
Grandorf dog food - full review of the line and reviews from experts
Acana Puppy and Junior
Akana dog food from Canada is suitable for puppies of all breeds. Contains 30% dehydrated meat (this can be turkey, chicken, lamb) and 10% bone meal. The peculiarity of Akana is its complex of dried vegetables, fruits and berries. In addition, it contains whole eggs, herring and flounder.
Akana dog food - full review of the line
Go
Gou is another holistic practitioner from Canada. The product is suitable for both puppies and adult dogs. The special feature is an interesting composition, including 4 types of meat, poultry, oatmeal flakes, and salmon. In addition, it contains dried vegetables, fruits and berries. The protein component reaches 60%.
Dog food GO!: analysis of ingredients, reviews from owners and veterinary specialists
Pedigree
Economy food from an American manufacturer. The puppy line starts at 6 months of age. It is from six months that the baby will be able to digest the amount of fiber that is named in the composition - more than 50%. And only 15% is protein. Nevertheless, the manufacturer is constantly among the sales leaders, since its food is available in any supermarket.
Dog food Pedigri - analysis of the recipe, reviews from owners and veterinarians
Instead of an epilogue
Based on the analysis of the market for the products in question, it was established that grain-free dog food samples are increasingly gaining popularity among consumers. Keeping them healthier can maintain your pet’s health in good condition, extend its lifespan, and provide tasty feeding. However, it is worth noting that the healthier the composition of the diet, the more expensive its cost. At the same time, it is also gratifying that the variability in packaging of goods is quite extensive, which allows you to choose the required volume at an adequate cost.
How much food to give a puppy
The table shows approximate serving sizes depending on the weight and age of the puppy. The feed portion is indicated in grams/day.
Important: It is recommended to check the table on the food packaging or consult a veterinarian.
The amount of food may vary depending on the health or activity of the dog (these tables are based on the recommendations of the ProPlan food manufacturer).
| Puppy weight | 1.5 - 3 months | 4 - 5 months | 6 - 8 months | 9 – 11 months | 12 – 24 months |
| 1 kg | 50-55 gr | 85-75 | — | — | — |
| 5 | 60-90 gr | 125-140 | 80 | 100 | 100-150 |
| 10 | 80-120 gr | 160-180 | 145 | 150 | 150-200 |
| 15 | 85-145 gr | 170-190 | 200-220 | 220 | 250-270 |
| 20 | 90-155 gr | 225-245 | 220-240 | 240-250 | 260-300 |
| 25 | 100-195 g | 260-310 | 300-355 | 355-370 | 380-420 |
| 35 | 110-215 g | 280-355 | 365-480 | 490-520 | 550 |
| 45 | 125-245 gr | 400-520 | 405-680 | 600-650 | 600-650 |
| 50 | 145-340 gr | 445-615 | 600-765 | 670-700 | 845-900 |
Top 6. Bosch Soft, buffalo with sweet potato
Rating (2021): 4.76
51 reviews taken into account from resources: OZON, Otzovik, IRecommend, CMP24, Magizoo
Unique semi-moist formula The humidity of Bosch Soft is 19 percent, which is several times higher than that of analogues. But, although the food is called semi-moist, it does not look like canned food. The granules are dry but soft.
Best for the picky and sensitive Thanks to this special formula, the diet has a rich taste, attractive even to the most picky people. And the soft texture makes it easier to chew and digest.
- Characteristics
Average price: RUB 1,712. for 2.5 kg
- Country: Germany
- Age and size: adult large breed dogs
- Flavor: buffalo
- Packing options, kg: 1; 2.5 and 12.5
- Proteins: 22%
- Fat: 12%
- Ash: 7.3%
Bosch Soft grain-free food for large breeds has an attractive smell and is liked by almost all dogs, making it a good choice for both regular feeding and training. Reviews show that it helps to better motivate your pet to follow commands. At the same time, soft kibble turns food not only into a gourmet’s dream, but also into an excellent solution for pets with sensitive digestion and oral problems.
The texture is more delicate than that of conventional dry diets, it is better digested, does not crush the gums and does not require strong teeth to chew it. At the same time, the food boasts a completely hypoallergenic monoprotein composition, which is based on 40% fresh buffalo meat. But it is worth keeping in mind that many dogs like Bosch Soft so much that they may overeat and gain weight. This is also facilitated by a high percentage of starch. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended feeding rates.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Ideal for training
- Suitable for high sensitivity
- Soft, easy to chew croquettes
- Monoprotein formula
- It is important not to overfeed
Reviews from dog owners
Oleg R. We buy Dog Chow food for dachshund puppies. We often have a foster puppy living in our house, which is given to us after mating. If the baby is very small, then we cancel Dog Chow and give ABBA wet food for a while.
Irina K. We have been buying Akana or Brit food for a long time. It is not always possible to find Acana in our stores. It is important for the breeder that the puppy is healthy, its fur is shiny and there are no problems with the gastrointestinal tract. There were no problems with these feeds.
Briefly about the main thing
- To feed a puppy you need to select a special diet.
- The choice is made from super premium and higher lines.
- Recommended portion sizes must be followed.
- The dog should always have water available to him.
We recommend choosing food from any of the manufacturers listed in the article that your puppy or young dog will like. What kind of food do our readers feed or did feed their pets when they were little? Share your opinion, please.
Top 5. NOW FRESH for senior dogs with turkey, duck, salmon and vegetables
Rating (2021): 4.76
89 reviews taken into account from resources: Yandex.Market, OZON, Petshop, Review review, Magizoo
Popular diet for older dogs The most popular and well-known grain-free food for older dogs, which has received many times more reviews than its closest analogues.
Weight control The key difference is the thoughtful dietary composition, which helps maintain optimal weight and even lose weight slightly, which is especially important for older pets.
- Characteristics
Average price: RUB 3,341. for 5.45 kg
- Country: Canada
- Age and size: older dogs (7+) small breeds
- Flavor: turkey, salmon, duck
- Packing options, kg: 1.59; 2.72; 5.45 and 9.98
- Proteins: 25.4%
- Fat: 13.4%
- Ash: 7.7%
As befits a food designed for small breeds, Now Fresh has small kibble sizes that are optimal for Spitz, Toy Terriers and other miniature dogs. They have the shape of a four-leaf clover, thanks to which the pet does not try to swallow a portion, but chews every piece with pleasure. Therefore, the food is also suitable for slightly larger breeds, such as dachshunds and pugs. The benefits don't end there. Now Fresh pleases with a balanced composition, the main components of which are turkey meat, eggs, potatoes and peas, as well as some salmon and duck meat.
Thanks to a decent amount of meat ingredients, the food contains enough of the best proteins for dogs. It is also supplemented with glucosamine, chondroitin and New Zealand green mussels, which help maintain healthy joints and ligaments. Reviewers often note that after starting feeding Now Fresh, pets become more cheerful, playful, and slimmer.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Small, conveniently shaped granules
- Good percentage of meat ingredients
- Provides strength and supports joints
- Wide selection of packaging
- Not always suitable for picky people
