Choosing the best food for puppies: selection rules, best brands

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.

Chihuahua

Perhaps, among all the representatives of mini-dogs, this one is the smallest. A handy baby can accompany you everywhere, you just need to use a variety of carriers for small breed dogs . The Chihuahua will happily walk short distances, but soon its tender paws will get tired and you will have to take the baby in your arms.

But it's not that simple. These babies have a complex character and a hot disposition. A Chihuahua will obey one owner unquestioningly; the rest of the family is not an authority for him. Typical representatives of the breed are playful, stubborn and very touchy.

You will have to put a lot of effort into not blushing at your pet's behavior. Please note that a small family member may be jealous of “his” person for all the “secondary” ones. Especially to children.

Chihuahuas master the litter tray and diaper well, so walks with them boil down to the need to breathe some air and run around a little, to burn off some energy. If the weather is not conducive to walks, then you can completely refuse them. When it's cold outside, use dog clothes to prevent your pet from catching a cold.

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.

Is deworming necessary?

It is for miniature and dwarf breeds of dogs that “homebody” is characteristic. Such pets often spend most of their lives in the apartment, leaving it only in the arms of the owner. And in this regard, the owners of “babies” have a question: is it worth carrying out deworming, especially regular, if the dog does not come into contact with other representatives of its species or other animals?

The answer is clear: yes. A dog can become infected with helminths without even ever being outside the apartment. The parasites “come” on their own - along with the owner’s street shoes or with a grocery bag placed for a moment on the sidewalk on which a dog infected with worms had previously sat. In addition, even an occasional flea can cause helminthiasis, since the larvae of some types of worms often develop in its body.

Therefore, even if the dog does not leave the apartment, prevention of helminthiasis should be carried out on a regular basis, that is, quarterly.

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

Diet selection

When choosing a puppy’s diet, you should carefully study the composition, make sure that the food is well balanced and contains the optimal vitamin and mineral complex for your pet.

For large breeds

Large breeds require food with a higher percentage of meat. The pet’s development and muscle mass gain will depend on the quantity and quality of protein. In addition to meat, you need: rice, potatoes, no more than 10–15% fish, high-quality and balanced vitamin complexes.

During the growth period, it is useful to give the puppy calcium gluconate, seaweed, and fish oil. These requirements are met by products from Now, Farmina N and D maxi breed, Brit care maxi.

For medium breeds

Up to six months, it is allowed to use food for small breeds of puppies, and after six months, food for large dogs is suitable. It is important to choose a balanced composition. Dry food for medium breed puppies is easy to find by the presence of the prefix medium on the package. Veterinarians and breeders note the quality of products from Brit, Hills, and Bosch.

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).

Japanese Chin

These handsome guys have strong protective and protective qualities in their blood. Small but brave - this is definitely about the Japanese Chin. This is the case when a cute appearance can be deceiving: the dog will not tolerate familiarity from strangers. But Chins are very attached to their family, and to all its members at the same time.

It is important to start socializing your Japanese Chin as early as possible. If this is not done, then the puppy will be wary and timid, and each new acquaintance will turn into great stress for him.

The Chin does not tolerate intrusiveness and loud, sharp sounds, so it is better not to take this breed into a family with small children. But for an elderly person, a fluffy dog ​​will become a faithful companion. There is no need for rigidity and intransigence when communicating with a Chin; he can be an excellent option for a novice dog owner.

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.

Shih Tzu

The breed originates in the imperial palaces of ancient China. The dogs are distinguished by their small size, endearing appearance and explosive character with the makings of a leader. If from the first day the puppy appears in the house you do not explain to him who is the boss here, be prepared that it will not be you, but the Shih Tzu, who will take the palm.

But if you don’t start the issue of education from the very beginning, then you will get the most faithful and devoted friend, sensitive and loving. Your Shih Tzu will love every member of your family, big and small, equally.

But the most difficult thing in keeping an imperial dog is not even training, but grooming. Daily combing, ponytails and braids, regular visits to the groomer - all this awaits you if you decide to get a Shih Tzu. Are you ready for such an expense item in the family budget?

Briefly about the main thing

1. To feed a puppy you need to select a special diet.
2. The choice is made from super premium and higher lines.
3. Recommended portion sizes must be followed.
4. 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.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A cute fidget can become your best friend. Representatives of this breed do not have sudden mood swings, they are affectionate and mischievous. But dogs require the constant presence of a person - otherwise the “gentleman” begins to get bored and play dirty tricks.

In extreme cases, if work doesn’t let you go, but you don’t want to part with your pet, the owners buy a second Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Together, it is easier for dogs to survive the absence of their beloved owner without consequences.

Representatives of a rare breed are true extroverts. They are sincerely happy to communicate and are ready to see a friend in every passerby. Dogs love touch, so be prepared for constant stroking, scratching and cuddling with or without reason. This is an excellent quality for families with small children - the “gentleman” is not annoyed by the obsessive hugs of children, he is only happy with them.

Toy terrier mini

The body weight of these little inches should not exceed 1.5 kg, height at the withers - 20 cm. Nowadays, toy terriers are divided into long-haired and short-haired. Both varieties can be of different colors, the most common colors being red, cream, fawn, black, and blue.

Unlike the similarly miniature Chihuahuas, toy terriers are easy to train. There is a lot of dignity and grace in every movement of the tiny dog. They can hardly do without walks and active games, so they can do without walking only in the most extreme cases. The dogs are very friendly to all family members, including small children. But be careful that the child does not injure the puppy.

Temperature in small breed dogs deserves special attention . If you are planning to get a toy terrier, then you should know that a temperature from 38.5 to 38.9 is normal. These dogs often have colds, so the slightest increase in body temperature, lethargy, sneezing or nasal discharge is a reason to urgently consult a doctor. Diseases in Toy Terriers are fleeting, so you can’t hesitate and hope that it will “go away on its own.”

Rabbit dachshund

Dwarf dachshunds, also called rabbit dachshunds, have three coat varieties: smooth-haired, long-haired and wire-haired. All of them are united by a healthy, stress-resistant nervous system. The dog is absolutely not aggressive, but at the same time brave and cautious.

Representatives of the breed do not tolerate rudeness and pressure; competent dog handlers take this into account when drawing up an individual training plan. Another striking feature of rabbit dachshunds is their overly developed sense of ownership.

Moreover, this manifests itself not only in relation to the beloved owner, but also to toys and a sleeping place. The owner of a rabbit dachshund must develop such qualities as affection, attention, patience, and consistency.

The dog will defend its right to make independent decisions, which from the outside may look like an unwillingness to be trained. Having received the owner's permission, dachshunds are happy to play with other dogs and get to know their owners.

Papillon

A distinctive feature of the breed is the shape of the ears, which resemble the open wings of a butterfly. These small dogs are known for their excellent intelligence and ability to accept training.

Like most small dogs, Papillons do not like to be left alone. If you are forced to leave him alone with you, then try to provide him with a variety of toys: rubber balls, vein bones.

Papillons should never be overfed. This breed is prone to obesity, which can lead to major health problems. In an adult Papillon, the ribs can be felt; if not, this is a reason to reconsider the diet.

Playing between a Papillon and a child is possible, but must be supervised by adults. The dog perceives the child as an equal, so he may bite if he is offended. Early socialization is important for the breed, because an untrained Papillon can behave aggressively when it grows up.

Brussels griffin

When you first see a dog of this breed, you involuntarily compare it with a funny brownie. A remarkable mustache and beard, a funny flattened muzzle and unusually intelligent eyes are what distinguish griffins from other dogs of miniature breeds.

The dogs are distinguished not only by their non-standard appearance, but by their good-natured character. He follows his owner everywhere, whom he chooses once and for life. He learns to accept the rest of the family over time; at first he is wary and distrustful of them.

The Brussels Griffon puppy loves to be the center of attention, but you should be careful: the dog quickly relaxes and turns into a capricious pet that will not leave its owner until it gets what it wants.

Representatives of the breed are extremely self-confident, but at the same time very dependent on the owner’s attention. Griffins have a hard time with loneliness and need long walks in the fresh air.

Maltese

Glamorous dogs were also loved by French kings. Through the centuries, this breed carried an absolute inability to live independently - they did not need this, because even in the most difficult times, the Maltese was cared for and cherished. Initially, the breed was distinguished by its eccentric disposition, but over time it transformed into the calmest representatives of the canine world.

Maltese do not get along with any other pet. Play outside - please, but as soon as the owner shows even a little attention to someone else's animal, furious jealousy turns on.

This is another breed whose representatives cannot stand being alone. If you plan to leave your Maltese alone for more than a couple of hours, then prepare for the bedlam that he will cause.

The dog copes with stress in its own way and chews everything it can reach: shoes, baseboards, wires and everything else. Therefore, the Maltese is unlikely to be suitable for working people as a pet.