Basic feeding guides for puppies and adult dogs

These feeding directions are based on using an 8 oz. measuring cup. It is recommended to divide the daily ration into two or more separate feedings rather than just one big meal at a time. Puppies should be fed more often than adult dogs. When adding in canned food cut the dry by up to half the amount and substitute the same volume that you cut with canned food, so the dog is getting the same amount of food, some dry and some wet. Note, if you are feeding a good quality dog food you will be able to feed less as the dog's body will utilize more and poop out less. It is best to consult your vet about the specific needs of your pet. 

The first 8 weeks

Puppies should not be separated from their mother before they are 8 weeks old. Puppies that leave their mothers sooner have a rougher time adjusting and a higher incidence of illnesses. It may be  due to weakened immunity or mourning the early loss of their family. Their mother's milk provides them with the nutrition and immunity which needed  to become healthy dogs. At three to four weeks of age, puppies should begin eating some solid food. You can try mixing three parts food with one part water or puppy replacement milk. This will make the food easier to digest. If your puppy begins eating a little solid food before it leave its mother it will have an easier time adjusting when you bring it home. 

6 - 8 weeks

Feed your puppy 3-4 times a day. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Choose a puppy food that provides the appropriate balance of nutrients your puppy needs. Be sure it is getting the right amount of protein and calcium, and the proper amount of calories. Check the label to determine if you are feeding your puppy a balanced diet. 

8 - 12 weeks   

      

Feed your puppy twice a day.

3 - 6 months  

       

Your puppy will be teething. He may become a finicky eater or lose his appetite. Keep feeding him nutritious food twice a day. If he has an upset stomach for more than one or two days, take him to the veterinarian.

6 months to 1 year   

     

Your puppy may look all grown up but he is still a puppy. He should still be fed a high quality food for the added nutrition. If you are feeding a puppy food ask your veterinarian when you should switch to adult food. Make sure the adult food you switch to is still a balanced high quality diet with the first ingredient being a specified meat that is not a by-product.

8 to 9 months

Feeding should be twice a day.

1 year          

In most breeds feeding should be twice a day.

Breed	Weight as an Adult Dog	Dry Food
Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle	Up to 10 pounds	1/4 to ¾ cups
Miniature Poodle, Scottish Terrier	10-25 pounds	3/4 to 1 cups
Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Springer Spaniel	25-50 pounds	1-2 cups
Collie, Boxer,  Labrador, Golden Retriever	25-50 pounds	2-2 ½ cups
Great Dane, Malamute, St. Bernard, Mastiff	Over 75 pounds	2-4 cups

             

Good Basic Dogs Feeding Tips

• Feed at the same time every day, it would keep your dog on a bathroom schedule.
• Ask your vet how many times a day, you should feed your dog.
• Feed your dog the same type and brand of food every day. Unlike humans, a dog's digestive system cannot handle changes in food. It can cause upset stomach and diarrhea.
• When switching to a new food gradually transition him to the new food by mixing portions of both foods until you slowly phase out the old food. Your dog may experience diarrhea if his food is suddenly changed.
• If you are mixing water into dry food you should mix 4 parts dry food to 1 part water.
• Keep fresh drinking water available at all times. Change the water at least once a day.
• Keep food and water bowls clean.
• Don’t over feed your dog.
• Follow the guidelines on the dog food package for recommended    feeding amounts.
• Monitor your dog's weight and activity level, and make feeding adjustments as necessary.
• If your dog has loose stool feeding sweet potatoes is a natural stool hardener. Unlike some medicines, giving too many will not make them constipated. You can buy  sweet potato chips for dogs in a pet supply stores.