Tips for Feeding a Puppy
Getting a new puppy is an incredibly exciting yet slightly daunting experience. There are things that you need to do and some big decisions that need to be made. Getting the kit and preparing the house. Also figuring out what, how much and when to be feeding a puppy isn’t necessarily an easy task. This is often overlook what they are putting into their dog’s system. Proper nutrition is one of your dog’s basic needs, and it’s a lot more than just the brand of dog food you buy. Included in this article are some of the essential feeding tips you should consider when feeding a puppy.
What should you feed your puppy?
There are so many commercial dog food brands available across the country, so choosing the right one can be a difficult task. All commercial diets are labelled with AAFCO and considered complete and balanced for dogs meaning that the diet sustains the right amount of ingredients for your dog’s basic nutritional needs. However, not all mainstream commercial foods are considered equal. Many experts agree that the quality of the ingredients plays a significant role in the overall health of your four-legged friend.
When choosing the type of food you wish to feed your dog, you first need to narrow down your priorities. How important to you is it to feed your puppy the most natural, healthiest ingredients? If this is top of your priorities, then you should consider raw foods. Raw puppy food will support your pups’ development both physically and mentally, keeping them healthy throughout their long, happy life.
A raw food diet supports your pet’s health in a variety of ways. It helps with their digestion, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping their teeth healthy. This will benefit you in many ways, too, both during playtime with your dog and out on your walks, believe me.
Does cost factor into your decision? Natural, grain-free and holistic diets are oftentimes higher up the price range. This may not be an option for you. In this case, you should consider finding some mid-level food to feed your dog. Going too far down the price range will result in a lot of lower quality ingredients, and you don’t want to skimp on the health of your puppy. Feed the best possible food you can within your budget.
Are you willing to spend lots of time preparing your puppy’s food? A home-prepared diet could be best for you. It is vital you read up on guidance and advice certified by vets to ensure what you are preparing is nutritional and safe for your dog.
How much should you feed your puppy?
The standard checklist for determining how much to feed your dog is based on the age, condition, activity level, and contents of the diet. Each dog is an individual. Each reacts in all kinds of ways, so it is always important to consult with your veterinarian. They will assess the weight and overall body condition of your puppy and provide the best answers on what to feed them.
In general, puppies should be fed at least four times per day, to begin with, gradually reducing that number as time goes on and the puppy grows. Finding the perfect balance for feeding your pup is essential. Avoid underfeeding and overfeeding at all costs. This can lead to muscle and bone problems if your pet is not fed right, so always, again, consult with a Vet if you are unsure. Fresh drinking water must always be available to your puppy, especially when feeding, to avoid any possible indigestion.
What kind of dog bowl should you consider?
Experts recommend avoiding plastic dog food and water bowls for a variety of reasons. Firstly because your dog can develop an allergic reaction or sensitivity on your their chin and face. Not only this, but plastic bowls can also harbour more bacteria and other microbes that can affect your dog due to the microscopic nooks and crannies that the germs can swirl into. Beware plastic for chewers too! Metal or ceramic bowls are a great option for your dog’s food and water.
Elevated dog bowls are sometimes used as it is believed that elevated feedings are better for your dog’s digestion and help prevent overarching problems that come from standard dog bowls. Of course, for a puppy, this can be problematic due to size. However, most modern elevated dog bowls come with an adjustable stand appropriate for your dog’s height.
For those particularly looking out for their dog, you may want to consider a slow feeding bowl. These are designed to slow down the feeding process. They including ridges and other structures that force the dog to take smaller bites of food at a time. This can help prevent any indigestion, excess gas, or even vomiting from occurring.
Feeding a puppy:
Getting a new puppy can be overwhelming, despite all the excitement! It’s important to read up on articles. This can help you ensure that you know all the best routes to take. You can then to ensure the healthy wellbeing of your four-legged friend. We want them to live a long and happy life. If you are ever left unsure or simply just want the best advice possible, you should always consult with your local (or online) veterinarian. They will assess your dog’s current situation and provide you with the best possible answers. Enjoy your new family member!