“Your puppy’s nutritional needs change as he reaches 6 to 12 months of age, requiring special attention to ensure his continued growth and well-being.”
Food selection, precise amounts of nutrients (including protein, carbohydrates and fats in percentage), portion sizes measured in grams, ideal feeding frequencies and quantitative advice for nutritional supplements are all covered in this article to help you give your older puppy the best care possible.
Choice of food: commercial or homemade?
- Commercial dog food
- Commercial dog foods are meticulously formulated to meet the precise nutritional needs of dogs at different stages of their lives.
- It comes in a variety of forms, including kibble, canned and semi-moist, catering to your pup’s preferences.
- Select high-quality brands that prioritize real meat as the main ingredient, avoiding excessive additives like corn or soy.
- Make sure your choice matches your puppy’s age, opting for foods designed for puppies or all life stages to meet their unique nutritional needs.
- Homemade meals
- Homemade meals provide complete control over your puppy’s diet, allowing you to tailor it to their specific needs.
- Incorporate premium protein sources such as lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef), as well as a rich array of fruits and vegetables to provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Work with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure the nutritional balance of homemade meals, as achieving this can be complex without expert advice.
Quantifying Nutrients for Your Puppy
To ensure optimal growth and development, precise percentages of key nutrients are essential:
- Protein: Puppies generally need about 22 to 32 percent of their daily calories to come from protein sources like lean meats (e.g., chicken or turkey).
- Carbohydrates: About 40 to 50 percent of daily calorie intake should be carbohydrates, such as whole grains (e.g., brown rice or quinoa) and vegetables (e.g., sweet potatoes or carrots).
- Fats: Fat should make up about 8 to 20 percent of daily calories, ideally from healthy options like fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids and natural fats found in meat.
Accurate amount in grams and feeding frequency
Adjusting the quantity and timing of meals is vital for your older puppy’s health:
- Serving size: The typical serving size for an older puppy usually ranges from 200 to 300 grams per meal, depending on their breed, size and activity level. Commercial dog foods often provide feeding guidelines, while homemade meals should be portioned in grams according to your veterinarian’s recommendations.
- Power frequency: Older puppies generally thrive on 2 to 3 meals per day. Smaller, more frequent meals help maintain stable energy levels and reduce the risk of digestive discomfort. Establish a consistent feeding schedule that fits your puppy’s routine to make regular meals easier.
- Body condition monitoring: Regularly assess your puppy’s body condition by observing his weight and appearance. A healthy puppy should have a waistline visible from above and palpable ribs without excess fat. Be prepared to adjust portion size or feeding frequency if you notice your puppy is underweight or overweight.
Nutritional supplements with precision
Although commercial dog foods aim to be nutritionally complete, some pups may need supplements. For further clarification, here are the specific quantities for potential supplements:
- Calcium and Phosphorus: Maintaining proper balance is crucial for healthy bone development. Consult your veterinarian to determine if supplementation is necessary.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: For healthy skin, coat and cognitive development, consider supplementing with 1,000 mg of fish oil daily for small breeds and up to 3,000 mg daily for large breeds.
- Vitamins and minerals: Depending on your puppy’s specific needs, your veterinarian may recommend additional vitamins or minerals to address deficiencies or support growth. Dosages should always be prescribed by a professional.
- Probiotics: It promotes a healthy gut. The typical dose ranges from 1 to 2 billion CFUs per day, adjusted based on the size of your puppy.
Final verdict
With exact nutritional percentages, servings calculated in grams, and personalized feeding frequencies, older puppies (6-12 months) should be fed with extreme caution. The most important thing is to provide a nutritionally balanced diet tailored to your puppy’s particular needs, whether you want to feed him store-bought dog food or homemade meals.