Adult dogs and puppies have completely different nutritional requirements and levels of energy; which makes it so important to know when to switch from puppy to adult food.
Puppies vs Adults
A puppies nutritional needs are much more expansive than an adult dog. Puppies require a much higher level of calorific intake to support their growing bodies and bones. A puppy’s stomach can’t hold as much food as a grown up dog, so it is recommended that they are fed in small portions but more frequent.
Calorie Dense Food
One of the main factors of puppy food, concerns a large amount of calories into a small stomach, in order to fuel them until their next feeding. Feeding an adult dog a puppy food would put them at risk of too many calories all at once, whilst feeding a puppy an adult dog food will put them at risk of not having enough calories, which could lead to slowing or stunting of their growth.
Large Breed Puppies
With Large breed puppies, extra care is needed, compared to smaller puppies, because of the high rate of growth and energy needed as a large breed puppy. This type of dog can be at risk in later life of developing issues with their hips and elbows because of how quickly they grow.
When to Switch?
It is recommended that when a dog reaches 80% of their full adult size, you should consider switching them onto adult food. This can happen at different times and ages depending on the breed of the dog. It is suggested that small dogs will reach this size first, at the age of around 9 to 10 months. Medium sized breeds continue to grow until they are about a year old. Whilst Large breed puppies reach 80% in size at around 12 to 16 months old.
We offer a wide range of fantastic recipes that provide the nutritional requirements for any type of dog no matter what breed or lifestage the dog is. Get in touch with one of the team today, to discuss your requirements.
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