So you have just brought home a new puppy; now the question is: how do you care for it? Of course, a big part of how to care for your new addition to the family is what to feed your new pet. Typically, a puppy is not weaned before eight weeks, so ensure that before you bring the puppy home it has already been weaned from its mother and can feed on its own. Even after weaning, a puppy’s digestive system is not fully developed. As such, any puppy food you are feeding it should be moistened. You should continue doing this for another four or five weeks until the puppy is ready for solid food.
Essential Nutrients
A growing puppy’s diet must be balanced for optimum health. Protein is an essential component of the diet, but the pup will also need fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Providing the right amounts of these will ensure that your puppy is healthy, and that it grows properly. You will also have to learn how to adjust the nutrients and the portions as the puppy grows. An important reminder is that the various breeds have different nutritional needs. The puppy’s diet will also be influenced by factors such as gender, age, health and activity levels.
Breaking Down the Diet
The protein in the puppy’s food can come from plant or animal sources, depending on the brand you buy. This should form the bulk of the food’s nutritional content. Every growing puppy needs fat for energy. Fats are also necessary to help with the absorption of vital nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E and K. The right amount of fat in the diet will give the puppy a luxurious looking coat and healthy skin. Keep in mind, however, that too much fat can affect the puppy’s growth rate, and possibly lead to obesity over time.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrate is also important in the diet to provide the puppy with energy. When there is not enough carbohydrates, a growing puppy will use up proteins for energy. This is not good for muscle growth. Ensuring that a puppy’s diet includes adequate carbohydrates means that the protein in the diet can be used for muscle growth. Vitamins and minerals are also important in the diet as they help with cell development and promote proper chemical processes in the body.
Always ensure that the puppy has access to clean water. Many commercial dog food brands are designed for different stages of a dog’s growth. Be sure to follow the portion guidelines on the packaging for the different size breeds. Learn more at.
