How should you raise a puppy after it's born?

Bringing a new puppy into your life is an exciting adventure, filled with cuddles and playtime. However, it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring your little furball grows up healthy and happy. Proper nutrition and care are crucial in the early stages of a puppy's life. Here's how to feed your new little pup and some solid advice to keep in mind.

Understanding Puppy Nutritional Needs

Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs. They need more calories, protein, and specific vitamins and minerals to support their rapid growth and development. High-quality puppy food is specially formulated to meet these needs. Look for a brand that guarantees balanced nutrition and is approved by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Choosing the Right Food

Select a puppy food that is appropriate for your pup's breed size. Large breed puppies have different dietary needs than small or medium breeds. Large breed puppy food is designed to prevent developmental issues such as joint problems by controlling the growth rate. Smaller breeds may need food with a higher energy density since they have a faster metabolism.

Portion Control

Feeding your puppy the right amount of food is essential. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition. Follow the feeding guidelines on the puppy food packaging, which are usually based on your puppy's age and weight. Remember to adjust the portions as your puppy grows.

Feeding Schedule

Puppies have small stomachs and need to eat more frequently than adult dogs. Plan for three to four meals a day until your puppy is about six months old, then you can transition to two meals a day. Consistency is key, so try to feed your puppy at the same times each day.

Hydration

Always provide fresh, clean water for your puppy. Hydration is vital for their health, especially during the teething phase when they may drool more or have a tendency to pant.

Transitioning to Solid Food

If you have a very young puppy, it might be necessary to transition them from their mother's milk or a milk replacement to solid food. Start by mixing a little warm water with the puppy food to make a gruel-like consistency. Gradually decrease the amount of water as your puppy gets used to eating solid food.

Supplements and Treats