Stages of a Dog's Life: From Puppy to Senior

Just like humans, dogs have varying nutritional needs as they grow through different stages of life.

Ensuring our furry friends grow up healthy is a priority, but how can we properly provide them with the necessary nutrients? We all know that puppies are particularly challenging to care for during their infancy. From the moment they are born, pet owners must take great care to nurture them, ensuring they have a strong foundation for a healthy body.

During the First Month (Birth to One Month)

During this period, we begin the process of weaning the puppies off milk. Owners can gradually reduce the number of feedings based on the puppy's age.

It's crucial to remember that at this stage, puppies have not fully developed their immune and digestive systems, making them quite vulnerable. They can easily become ill due to poor nutrition, leading to vomiting and diarrhea.

Puppies are growing rapidly during this time and require more energy and nutrients than adult dogs. If the puppies are not getting enough nutrients due to early weaning, it's important to supplement their diet with puppy formula milk to boost their immunity and nutrition.

Three Months Old

By three months, puppies' digestive systems are still delicate. If they have been weaned, we can use puppy formula milk or rice porridge as a substitute for feeding.

Gradually introduce puppy kibble into their diet, feeding them small, frequent meals. Aim for three to four feedings a day, with each serving being relatively small to avoid overfeeding, as puppies may excrete their food quickly, keeping their stomachs empty.

From Three to Six Months (Growth Stage)

By the time dogs reach three to six months, they are usually fully weaned. Their digestive systems are still developing, so we can offer them puppy milk biscuits.

When feeding kibble, it's best to soften it with warm water before serving to make it easier for them to digest. Remember, puppies should be fed three times a day.

This period is a crucial time for puppies as their bodies and minds are rapidly developing. They require increased intake of proteins, calories, and nutrients. Therefore, pet owners should supplement their diet with additional protein and nutrients, such as yogurt, apples, cooked egg yolks, cooked chicken breast, or beef as treats. These treats should be given in moderation to avoid digestion issues and constipation.

It's also important to introduce a variety of vegetables and other foods to help establish their eating habits and prevent pickiness. Always pair these with puppy kibble, as it meets the nutritional needs of growing puppies.

From Six Months to One Year

During this golden period of a dog's life, from six months to one year, their bodies are gradually maturing. What should pet owners do during this time?

Owners can now reduce the number of daily feedings to twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, ensuring a consistent and measured routine.

It's important to avoid overfeeding during this time, as hunger can lead to excessive eating and potential obesity, which can affect their growth later on.

This is also a good time to start preparing homemade nutritious meals for your dog. Remember, avoid sweeteners, salt, spices, and greasy foods, as these can harm your dog's health. The natural flavors of the ingredients are the best for them.

In addition to a balanced diet, ensure your dog's living environment is comfortable. Regularly disinfect the doghouse, administer vaccinations, and schedule regular deworming.

One Year and Beyond

Once a dog reaches one year, their digestive system is fully developed, and they have established a routine of eating twice a day.

It's important to pay attention to the dog's bowl. Pet stores offer bowls that are wide at the bottom and narrow at the top, which are designed to prevent dogs from flipping them over. These bowls are also shallow, which is perfect for a single meal. The feeding principle is to provide enough food for one meal and not to top it up, as this can lead to dogs developing bad habits of eating from the bowl while looking at the pot.

Additionally, it's not advisable to buy a large dog bowl for a puppy to use for their entire life. Puppies may not be able to reach the food in a large bowl, and if there's too much food, it can spoil easily.

Be cautious not to use metal bowls for your dog's meals. Young dogs may chew on anything they can get their teeth into, and metal bowls can damage their teeth. In addition to avoiding certain foods, offer a variety of nutritious meals and establish a routine of regular bathroom breaks and walks to promote good habits.

Senior Years (Seven Years and Older)

After the age of seven, dogs enter their senior years. During this stage, their teeth may become loose, and their digestive function may weaken.

Therefore, it's important to feed them easily digestible and proteinrich foods, such as fish, eggs, and to practice small, frequent meals.

Older dogs are more susceptible to heart disease and kidney disease, and obesity can exacerbate these conditions. It's essential to help control their weight by providing regular, small meals that aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, ensuring a healthy senior dog.