Best Diet for Golden Retrievers: What to Feed Your Pup

Care Instructions for a Young Golden Retriever:

Newborn Golden Retrievers, especially those under a month old, should be encouraged to drink plenty of milk. If they are not nursing from their mother, it is advisable for owners to provide goat's milk to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients. It is crucial to avoid giving them cow's milk, as it may not be suitable for their delicate digestive systems. If the puppy's intestines were not properly cared for by the owner a month prior, the puppy is at a higher risk of diarrhea, which can severely hinder its growth and development. Remember, at this stage, the puppy lacks teeth and cannot chew, so avoid offering any solid foods.

By the time the Golden Retriever is two months old, it can be weaned off milk. During the early stages of weaning, you can introduce soft foods like puppy biscuits and nutritional pastes. This process should be gradual and not rushed, as a wellnourished digestive system will prevent many future health issues.

After weaning, it is essential to supplement their diet with adequate nutrients such as proteins, calcium, and vitamin D. Puppies require twice the amount of calories as adult Golden Retrievers before their first birthday, so their diet must be rich in nutrients to support their growth. Offer your puppy soft foods, and ensure that dry kibble is soaked before feeding. It is also important to avoid giving your puppy human food, as it can be too rich and salty, and may lead to a dependency on human food, making it difficult for them to transition back to dog food. Human food does not meet the nutritional needs of Golden Retrievers, and over time, it can lead to unhealthy growth.

Establishing a routine of regular, measured meals is key. Puppies should be fed small, frequent meals when young, and as they grow, the portions can be increased while the frequency decreases. A wellestablished routine will not only benefit their digestive health but will also save you time and effort as they mature.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on caring for Golden Retrievers, click on "How to Care for a Golden Retriever" to read more articles.