A new puppy brings life to a home and provides an endless sense of fun. However, choosing the right puppy food is a serious matter. It is important to look for a reputable brand that tests its food, select the right food according to breed and size of the puppy, and check the ingredient label. Taking a few steps to feed your puppy well reaps significant rewards–including a healthy puppy. 

Look into Brands

According to Statista, pet owners worldwide spent $36.9 billion on pet food in 2019. Although pet owners seem willing to invest in their pets, not all of the pet food companies are trustworthy. Select a brand that tests its food on actual dogs. A company can create a formula perfect for a small pet, but there is no way of knowing without AAFCO feeding trials whether it is right for actual dogs.

Choose Food Designed for Puppies

Giving a puppy food designed for a larger dog is not a good move. Young dogs require food that is specially designed for puppies. They require more calories for tissue growth and to accommodate the amount of energy they burn. In addition, puppies need higher amounts of certain nutrients. 

Breed and Size Matter

Not just any puppy food will do, but the size and breed of your young dog should determine the type of food you buy. It is important to be informed about the superb large breed puppy food as well as options for smaller puppies. 

Choosing breed and size-specific dog food can prevent health problems later on. For instance, the nutritional needs for a Great Dane are different than for a Yorkshire terrier. Larger dogs need more calcium, phosphorus, and zinc for optimal bone growth. If bones do not develop properly, a dog can suffer from joint and bone problems as they age. 

Another reason the size and breed should be a major consideration when choosing puppy food is the kibble size. A Yorkie may not be able to handle food made for larger breeds, such as Great Danes. Giving a small dog food designed for a large dog may increase the risk of choking. 

Pay Attention to Nutrition

Look at the label on the puppy food. There should be a balance of various kinds of meat and grains. There may also be fillers, but these should be minimal in a premium quality puppy food. It is essential to ensure there is enough DHA, an essential fatty acid that guides the proper development of a puppy’s eyes, ears, and brain development. 

Wet or Dry?

There is much disagreement over whether wet or dry food is good for dogs. Each type provides advantages. Kibble gives the teeth a much-needed workout, is not as messy, and is cheaper. Puppies love wet food which hydrates the body. Many vets recommend making kibble the basis of a puppy’s diet but adding some wet food here and there for variety, flavor, and hydration. 

Keeping Your Puppy Happy

Puppies give us so much happiness, and it is only fitting to reciprocate by feeding them the best food. Choosing a reliable brand, matching the food type to breed and size, and examining the ingredient list for healthy items are important steps to feeding your puppy right.