🐾 Proper Feeding = Proper Development

Puppies grow fast — faster than any other stage of their life.
That means they need the right food, right amount, and right schedule to support their bones, energy, brain development, and immune system.

Here’s a simple, clear guide to feeding your puppy correctly.

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🧡 1. How Often Should You Feed a Puppy?

📌 8–12 Weeks Old

➡️ 4 meals per day
Puppy stomachs are tiny and can’t hold much food.

📌 3–6 Months Old

➡️ 3 meals per day
Growth is rapid — steady energy is important.

📌 6–12 Months Old

➡️ 2 meals per day
Most puppies transition to an adult-like schedule.

🐶 Large breeds may stay on puppy food longer — up to 18 months.

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⚖️ 2. How Much Should Your Puppy Eat?

Amount depends on:
✔ Breed (chihuahua vs. golden retriever = huge difference)
✔ Adult size prediction
✔ Activity level
✔ Food brand & calories

Most commercial puppy foods provide a feeding chart.
As a rule of thumb:

Small Breeds (Under 20 lbs adult weight)

➡️ ½ – 1 cup per day
Split into multiple meals.

Medium Breeds (20–50 lbs)

➡️ 1 – 2 cups per day

Large Breeds (50–100 lbs)

➡️ 2 – 4 cups per day

Giant Breeds (100+ lbs)

➡️ 4+ cups per day
but choose large-breed puppy formulas to avoid joint issues.

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🍗 3. What Should Puppies Eat?

Choose food labeled:
✔ “Complete and Balanced” (AAFCO-approved)
✔ For Growing Puppies
✔ No artificial dyes
✔ Real meat as first ingredient
✔ DHA for brain development
✔ Controlled calcium for large breeds

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🚫 4. Avoid These Foods for Puppies

• Cow’s milk (causes stomach upset)

• Human junk food

• Chocolate

• Grapes/raisins

• Onions/garlic

• Bones (can splinter)

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🐕💧 5. Hydration Matters

Puppies dehydrate easily — keep fresh water available at all times.
If they’re very active, offer water more frequently.

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🎯 6. How to Tell If You’re Feeding the Right Amount

Your puppy should have:
✔ Visible waist
✔ Ribs palpable but not protruding
✔ Lots of energy
✔ Soft but formed stool

Too chubby? Reduce slightly.
Too thin? Add a little more.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Feeding your puppy well sets the foundation for a healthy life.
Stick to a schedule, choose high-quality puppy food, and adjust based on body condition — not just the bag’s instructions.

🐾 Shop puppy bowls, slow feeders & training treats at WhiskerBoxPet.com
👉 Everything you need for healthy growth!