How long can a dog eat puppy food?

A healthy, balanced diet is one of the most important aspects of responsible pet ownership. Every pet is different, and it is up to the owner to determine what type of food their pet needs at each stage of life. Puppy food is specially formulated for growing puppies, but how long can a dog eat puppy food and when should you switch them to an adult food? In this blog post, we will answer this question and discuss the importance of providing the right nutrition for your pup. We’ll cover the types and amounts of food puppies need, the nutritional requirements of adult dogs, and the potential consequences of feeding puppies too long. We’ll also share tips and advice on how to transition your pup to adult food in the healthiest and most successful manner.

When to Switch Puppy to Adult Food

You can choose when to switch to adult food once you know when your puppy will mature.

Around the time of his first birthday, if your puppy will be fully grown at 12 months, you can begin weaning him onto an adult formula. You should prepare for the switch taking between 7 and 10 days before you begin.

Why Adult Dog Food is Important

To support your puppy’s development, growth, and high levels of energy, puppy food is nutrient-rich and calorie-dense.

Feeding puppy food after he reaches adulthood could make him gain weight, which can result in other health issues.

When your puppy reaches adulthood, choose a complete and balanced adult dog food formula to help him keep his ideal weight.

How Long to Feed Puppy Food

Puppy food must be complete and balanced until it is time for it to reach adulthood. Although adult dogs are typically those who are one year or older, this isn’t always the case.

When it comes to dogs, breed size determines adulthood more so than age. Large and giant breeds require more puppy food than small- or medium-sized breeds because they mature more slowly.

According to breed sizes, here is how long to feed puppy food:

Toy and Small Breed Dogs: Many toy and small breed dogs weigh less than 20 pounds at maturity and reach this size between 9 and 10 months of age.

Medium Dog Breeds: Medium-sized dogs weigh between 21 and 50 pounds at maturity. They tend to reach maturity around 12 months of age.

Large & Giant Breeds: Large breeds and giant breeds weigh between 50 and 100 pounds, respectively, and can take 18 months to 2 full years to reach maturity. They need to eat puppy food longer than small- and medium-sized breeds.

It is best to speak with your veterinarian if you have a mixed-breed dog or are unsure of how big your dog will be when it is fully grown. They can advise you when to switch to an adult dog food and assist you in making the transition smoothly.

“It’s crucial to keep an eye on puppies’ food intake as they grow older and mature.” The presence of leftovers in a bowl may indicate that your puppy is becoming satiated and requires fewer calories throughout the day. Begin by feeding him less frequently, and keep an eye on his physical condition, advises Purina Nutritionist Karina Carbo-Johnson, MS.