- Veterinary Diet Item
Puppy Food
Give your furry friend a healthy start in life with a puppy food diet tailored to their needs. Puppies do best on a diet formulated especially for their life stage, so most vets recommend feeding a puppy-specific diet, rather than adult dog food, for the best nutrition. Puppy food usually has higher levels of protein, fat, and calories than adult dog formulas. Many puppy foods also contain DHA, a natural omega fatty acid that promotes healthy brain and vision development, and they also contain minerals like calcium for strong, healthy bones. You can find many types of food for puppies, including:
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Dry puppy food: Convenient, shelf-stable kibble formulas you can leave out without fear of spoilage.
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Wet puppy food: Choose from delicious pate, stew, morsels, and gravy varieties, available in pouches, cans, and trays for serving ease.
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Breed-specific puppy formulas: Special recipes tailored for the specific needs of large breeds, small breeds, purebreds, and mixed breeds to help your puppy get the most from every bite.
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Health need-targeted puppy food: Includes prescription formulas for issues like allergies and intolerances, as well as non-Rx puppy foods for skin and digestive health.
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Fresh food for puppies: These refrigerated or frozen puppy foods can be used as a mainstay or supplement to your puppy’s regular diet.
Nutritional needs may vary by size, breed, and health status, so be sure to take these factors into account when choosing. Selecting the right diet for a new puppy may seem daunting at first, so consult your vet if you’re unsure which foods might be best. And once you find the perfect ones, be sure to set your puppy’s favorite foods to Autoship, so you’ll never have to worry about running out!
Frequently Asked Questions about Puppy Food
What kind of food is best for puppies?
The best kind of food for puppies is a complete and balanced formula that provides the right nutrition for this important stage of growth. Look for formulas labeled either for puppies or for all life stages, as these should have the correct nutritional profile for your growing puppy’s needs. Beyond that, you can choose from a variety of puppy food formulas, including breed-specific formulas, natural formulas, and veterinary diets.
How many times a day should I feed my puppy?
Feed your puppy multiple times a day to ensure proper nutrition and optimal health. For weaned puppies six weeks to six months of age, many experts recommend feeding three to four times a day. After six months, you can often decrease feeding frequency to two or three meals a day. Needs vary by breed and size, too. Smaller-breed puppies may need more frequent feeding, while large breeds prone to bloat often benefit from fewer meals per day. Ask your vet for the best guidance on how often to feed your puppy.
Do puppies prefer wet or dry food?
Many puppies prefer wet food over dry food. Wet puppy food often has a more enticing aroma, and the soft texture can be easier for puppies, especially younger ones, to chew. However, many puppies also like the crunchy texture of dry food, and chewing it can be good for your puppy’s teeth. Ask your vet for recommendations, or try feeding both and see which one your furry friend likes best!
What ingredients should I look for in food for puppies?
The main ingredients to look for in food for puppies are real meat, wholesome carbohydrates, and healthy sources of fat. Many experts advise avoiding puppy foods with lots of artificial ingredients, byproducts, and fillers. Added vitamins and minerals help make the recipe complete and balanced to meet your puppy’s needs, while supplements like DHA help encourage healthy vision and cognitive development. You can also ask your vet for guidance on what ingredients to look for and which to avoid.