IAMS PH
A Comprehensive Puppy Food Guide
A Comprehensive Puppy Food Guide

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A Comprehensive Puppy Food Guide

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Nutrition is an important part of pet care, and food is one of the basic needs of a dog. So, we cannot go wrong when it comes to feeding our fur babies. And how would anyone mess it up? As humans, we are used to satisfying the nutritional needs of ourselves. How difficult could it possibly be to do the same for a dog? Well, thanks to the endless varieties of dog food available in the market, choosing the right kind of puppy food has become a challenge. But fret not! With this comprehensive feeding guide, you can plan a healthy and balanced diet for your new-born puppy. It also covers questions like what, when, and how often to feed a puppy.
 

Puppy food guide for the first year

Complete and balanced nutrition is critical for the healthy growth of your puppy. In fact, according to Dr. Saza Curaming, “A puppy grows about 12x faster than a human child. That’s why the first year of a dog’s life is a critical stage and this will dictate its further development. It is at this stage where you must constantly monitor its nutrition and feeding regimen.” So, let’s look at the food guide for the first year of a newborn pup:
 

  • 6-12 weeks: The first few weeks of growth are the most important for your puppy, and as a caregiver, you need to be on top of it. Puppies need to eat good puppy food at this stage of life. You do not want to go for the adult dog food as of now. Foods developed for grownup dogs will not meet the nutritional needs of a new-born pup. Moreover, ensure that you feed it four times in a day.
  • 3-6 months: Once your pup enters this growth stage, gradually decrease the number of feedings to three times a day. Puppies generally start losing their potbelly by the time they turn 12 weeks old. If your furry friend is not doing so, continue feeding puppy-sized portions until you start seeing a change.
  • 6-12 months: Once your puppy turns 6 to 12 months old, start feeding it only twice a day. Speak with your vet and get a thorough understanding of when and how to switch to adult dog food. If you have considered neutering or spaying your pup, consult the vet and slowly transition to adult maintenance food.
     

Nutritional needs of a puppy

As compared to adult dogs, puppies need a higher protein intake. It helps with muscle development and tissue repair. Hence, it is imperative to include protein-rich foods in their diet. While iron helps create red blood cells, calcium strengthens bones and teeth. As your puppy grows, it will start learning new things. And to ensure that your pooch can see and conceive new things, it needs DHA – an omega-3 fatty acid that supports healthy vision and brain development. You must also include prebiotics in its diet as your pet cannot have a healthy gut without it!
 

Give your dog the food that’s specifically formulated for its breed and age. Since small breed dogs have a tiny mouth, they require smaller kibbles. Moreover, large breed dogs have a slower metabolism; hence, they require fewer calories per kilogram of their bodyweight when compared to a small or medium breed dog.
 

IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Starter Mother and Baby Dog is loaded with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is scientifically formulated to raise your pup’s training potential and brain development. With IAMS™, you make sure that your little pooch receives a balanced and complete meal. This dog food is perfect for newbie mother dogs as well. It ensures production of quality milk for healthy growth of the puppy.
 

Foods that must be kept out of your puppy’s reach

Now that you know the nutritional requirements of a dog, let us check out the food items that are harmful for your pooch:

  • Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Chocolates
  • Macadamia Nuts
     

Keep a check on your pup’s weight

A fat puppy might not necessarily mean a healthy pet. The way childhood obesity often leads to medical complications in humans, an overweight puppy can also grow up to have health problems. So, make sure you monitor your furry friend’s calorie intake. This includes keeping an eye on the amount of treats you give your pup each day! Remember that treats are not the only way of rewarding a dog. You can make it feel loved and appreciated with praises, pats, and belly rubs as well.

Frequently asked questions

  1. How do I know what food is best for my puppy?
  2. While choosing a food for your puppy, go for the one that is specially made for your pet. Today, dog food brands have different food for different age groups and breeds. So, choose the one that fits your pet’s age, breed, and needs. In case you are having a hard time choosing the right puppy food, you can also consult your vet regarding the same.

  3. What should I feed my puppy daily?
  4. You should feed complete and balanced puppy food to your puppy every day. Choose between dry and wet puppy food or mix the two. 

  5. How much food should I give to my puppy?
  6. Check out the below table to understand how much food you should feed your puppy:

    Age Feedings  
    6 to 12 weeks 4
    3 to 6 months 3
    6 to 12 months   2

  7. What are some healthy foods for puppies?
  8. Chicken, beef, fish, fruits, and vegetables are a few healthy ingredients in dog food. However, the best food for puppies would always be rich in protein. So, go for dog foods with chicken, beef, or fish as main ingredients.

  • Understanding the Importance of Vitamins and Multivitamins for Dogs
    Understanding the Importance of Vitamins and Multivitamins for Dogs
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    Understanding the Importance of Vitamins and Multivitamins for Dogs

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    Dog multivitamins have become an increasingly popular supplement in pet care, designed to support overall canine health and well-being. Just as humans benefit from a balanced diet, dogs also require essential vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal health. These supplements are formulated to fill potential nutritional gaps in a dog's diet, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients for proper growth, immune function, and energy levels. Multivitamins can be particularly beneficial for dogs with specific dietary restrictions, older dogs, or those recovering from illness. However, it is essential for pet parents to consult with veterinarians to determine the appropriate supplement and dosage for their furry companions. 
     

    What are vitamins and multivitamins? 

    Vitamins for dogs are essential organic compounds crucial for various physiological functions in both humans and dogs. These micronutrients, including A, B-complex, C, D, and E vitamins, play key roles in immune function, bone health, energy metabolism, and skin maintenance. Multivitamins for dogs consolidate these vital nutrients, providing a comprehensive and balanced nutritional boost to address potential dietary deficiencies. 
     

    If you are looking for vitamins for dogs in the Philippines, the IAMS dog supplement range has you covered.  Tailored for canine needs, these supplements are particularly beneficial for dogs with specific health conditions, dietary restrictions, or those requiring additional support for overall well-being. 
     

    Can dogs have multivitamins?

    Yes, multivitamins and vitamins for dogs can prove to be very useful, especially in specific life stages or health situations. While quality dog food is designed to meet most nutritional needs, supplements become more valuable for puppies, seniors, pregnant or lactating females, and dogs with health conditions. These stages are the most crucial and are the best time to give multivitamins to dogs.
     

    Caution is crucial, as human vitamins can be harmful to dogs. Consulting a veterinarian is essential to determine if supplementation is necessary, ensuring the right dosage and nutrient balance. Veterinarians assess the dog's health, diet, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations, enhancing well-being without posing risks. Judicious use of vitamins, under veterinary guidance, can benefit certain canine companions. 
     

    Benefits of vitamins and multivitamins in dogs

    Integrating dog multivitamins into your furry baby’s diet offers a spectrum of benefits. These supplements contribute to enhanced immune function, promoting resilience against illnesses. Additionally, they support healthy skin and coat, minimizing issues like dryness and shedding. For puppies, vitamins aid in proper growth and development, while senior dogs may experience increased vitality and joint support. Multivitamins are particularly valuable for dogs with specific health concerns, such as joint problems or allergies. Overall, vitamins for dogs act as nutritional insurance, ensuring that dogs receive the essential elements vital for their overall health and vitality. 
     

    Are vitamins and multivitamins good for dogs? 

    When administered thoughtfully and under veterinary guidance, dog multivitamins can prove to be extremely beneficial. While quality dog food provides essential nutrients, supplementation becomes crucial in addressing specific needs or potential deficiencies. However, it is vital to avoid self-prescribing human vitamins, as certain substances can be toxic to dogs. Professional advice ensures that the supplementation is tailored to the dog's unique requirements, promoting overall well-being without adverse effects. Responsible use of vitamins, guided by a veterinarian, can contribute to a dog's health and vitality. 
     

    Vitamin and minerals supplements and foods rich in vitamins and minerals

    Ensuring your furry friend receives the right balance of vitamins and minerals is crucial for their overall health. While a well-balanced diet is the foundation of canine nutrition, certain situations may call for certain good vitamins for dogs as additional support. This is where vitamin and mineral supplements come into play. Dog multivitamins are specially formulated to address potential nutrient gaps, supporting everything from immune function to bone health.
     

    In addition to supplements, incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your dog's diet is essential. Some of the best dog vitamin sources are:

    • Meat: Lean meats like chicken and turkey provide essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc.
    • Fish: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting a healthy coat and supporting cardiovascular health.
    • Vegetables: Dark, leafy greens such as spinach and kale offer vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
    • Fruits: Berries, apples, and bananas are not only tasty treats but also provide vitamins and antioxidants.
    • Dairy: Plain yoghurt and cheese supply calcium and probiotics, benefiting bone health and digestion. 

    Balancing your dog's diet with both high-quality dog food and these natural sources can contribute to their overall well-being, reducing the need for excessive reliance on supplements. Always consult with your veterinarian to tailor your dog's nutritional plan based on their specific needs. 
     

    Importance of vitamins and minerals

    Vitamins and minerals are indispensable for a dog's overall health, playing pivotal roles in various physiological processes. These micronutrients act as catalysts for enzymatic reactions, supporting metabolism, growth, and energy production. Calcium and phosphorus, for instance, are crucial for bone health, ensuring proper skeletal development and strength. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, while zinc promotes skin health and wound healing. These micronutrients collectively contribute to the maintenance of a dog's immune system, vision, and cardiovascular health. Recognizing the importance of vitamins and minerals underscores the significance of a well-rounded and nutritionally balanced diet, supplemented as needed, to meet the unique requirements of individual dogs.
     

    The incorporation of vitamins and minerals into a dog's diet through supplements or nutrient-rich foods is a proactive approach to ensuring their overall well-being. While high-quality dog food serves as a foundation, targeted supplementation can address specific needs and contribute to a dog's vitality at different life stages. Consulting with a veterinarian is paramount, as they can provide tailored recommendations based on a dog's health profile. By understanding the benefits and importance of these micronutrients, pet parents can take informed steps to optimize their canine’s nutrition with the best dog multivitamins, supporting a happy, healthy, and thriving life for their furry friends.