So you finally met the pup of your dreams and you are now officially a bonafide new doggie parent! Congratulations! Owning a puppy is a great adventure to embark upon. Receiving endless cuddles, love and companionship from your pup is really one of the best things that can happen to a new owner. And you want to repay your new pup by making sure he/she gets all the nutrition needed from their food. In this post we’ll show you the basics to keep your pup in tip-top shape so he/she can keep healthy (and keep supplying you with those cuddles).
According to petmd.com, “Puppy food is designed specifically for the nutritional needs of young and still growing dogs, with twice the daily nutritional requirements that a mature dog needs.” Therefore, it is important to do some research to know more information about what you decide to feed your pup.
We did some initial research for you and found a list of the basics of what is recommended to feed your pups and what kind of foods you should stay away from.
Yes to Dry Food
Dry food is highly recommended for your pup because it is good for your pup’s teeth and it’s easier for them to digest. Dry foods that say ‘premium’ on the packaging generally contain top quality ingredients. ‘Premium’ dry dog foods are generally based on corn, chicken and rice. But, be careful, just because something is advertised as “premium,” doesn’t mean it always is. Do some internet research and talk to your vet about certain brands to truly understand their pros and cons.
Yes to Canned Food
Canned food is also good for your pup as it normally contains higher amounts of meat protein than in dry dog food. Due to the way canned food is packaged, most canned dog foods does not contain synthetic preservatives. Look for foods that don’t containt unnecessary preservative, coloring or artificial flavoring. You want natural canned food that is easy on your new pup’s stomach and full of nutritional value.
No to Table Scraps (Generally)
The next time your pup comes over to you at your dinner table, resist her/his puppy dog eyes and do not give her/him any table scraps. Human food is usually higher in calories and not necessarily well-balanced for your pup. Scraps also do not contain or supplement your dog with the proper dose of vitamins and minerals that is necessary for a dog to have. However, there are people foods that are generally OK for your pup to consume. People food such as cooked chicken (no bones!), salmon, baby carrots and green beans contain nutrients that are good for your pup. Do not replace a puppy meal with table scraps. But, as they age, it’s OK to use them as a supplement to their normal food. Just don’t let any bad table manners develop!
No to Large Bones
Contrary to popular belief, dogs and bones do not go hand-in-hand! The FDA actually warns against giving your dog bones because it can be dangerous and deadly for your dogs. However, not all kinds of bones are necessarily bad for your pup. Raw bones are ok for your pup. Raw bones generally contain calcium and trace minerals, which can be essential to your pup’s diet. On the other hand, as a general rule, avoid giving your puppy cooked bones as it can cause internal damage or can cause intestinal instruction. For more information, click here.
Finding the right dog food suitable for your pup can be challenging because there are so many to choose from. But with some quick research and information on basic foods you can give your pup, you will eventually find the type of dog food best-suited for your growing pup. Hope this helps when you’re thinking what to feed your puppy! Best of luck!