Puppies go through different growth stages in their first months of life, each with specific nutritional needs:
DOG GROWTH STAGES
Newborn. Puppies are born without the ability to see, hear, or regulate their body temperature. They are completely dependent on their mother for nourishment and care. During the first days of life, puppies latch onto their mother’s mammary glands for milk. Breast milk is rich in essential nutrients, and in the first hours, thanks to colostrum, it contains very important antibodies that help protect puppies from the most common diseases. It is therefore understandable that the mother’s diet plays an essential role in this phase, not only for her own well-being but also for that of the puppies and their correct and robust growth. It is recommended to feed her with good “puppy” food, as it is higher in energy, essential nutrients like proteins and fats, and pair it with plenty of fresh water always available.
Weaning. Around 4-6 weeks of life, puppies start to show interest in solid food and the weaning process can begin. In addition to breast milk, it is possible to offer them group meals with healthy, balanced foods suited to their growth needs that are also easy to digest, and that do not neglect the well-being of the intestinal microbial flora: it is indeed in this delicate phase that the development of what will become the subject’s microbiota begins even once adult, thus influencing their well-being or predisposing them to digestive or dermatological alterations. Starting with mousses and creams, by 8 weeks of life, puppies start eating solid food more consistently, completely eliminating breast milk, it is important to provide them with a balanced and complete diet.
Young. Between 2 and 6 months of life, depending on the breed, puppies continue to grow very quickly, increasing their mass even in remarkable proportions each week. During this phase, it is essential to provide them with a nutritious diet to support their growth and development: rich in high biological value proteins and able to provide all nutrients, such as calcium and phosphorus in balanced ratios for growth and the formation of the musculoskeletal system, which must support and withstand their weight and exuberance without damage. Usually around the sixth month of life, some smaller breeds may slow their growth and gradually complete their physical and physiological development with sexual maturity; for other medium and large breed dogs, growth may last up to one and a half years, so it is important to pay close attention to their diet, as well as to the puppy’s management in the environment and during activities.
WHAT IS ALWAYS IMPORTANT FOR A PUPPY?
All phases still require a balanced protein intake, provided by high biological value sources, such as those of animal origin, found in meat or fish. Proteins are extremely important in the diet of puppies, as they provide them with the essential amino acids needed for growth and muscle development, skin and coat health, proper immune system function, and more. During the early stages of a puppy’s life, when growth is rapid, it is especially important to ensure they receive a sufficient amount of high-quality protein. Ideally, a puppy food should contain a protein percentage appropriate for their needs, generally around 22-32% of the total dry matter of the food. It is important to choose foods formulated specifically for puppies, as these will be balanced to meet their specific growth and development needs, by carefully reading the labels with the list of ingredients used.
Dr. Alessandra Calini
Nutritionist Veterinarian