NUTRITION FOR PUPPIES THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF
A hallmark of puppyhood is rapid growth. In just the first 10 days, puppies nearly double their birth weight. By 6 months of age, puppies often need two times the amount of nutrients and calories per pound of body weight compared to adult dogs. The rapid growth that is unique to the puppy life stage benefits from nutritional support from a complete and balanced puppy food or an all life stages food that has been validated in feeding trials for growing puppies. Setting puppies up for success in life begins with optimal nutrition that nourishes their developing bodies. “Puppies, in general, have a higher nutrient requirement than adult dogs,” says Martha G. Cline, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), Senior Manager for Veterinary Technical Communications at Purina. “Their bodies are rapidly growing and developing, so they need the nutritional building blocks to support that rapid growth,” Dr. Cline says. “Higher levels of minerals, protein, amino acids and essential fatty acids are really important. They also require more calories per their body weight than an adult dog. This gradually decreases as they approach adulthood and maturity.” The AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth (puppies) and reproduction (gestation and lactation) reflect the higher key nutrients needed compared to adult mainte- nance. The requirements for calcium and phosphorus, which aid in bone development, are more than double. Higher protein is needed for building new tissue and
supporting muscle, skin and coat, and organ development. DHA and EPA from omega-3 fatty acids, which are impor- tant in brain and vision development for puppies, are conditionally essential for adult dogs. A plethora of pet food options can make it challenging for breeders and pet owners to choose the best puppy food. Here, Dr. Cline, a board-certified veterinary nutri- tionist, offers tips to help you decide the best food to feed your puppies. FEEDING FOR STEADY GROWTH Managing puppies’ transition from roly-poly 8-week- olds to the desired lean body condition of adult dogs Feeding a complete and balanced puppy food, such as one of these Purina Pro Plan puppy foods, is ideal for optimal growth in puppies. Pro Plan puppy foods are made with chicken, beef, lamb or salmon as the No. 1 ingredient. They are available in diets for all puppies as well as for toy-, small- and large-breed puppies.
requires being mindful of differences among individual dogs. Adjustments along the way are to be expected to promote steady growth. “Both puppy and all life stages foods contain all essential nutrients in the proper amounts to support puppies during growth,” Dr. Cline explains. “If you are feeding an all life stages food, you can feed that into adulthood. However, breeders should be aware that all life stages foods are calorie dense, which may not be the best option for animals prone to excess weight at maturity. “A better choice for dogs prone to excess body weight might be to feed a puppy food and then segue to a less calorie dense adult mainte- nance food to make sure we are
AAFCO REQUIREMENTS OF KEY NUTRIENTS FOR PUPPIES VERSUS ADULT DOGS
Nutrient
Growth & Reproduction — Per 1,000 calories —
Adult Maintenance — Per 1,000 calories —
Calcium
3 grams
1.25 grams
Phosphorus
2.5 grams
1 gram
Protein
56.3 grams
45 grams
DHA/EPA essential fatty acids
100 milligrams
N/A
*Based on the 2023 Association of American Feed Control Officials Dog Food Nutrient Profile standards for growth and reproduction (gestation and lactation) and adult maintenance foods.
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 7
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