Complete Puppy Feeding Guide: How Much, How Often & What to Feed

How Much Should I Feed My Puppy?

Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. They require more calories per pound of body weight to fuel their rapid growth. However, overfeeding can lead to obesity and skeletal problems, especially in large breeds.

As a general guideline, here's how much to feed based on your puppy's expected adult weight:

• Toy breeds (under 12 lbs): ¼ to ½ cup per day
• Small breeds (12-25 lbs): ½ to 1 cup per day
• Medium breeds (25-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups per day
• Large breeds (50-100 lbs): 2 to 4 cups per day
• Giant breeds (100+ lbs): 4 to 6+ cups per day

Always check the feeding recommendations on your specific dog food and adjust based on your puppy's body condition.

Puppy Feeding Schedule by Age

Your puppy's feeding schedule should change as they grow:

• 8-12 weeks: 4 meals per day
• 3-6 months: 3 meals per day
• 6-12 months: 2 meals per day
• 12+ months: 2 meals per day (adult schedule)

Consistent meal times help regulate your puppy's digestion and make house training easier.

Choosing the Right Puppy Food

Look for food specifically formulated for puppies, with these key features:

• AAFCO statement for "growth" or "all life stages"
• High-quality protein as the first ingredient
• DHA for brain and eye development
• Appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (especially for large breeds)

Fresh vs. Kibble: What's Best for Puppies?

Both fresh food and high-quality kibble can provide complete nutrition for puppies. Fresh food offers benefits like higher moisture content and better digestibility, while kibble is more convenient and cost-effective.

Many pet parents choose to feed a combination of both, using fresh food as a topper or mixing it with kibble. The most important factor is choosing food that meets AAFCO standards for puppy nutrition.

Signs You're Feeding the Right Amount

Your puppy should have a visible waist when viewed from above and you should be able to feel (but not see) their ribs. If your puppy seems constantly hungry, lethargic, or is gaining weight too quickly, consult your veterinarian about adjusting portions.

Common Puppy Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

• Free-feeding (leaving food out all day)
• Switching foods too quickly
• Giving too many treats
• Feeding adult dog food to puppies
• Overfeeding large breed puppies

When to Transition to Adult Food

Small breeds can typically switch to adult food around 9-12 months. Medium breeds should transition around 12 months, while large and giant breeds may need to stay on puppy food until 18-24 months to ensure proper skeletal development.