Feeding your puppy correctly sets the foundation for a healthy life. Puppies need more calories per pound than adults, higher protein for muscle growth, and specific mineral ratios for bone development. Use our Puppy Food Calculator for precise daily amounts based on your puppy's weight and age.
How Much to Feed
Start with the manufacturer's guidelines on the bag — they account for caloric density. Adjust based on body condition: you should feel (not see) ribs. Increase food if ribs are too prominent, decrease if hard to feel at all. Puppies eat approximately 2-4% of body weight daily, split into multiple meals.
Feeding Schedule by Age
- 6-12 weeks: 4 meals per day
- 12 weeks-6 months: 3 meals per day
- 6-12 months: 2 meals per day
Use our Feeding Schedule Calculator to build a custom meal plan for your schedule.
Choosing Puppy Food
- Must have AAFCO statement for "growth" or "all life stages"
- Named meat source as first ingredient
- Large breed puppies MUST use large breed formula (controlled calcium/phosphorus)
- Avoid grain-free (possible DCM link per FDA)
Foods That Are Dangerous
⚠️ Never Feed These: Grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol (sugar-free products), onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, avocado, alcohol, caffeine, cooked bones.