Feeding a growing Puppy

Puppies grow at an incredible rate, with some breeds reaching their adult weight as early as 6 months, whereas humans take approximately 18 years!

During this time puppies expend a huge amount of energy; learning, playing and generally creating the mischief you would expect from a young animal exploring its world.

Fuelling this rapid growth period correctly is essential for the growing puppy. Your choice of puppy diet will be one of the most important long-term decisions you’ll make.

The Seven Signs of Vitality

At IAMS we are pet owners too so when creating our recipes we want to ensure they support the seven signs of vitality that radiate from every healthy dog. We also understand that one size does not fit all, and as your animal ages, just as with children, your puppy’s needs will change too.

The Seven Signs of Puppy Vitality are:

Healthy Growth: IAMS contains high quality animal protein and essential minerals
Strong Bones: IAMS is enriched with essential minerals and vitamin D to support strong bone growth, giving your dog the confidence to shake off every tumble they take.
Healthy Teeth: One of the key issues facing many dogs from as young as just 18 months, is poor dental health, the crunchy kibbles and tooth friendly minerals help keep teeth healthy .
Healthy Digestion: With a tailored fibre blend, including prebiotics and beet pulp, IAMS for Vitality supports a healthy digestive system.
Healthy Immune System: An antioxidant blend with Vitamin C and E support and boost the immune system, keeping your dog happy and active.
Healthy Skin and Shiny Coat: Omega 3 & 6 are included to support a healthy skin and the best-looking coat.
Healthy Brain Development: With omega 3 fat DHA, IAMS for Vitality supports the healthy brain development of your puppy; a healthy brain means easier trainability!

How much should I feed my puppy?

The amount you feed your puppy will be dependent on their individual breed, weight and age. As a general guide, would recommend the below,

WEIGHT OF PUPPY	AMOUNT PER DAY
WEIGHT OF PUPPY	1 – 3 months	3 – 4 months	5 -7 months	8 – 12 months
0.5kg	65g	60g	-	-
1kg	100g	95g	-	-
2kg	160g	150g	95g	-
4kg	255g	235g	150g	80g
6kg	335g	310g	200g	105g
8kg	405g	375g	240g	130g
10kg	470g	435g	280g	150g
15kg	-	575g	370g	195g
20kg	-	-	445g	240g
25kg	-	-	-	275g

Why do the feeding guidelines in IAMS Puppy food decrease so much around 6 months of age?

During the first 6 months of a puppies life growth they grow very rapidly and to support this growth they need more energy. At approximately 6 months of age this growth rate slows down, so the feeding guidelines are reduced in line with this reduced need for energy. Six months is also a common age for neutering, which can reduce a dog’s metabolism, meaning weight gain is more likely. It is important to note though, that all feeding guidelines are just a guide; all dogs are individuals and should be fed according to their individual needs.

Why should i switch to an adult food?

As with feeding levels, the time to switch to adult food varies by breed and size so it is important to note that all feeding guides are just a guide; all dogs are individual and should be fed according to their individual needs.

Most puppies should transition onto adult food from around 12 months of age.