What Do Puppies Eat From 1 to 12 Months

Are you bringing a puppy home in Australia? Here’s a quick guide to feeding in the first minute! Are you a new puppy at home and feeling overwhelmed? Where to start in the first few months? Here’s what you need to know!

What Do Puppies Eat From 1 to 12 Months?

1 Month: Breast Milk/Formula Feeding

• Breast milk provides essential nutrients for a puppy’s growth and enhances their immunity. If the mother is not feeding or there’s insufficient milk, use formula or goat milk as an alternative.
  
• Feed every 3-4 hours with a bottle, maintaining a temperature around 38°C. Ensure warmth, avoid outings and baths, and consider preparing a crate for fostering independence.

2-4 Months: Vaccination + Weaning

• Vaccination: Start deworming at one month, and give the first vaccine at 45 days, with a one-week interval between doses. Vaccination and deworming require a healthy puppy with a good mental state and appetite.
  
• Three vaccinations are needed, one per month. After two shots, the puppy can go outside, but avoid contact with other animals’ faeces.
  
• Deworming can be internal and external, done monthly.
  
• Weaning: When the puppy’s milk teeth have grown and digestion improves, transition from milk-soaked food to dry kibble.

4-5 Months: Teething Period

• Puppies enter the teething period, shedding milk teeth and growing permanent ones.
  
• Chewing treats and toys can speed up the teething process. Engage in tug-of-war games, maintain teeth brushing, and consider dental sticks after meals. Some double rows of teeth during teething are normal, but if it persists beyond six months, consult a vet.

6-8 Months: Golden Growth Period

• Rapid growth period for the puppy’s body and bones. Appetite increases, and the rate of muscle development accelerates.
  
• Opt for low-oil, low-salt food to reduce tear stains and soft stool. Scientifically increase meal sizes. Consider adding cooked egg yolk, chicken breast, beef, etc., for nutritional supplementation.

9-12 Months: Gradual Maturity

• Puppies gradually enter adulthood, with body size stabilising and personality becoming more predictable.
  
• Be patient during the potential rebellious phase before full maturity. Avoid scolding; instead, patiently retrain. Dogs may drink more water, change their food every six months, and introduce a variety of nutrients.

Puppyhood is fleeting, and this period challenges a parent’s patience. If you navigate the puppy’s early months smoothly, you’ll have a well-adjusted companion!