Strays Anatomy

The first 8 weeks

Puppies should not be separated from their mother before they are 8 weeks old. Puppies who leave their mothers sooner have a rougher time adjusting and a higher incidence of illnesses. I do not know if it is due to weakened immunity or mourning the premature loss of its family. Their mother’s milk provides them with the nutrition and antibodies they need to become healthy dogs. At three to four weeks, puppies should begin eating some solid food. You can try mixing three parts food with one part water or puppy replacement milk . This will make the food easier for the puppy to digest. If your puppy begins eating a little solid food before they leave their mother they will have an easier time adjusting when you bring them home. One way to tell if a puppy is ready to come home with you is if it prefers human company over their mom or siblings.

6 to 8 weeks

Feed your puppy 3-4 times a day. Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Choose a puppy food that provides the appropriate balance of nutrients your puppy needs. Be sure they are getting the right amount of protein and calcium, and the proper amount of calories. Check the label to determine if you are feeding your puppy a balanced diet. Meat should be the first ingredient on the label.

After 8 weeks

Feed your puppy twice a day.

3 to 6 months

Your puppy will be teething. He may become a finicky eater or loose his appetite. Keep feeding him nutritious food twice a day. If he has an upset stomach for more then one or two days, take him to the veterinarian.

6 months to 1 year

Your puppy may look all grown up but he is still a puppy. He should still be fed puppy food for the added nutrition. Feed him the puppy food for the first year. In some larger breeds even into the second year. Ask your veterinarian when you should switch to adult food. Make sure the adult food you switch to is still a balanced diet with the first ingredient being meat.

8 to 9 months

Feeding can be reduced to once a day.

2 years

Smaller breeds can start on adult food when they are a year old. Larger breeds should stay on puppy food until they are fully mature which is usually about 2 years of age. Ask your veterinarian when to switch your dog.