Puppies are typically weaned off their mother’s milk from around the age of 8 weeks. The goal of feeding growing puppies is to lay the foundations for healthy adulthood. Proper nutrition is required to achieve healthy growth, optimise immune function and minimise the potential for obesity and diseases. It’s important to note that a puppy’s nutritional needs are a lot different from an adult dog.

Some of the basic components necessary to the health and growth of a puppy are water, calories, protein, fats, vitamins and minerals.

Water

Water is the most vital nutrient for all mammals and makes up 75% of the body mass at birth. It has a major role in the functions of the body including the transportation and delivery of nutrients, regulation of body temperature and lubrication of joints, eyes and inner ear. If a puppy does not receive enough water then it will start to show signs of dehydration such as lethargy and dry skin.

Calories

One of the most important factors of a puppy’s diet is to ensure that there is a large number of calories that fits into a small stomach. It is advised that to feed puppies little of often which helps to fuel them until their next feeding.

Protein

Protein provides amino acids which are the building blocks to growth. Puppies require significantly more protein than adult dogs and this is particularly important during the rapid growth phase up to 14 weeks of age. An insufficient supply of protein can lead to poor growth and development.

Fats

This is an important source of energy for fuelling growth. It is estimated that fat has approximately twice as many calories per gram compared with protein or carbohydrates, making this an ideal component of a puppy recipe.

Vitamins and Minerals

Puppies have specific vitamin and mineral requirements that differ from adult dogs. They require minerals that help develop healthy bones and teeth such as calcium and phosphorous, as well as zinc that play a role in skin health and protein metabolism.

Superfood 65 Puppy Salmon with Dill, Spinach, Fennel, Asparagus & Tomato recipe has been formulated with the finest ingredients to help support the growth and development of puppies. With a joint care pack to help support cartilage metabolism and added Omega 3 Supplement to help support a puppy’s cognitive and visual development.