Puppy Feeding Guidelines

What Should I Feed My Puppy?

A seemingly simple question: “What should I feed my puppy?” – it's one that virtually every dog owner asks themselves (and probably others) at one time or another. Assuming you might be asking yourself that same question, you’re in good company!

If you’re feeling a little lost or overwhelmed with all the options out there, we get it – you’ve come to the right place. So read on below as we dish out some answers on the “what, when, and how much” when it comes to your puppy’s feeding guidelines, food, and the overall health of your pet.

One of the very first steps may well be the easiest: Start your puppy out on the right paw by feeding your furry friend a balanced diet of well researched, nourishing, and high-quality puppy food made with essential ingredients designed to support their growth and development, as well as build a strong immune system. We happen to think our "I and love and you" Naked Essentials™ Puppy - Chicken & Lentil formula is one of the best puppy foods on the market – complete with vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and digestive enzymes, our Naked Essentials™ line of dog and puppy kibble ensures your puppy has everything they need for proper digestion, cell function, and growth. These essential building blocks of a good diet will keep your puppy in peak physical condition and health, with the ultimate goal of avoiding unnecessary veterinarian visits, and reducing your costs in the long run.

Speaking of savings, check out our new Puppy Food Starter Kit – a great value and perfect for puppy owners who are just starting out.

Dry Food, Wet Food, or Both?

While puppy kibble is the most popular and economical choice for your pup, it’s not the only food selection. Wet food, which usually comes in cans or pouches, is typically the most expensive option, though your pup will probably find it tastier than dry food. However, many dog owners stick with dry food not just for its low cost, but also its positive effects on oral health. The friction that’s produced when your pup eats puppy kibble helps keep his growing gums and teeth healthy from the start.

If you’re unsure what to choose, you don’t have to settle on one type of food. A combination of dry and wet pet food can be a great way to give your puppy a complete, balanced diet. If you choose to go down this route, make sure the combination doesn’t exceed your pup’s caloric intake. Talk with your veterinarian and use the chart below to help you map out how much you should feed your puppy. Also, be sure to add water in addition to your puppy’s dry food and wet food intake. Speaking of which…

How Much Water Does My Puppy Need?

Freshwater should be available all the time. When summer rolls around, consider putting water bowls in multiple areas of your home to ensure your puppy stays hydrated. As far as measurements go, younger pups need about a 1/2 cup of water every couple of hours. Older puppies usually need somewhere between 1/2 ounce and 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. Also, it’s important to wash water bowls daily to avoid any buildup of bacteria.

How Often Should I Feed My Puppy?

Feed your puppy frequently in the beginning – at least 3 to 4 times per day − and more often if they're very young. At 5 to 6 months, you can slowly transition to 2 to 3 meals per day by gradually reducing the mid-day meal and slightly increasing breakfast and dinner. Keep in mind that at around 6 months, or at the time of spay/neuter, their growth process slows down, so watch your companion’s weight and reduce the amount of food if necessary. Overfeeding your puppy kibble can set them up for health problems such as joint issues and obesity. As cute as it is, puppies should be trim and fit, not chubby and round.

Puppy Feeding Chart

What’s The Best Time To Feed My Puppy?

Once you know how much and how often to feed your puppy dog food, you’ll need to create a feeding schedule for them. Taking the amount of food your pup needs and dividing it into smaller meals is the best and easiest way to do this. To keep things even simpler, base their feeding schedule around your own – breakfast, lunch and dinner. The main thing to remember is consistency. Feed your puppy dog food at the same time every day to help your furry friend get used to the process. Also, make sure to feed your pal as early in the evening as possible to ensure they completely digest their food before bedtime. That way, accidents inside the house will be less likely.

Should I Leave Food Out For My Puppy?

Don’t leave food out for your puppy unless you cannot find a way to provide a mid-day meal when you’re at work. Free-choice feeding is a recipe for unhealthy eating and elimination habits. Not only does free-choice feeding frequently lead to overweight pets, it’s also a strain on their developing immune and digestive systems. If you must leave food out when your puppy is younger, be sure to eliminate free-choice feeding once they are old enough to transition to 2 to 3 meals per day.

When Should I Stop Feeding My Dog Puppy Food?

It's appropriate to feed your new dog puppy food until around 12 to 15 months of age, at which point you can begin the transition to “all life stages” foods such as our Nude Food® Super Food line of dry dog kibble. You can follow the traditional feeding guidelines listed on each product, or vary the amount to cater to your pet's changing needs – after all, you’re likely the best judge, jury, and advocate for your pet’s health based on your knowledge of their daily routines, activity levels, habits, and so on.

For instance, if your dog spends most days snoozing on the couch, feed less on those days. But, if you take him on a 5-mile hike in the mountains on Saturday, then you'll want to feed him extra food on Saturday evening and maybe even Sunday morning to help his muscles recover. If the weather is extremely hot or cold, your pet may need a little more food because of metabolic changes associated with temperature change. Illness or injury can also alter nutrient requirements – checking in with your vet can help you decide if you’re ever unsure of how much.

Updated October 30, 2024