When a Puppy Can Be Transitioned to Commercial Food 0 14

“In the first days and weeks of life, it is extremely important for a puppy to receive all the necessary nutrients from its mother’s milk. This period is especially significant for the formation of the immune system. Replacing mother’s milk with other food sources is not recommended; however, if such a need arises, it is better to use specialized formulas that closely resemble the composition of maternal milk,” specialists explain.

A puppy will be fed with its mother’s milk for about 6–8 weeks, but by the 3rd to 4th week of life, many of them begin to show interest in adult food. During this period, dog trainers advise offering the puppy small portions of specialized puppy food. “If it is dry food, be sure to soak it in a small amount of water. A sudden refusal of mother’s milk is not recommended; the transition should be gradual,” the experts add.

If the owner plans to feed their pet homemade food, proteins should be gradually introduced into the puppy’s diet: beef, veal, poultry meat, eggs, and cottage cheese. Vegetables, greens, and root vegetables, such as grated carrots, can also be added. Fats should be provided in limited amounts to avoid stomach upset. When creating a homemade diet, it is important to get recommendations from a veterinary specialist who can help correctly calculate the necessary portions for the puppy.

After 6–8 weeks, the puppy can transition to commercial food. The portion size depends on the age, size, and breed of the puppy.

Breastfeeding generally continues until 2 months. During the first year of the puppy’s life, its feeding should be 4–6 times a day. Dog trainers recommend following this feeding frequency:

1–3 months – 6 feedings;
3–4 months – 5 feedings;
6–9 months – 3–4 feedings;
from 9 months onward – 2 feedings.