The future well-being of the dog depends on nutrition at a young age – the development of systems and organs, health, immunity. Getting a small pet, you need to understand the feeding standards for small breed puppies and the nuances of developing a balanced diet.
General principles of food organization
Veterinarians recommend feeding puppies according to the schedule – at the same time, with equal intervals between meals. This is necessary for the normal absorption of nutrients and the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Feeding frequency for small breed puppies depends on age:
- Puppies under 2 months should eat at least 5 times a day. You can feed your dog at 8 a.m., 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
- At 2-4 months, puppies are switched to 4 meals a day. Example of schedule: 8:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m.
- In the period from 4 to 7 months, the animal is fed 3 times a day. Ideally – at 8 a.m., 4 p.m., 8 p.m.
- From 7-8 months the dog is ready to eat according to the adult diet – twice a day. For example, at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
The amount of food per day is calculated taking into account the current weight of the animal – about 5-7% of body weight. Between meals, the bowl should not be full. If your pup hasn’t finished a serving, remove the plate until the next feed. At the next meal, give the usual portion, not an increased portion. Weigh your pet regularly and check weight standards for their age.
The nuances of the diet, taking into account the breed
Puppies, like adult animals of small breeds, have their own characteristics. They should be considered when considering a suitable menu:
- Small pets have small stomachs. The dog should not be overfed – in order to avoid disorders of the digestive tract.
- Metabolism in small breed dogs is faster than in large animals. Therefore, in percentage terms, puppies need more building materials – proteins. While large breeds need 50% protein in the diet, a small breed puppy needs at least 70% protein daily.
- Many breeds are prone to food intolerances. Eliminate wheat and corn from the menu of puppies, which not only cause allergies, but also harm the stomach. Chicken often contains antibiotics and hormones, so it’s best to replace it with turkey. Eggs are introduced into the diet with caution.
Before compiling food for a dog, study the characteristics of its specific breed. For example, Yorkies have a sensitive pancreas, so don’t give them a lot of carbs. Miniature Pinschers often suffer from dental problems. It is worth considering buying natural treats for natural plaque cleaning – for example, dried offal.
What foods to make up the diet
The natural diet of puppies consists of:
- Animal proteins – contain a whole complex of essential amino acids. Turkey and beef diet, sometimes low-fat lamb. The offal will make it possible to diversify the diet: liver, heart.
- Healthy fats. The dog gets its body from meat products, but additional sources can be introduced into the menu. For example, flaxseed oil prevents constipation. Fish with omega-3 acids contributes to the normal development of the reproductive system, the prevention of cardiovascular disorders.
- Fibers, minerals and vitamins. Zucchini and zucchini, broccoli and carrots, apples and spinach are considered legal vegetables and fruits for dogs. For optimal nutrient absorption, plant foods are flavored with a small amount of vegetable oil.
- Carbohydrates. Oatmeal, buckwheat, rice porridge in milk, water, broth are useful for a growing body, but it should not be the basis of the diet.
- Dairy products, dairy products. They contain calcium, necessary for strong bones and healthy teeth.
Up to 10% of the daily diet can be dried treats without flavorings, flavor enhancers. Beef tripe, liver, lungs and udder perfectly satisfy the puppy’s need for chewing, develop jaw muscles and protect the apartment from destruction with a small movement.