Nourishing Your Puppy with Science Diet Food
How Much and How Often to Feed Your Adult Dog
Growing dogs need plenty of food and your veterinarian may tell you to feed a new puppy a few times a day. However, what about when your dog gets older? You might wonder, "how often should I feed my dog?" or "how much should my dog eat?"
To answer those questions, here are some feeding guidelines that cover playful puppies, relaxed seniors, and every age in between.
Nourishing a Puppy
Since puppies grow quickly and burn so much energy, they need to eat highly nutritious food and they need it often. You'll start out feeding your puppy frequently, then slowly wean them down to fewer feedings. This process will help them grow big and strong.
6 to 12 Weeks
Puppies should be eating food nutritionally designed to meet their needs for bone and muscle growth, like Hill's Science Diet Puppy foods, which fuels your on-the-move puppy. A quality puppy food contains optimal amounts of protein, DHA, and vitamins to keep your puppy growing at appropriate rates. For puppies, four feedings a day are recommended for ages six to twelve weeks. It's also a good idea to start puppies with moistened food to help them chew.
3 to 6 Months
Feedings can decrease to three times a day during this period. You will see your puppy start to mature during this phase their baby potbelly and pudginess will start to disappear. Its recommended to feed them puppy-sized portions until you see signs that their body is maturing.
6 to 12 Months
At six months reduce to twice-daily feedings. Keep in mind that after your dog is neutered, their energy level may decrease, so you need to make sure that you are feeding them the correct amount. Its also a good time to start thinking about what food you want to offer when you switch from nutrient-rich puppy food to adult food. While you should always check with your vet about your puppy's individual needs, small and medium breeds typically transition to adult food at 12 months, while large or giant breeds may not transition until 18 months of age.
It's also good to make the switch to adult food over a 5-7 day period. Too abrupt of a change may cause stomach problems for your pooch. To transition between foods, mix your dog's current food with a small amount of their new food. Over the course of a week, gradually decrease the amount of the current dog food while increasing the amount of new dog food for a safe and comfortable transition.
As with anything that plays a pivotal role in your dog's overall health and development, talk to your veterinarian about proper feeding regimes. While dog food bags and cans will often provide feeding instructions on the packaging, calorie needs can vary from dog to dog based on breed, weight, activity level and more. Your vet will be able to provide you with the best recommendation for feeding your pup for healthy growth.
Feeding an Adult Dog
Once your dog is fully grown, you need to make sure you're feeding them dog food that keeps them healthy and fit, so that they avoid developing health issues. Their food type and portion size should be tailored to their breed, size, and lifestyle. Again, this is a good conversation to have with your veterinarian to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.
Years 1 to 7
Most owners feed adult dogs two half-portions a day. How much is that? It depends on your dog. Measure food, rather than eye-balling it, to make sure your dog is getting the right amount each day. Keep an eye on your dog for signs of weight gain, and cut down on food if necessary under the supervision of your vet. Some of the signs your dog is overweight include not being able to feel their ribs, loss of a discernible waist, pads of fat over the hips and base of the tail and a waddling gait.
Dogs should eat at regular times, usually once in the morning and once in the evening the key is consistency. Also, keep in mind that the type of food you choose is important. If you have a more sedentary dog, consider a food that matches their lifestyle to ensure they still get the right nutrients without causing them to gain weight.
Years 7+
Your dog is getting older and perhaps a little slower. Remember that dogs age more quickly than people do, so major health changes occur much earlier in life. Choose a food specially formulated with ingredients that support brain, immune and digestive function, energy levels, and a luxurious coat. Food formulated for ageing pets also takes into consideration that their metabolism will have likely slowed down. Choosing the right food will help give your older pup the right amount of calories, while including additional nutrients to help them get their youthful spirit back.
Caring for a Senior
Your dog has officially made it over the hill of middle age. With seniority your dog is changing, so make sure you're keeping an eye on their nutrition and health, and consult your vet to see if you should switch to a senior dog food.
Larger breeds may reach seniority sooner than smaller breeds, so it is important to ask your vet when your pooch has reached their golden years. For instance, your Jack Russell terrier might still be barreling around the house at eleven, but your golden retriever might be slowing down by age seven.
It might be around this time that you'll want to cut back on food to avoid the weight gain that comes with less activity. You should also watch senior dogs for signs of weight loss, which can be a sign of health issues, like dental problems. Continue with twice-daily feedings as your dog may appreciate the routine. If you see changes in your dog's weight or eating habits, talk to your vet.
Feeding your dog the right amount of high-quality dog food through each step of their life will go a long way towards keeping your four-legged friend healthy. Just as eating amounts vary from person to person, eating amounts vary from dog to dog, which is why consulting your vet is the best place to start.
Keep in mind the above age ranges and information are just guidelines. Health issues might age your dog faster, or they could remain vital well into their senior years. Monitoring your dog's health, choosing high-quality dog food for every life stage, and keeping an open dialogue with your vet will help you answer how much to feed your dog and make the best choices to nourish your furry friend through puppyhood and into their golden years.
Best Puppy Foods
Ollie Chicken is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie Dog Food product line.
This particular Ollie formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 11% fat and 44% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of roughly 30%.
All Ollie recipes are human-grade and designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN). A real plus. Each meal is suitable for all puppies, 12 weeks of age or older including those of larger breeds.
An exceptional, grain-free option perfect for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet. A diet thats as close to homemade as you can get. without all the time-consuming hard work.
Affordable. But not cheap. Enthusiastically recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Fresh-Cooked Dog Food page
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Trustpilot"I absolutely love the fact they my puppy enjoys her food. She runs to the kitchen when she sees I'm grabbing her bowl to feed her. Once the bowl is down, she runs to it as a TV advertisement animals! Its a joy to see her eat"
Pork Recipe is one of 4 fresh formulas included in our review of the The Farmers Dog product line.
Farmers Pork derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
The entire product line is designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN). Plus each recipe is made with human-grade ingredients.
All Farmers Dog recipes are 100% complete and balanced and formulated for puppies of all breed sizes (including those of larger breeds).
A healthy feeding option for those able to afford the premium price. Highly recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Fresh-Cooked Dog Food page
Read our review of the full The Farmers Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breed Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"Brunno has never looked or felt so good. He no longer sheds and his breath is fresh and clean. His coat absolutely gleams with health. His eyes are bright and his energy level is through the roof! Thank you for making quality food at a good price point. If anyone is on the fence about trying this or making the switch, dont be!"
Beef Mash is one of 4 fresh wet recipes covered in our review of the Nom Nom Dog Food product line.
Nom Nom Beef Mash gets most of its animal protein from fresh ground beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 35% protein, 17% fat and 40% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
An exceptional, grain-free option ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet thats as close to homemade as you can get. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 35% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow.com"I am soo happy I chose Nom Nom.. My dogs love it! The ingredients are all natural.. Heck, we could eat it! I have tried food for dogs and my dogs turned their noses with it. Comes packaged to keep food fresh, so if you're not home for delivery, no problem, food will be fine until you arrive. Thanks Nom Nom for supplying the best ingredients."
Redbarn Grain-Free Sky is one of 3 dry recipes studied in our review of the Redbarn dry product line.
Redbarn Sky derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey and chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 31% protein, 17% fat and 7% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 10%.
A wholesome grain-free product. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Redbarn Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, chicken meal, duck meal, turkey meal Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Redbarn.com"I got this for my two dogs because I wanted a healthier option of food for them. I liked that the ingredients list is short and without unnecessary additives. My dogs LOVE the food. I'm so happy with my choice to get this food!"
Raised Right Beef is one of11 fresh recipesincluded inour reviewof the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein fromfresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For All puppies including large breed Salmon is one of4 dry recipesfeatured inour reviewof the Jinx product line.
This Jinx recipe derives the bulk of its animal protein fromfresh salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A fully-balanced, grain-inclusive dog food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Jinx Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, pearled barley, ground peas, turkey meal, brown rice Type Grain-inclusive (barley, brown rice) Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Open Farm Grain-Free Puppy is one of21 dry recipesanalyzed inour reviewof the Open Farm product line.
This Open Farm recipe derives the majority of its animal protein fromchicken and salmon. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 18% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
A high in protein option made with fresh ingredients. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Humanely Raised Chicken, wild pacific salmon, ocean whitefish meal, sweet potato, field peas Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at OpenFarmPet.com"I originally found this brand of dog food off of TikTok, silly right? I looked into it and saw that the food is above and beyond for my puppies nutrition. After purchasing the food, my pup was very happy it! I would definitely recommend this brand, as it is fully worth the price."
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy is one of9 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Taste of the Wildproduct line.
This Taste of the Wild puppy formula takes the majority of its animal protein fromfresh salmonandocean fish meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 17% fat and 45% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Pacific Stream Puppy Food is not only rich in omega fatty acids, its also nutrient-balanced to support optimal health during a puppys period of maximum growth.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, pea flour Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I feed my puppies Taste of the Wild. I love that it has pro-biotics in it and the kibble is small enough for them to eat easily after being weaned. This is the only puppy food that I highly recommend and I will continue using this product. The puppies enjoy the taste and the oils in the salmon puppy food help with their coats and make them shine."
Orijen Puppy is one of9 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Orijenproduct line.
This Orijen formula takes the dominant part of its animal protein fromfresh poultry(chicken and turkey) andfish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 23% fat and 26% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
Orijen is a 5-star, all life stages recipe brimming with animal protein. A superior option for your growing puppy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard), flounder, whole mackerel Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is one of the best brands I have bought, I have been feeding my puppy high quality food ever since I bought it but this one made a big improvement on my puppy he is more active and his coat looks better also he has very sensitive stomach but with this one he has been good now. He loves it so much that my GSD was stealing his food so I had to buy some for my GSD as well"
Puppy Plate is one of10 wet recipesincluded in ourreview of the Merrick Classic cannedproduct line.
This Merrick formula derives the bulk of its meat protein fromfresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 50% protein, 28% fat and 14% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
This Merrick puppy recipe makes a great wet alternative to a dry diet and it makes a flavorful topper to help enhance the taste of almost any kibble. Highly recommended.
More Choices:Visit Our Best Wet Puppy Foods Page
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned Chicken, chicken broth, deboned turkey, sweet potatoes, carrots Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 50% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This puppy food is a hit in our home! Its got good texture and is easily mixed in as a topper. It has a pleasant smell (for canned dog food) and you can see chunks of veggies throughout. The puppies are eager for meal times and clean their bowls. 5 stars!"
Complete Health Puppy is one of13 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Wellness Complete Healthproduct line.
Wellness Puppy gets the bulk of its animal protein fromfresh chickenandchicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 20% fat and 40% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
An exceptional formula. Contains just the right amount of calcium to make it safe for all puppy breeds. Highly recommended.
Wellness Complete Health
Read our review of the full Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas Type Grain-inclusive (oatmeal, ground barley) Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I was looking for a new puppy food for my newest french bulldog litter and after much consideration, decided to give this food a try. The pups love it and they have nice shiny coats, tons of energy and stools are solid and minimal. Very pleased with the results and will continue to use and recommend this food to my customers."
Life Protection Chicken and Brown Rice Puppy is one of21 dry recipes including4 puppy formulas detailed in ourreview of the Blue Buffalo Life Protectionproduct line.
This Blue Buffalo puppy product derives the majority of its meat protein fromfresh chickenandchicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
Blue Life Protection offers4 puppy recipes. All are nutrient-balanced, affordable and easy to recommend.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley Type Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal, barley) AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"When we adopted our puppy from the shelter, she was a stray and we didnt even know where to begin when it came to dog food. There were so many options that it was a flurry to make a decision. After reading reviews and getting recommendations from friends, we landed on Blue Buffalo. Our pup has loved it since day 1 and never had any problems. 100% recommend for new dog owners!"
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy is one of13 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Merrick Classicproduct line.
This Merrick Classic Puppy formula derives the largest share of its animal protein fromfresh chickenandchicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
Unlike Merricks grain-free product line, Classic is not only free of peas and lentils its also contains zero potatoes.
A top-quality, moderately priced puppy food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Type Grain-inclusive (rice, barley, oatmeal) Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have used Merrick for years. It is healthy and delicious. When we brought out new pup home from the breeder she was on another brand. When I started to add Merrick she would pick through and only eat the Merrick . We finally did a taste test , putting Merrick puppy in one corner and the other in another spot. It was hands down Merrick. She would not even eat the other. She is growing very well and has a healthy coat and skin. Thank you Merrick"
Puppy Chicken and Rice is one of10 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Purina Pro Plan Puppyproduct line.
This Purina Pro Plan puppy product derives the bulk of its animal protein from frompoultry by-product meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 20% fat and 40% estimated carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
Pro Plan is one of the brands most often mentioned when we interview veterinary professionals.
Whats more every Pro Plan product meets thestrict guidelinesrecommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
A top choice. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, rice, poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal, whole grain wheat Type Grain-inclusive (rice, wheat) Protein Percentage 32% AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My puppies love this food and they are healthier because of it. Their fur is so beautiful and soft and it also came recommended by their veterinarian. At first I was going to get a grain-free brand, but my vet stated that puppies need grain to develop their bones, organs and brain. My pups are growing healthy and strong."
Science Diet Chicken Meal and Barley is one of6 dry puppy recipesdetailed in ourreview of the Hills Science Diet Puppyproduct line.
This Science Diet Puppy formula sources nearly all its animal protein fromchicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
Hills Puppy is a classic growth formula recommended by both breeders and veterinary professionals alike and its calcium content is safe for all puppy breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Hills Science Diet Puppy Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, whole grain wheat, cracked pearled barley, whole grain sorghum, whole grain corn Type Grain-inclusive (wheat, barley, sorghum, corn, corn meal) Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Small and medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We recently had an 8 week old Australian Shepherd join our family and she loves this food! Our 6 year old lab has been on science diet since a pup and we get so many compliments on how shiny his coat is and how healthy he looks! Would recommend this food to anyone!"
Chicken Soup Puppy is one of11 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the Chicken Soup for the Soulproduct line.
Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy gets the majority of its meat protein fromfresh poultryandpoultry meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 20% fat and 39% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
This product makes an exceptional choice for both small and medium puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, chicken meal, turkey meal, cracked pearled barley Type Grain-inclusive (barley, brown rice, oatmeal, millet) AAFCO Standards All life stages Best For All puppies including large breeds Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My puppy was constantly having soft and loose stools no matter what food we tried. Switched her to chicken soup for the soul puppy food and it fixed her digestive issues within a few days. Shes now very regular with perfect consistency. She also loves the food and gobbles it down! I will continue with this brand for the long haul!"
Natural Choice Puppy is one of19 dry recipesthat can be found in ourreview of the Nutro Natural Choiceproduct line.
This Nutro puppy kibble gets nearly all its animal protein fromfresh chickenandchicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 18% fat and 43% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
Nutro Natural Choice offers5 different puppy foods, each optimized for a specific breed size. A budget-friendly product from one of the most trusted brands in the industry. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nutro Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain barley, brewers rice, whole grain brown rice Type Grain-inclusive (barley, rice) Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Small and medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our new puppy, a Boston Terrier, loves this food. She has no digestive problems and her coat is shiny and eyes are bright. I love the fact that it is all natural and it saves me the time from making her food from scratch!"
