Here you can find out what makes a balanced diet for dogs and how to switch your dog onto a new food. Learn how dogs' dietary needs change over time and how to deal with a fussy eater.
Changing from puppy to adult dog food
Puppies grow very quickly, so they need specialist puppy food with extra energy, protein, calcium and phosphorus. Switching them to an adult diet too early can result in bone and joint abnormalities.
How do you know the right time to switch to adult food? You need to wait until your dog is physically mature. As a rough guide this will be:
- 9-12 months for toy, small and medium breeds like Chihuahuas and Springer Spaniels;
- 12-15 months for large breeds like Labradors and Retrievers; and
- 18-24 months for giant breeds like Great Danes and Newfoundlands.
If you’re unsure when to switch your puppy over to adult dog food, you can always check with your vet.