Nutrition from Puppyhood to Adulthood: Raising Them Right and Keeping Them Healthy

Contributed by Iams

Less than a year ago you were probably chasing your cute little puppy around the house trying to teach him to sit. Today, that little puppy weighs 75 pounds and doesn't understand he's not a "lap dog." As your dog matures into adulthood, he's outgrowing the specific nutritional needs of a young puppy. He needs nutrition appropriate for his "new" body- that means a high-quality premium adult formula.

Depending on your puppy's breed size, at some point between 12 and 24 months, you should evaluate his nutritional needs and choose an appropriate adult formula. The transition to a premium adult food should begin when your dog stops growing in height. The kind of dog you have will determine the time you switch.

Small and medium breed dogs, such as Beagles and Cocker Spaniels (weighing 50 pounds or less as adults), normally mature by 12 months of age. Large and giant breed dogs, such as Labrador Retrievers and Great Danes (50 pounds or more as adults), are ready for an adult food between 12 and 24 months.

It's also important to consider your dog's activity level when choosing the appropriate adult formula. A Golden Retriever that runs three miles with you every night will have different nutritional needs than a Dachshund who spends his days guarding the couch. Look for adult foods designed for specific life stages.

Large and giant breed dogs have unique nutritional needs as adults, just like when they were puppies. If you have a dog over 50 pounds, consider feeding an adult formula specifically formulated for large and giant breed dogs. As with any diet change, to help avoid intestinal upset or diarrhea, introduce the new food gradually over the course of four to five days.

He may not be a puppy any more, but you can help make the change to adulthood a healthy one. By providing a high-quality premium diet, the two of you are sure to spend many more happy days together. To learn more about transitioning your puppy to adult food call the Iams Pet Professionals at 1-800-863-4267 or visit Iams on the Web at www.iams.com.