What food, how much, and how often for my large breed puppy?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

  Veterinarian

  It's best if you can find a diet that is labeled for large-breed puppies. It's a bit tricky, because some products say that they are for large-breed puppies, but have not gone through the specific testing to support their claims.
  
  In order to ensure the product is what it says it is, you will need to look at the AAFCO statement, which is under the guaranteed analysis on the bag. Below is a link to an article that explains how to do this and gives additional info about feeding your dog.
  
  https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-to-look-for-when-choosing-your-pet-s-food/
  
  I recently searched various foods for puppies and found Royal Canin and Hills to have the better (according to the AAFCO statement) products for large breed puppies. And, just in case there is any suspicion, I am not being paid by them to say this :-)
  
  Feeding three times a day is ideal, but it wouldn't hurt to feed six times a day if you have the time. Most people usually only find the time to feed twice a day, which is OK and better than feeding once a day. One thing you want to avoid is free-choice feeding (leaving a full bowl of food out all day) and feeding more than the recommended (as stated on the bag of food) amount. Obesity is by-far the biggest nutritional problem we have with pets in the U.S. and can be avoided by not feeding too much.
  
  I hope that helps.

  

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