Q&A – When should I switch my puppy to adult food?

4PAWSAdmin Dogs, News, Nutrition & Health, Pet Food, Treats, Weight

When should I switch my puppy to adult food?

 

You adopted a puppy, and are preparing yourself to transition them into adult food as they grow up. Typically, puppies should transition from puppy food to adult food between 12 to 18 months of age. However, this can vary depending on the breed and size of your puppy. Larger breeds might benefit from staying on puppy food a bit longer, possibly until they’re 18 months old or even older, as they have a longer growth period.

 

In order to make the transition as smooth as possible, our Olathe store, 4 Paws Pantry & Spa, recommends blending the current food with the new food over a period of time. Transitioning from one food to another usually takes 7-14 days. If your pet has a sensitive digestion, we recommend extending this transitional phase up to 30 days.

 

The chart below is an example of how to transition your dogs new food into their diet.
(Blue is the pet’s current food, and Yellow is their new food)

Food transition

 

 

Here are some examples of the differences between breeds/sizes of dogs and what to expect:

  • Small and Medium Breeds: Small and medium-sized breeds typically reach their adult size by around 9 to 12 months of age. You can start transitioning them to adult food at around 9 months.
  • Large Breeds: Large breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds, may continue to grow until they are 12 to 18 months old. In this case, you might want to continue feeding them puppy food until they reach their full size, which could be closer to 18 months.
  • Giant Breeds: Giant breeds like Great Danes or Saint Bernards may continue growing even beyond 18 months. In some cases, it’s recommended to feed them puppy food until they are about 18 to 24 months old.

 

It’s essential to consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your puppy’s breed, size, weight, and overall health. They can provide guidance tailored to your pup’s individual needs. When you do transition, it’s best to do it gradually over the course of about a week to allow your puppy’s digestive system to adjust to the new food.