The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Healthy Puppy: Nutrition and Care Tips

Bringing a new puppy into your whānau is an exciting, heartwarming adventure! But along with all the cuddles and playtime, comes the responsibility of making sure your new best mate grows up healthy, happy, and well-behaved. The first few months are critical for a puppy’s development, and proper nutrition plays a key role in setting the foundation for lifelong health.

In this guide, we'll explore essential tips on raising a healthy puppy, focusing on nutrition, care, and overall well-being. We'll also introduce you to ACANA and ORIJEN, premium pet food brands designed to support your puppy's growth and development.

The Key Nutritional Needs of a Growing Puppy

As your puppy grows, their nutritional needs change. Feeding them the right food at every stage of their development ensures they have the energy, strength, and immune support they need to thrive. Here’s what you should focus on:

Protein for Development

Puppies are like little rockets of growth, and they need protein to fuel that development. Protein is essential for building muscles, tissues, and organs. You’ll want to look for high-quality animal protein[LN1]  sources in their food, like chicken, turkey, and fish. ACANA and ORIJEN puppy formulas are packed with premium animal proteins, so your pup will have the fuel they need to grow big and strong.

Nutrients for Brain Development

ACANA and ORIJEN recipes contain fish ingredients to provide balanced sources of omega-3 and 6 essential fatty acids to support healthy brain development, cognitive function, and eye health in puppies.

Vitamins and Minerals for Bone Health

Growing puppies need an adequate supply of calcium and phosphorus to build strong bones and teeth. Look for formulas that provide these minerals in the right balance. ACANA and ORIJEN carefully formulate their puppy food to meet the precise needs of young dogs of all breeds.

Digestive Health

A healthy digestive system ensures your puppy gets the most from their food. ACANA and ORIJEN contain prebiotics and probiotics, which promote digestive health and improve nutrient absorption. This means fewer stomach issues and more energy for your puppy’s playtime.

How Much Should You Feed Your Puppy?

The amount of food your puppy needs depends on their breed, size, and activity level. Most puppies need about three to four meals per day during their early months. Use the feeding guidelines provided on your puppy food bag as a starting point, and adjust as needed.

Flip the Bag: Why Ingredients Matter

When selecting food for your puppy, the most important step is to flip the bag and read the ingredients list. The first ingredient listed should be a whole protein source, such as fresh/raw chicken, turkey or fish. Avoid foods with vague ingredients like "meat by-products", "poultry protein" or "animal digest."

Steer clear of foods containing mystery byproducts and cheap fillers like corn, rice, soy, wheat and Tapioca. These ingredients offer little nutritional value and may be difficult for pets to digest. Not only that, they are simply used to bulk up a food and make it cheaper to produce for the manufacturer. No thanks!

Transitioning Your Puppy to Premium Food

When switching your puppy’s food, it’s important to do so gradually. Sudden changes can upset their digestive system. Here’s how to smoothly transition your puppy to a new food:

• Week 1: Mix 75% of their old food with 25% of the new food.
• Week 2: Adjust the ratio to 50% old food, 50% new food.
• Week 3: Mix 25% old food with 75% new food.
• Week 4: Feed 100% of the new food.

Socialisation and Exercise for a Healthy Puppy

A healthy puppy isn’t just about good food—it’s also about getting them socialised and giving them plenty of exercise. Early socialisation helps your pup become a well-adjusted adult and stops behavioural problems from cropping up later. Make sure to provide safe opportunities for your pup to meet new people, dogs, and explore new environments.

Regular Vet Checkups and Health Monitoring

Routine vet visits are a must for keeping your puppy in tip-top shape. Regular check-ups allow your vet to monitor your puppy’s growth and overall health.

Grooming and Hygiene for Your Puppy

A bit of grooming goes a long way! Regular brushing helps prevent matting and keeps your puppy’s coat shiny and healthy. Only bathe them when necessary (and always with pet-safe products). Also, remember to clean their ears and trim their nails as part of regular care. Think of it as the puppy equivalent of a spa day!

Raising a Healthy Puppy Starts with Quality Nutrition

Raising a healthy, happy puppy requires a combination of proper nutrition, care, and love. ACANA and ORIJEN’s premium puppy food formulas are designed to meet the specific needs of growing puppies, providing the essential nutrients for optimal health. By feeding your puppy high-quality food, keeping up with vet checkups, and ensuring they get plenty of exercise and socialisation, you’re setting them up for a lifetime of happiness.

If you're ready to give your puppy the best start in life, find a local stockist near you today.