Puppies have unique nutritional needs which are often poorly understood by dog owners. This is due to the fact that they undergo periods of extreme growth in relatively short time periods. This creates an increased calorific demand on a young dog, but if mistimed can lead to overfeeding and obesity. Different breeds mature and grow at different paces, and a German Shepherd or Dobermann will develop at a much faster pace than a Cane Corso or other mastiff-type dog. This will have nutritional implications, so owners should pay close attention to their puppies during key growth periods.

Owners may consider providing their puppy with nutritional supplements. These can be useful, but should be offered with caution. Certain vitamins and minerals are associated with particular health risks, especially when incorrectly dosed. If you offer your puppy a manufactured “complete” feed, then it is less likely to require supplementation than if it was on a “raw” or homemade diet. Personally, we have supplemented our puppies’ raw diets with MyDogNutrition’s “Rejuvenate”, and would recommend other dog owners consider doing so as well.

Ultimately, it is best to seek veterinary advice as to how you can support your puppy’s nutritional needs. Vets will have a good understanding of how dogs develop, as well as feeding and nutritional requirements. They will be aware of any additional underlying factors or health conditions which may have an impact on feeding requirements, and able to properly advise on supplementation.