The first year of your puppy's life is the most important and so is his first food.
For the first few days, give your puppy the food that his breeder has been feeding him. This will help him to settle in. If you decide to change your puppy’s food, you should do it gradually. Mix a little of the new food in with the old, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food over a week or so, until the changeover is complete.
Tasty Tips
Choose carefully
Puppy food is available in wet or dry forms, and what you choose will largely depend on yours and your puppy's preference. But take care to choose a food that gives him everything he needs to grow and develop to his full potential. Look for foods that are 'complete'. This means you can feed it without the need for supplements or additional food.
As with the food we eat, pet food varies in quality, so make sure you read the packaging to see what benefits it offers your puppy. Some foods contain health enhancing vitamins, antioxidants to protect the immune system and minerals that promote urinary health. You should always check that the food doesn't contain added salt. Too much salt can be dangerous for your puppy's kidneys. And if in doubt - ask your vet's advice.
Whatever food you choose, you'll need a couple of good quality, non-tippable feeding bowls; one for food and the other for water. A feeding mat is also a good idea to protect the floor.
Dry or wet?
Dry food is made up of small biscuits called kibbles. It's very convenient to serve and keeps well. It's also cost effective, as you can buy it in large bags.
Wet is available in cans or pouches, a good quality, complete wet food will also provide your pet with all the nutrients he needs. It's a little less cost effective than dry, but many owners like to offer it alongside dry food to provide variety.
Hill's puppy food
Hill's puppy food is specially formulated to make sure your pet gets exactly the right balance of nutrients. It's made with vitamins and minerals that are proven to help puppies reach their full potential. And it contains natural DHA for better brain and visual development.
Related products
Large Breed Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Large Breed Adult Dog Food with Lamb & Rice is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food is specifically designed to fuel the energy needs of large breed dogs during the prime of their life.
Puppy Food
Hill's Science Plan Puppy Wet Dog Food with Chicken is a complete premium pet food for growing puppies from weaning until 1 year old and for pregnant and nursing dogs. This deliciously smooth minced chicken loaf is precisely balanced to deliver the appropriate amount of energy to support the needs of growing puppies.
Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Adult Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Breed Adult Dog Food with Chicken & Brown Rice supports ultimate digestive well-being & a healthy microbiome.
Small & Mini Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food
Hill's Science Plan Small & Mini Breed Mature Adult Dog Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
Tailored nutrition to support graceful ageing in small dogs. Specially made with a synergistic blend of nutrients for energy & vigor.
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Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.