In recent years, raw food diets have become increasingly popular. For more information on puppy feeding, check our comprehensive guides. Their dietary regimen should consist of eating three meals per day with about 80-100 grams per meal. Feeding charts, the best puppy food for Labs, and how often and how much to feed. However, it’s important not to overfeed your pup to prevent him becoming overweight. Weight of Puppy Amount to Feed per Day 4 oz. Feeding a Labrador puppy the right kinds of food—in the right quantity and appropriate intervals—sets them up for steady, healthy growth. Happily, choosing the best food doesn’t have to be difficult. With plenty of protein, the right amount of carbs, and the Omega-6 fatty acids, your Labrador is going to have both shiny glowing skin and a body ready to grow into adulthood. Required fields are marked *. It’s nutrient-rich with a classic chicken taste that every puppy is going to love. Labradors are the most popular dog to own in North America. In addition, puppies need more protein, fat and amino acids than adult dogs. Let’s dive in to see how much and how little a dog should eat based on their age and weight. As we have learned, deficiencies of particular nutrients and/or excesses of others can have detrimental effects upon your puppy’s health. Your veterinarian will check your puppy’s weight, but between visits, you can carry out a simple assessment at home. It’s designed to provide the right amount of protein and calcium for healthy development. Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to serious health conditions. When labrador puppy feeding chart first time emerges in a family, few masters think about how that dog will go with them on life long ten or fifteen years. Gradually increase the portion of new food until it makes up 100 percent of meals. Your own dog is going to want specific food and will require certain recommendations for their growth. A Labrador Retriever will weigh more at maturity than a Russell Terrier, for example. The Happy Puppy Site is a participant in the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising programme designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk, The Happy Puppy Site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Don’t forget to consult a licensed veterinarian before making any changes to your puppy’s diet. Therefore, they are considered adult dogs at around 15-18 months old. Make sure that your puppy's daily food intake is divided up into small meals that are fed throughout the day, with at … Staying hydrated during the summer is another component ensuring they can withstand the heat and maintain their energy. Feeding your puppy - frequently asked questions. Wet food comes in sealed, airtight cans, which reduces the risk of contamination and rancidity. Look for foods with the nutritional guarantee statement of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Known for their happy disposition and excellent rapport with children, it is easy to understand why they are always in demand. Dogs can get some energy from carbohydrates, which include sugars, starches and dietary fibers. Check out this article to find out what to do if your dog eats plastic. Puppies are still developing and need to have a consistent stream of food that best suits their weight, so they reach their full potential as they grow without going overboard. Puppy Feeding Chart. The amount of food your puppy requires is dependent upon his build and energy expenditure. Chewy is an incredible brand with a wide variety of options that can benefit your puppy. This can make raw food more convenient, easier to store and less time consuming. The major source of carbohydrates in most dog foods come from cereals, legumes and other plants. Kibble is a popular choice for many puppy owners. Giving them the right amount of meals per day, as shown in the Labrador puppy food chart above is vital. When your puppy comes home, provide the same food given by the breeder, even if ultimately you’ll switch. Choose food specifically formulated for large-breed puppies. The chart below can help you determine how much dry food to feed your puppy. Give your puppy about a month before transitioning to new food, so that he can settle into his new home. BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, and most vets will agree and disagree on whether kibble or raw food is healthier. This formula is designed specifically for the pure bread Labrador retrievers who are still growing. In this article, we help you decide which is the right choice for you and your puppy. They can then move to two meals a day, and stay on this routine for the rest of their life. For example, insufficient calcium can lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism. With knowledge of dietary requirements and types of diets, however, you can choose a food that suits you and your four-legged friend. It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about your puppy’s diet. When a labrador is around nine months old, they’re then considered an adult. What to feed your puppy . Not all foods are the same calories per spoonful and may need some adjusting. If your puppy has not eaten their wet food within 15 minutes or so, it’s best to remove the bowl and refrigerate it until the next meal time. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Have them go on walks, go for runs, and even playing games to keep them moving is the key to keeping them at a healthy weight. Treat dispensers (ex. You can do this by following a Labrador growth chart or a lab puppy weight chart. Consequently, your puppy may need help to eat more slowly to avoid discomfort and/or weight gain. Eukanuba Wet Food Puppy Mixed Grill Chicken & Beef Dinner In Gravy Canned Dog Food* is suitable for large breeds like the Labrador Retriever. Unlike raw food diets, in homemade diets, foods are cooked. As with any diet, if you are considering a raw diet for your puppy, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for advice. Here, we look at feeding your new four-legged friend. Buying raw food ingredients can be expensive. Made exclusively for Labradors between the ages of 8 weeks to 15 months, this formula is made to ensure your puppy doesn’t gain too much weight.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'anythinglabrador_com-banner-1','ezslot_8',107,'0','0'])); This breed is prone to gaining additional weight even as a young puppy, and this formula is made to fight that. Establishing set meal times and removing uneaten food after a certain time period helps. At this time, however, there are few scientific studies on BARF diets. Each one has its own benefits on why they are good to try.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'anythinglabrador_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_10',105,'0','0'])); Kibble is known for being bite-sized using grain, ash, and other ingredients to make a dog feel full. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Puppy Food, Chicken, Salmon & Oatmeal*, Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Large Breed*, Eukanuba Wet Food Puppy Mixed Grill Chicken & Beef Dinner In Gravy Canned Dog Food*, Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Stella’s Super Dinner*, A Deletion in the Canine POMC Gene Is Associated with Weight and Appetite in Obesity-Prone Labrador Retriever Dogs, Raw Food Diets in Companion Animals: A Critical Review, First Detailed Nutritional Survey In a Referral Companion Animal Population, Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs: A Science-Based Guide for Pet Owners, Best Food For Yorkie Puppy Health and Happiness, Best Pitbull Toys – The Best Chew Proof Toys For Puppies And Adult Dogs, Observe fat deposits along his back and above his tail, Distinguish a “waist” behind his ribs when looking down from above. If you decide to make a purchase from one of the links marked by an asterisk, we may earn a small commission on that sale. Limiting treats and providing plenty of opportunities for play and exercise can help prevent your pup from becoming overweight. Monitor your puppy carefully to ensure he’s accepting the new food. Feeding your puppy is also an important part of taking care of their health and happiness. Recent vaccinations may also lead to a brief loss of appetite. Senior dogs on average need around 20 percent fewer calories than adult dogs. In this video you can see what we feed Buddy, our Labrador Puppy, in a day from morning to night. Proponents of homemade diets argue that it is preferable to know exactly what is going into their pet’s meals. Too much calcium, for example, can lead to skeletal abnormalities, particularly in large breeds like the Labrador Retriever. As with raw food diets, it is best to consult a veterinarian for expert advice if you are planning on making homemade food for your puppy. It’s vital that you speak to your vet to find out what should be fed to your growing Labrador. Be patient when introducing new food. Calcium and phosphorus, for example, are important for strong bones and teeth. These include, but aren’t limited to: cooked bones, fatty foods, chocolate, coffee, almonds, macadamia nuts, walnuts, onions, some mushrooms, avocados, raw potatoes, tomatoes, garlic, spinach, apricots, peaches, cherries, grapes, raisins and rhubarb. The first six months, which will form the character and habits of the dog, will create social skills and basic obedience is the most important period in the life of the dog. The age at which veterinarians agree a puppy can be considered an adult dog varies according to the size of the breed. However, it’s important to take precautions when storing kibble to prevent spoiling. Critics point out that it can be easy for such diets to become unbalanced. With so many types of dog food available, how do you know what’s best for your puppy? Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins within the body. Feed your puppy four meals a day up until the age of 4 months, and then reduce their feed to three meals a day until they are 6 months old. Therefore, they require twice the calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs. It has a higher moisture content than dried food, which can be beneficial for dogs with health concerns such as kidney problems. There are primarily just four ways to feed your puppy: Kibble, BARF, Wet Food, and Home Cooked food. Aim to gradually phase out the old food over the course of about a week. This is a condition resulting in major bone loss, skeletal abnormalities and pathological fractures. Canine energy requirements vary depending on build, activity level and life stage. You should also review the specific feeding instructions on the back of his puppy food and consult with your veterinarian. Any treats should be counted as part of the day’s total food allowance, making up no more than 10 percent of your pup’s total intake. Your growing Labrador must get all the right nutrients to develop, especially when they are still just at a mere 8 weeks old. As long as you know they are healthy; then you are can start managing their diet where you see fit. 3–6 months: Sometime during this period, decrease feedings from four to three a day. It can also be left out in a pet’s dish for longer than other types of food. Divide the recommended daily amount into thirds and spread over three meals. Your email address will not be published. They strive to create quality dog food for any age. A balanced diet is essential in keeping your Labrador Retriever puppy happy and healthy. This formula helps focus on supporting digestive health and maintaining a strong balance of intestinal flora using a mix between vitamins E and C to improve their immune system. 6 oz. It has a higher moisture content than dried food, which can be beneficial for dogs with health concerns such as kidney problems. Does the dog in your life have a cat in theirs? Choosing the right food, the right time to eat, and how often they eat are all going to be explained in the Labrador puppy chart below, so you help your dog achieve. Your pooch may be overweight if you cannot do the following: One in four dogs in Western societies are obese. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Stella’s Super Dinner* is one such example and boasts over 1,900 five star reviews on Amazon. Critics suggest raw diets are risky, pointing out that raw meats can contain bacteria dangerous to both dogs and humans. Golden retriever feeding chart a to feeding your labrador puppy how much to feed a puppy royal canin royal canin feeding chart lewisburg plete t plan for pug puppies and Royal Canin Labrador Retriever Puppy Dry Dog Food 30 Lb Bag ChewyRoyal Canin Labrador Puppy Feeding Chart Mane DatnightRoyal Canin Labrador Retriever Junior Pet Experts… Read More » Labrador Retrievers are classed as a large dog breed. This makes it gentle on digestion and a good option for pups with sensitive stomachs. and Joffe, D.J., 2011, “Raw Food Diets in Companion Animals: A Critical Review,” The Canadian Veterinary Journal, Vandendriessche, V.L., et al., 2017, “First Detailed Nutritional Survey In a Referral Companion Animal Population,” Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Wambacq, W., 2017, “Alternatives and New Trends in Pet Food,” Ghent University, Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, “What Pet Food Should I Feed?” Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, “Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs: A Science-Based Guide for Pet Owners,” 2006, National Research Council of the National Academies, Your email address will not be published. Careful planning is required to ensure nutritional balance, which can be time-consuming. Also, find out how often and how much you should feed your pup. At the ripe age of two months old, their general weight should be around 15 – 18 lbs. Dried foods such as these are convenient. CANIDAE Grain Free Pure Dog Wet Food* has chicken simmered in broth as its primary ingredient. Without careful attention, it’s easy for a raw diet to be unbalanced and, therefore, nutritionally inadequate. Being a healthy weight can actually help Labradors live longer. Plus, make sure to learn about bathing your puppy here. Your lab should be eating at least four meals at around 50 – 55 grams per meal to have an overall 200 – 250 grams per day. Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice on feeding your puppy. Obesity can lead to a range of health problems, including diabetes and osteoarthritis. Your growing Labrador must get all the right nutrients to develop, especially when they are still just at a mere 8 weeks old. They are vital for many functions, including hormone regulation and cell repair. Just like humans, puppies have “off-days” when they might not eat as much as usual. If you plan on feeding a raw or homemade diet, consult your veterinarian fo how much you should feed your pup daily. Be aware that Labrador Retrievers can be good at feigning hunger even when they’ve eaten sufficient portions already. But large or giant breeds are considered mature later, at between 15 months and 2 years old. Labrador Retriever puppies grow into large dogs, and so require more food than smaller breeds. This states that the food is complete and balanced. The daily dietary requirement of your Labrador pup should be properly divided into portions of meal to be fed at regular intervals. In addition, kibble is less expensive than other food types. However, wet food can be more expensive than dried food. You can begin by feeding four meals a day to your 8 to 12 weeks old puppy, and have a time marked for each. Clearly visible ribs, vertebrae and/or pelvic bones are a sign your pup is underweight. Fatty acids also help keep your puppy’s skin and coat healthy. Bringing a Labrador Retriever puppy home is an exciting time, and there’s lots to think about. You can also use this handy feeding chart to track, tweak and adjust your growing puppy's nutritional and caloric needs: HOW MANY CALORIES SHOULD YOU Feed your puppy Daily ? Magnesium, potassium and sodium are needed for nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction and cell signaling. This would help in managing digestion and for keeping its overall health at a good level. Conversely, an excess of vitamins and minerals can also lead to health problems. They should be eating a solid two meals per day that equate to around 175 – 220 grams per meal.eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'anythinglabrador_com-box-4','ezslot_3',106,'0','0'])); Going to the vet to make sure they are basically healthy is the first step to ensuring you are doing your job right. Hence, it’s important to monitor the amount given to prevent your puppy from becoming overweight. However, not eating can signal illness or dental disease. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. Fatty acids are important in cell structure and function. Puppy Feeding Chart by Age. It boasts essential omega-6 fatty acids from chicken fat; natural fiber and protein from peas; and B vitamins, minerals and fiber from oats. Cans have a long shelf life. So the larger dog requires more food as a puppy. With so many options available, however, choosing the right food can seem daunting. A recent study found a quarter of the dogs assessed had a gene that made it harder for them to feel full. Like some raw food diets, homemade diets involve giving your pup a selection of ingredients you have prepared. Labrador Retrievers are hugely popular dogs: Check out our guide to this beloved breed. Add a little of the new food to each meal. High-quality foods provide a balance of these essential dietary components. What is the difference between dry and fresh meat ingredients? Specially-formulated puppy foods are the ideal diet for the newest member of your family. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. 3 Months A three-month-old Labrador puppy should be weighing at around 24-26 lbs. Uneaten food must be refrigerated after 15 minutes. Products included in this article were carefully and independently selected by the Happy Puppy Site team. Or, they can choose to prepare raw or cooked meals from scratch at home. It used to be common practice to adopt a puppy at 45 days because this is the time they are weaned from their mother’s milk. Large breeds should be fed unmoistened dry food by 9 or 10 weeks; small dogs by 12 or 13 weeks. They also highlight the danger of bones as choking hazards. In 1993, Australian veterinarian Ian Billinghurst suggested extending this to family dogs. Your email address will not be published. Store kibble in sealed, airtight containers, in a cool place away from heat sources. Moreover, wet food should not be left for long periods of time in your puppy’s bowl, as it can spoil. Feeding a Labrador Puppy Wet Food. Many of the foods that are healthy or enjoyable for us can be poisonous for dogs and puppies. There is a large variety of high-quality puppy food available for you to feed your lab. He coined the term for BARF—bones and raw food, or biologically appropriate raw food. 3 Tbsp. Always remember that a dog who is six months old is probably going to have a slightly different diet than someone who is three months old. Labrador : Control your dog's weight. Treating your young puppy to some good treats can affect their growth either positively or negatively. Vitamins are essential in many body functions, including: There are 12 minerals classed as essential for dogs. Jumping quickly from one food to another can cause digestive upset. These support immune system health, life stage requirements and a healthy oxidative balance. Your Labrador puppy is still growing, and what you feed them is going to impact exactly how they grow. It can be bought in bulk and has a relatively long shelf life when stored correctly. A basic understanding of pet nutrition helps, as well as talking to your veterinarian. There are plenty of excellent brands that provide nicely dried, pelleted foods that feed puppies what they need. They argue that raw diets give shinier coats, healthier skin, and higher energy levels. Your lab should be eating at least four meals at around 50 – 55 grams per meal to have an overall 200 – 250 grams per day. Consult the recommended portion size for your chosen food: It can vary between brands. Following a specific Labrador puppy food chart can allow you to see what to give them, so they grow into full-fledged dogs as healthily as possible. They will be able to give you expert advice and suggestions. Six months is when your Labrador should be showing some size and almost transitioning from puppy to growing dog. Recent studies in puppy development and behavior tell us that puppies need to be with their mom and siblings at least 2 additional weeks. Don't miss out on the perfect companion to life with a purrfect friend. It contains above-average protein from chicken meat and beef protein. In addition, ensure your puppy has fresh water at all times. Control the weight of your Labrador during its growth allows you to know if you are feeding it correctly. In addition, raw food cannot be left in a puppy’s bowl for long periods of time, at the risk of bacterial contamination. Wet food comes in sealed, airtight cans, which reduces the risk of contamination and rancidity. Purina Pro Plan is a brand that over-delivers for puppies, and this specific chicken and rice entree is no different. Whether you have a Yellow Lab, Chocolate Lab, or Black Lab, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Labrador Retriever puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. Fats provide the most concentrated energy source in your pup’s diet. Also, kibble can be more calorie-dense than other foods. If you are feeding your puppy 3 meals a day, and your pup has loose stools, then take the amount of food of 3 meals, and divide it into 4 meals in a day. Raw food diets typically consist of the following elements: Proponents of BARF suggest that this diet is closer to what dogs ate before domestication. Required fields are marked *. Giving them garbage food with no nutrients is only going to make them drown in energy and gain unnecessary and unhealthy weight. The food they prefer can vary. When your puppy is a healthy weight, you can view an abdominal tuck when viewing him from the side. Feeding diets comprised primarily of raw meat, bones and vegetables have long been common practice among racing greyhounds and sled dogs. Cans have a long shelf life. Your email address will not be published. New dog owners can choose between feeding a Labrador Retriever puppy wet or dry commercial diets. The additional DHA helps vision development and improves brain function to help your puppy develop into an adult. A three-month-old Labrador puppy should be weighing at around 24-26 lbs. Affiliate link disclosure: Links in this article marked with an * are affiliate links, and we may receive a small commission if you purchase these products. Giving them the right rate then considered an adult dog varies according the... Opportunities for play and exercise can help you determine how much you should also review the specific feeding on! Changes to your vet to find out how often and how much and how much you feed. In theirs minerals selected by the breeder, even if ultimately you ’ ll.! 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