How old is a puppy?

It would seem that only yesterday you brought a puppy home. But a year later he grew up a lot and can be considered an adult dog. True, it all depends on the size of the breed of the puppy. Large breed dogs usually reach the level of full physical and emotional development later – by two years. Although other dogs may consider them adults much earlier, becoming less tolerant of their puppy behavior. Despite the fact that the puppy still loves to play and play pranks, his needs change with age. Therefore, you need to adjust his diet to help him stay healthy and happy.

When should you switch to adult dog food?

A pet’s diet requires a large amount of fat, protein and calories necessary for healthy growth. During the period when the dog becomes an adult and ceases to be considered a puppy, other proportions of nutrients, vitamins and minerals are needed. Adult dogs use much less energy than puppies, so continued use of a puppy diet can lead to extra weight and stress on the joints.

The best option is to gradually switch to the new food over 5-7 days. Every day, increase the proportion of new food in relation to the old one until it is completely replaced. As a result, he will get used to the new taste and composition and will not experience stomach problems.

Some owners of large breed puppies believe that they can switch to adult dog food at an earlier age (for example, when the puppy is 6-8 months old) in order to limit calorie intake. But at this stage, the puppy’s body is still growing at a rapid pace. The use of food with reduced energy value can lead to problems with bone growth.

Science Plan adult dog food contains the right amount of nutrients to keep your pet active and healthy. They taste great and provide the balanced and complete nutrition your pet needs at every stage of their life.

Visit to a veterinarian

Surely this is not the first time you visit a veterinarian. The puppy was vaccinated, he underwent anthelmintic procedures, treatment against lice and ticks. Once your pet is older, you will likely visit the veterinarian much less frequently (an annual check-up is recommended), but by 14 months he will need a booster vaccination to protect against diseases such as rabies, parvoviruses, distemper, and influenza. . This examination is the time to take measures to protect the dog from parasites: anthelmintic procedures and treatment for lice are carried out.

It is also worth talking to your veterinarian about the changes that are happening to your pet during this consultation. Ask questions about exercise, toys, treats, and anything else that needs to be changed as the puppy grows.

Exercise for a growing dog

Puppies need a lot of physical activity to burn off all the extra calories in the process of training and education. For an adult dog, regular exercise is needed to keep fit and stay active and strong.

A healthy adult dog needs at least 30 minutes of exercise twice a day. It can be running, swimming, walking and playing in the dog playgrounds. Organized games with rules (give-fetch!, tug-of-war) do several things at once: calories are burned and your relationship is strengthened, and the dog learns commands.