Types of Food to Feed a Puppy

New puppy owners often want to know what type of food is best for their new addition, but there isn't any one correct answer. Instead, the owner has to find the foods that work best for the puppy. However, it is important to stick to a specific feeding regime. Dogs have sensitive digestive tracts that can't cope well with frequent dietary changes. As such, any changes should be made gradually.

During the first month of life, the best food a puppy can get is milk from its mom. However, some puppies don't get enough milk. In this case, the best option is feeding the puppy replacement milk that is mixed according to the manufacturer's directions. While many of these replacement formulas are available at pet stores, a formula from a veterinarian will provide more complete nutrition for the puppy.

Soft puppy food is the first type of food a puppy should be fed. This type of food serves as a weaning food. It isn't just one specific type of food, but rather a mixture of dry food, canned food and replacement milk. To make soft puppy food, you must mix dry food and canned food in equal amounts. Pour puppy replacement milk over the mixture until it is covered. Allow the mixture to soak for at least an hour before offering to the puppy. This can be done from four weeks until eight weeks.

Canned dog food can make up as much as 50 percent of the dog's diet. This food has a higher water content than dry food, which makes it a good source of hydration. In addition, many canned foods contain real meat, which growing puppies need. Look for canned dog food that lists real meat, not meat meal, as one of the first three ingredients.

Dry dog food, or kibble, by itself is something that older puppies can eat. Once the puppy is 4 months old, the teeth should be strong enough to chew the kibble without having to soak it in water or milk. All dog foods are required to have feeding recommendations on the label. Start with the recommended amount and add or subtract food according to the dog's appetite. When choosing a dry dog food, you must make sure it is a good-quality puppy food--human-quality ingredients should be listed as the first five ingredients on the label. Chicken, turkey, lamb, beef, rice, corn and other natural vegetables are ideal. Avoid foods with ingredients that include the word "meal" or byproducts in any of the first five ingredients.

Some dog owners cook for their puppy. However, closely monitoring the puppy is necessary if the owner relies solely on a home-cooked diet for his dog. There are some special concerns when making homemade dog food. For example, dogs can't eat onion, raw meat, chocolate, garlic, artificial fats or sweeteners.