What nutrients do puppies need for their growth?

As a general rule, dogs that are less than one year of age are considered puppies and it is important during that year that they are being fed a puppy formula pet food. There is some variation, however. Large and giant breed dogs are considered puppies until two years of age, while some toy breeds are considered to be adults at nine months of age.

Puppyhood is a playful, adorable time in a dog’s life. It is also a time for a high-energy diet that meets the demands of his growing and developing body.

The kibble in Purina’s puppy food is smaller in size than adult kibble, but it has more calories for energy. It is also formulated with an enhanced nutritional profile that provides him with the complete and balanced diet he needs as compared to adult dog food.

Some of those nutrients include:

• Colostrum to help support the developing immune system
• More calories, protein and fat than adult foods to keep up with the demands of their growing bodies.
• The omega 3 fatty acid DHA which is an important nutrient is for brain and vision development in puppies.
• Vitamins and minerals including vitamins E, and selenium, which are beneficial antioxidants that aid the developing immune systems in puppies.
• Puppies also need an optimal calcium to phosphorus ratio for proper bone growth.