Dog-owners believe they are doing the right thing by feeding their dog with the leftovers of the table, whereas dogs' nutritional requirements have got nothing to do humans'. All the same, it is true that we have the choice between two ways of feeding our dogs: home-made or industrial food.
Industrial - tins or dog-biscuits?
Dogfood manufacturers provide puppies with product-ranges adapted to size. These are perfectly balanced, which means that no extras are needed. The choice then is between dry rations (biscuits) and wet (tins). The former is often more practical and cheaper. You must make sure that the puppy always has fresh water at its disposal.
The choice of industrial food is based on an idea of quality: Vets supply "premium" and "superpremium" food. These high quality products may sometimes be a bit more expensive than down-market ranges, but the repercussions in terms of your dog's health and its fur´s beauty are striking. The price difference mainly comes from the quality of the raw materials used, notably as regards proteins. Moreover, these products are very appetising, so that your puppy will be eager to eat.
Finally, certain owners wonder whether they should vary their animal's food. The answer is no. Dogs do not need variety and may quite happily consume one type of food all life long. Not only that, but sudden changes in diet can cause digestive complications.
The amount of food to be given is shown on the packaging. However, you should check your puppy's weight regularly and adjust the amount of food in line with its ideal weight.
Your Vet is also a nutritionist, and can help you find the ideal food for your puppy.
Home Cooking
There are those who remain unconvinced of the advantages of shop food. You can make your animal's meals yourself. There are several types of rations which must absolutely be topped up in calcium and phosphorus (seek advice from your Vet).
Here is a possible menu (for 1kg of rations):
red meat: 450 g
cooked and drained rice: 400 g
cooked and drained veg (carrots, french beans): 85 g
salad oil (soy, rape or sunflower): 35 g
extra minerals and vitamins: 30 g