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What food is best for my new puppy's healthy growth and development?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What should I look for in choosing a food for my new puppy?

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Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 9th, 2019

The key to feeding a puppy is to find a food that is formulated for growth, such as those labeled for puppies or “all life stages.” During bone growth, puppies must receive a proper balance of calcium and phosphorus. Most dogs should be fed puppy food for the first year of life, but large and giant breed dogs continue growing until they are between 18 to 24 months of age and may need to be fed puppy food for a longer period of time. Any time a diet change is made, be sure to do so gradually by mixing the old and new foods together over five to seven days.

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