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Your puppy is changing in so many ways. In fact, the most rapid growth will take place in these first months of his life. His immune system is developing. Bones are growing. Muscles are getting stronger. All of this requires a nutrient-dense diet, formulated to support a medium-breed puppy's rate of development. To make sure your puppy is getting optimal nutrition to protect and maintain health and well-being, here are some key points to keep in mind.
From the time your puppy is weaned until 4 months of age, you should feed your puppy two to three meals a day, with the daily amount based on the guidelines of the food label. After 4 months of age, he should be fed twice a day on a regular schedule. Always have fresh water available.
Research shows that puppies need up to twice as much energy as adult dogs. Dramatic growth at this stage means your puppy requires an energy-rich, nutrient-dense complete and balanced diet. Puppies also require more protein than adult dogs. High-quality animal-based protein will help your puppy create new body tissue.
Not all puppies have the same nutritional needs. Medium-breed puppies actually have slightly higher metabolism rates per pound than large-breed puppies. And your puppy will reach his mature adult weight at about 12 months, sooner than larger breeds that reach adulthood as late as 24 months. Your puppy needs protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus to support growth and development of bones, muscles, and other tissues. So giving him a food that supports his medium size is the easiest way to help make sure he's getting the right balance of nutrients for his metabolism and growth rate.
Remember, puppies have small stomachs. Make sure his food is nutrient-dense so he'll get a complete and balanced diet even though his stomach can only handle what seems like a small volume of food.
Aside from energy and protein, there are other important nutrients and ingredients vital to your puppy's diet:
These are important building blocks of nutrition. Look for them when you choose dry or canned dog food and when you select treats.
A medium-breed puppy reaches adult weight by about 12 months. You can begin feeding an adult dog food at this time, such as IAMS™ ProActive Health™ Adult MiniChunks. Your dog might not welcome the change at first, but don't worry. You can help ease the transition by gradually introducing the adult food. Try mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of his puppy food, then gradually change the proportions over the next three days until he's eating 100% adult food.
It is a sight no dog owner wants to see – your beloved pet heaving and uncomfortable, its body racked with nausea. For many, the sound of a dog vomiting sets off alarm bells. But why do dogs vomit, and what causes an upset stomach in dogs? More importantly, when is a dog's upset stomach merely a passing concern, and when does it indicate a more serious issue? Let's delve into these questions to better understand our four-legged friends' health.
Vomiting in dogs is a common occurrence and can be triggered by various factors. This process involves the forceful ejection of the contents within a dog's stomach or upper intestine. This action is often preceded by signs of nausea, such as drooling, licking lips, and swallowing excessively. Sometimes, the cause of vomiting is fairly benign – your dog may have just eaten too quickly or consumed something that didn't agree with its stomach. In other instances, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as ingestion of a toxic substance or a serious illness.
The reasons behind a dog's upset stomach are varied and can range from mild to severe. Upset stomach, medically termed as gastroenteritis, is caused by inflammation or irritation in the stomach or intestines. This can be triggered by a sudden change in diet, food intolerances, ingestion of foreign substances, bacterial or viral infections, and even serious conditions like pancreatitis or kidney failure.
One common mistake dog parents make is confusing vomiting with regurgitation. When a dog regurgitates, it's typically soon after eating and is a passive process, where undigested food comes up without much effort. On the other hand, vomiting involves active abdominal contractions and results in the expulsion of partially digested food mixed with bile.
Any dog owner knows that an upset stomach can leave their furry friend feeling less than their best. Recognising the signs of an upset stomach can help in providing prompt care and relief for your pet. Typical symptoms include:
More serious signs include:
If your dog appears to be in pain, loses appetite, shows signs of dehydration, has a fever, or exhibits unusual behaviours such as lethargy, restlessness, or shivering, it's a clear indication that something is wrong.
In extreme cases, an upset stomach can result in weight loss and frequent vomiting in dogs, which can be a sign of serious medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, pancreatitis, or even cancer. It is also important to monitor stress in your dog, as this can often exacerbate or trigger stomach issues.
When it comes to treating a dog's upset stomach, the appropriate treatment will largely depend on the underlying cause. If it's a mild case, such as a dietary change or eating too quickly, simple home remedies might be sufficient. However, if the condition persists or is associated with other serious symptoms, it's essential to consult with a vet.
Some common dog vomiting treatments are:
The best remedies for your dog’s upset stomach are probiotics such as IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement and pumpkin, which can aid digestion. However, it's essential to remember that these are not cures but temporary solutions. If your dog continues to vomit or display signs of an upset stomach, a trip to the vet is necessary.
It's essential to remember that while some instances of dog vomiting or upset stomach can be managed at home, more frequent or severe symptoms necessitate a visit to the vet. Early detection of symptoms can make a significant difference in your dog's health. If your dog vomits multiple times in a day, shows no signs of improvement after 24 hours, or frequently throws up mucus, it's time to take your pet to the vet. The age and overall health of your dog also play a crucial role in this decision.
While home-cooked foods like skinless chicken, boiled potatoes, or rice can be good short-term options for a dog with an upset stomach, they are not nutritionally complete for long-term care. It's also crucial to avoid feeding your dog raw food, which can contain harmful germs like salmonella. Always follow your vet's recommendations to ensure your dog's health and safety.
In addition to following your vet's advice, consider integrating a digestive health supplement into your dog's diet. IAMS™ Proactive Health™ Digestive Health Supplement is a soft, chewable supplement that combines prebiotics and probiotics to regulate your dog's gut health. It contains no artificial colour, flavour, preservatives, or fillers, making it a safe and effective choice for enhancing your dog's digestive health.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dog vomiting and upset stomach, and consulting with a vet, when necessary, can help ensure your furry friend's well-being. Remember, their health is in your hands.
