How and When to Switch from Puppy to Adult Food

Puppy, adult and senior: all three stages are important times during your dog’s development when it’s appropriate to ask your veterinarian or canine nutritionist about your dog’s diet.

During the puppy stage, it is important to provide “growth” foods that have higher levels of protein and calories to meet the developmental needs of your pup. However, once your puppy reaches six to 12 months old, their needs change. This is usually the time when your puppy is nearing their adult height and can make the transition to adult food. Additionally, spaying or neutering often occurs around this age, which reduces the dog’s need for increased energy. Therefore, switching from puppy to adult dog food is recommended.

The timing of switching to adult food depends on the maturity of the dog, which varies among different breeds. Smaller breeds tend to mature faster than larger breeds. Dogs weighing up to 14 kgs usually mature around 10 to 12 months of age. Some toy breeds can even mature as early as seven to nine months old. Medium breeds, up to 20kgs, typically mature between 12 to 16 months. Large breeds can mature at 12, 13, or even 14 months old. Giant breed dogs, weighing over 40 kgs, may take up to two years to reach full maturity. Your vet or a canine nutritionist can advise the best time to start feeding adult food based on your dog’s specific needs.