A Lifetime of Wellness - 16

WHY PUPPIES
NEED SPECIAL
NUTRITION
Keeping your dog in ideal body condition, and
providing 100 percent complete and balanced,
high-quality nutrition are keys to helping him live
a happy, healthy life.
During his first year, your puppy needs the
best possible nutrition to help build strong bones
and teeth; promote proper development of body
functions; strong muscles; good vision; and a thick,
lustrous coat. Your puppy will do best on food
that is specially formulated for growth. You can
rely on Purina® puppy foods to provide the extra
vitamins, minerals, nutrients and calories growing
puppies need. And, you can be sure that all of our
high-quality foods - from nutrition for puppies
to adult dogs to senior dogs - will give your pet a
healthy advantage throughout his life.
The caloric requirements of puppies gradually
decrease over time and vary by breed or
size. Many breeds complete growth and
development in approximately one year, but
certain large and giant breed puppies, such as
St. Bernards, may not mature until they are
nearly 2 years old. Consult your veterinarian
about what type of nutrition is most appropriate
for your breed of dog at any particular life stage.
WHEN TO
SWITCH TO
ADULT DOG FOOD
The general rule is to switch your puppy to an adult
dog food when he has finished growing - usually
around his first birthday. However, if you have
a larger breed, that could be closer to his second
birthday. Ask your veterinarian when it's the right
time for your dog to transition to an adult dog food.
FEEDING YOUR ADULT DOG
Proper nutrition plays an important role in
all stages of your dog's life. The adult dog has
different nutritional needs from those of a growing
puppy. It takes less to maintain an adult body than
it does a growing body.
WHEN YOUR DOG HAS SPECIAL
DIETARY NEEDS
Maintaining your dog's good health is a big
responsibility, one that's best shared with your
veterinarian. At your dog's next regularly scheduled
checkup, let your veterinarian know of any
physical or behavioral changes in your pet. If your
veterinarian discovers that your dog has a special
condition, he or she may recommend a therapeutic
food from the Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets
line. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets uses the power
of nutrition to help in the dietary management of
dogs and cats with certain health conditions. All
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets formulas are based
on quality nutrition and a deep commitment to
continuous improvement.
A Lifetime of Wellness

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of A Lifetime of Wellness
