WOW! It seems like just yesterday you brought home that little bundle of fur and now they’re a big bundle of fur. But when should you make the switch to adult food?
Small/Medium Breeds
The general rule of thumb is to switch to adult food around 12 months of age. Especially for those smaller breed dogs and cats. By this time, they should be done with most of their growth and the extra nutrients in a kitten or puppy diet are no longer needed.
Large Breeds
Most large breeds (like Golden Retrievers) can be transitioned around 12 months if desired but it’s okay to wait until they’re 12-15 months as well.
Extra Large Breeds
For those friends who are larger than life, it is recommended to transition around 18-24 months old!
Foods that are not designed for growing large breed puppies do not have adequate nutrient profiles to support optimal growth for large and giant breed-puppies. Adult diets, rather than preventing growth issues, are more likely to cause them. It’s important to work with a veterinarian to assess your puppy’s body condition score and determine the appropriate time to make the transition. Contact us today if you have questions about your pet’s eating habits!
