Cavoodle puppies need lots of food to stay healthy, but not many people know how much is appropriate for their dog. Today, we’ll explain how much Cavoodle puppies should eat. Read on to get insights into the nutrition of dogs.
Pick food appropriate for your Cavoodle
How much do Cavoodle puppies eat? To find this out, usually, the best place to start is on the dog food bag. Dog food is labeled for specific dog breeds, and sometimes within those breeds are the different life stages for a dog. Cavoodles are classed as small dogs, so generally, you will be looking for dog food that is specially marked for smaller dogs. This is especially true when your Cavoodle grows up and eats this food every day.
However, for a Cavoodle puppy, it’s a little different. Puppies need special puppy food to ensure they are still getting all the nutrients that they need while they grow up. As your Cavoodle grows, their food selection will change with them.
A regular feeding schedule is a must
Cavoodles, and dogs in general, are animals that thrive on routine. If your schedule is to wake up, feed the dog, and then go for a walk, you might find that your Cavoodle gets confused if you switch “walk the dog” with “read the paper”. Because of your Cavoodle’s need for a routine, try to keep feeding times around the same time each day.
Puppies need to be fed more often
Cavoodle puppies should be fed three times a day with puppy food that meets their dietary requirements (more protein, etc). This is due to their higher metabolisms, which means they go through their caloric intake much faster than an older dog. As your Cavoodle gets older, you can reduce the number of feedings to twice a day.
Dog food is distributed by weight
How much should you feed your Cavoodle puppy? It depends on how much they weigh! Generally, most dog foods will have a rough guideline that will tell you how much to feed your Cavoodle puppy. Feed as the guideline suggests, as it is a good starting point especially for younger puppies. As the dog gets older, these guidelines become a little more inaccurate.
If you aren’t sure, your veterinarian will have a better idea of how much to feed your Cavoodle, as well as what food works best for their dietary needs. The vet’s word will take priority over the back of the dog food package, so always listen to what your vet suggests!
Let your Cavoodle rest after a meal
Don’t take your Cavoodle on walks too soon after a meal. It may cause stomach upset, which isn’t very pleasant to have to deal with. A good rest of 30 minutes to an hour should be more than enough time for your puppy to feel okay to walk. This time differs with each dog, so keep this in mind when planning any exciting activity with your Cavoodle.
Other Points In Feeding Cavoodle Puppies
- Importance of Fresh Water: Always ensure your Cavoodle puppy has access to water. Just like with food, the amount they drink can vary, but having a constant source is essential. So, leave a bowl outside and one inside, so they always have water available.
- Monitor Weight and Adjust Portions: Keep an eye on your puppy’s weight. If they seem to be gaining or losing too much, adjust their portions accordingly. You don’t want to starve them, but you don’t want them to become fat either.
- Beware of Human Foods: Some human foods can be toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol (a sweetener). Ensure you know what’s safe before giving any table scraps, as anything that seems safe to you, might not be for your Cavoodle.
- Treats in Moderation: While training your Cavoodle puppy, you might use treats as a reward. Remember, these count towards their daily caloric intake. Use them in moderation and consider them when calculating how much regular food to give.
- Raw or Cooked Diet Consideration: Some dog owners prefer to provide a raw or home-cooked diet. If you’re considering this, consult with a vet or pet nutritionist to ensure your puppy gets all essential nutrients. Dogs diets vary from humans.
- Transitioning Foods: If you decide to change your puppy’s food, do it gradually over a week or so. This helps prevent problems with their digestion and also its overall well-being.
- Reading Nutritional Labels: Understanding the ingredients and nutritional content can make a big difference. Look for foods with high-quality protein sources and avoid those with excessive fillers.
- Pay Attention to Stools: The consistency and color of your puppy’s stools can be an indicator of their digestive health. If their stools become too soft or changes dramatically after introducing a new food, consider going back to what was working before. Cavoodles can be very sensitive to new foods, so take things slowly.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: Some Cavoodles can develop allergies or sensitivities to certain foods. If you notice symptoms like itching, ear infections, or stomach digestive, consult your vet.
- Growth and Development: Remember that as your Cavoodle puppy grows, their nutritional needs and the amount of food they require will change. Regular vet check-ups will help monitor this growth and ensure their dietary needs are met.
- By following the instructions given to you by a vet, you can be sure you’ll have a happy, healthy Cavoodle puppy!