Instructions
Begin by feeding your puppy the same food he was fed by the breeder. If you will be feeding him a different food, gradually switch over to the new food. Gradually switching to the new food avoids upsetting his stomach and/or digestive system.
Feed your Mastiff puppy only premium puppy food specially formulated for giant breed dogs. There is a difference between large breed and giant breed dog foods. Feed him giant breed puppy food until he is one year old. At that time you can switch to a premium adult giant breed dog food.
Choose between dry, kibble-type premium giant breed dog food and soft, canned premium giant breed dog food. Or you can use a combination of the two. Each type of food has its own benefits, so it comes down to a personal choice.
Feed your puppy three times a day until he is between four and six months old. Fewer, smaller feedings are recommended since a puppy's stomach can not accommodate the same quantity as the stomach of an adult dog. In addition, it is believed that more frequent feedings helps to prevent Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), more commonly known as bloat.
Give your puppy the recommended amount of food based on his size, age and activity level. Use the dog food packaging instructions as a guideline. Your veterinarian can help you determine the proper quantity to feed your Mastiff puppy each day.
Give your puppy treats in moderation. Treats should be counted as part of his total daily intake. Fruits and vegetables are a healthy, low-calorie snack and can be given in place of commercially packaged treats. Apples, bananas, broccoli, cauliflower and carrots are a few fruits and vegetables to try.
Avoid chocolate, dairy products, grapes, raisins, tomatoes, onions and mushrooms -- all of which can be harmful and even fatal in dogs. Table scraps should also be avoided since they are not nutritionally balanced.
What Should I Feed My Mastiff Puppy?
According to the American Kennel Club, the Mastiff can be traced back to 3000 B.C. where they were found in Egyptian drawings. Mastiffs are predominantly known for their large size, and rightfully so. An adult Mastiff male can weigh in at 150 to 250 pounds (68 to110 kg), with females at 120 to 200 pounds (54 to 91 kg). Their large size puts them into the "Giant Breed" category. Proper nutrition is key in ensuring the proper health and growth of giant breeds. Make sure your puppy is getting all he needs for his development by feeding him premium dog food specially formulated for giant breed puppies.