What Do I Feed Puppies After They Stop Nursing?

Between 4 and 6 weeks old, your puppy is ready to stop nursing and begin the weaning process. This lasts around 3 to 4 weeks before you can fully introduce puppy food. The weaning process can be a difficult time, as the puppy begins to explore different types of food by using both her nose and mouth, and learns to feed herself and not rely on her mother's milk. You can help her through this process by giving her healthy and nutritional food.

  1. Puppy Food

    • Begin feeding your puppy with a good quality solid puppy food mixture. There are a number of alternatives on the market, all of which vary on quality and price. If you are unsure, ask a veterinarian or your local pet store for advice. The actual amount required varies, and you should follow the feeding advice given on the product.

      Although some puppies will have no problems going straight from nursing milk to eating solid food, others will find the transition difficult. If this is the case, you can mix or blend the food with a little warm water or puppy milk replacment. If the puppy continues to refuse the food, use tinned moist puppy food instead.

    Food Intolerence

    • Puppies stomachs can be sensitive to certain ingredients, and you will need to closely monitor your puppy's health when you start feeding her puppy food. You may need to change her puppy food product if problems continue. Signs to look out for include your puppy being over tired, aggressive or hyperactive, excessive weight gain or loss, and chronic skin and ear problems. As the puppy grows, the intolerance may end, but you will need to keep a close eye on her health if you reintroduce a food.

    Further Advice

    • If your puppy has ongoing diarrhea, or bloody stools, you may have to change your puppy's diet, and you should consult a veterinarian for further advice.

      It is also possible to prepare your own home made puppy food, but this is only recommended with advice from a veterinarian as you need to be very careful to get the right balance of nutrients. Too much meat in a puppy's diet can also lead to irreversible bone diseases.

      As soon as you start feeding the puppy, you should be with him as he eats. Talk to him, and occasionally stroke him. This is important training for the puppy which stops her being protective and aggressive about food in the future.

    Fresh Water

    • Puppies drink more water than adult dogs because they experience such rapid growth, and dehydrate easily. Fresh clean water also reduces the risk of diseases like leptospirosis.
      You will need to check their water bowl throughout the day to ensure it is topped up. Always fill the bowl first thing in the morning, and before you go to bed. You can also add a little water to any solid puppy food.