How to Feed Your Large Breed Puppy

Your large breed puppy will need to eat three times a day until he is at least three months old. Although some breeds can already appear large by eight weeks, their bellies are just too small at that age to handle huge meals.

Place your puppy's food bowl on the ground--do not elevate it. A common myth is that raising food bowls will help prevent bloat in dogs. Actually, studies have found that dogs are more likely to gulp air when fed from elevated bowls, which is one of the risk factors for bloat. Stainless steel bowls are usually the easiest to clean and the most sanitary.

Pick your puppy food carefully. Pay special attention to the calcium levels. Studies have shown that for the safest growth rates, large breed puppies should be fed kibble that is low in calcium. Try to stick to a food that has a calcium level of under 1.2 percent, if you can.

Another common myth is that large breed puppies should be fed low protein foods. Actually, puppies need protein for optimal growth, and studies have disproved the theory that high protein diets cause bone and joint problems in growing puppies. Look for a food that has a protein level of 25 percent or higher. Also, consider adding ground beef or turkey to your puppy's food dish.

Always choose a puppy food. Adult foods are intended for adult dogs. Since you typically feed a puppy more than an adult, it's possible your puppy could get too much calcium from an adult dog food. Also, adult foods tend to be lower in protein. You can safely switch your puppy to an adult food once his bones are almost done growing, which usually occurs some time after one year of age.

Pick a food that is preservative-free and has human-grade, good quality ingredients. Look for protein sources, such as chicken or beef, as the first ingredients in the food. If the food has a carbohydrate listed as the first ingredient, such as corn meal or rice, skip it.

Measure the amount of food you're giving your puppy for each meal. The best way to tell if your puppy is getting the correct amount is to look down at him when he's standing. If you can see a bit of waist, he's probably perfect. If his waist is extremely exaggerated, unless he's a sight hound breed, then he's too thin and you'll need to up the amount you're feeding. If you can't see a waist at all, then decrease the amount of food.