Feeding & Nutrition

Everything you need to know about setting up your puppy with healthy eating habits to last them well into the adulthood. Feeding your puppy Your puppy seems small now, but they have a lot of growing up to do in a short space of time! In just 12 months (up to 24 months for larger breeds) they'll become fully-fledged adults. In the meantime their bodies and brains have to develop incredibly quickly, and plenty of high quality puppy food helps them to get there. They definitely need it, as a healthy, energetic puppy can burn through up to twice as many calories as an adult dog! Feeding your puppy is also an important part of taking care of their health and happiness. Once they are old enough to eat solid food – usually when they are six to eight weeks old – it’s time to introduce a diet specially formulated to meet their needs. What to feed your puppy Specially-formulated puppy foods are the ideal diet for the newest member of your family. This is because they are complete and balanced, which means they contain everything your puppy needs to help them grow up healthily. There’s no need for extra supplements or pieces of human food – in fact, these might do more harm than good, no matter how insistently they show you their puppy-dog eyes! Here is what to look for in the best puppy food:

Strawberries make a delicious snack for us and not to mention they’re also incredibly healthy! But this has got many of us wondering, do these benefits extend to our four-legged friends too? Read our guide to find out if dogs can eat strawberries and if they’re as good for us as they are for them! The summertime is a wonderful season full of blue skies, green fields and of course it just so happens to be strawberry season too! To us humans, these delicious little berries are a superfood and we often find ourselves munching at them or loading them into a healthy smoothie. However, whilst we’re enjoying these juicy, sweet fruits, we’ll likely be watched by a big, soft pair of eyes pleading to allow them just one bite. The notorious ‘puppy dog eyes’ trick is one we’re all familiar with and one we all fall prey to, but can dogs eat strawberries? Are strawberries good for dogs? Keep reading to find out if you can let your pup join you in your next snack time. Can dogs eat strawberries? Yes, dogs can eat strawberries, but they do contain sugar so they should always be given in moderation. Be sure to only feed a small amount (just like you would with any snack) and follow the guideline that treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. Are strawberries good for dogs? No, fruits are high in sugar and can lead to a range of health problems in dogs including obesity, dental disease and diabetes.

There’s nothing better than sitting down in front of the TV with a big bowl of popcorn, ready to watch your favourite movie – but are our dogs allowed to join the fun too? Find out all about can dogs eat popcorn and if it’s safe for your pup, here. Movie night isn’t complete without a big bowl of our favourite popcorn. It’s the perfect, easy snack as it only takes moments in a microwave and it’s a fairly healthy treat for us humans, containing high-fibre whole grains. While we’re sat on the sofa consuming handful after handful, it’s easy for us to drop pieces of popcorn, where our dogs will be waiting all too eagerly to gobble it up. But this does beg the question, can dogs eat popcorn? We’ve put together this guide to whether dogs can have popcorn to answer all your questions. Keep reading to find out whether your dog can join in with the next movie night snacks or not. Can dogs eat popcorn? Yes, but only in certain circumstances. Dogs can eat popcorn in small amounts but only if it’s unseasoned and it should only be given as a treat on the odd occasion. It’s also important to remember to follow healthy feeding guidelines and ensure that treats only make up 10% or less of their daily calorie content. Is popcorn good for dogs? While popcorn isn’t bad for dogs, it isn’t necessarily that good for them either. Corn kernels do contain minerals including magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, zinc, fibre and trace amounts of vitamins, but these are all things your dog should be getting from their daily food anyway, providing you feed a complete and balanced diet of high-quality dog food.

Pineapple is deliciously packed with nutrients, so it’s natural for owners to wonder if their dog should get a bite of it too. Find out if dogs can eat pineapple and how to feed it to our canine friends. This tropical fruit is a favourite in many households which means chances are our four-legged friends have already crossed paths with the pineapple fruit and its many different guises: fresh, dried, frozen and even grilled. But can dogs actually have pineapple? Is it safe to let our pet have a bite of this beloved fruit? Keep reading to find out. Can dogs eat pineapple? Dogs can eat pineapple, but in moderation. The fruit does not contain toxic or dangerous nutrients for dogs, but you should still monitor your pet for any unusual reactions, such as an upset stomach, especially the first time they eat pineapple. Keep in mind that fruits are high in sugar which might make existing health conditions worse. Always consult the vet before giving your dog new food. Is pineapple good for dogs? Pineapple is packed with various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium and iron. However, dogs will get these nutrients and many more from their specially-formulated dog food. There is no nutritional need to add pineapple to your dog’s diet, but if you choose to do so keep in mind that this is a fruit that’s high in sugar, so only allow pineapple snacks for your dog in moderation. If you want to find out more about all the different nutrients your pet needs and how to feed your dog a balanced diet check out our in-depth article.

We love the zesty taste of oranges and their unforgettable smell. And if your dog agrees, it’s natural to wonder if the canine friend is safe getting a taste of this fruit. Whether your dog is pleading to let them have some of that juicy orange you’re snacking on or your pet has already helped themselves to an orange bite unbeknownst to you, you’re probably wondering if dogs can have this tasty fruit as a treat without any unfortunate consequences. Here is what you need to know about dogs, oranges and how to react when your pet is begging for a taste. Can dogs eat oranges? Yes, dogs can eat oranges. This citrus fruit is not toxic or dangerous to dogs, and while oranges have no particular nutrients that could have a negative effect on an otherwise healthy dog, moderation is key. On average, you should not feed your dog more than two orange slices, but keep in mind your dog’s size when thinking about portion control. Don’t forget it’s always best to check with your vet before adding human foods to your dog’s diet, even as an occasional treat. And keep an eye out for your dog’s reaction to the new food.

Many owners know that dogs shouldn’t eat chocolate, but do you know why? An accidental chocolate button dropped on the floor can be gone in instant - so be sure that you know what to do if your dog eats chocolate. We all like to indulge in a delicious bar of chocolate time after time, and as a nation of dog lovers, we’re all about sharing the experiences and flavours we love with our canine friends. But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, which is particularly true with chocolate. It may surprise you to learn that dogs eating chocolate can be fatal as it’s highly poisonous and if they eat even the smallest amount, you’ll need to seek veterinary help straight away. At Purina, we care about your dog’s health and want to make sure they’re happy and healthy, which is why we’ve created this guide to tell you all you need to know about chocolate poisoning in dogs and what to do if your dog eats chocolate. Can dogs eat chocolate? No, dogs can’t eat chocolate. Although not all canines are as susceptible to becoming ill from eating chocolate, it isn’t good for any dog. Feeding your dog some of your Easter egg as a treat will probably have the opposite effect that you intend, and can result in some hefty vet bills. Why is chocolate bad for dogs? Chocolate contains an ingredient called theobromine, which human beings can metabolise naturally, but dogs can’t. Due to this, ingesting any foodstuff containing it leads to a build-up of theobromine, which can become toxic. Are there certain types of chocolate which are worse than others? Some chocolate contains higher levels of theobromine than others. Dark and cooking chocolate and cocoa have the highest levels, whereas milk and white chocolate have the lowest. It only takes less than an ounce of dark chocolate to poison a 19kg dog, so if you suspect your dog’s ingested even the smallest amount, seek veterinary help right away. Unfortunately, there’s no way to determine the exact amount of chocolate that a dog has to consume to become at risk of serious illness, as every animal’s metabolic rate is different. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dogs If you suspect your dog of eating chocolate, keep a close eye on them for the next 24 hours, as this is when symptoms will most likely start to develop. Some of the signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs you can look out for are listed below:

As humans, we love cheese and it’s no secret that our dogs often look at us with their best puppy dog eyes whilst we’re munching on it! But, can dogs eat cheese and is it good for them? Find out more with this article. Cheese is a common staple to the human diet. We often find ourselves reaching for the block to add a grating atop our meals and there are so many varieties available that it pairs well with everything! We’re not the only ones who think that cheese is particularly moreish either – our dogs also think it’s pretty much the best thing since sliced bread. But, where it’s obvious that most dogs think the taste of it is nothing short of divine, are they actually allowed to eat it and is cheese good for dogs? Keep reading to find out whether dogs can eat cheese! Can dogs eat cheese? In most cases yes, dogs can eat cheese. When given in moderation it can make a great high reward training treat (particularly when there’s lots of distractions) and most dogs adore the taste of it too. Can dogs eat cottage cheese? Yes, dogs can eat cottage cheese. This type is actually low in fat and sodium so it is actually one of the better options to give your dog as an occasional treat. Can dogs eat blue cheese? No, never give your dog blue cheese. The fungus involved in making blue cheeses such as Stilton can produce a substance called roquefortine C, which dogs can be very sensitive to. If your dog ingests this, they may develop the following symptoms: • Vomiting. • Diarrhoea. • High temperature. • Seizures. The higher the amount of blue cheese your dog eats, the greater risk of them developing the symptoms above. If you notice your dog displaying any of these signs, contact your vet straight away.

Blueberries are a great, healthy snack for humans, but do they offer the same nutritional benefits for our dogs too? Find out if dogs can have blueberries and if they’re good for them with this article. Blueberries can be especially moreish for us humans. Their small size coupled with their juicy contents means that we often find ourselves reaching for berry after berry. And it makes it even better that they’re packed full of goodness for us to enjoy! Whilst you’re tucking into your delicious snack, you may discover you’re being watched by your four-legged friend, eagerly awaiting with their best puppy dog eyes and might find yourself wondering ‘can dogs eat blueberries?’ We’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know about whether dogs can eat blueberries or not and if blueberries are good for dogs.

There are a lot of dog treats out there which are high fat and filled with artificial preservatives, which aren’t great for your dog’s health. If you’re concerned about your dog’s weight or just looking for a healthier alternative, check out this list for our favourite 7 healthy dog treats for training. Many dogs are incredibly food orientated. Their ears prick up at the mere sound of a packet rustling and their high-powered noses can pick up the scent of something delicious faster than you can say sit! Due to their love of food, it’s generally quite easy to train them with treats, but of course there’s the worry that too many of these will lead to weight gain or an unbalanced diet. We’ve created this list to tell you all about the best healthy dog treats for training, perfect for teaching everything from a reliable recall to your dog’s next big fancy trick. Always make sure to factor treats into your dog’s daily ration and reduce the size of meals to balance it out. 1. Cooked lean meat If you need high reward dog treats for training when you really need to command their attention, try some lean meat. Plain, boiled chicken breast with no oil or seasoning can be suitable – cutting up into very small pieces around the size of your little finger nail works best. In addition to being gentle on most stomachs, chicken is filled with omega-6 fatty acids which help to promote healthy skin and coat. Salmon is sometimes fed as a healthy dog treat as it’s full of omega-3 fatty acids. However, this is higher in fat so should be given in very small quantities and not fed to dogs with a history of pancreatitis. Be sure to avoid processed meats that have added salt. 2. Your dog’s dinner Your dog’s regular dry food can make a great healthy dog treat. This is a good choice for overweight dogs on low fat diets, or other pets that are on special diets for underlying health problems. Measure out a portion of their daily ration and keep this in a pot to use for training treats that day. Additionally, you can try using dog puzzles or a food dispensing toy so they can eat, learn and play all at the same time.

Having puppies is both exciting and exhausting for you and your pet. Whilst it’s wonderful to welcome adorable bundles of fur into your home, it’s hard work for a new mum to grow, deliver and look after a mischievous litter! Therefore it’s more important than ever for you to make sure your dog is getting everything theyneeds from theirfood. Eating right will make sure that both mum and her puppies are happy and healthy. Although adult-formula food is great for everyday use, your dog will need an extra boost of nutrients when pregnant, especially if they'reexpecting a large litter. Mums-to-be can get the higher amount of energy and protein that dogs need from a high quality puppy food. Feeding your pregnant dog a puppy formula will help to support your pet during and after pregnancy. Your dog’s body condition (and any other medical requirements) can affect what nutritional demands your petwill have when expecting. You can find out more about your dog’s body condition with our body conditioning tool.

At Christmas dinner, you’ve probably noticed your dog hanging about (and possibly giving you puppy dog eyes) because they can smell that delicious turkey cooking. But can dogs eat turkey and share the fun? We have a guide on whether dogs can eat turkey, when it’s unsafe to feed it, and how to safely feed it to them below. Can dogs eat turkey? Dogs can eat turkey in moderation, but it does depend on how it’s cooked. As long as the turkey is plain – without any seasonings, like onion, garlic, salt etc. – it’s safe for them to eat. It’s also important to avoid feeding them turkey skin as this is high in fat which may cause an upset stomach, and is often heavily seasoned. Can puppies eat turkey? Puppies can eat a little bit of plain, cooked turkey without the skin or bones, i.e., the white meat without seasoning. It’s important to remember that this is a snack and should not replace a meal. They should be receiving a balanced diet from their puppy food so they can grow healthy and strong! Can dogs eat cooked turkey? Yes, dogs can eat a bit of cooked turkey as a snack. This cooked turkey should be free of seasonings and fat, as this is not good for your dog. Depending on the seasoning, like garlic, this could be toxic to your dog so it’s imperative the cooked turkey is plain. Can dogs eat raw turkey? Dogs should not eat raw turkey as this can increase the likelihood of contracting a bacterial infection, like salmonella, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues. If you feed your dog turkey, it should be cooked well and, as we mentioned, should be plain. Can dogs eat turkey bones? Dogs are commonly portrayed as lovers of bones but can they eat turkey bones? The answer is no. Turkey bones should not be given to your dog as they can cause a choking hazard. Or, if ingested, turkey bones can splinter off and cause damage to internal organs. This is especially true when turkey bones have been cooked as they’re more brittle. Can dogs eat turkey skin? No, dogs cannot eat turkey skin. The skin of the turkey contains a lot of fat, which is not good for dogs. It’s also harder to chew so can cause a choking hazard. Not to mention, the skin is also usually covered in seasonings which could be toxic to your dog. It’s best to avoid feeding your dog turkey skin altogether. Can dogs eat turkey ham? Dogs should not eat turkey ham, just like other deli meats. Turkey ham is heavily processed and may be high in salt and preservatives. It could also cause stomach upset, so it’s best to steer clear. Is turkey good for dogs? Now you know if dogs can eat turkey, but is it good for dogs? It has nutritious properties like: A good source of proteinSource of B vitaminsSource of minerals, including selenium, zinc and phosphorus These nutrients are good for dogs but turkey should be fed as a snack. Although feeding your pooch turkey is fine, they should be getting their nutrients from a balanced dog diet. How should I feed my dog turkey? You can feed your dog small amounts of the white part of turkey – i.e., with no skin and with the bones removed – as long as there are no extra fats, like butter, and no seasonings on it. Onion and garlic are toxic to dogs, so it’s highly important to keep this in mind when feeding them turkey. Turkey can be good to feed your dog in moderation as it’s a source of protein. It’s a good idea to consult your vet before feeding your furry friend new foods, especially if they have health conditions or are overweight. We hope this guide answering ‘Can dogs eat turkey?’ was helpful! Looking for more information on what dogs eat?

We love indulging in pancakes with our favourite sweet or savoury toppings. Whether you enjoy fluffy or crepe-like pancakes, we can’t help but wonder if our furry friends can enjoy this treat with us. You’re bound to find hopeful eyes staring up at you as you dig in, so find out if dogs can eat pancakes and how they can safely enjoy them with our handy guide below. Read on!