Guidelines to Good Basic Feeding
Feed your puppy the same kind of food every day. Unlike humans, a dog’s digestive system cannot handle changes in food. It can cause upset stomach and diarrhoea.
When changing to a new food, gradually transition him to the new food by mixing portions of both foods until you slowly phase the old food out. (Your puppy may experience diarrhoea if his food is suddenly changed.)
We recommend feeding your puppy on royal Canin puppy food as this is what your puppy has been consuming . (available online or at a good pet shop) mixed with water. Puppies need a balanced diet. The good thing about commercial foods is that you know that your puppy is getting exactly the right balance of calcium and phosphorus, vitamins and minerals. This is particularly important while they are growing and their bones are changing size so rapidly.
Don’t overfeed your puppy (follow the guidelines on the puppy-food package for recommended feeding amounts.). Puppies should be round, but not fat, while they are growing so that they do not grow too quickly. This is especially important as the Labrador Retriever is a large breed, where growing too fast puts great stress on their bones. If bones do not develop properly it can cause lameness problems later.
Always feed your puppy at the same times every day. Puppies will be on 4 meals per day at first as their tummies are too small to cope with large meals.
Always have fresh drinking water available.
Keep food and water bowls clean.
Don’t be alarmed if your puppy’s appetite changes. It is normal for your puppy to lose his appetite or experience digestive upset occasionally. However, if your puppy’s upset stomach becomes severe or lasts longer than a day or two, contact your vet.
