If you just brought home a new puppy or are thinking about getting one, you're likely flooded with excitement — and some lingering questions as you look forward to your future together. For example, you might wonder: When can I feed puppies food for adult dogs? Can puppies eat adult dog food?
While some dog foods are labeled "for all life stages," veterinarians know puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. To create a strong foundation for a lifetime of health, it's important to feed your puppy dog food that supports their growth at this life stage. Read on to learn about puppy nutrition basics, when to switch a puppy to adult dog food, and how to choose the best food for your puppy.
During the first year of life (and longer in large and giant breed dogs), puppies grow rapidly. Their bones get longer, their brain develops and they grow new coats. The purpose of nutrition while a puppy is growing into an adult dog is twofold: to support day-to-day life and rapid full-body growth. So, puppy and adult dog foods serve different purposes. Adult food supports healthy maintenance, while puppy food supports healthy maintenance and growth.
The following factors distinguish puppy food from adult dog food:
Increased calories
Increased protein and fat
Higher calcium levels to support healthy bones and teeth
Higher DHA levels to support brain development
It's important to feed your puppy the right food while they're growing to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients in the proper amounts. While all puppies can thrive on food specially formulated for growth and development, it's even more critical for large breed puppies, who may require a large breed puppy food. Large breed puppies need to consume an appropriate balance of minerals, including calcium and phosphorus, to support correct skeletal growth and reduce the risk of certain joint disorders, such as hip dysplasia.
Because puppy food is higher in calories and fat, feeding it to dogs who are done growing can cause unhealthy weight gain. However, there's no one-size-fits-all guide to the right time to transition from puppy food to adult dog food, so check with your vet. When to switch from puppy food depends on several factors, including breed, size, spay/neuter status and activity level.
For example, if you have a Maltese puppy who isn't very active and was neutered at 8 months, your veterinarian may recommend you switch to adult food around 9 months of age. If you have a Saint Bernard who won't be spayed until she's 18 months, your vet will likely advise you to keep her on puppy food until she's done growing, which can take 18 to 24 months.
So, when can a puppy have adult food? Your vet is your best resource on when to switch your puppy to adult food based on their individual needs and lifestyle. Here's a general guide for when to change foods:
Small dog breeds: Between 9 and 12 months of age.
Medium dog breeds: Around 12 months of age.
Large dog breeds: Between 12 and 15 months of age.
Giant dog breeds: Around 18 months of age.
When it's time to transition your puppy to adult food, take it slow. Rapid changes can cause stomach upset in some dogs, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, soft stool, diarrhea and poor appetite. If your dog doesn't feel well, they may reject the new food altogether. To avoid problems, transition your dog's food gradually:
Days one and two: Feed 75% puppy food mixed with 25% adult food.
Days three and four: Feed 50% puppy food mixed with 50% adult food.
Days five and six: Feed 25% puppy food mixed with 75% adult food.
Day seven and after: Feed only adult food.
Always consult your veterinarian before switching to a new food. If your puppy experiences stomach upset or loose stool with the new food, switch back to the puppy food and call your vet. Once your dog successfully transitions to adult food, you can generally reduce feeding frequency to two meals a day.
With so many pet foods on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine the best one for your dog. In general, your veterinary care staff is an excellent resource for nutrition information. Never hesitate to ask your vet for advice. They love to answer this question and will have lots of good insights to share with you!
In addition to asking your vet for their recommendation, consider several factors when choosing a food for your dog. Look for foods that:
Are complete and balanced for your dog's life stage.
Are manufactured by companies with a good safety record.
Are formulated with scientists and veterinarians.
Along with these general tips, factor in your dog's age, activity level and any health concerns. Because you have so many things to consider — and so many foods to choose from — your veterinarian's expertise is invaluable when choosing the best nutrition for your dog.
Feeding your puppy the appropriate amount of the right food sets the foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness. When in doubt about what food to choose or when to switch to adult food, remember your vet is there to help. They can save you time choosing so you can get back to what really matters: puppy kisses and playtime.
Dr. Sarah Wooten graduated from UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. A member of the American Society of Veterinary Journalists, Dr. Wooten divides her professional time between small animal practice in Greeley, Colorado, public speaking on associate issues, leadership, and client communication, and writing. She enjoys camping with her family, skiing, SCUBA, and participating in triathlons.
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Variety Pack
Beef & Barley Entrée with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Nutrition is one of the most important components of keeping your dog healthy, so choosing a well-balanced dog food full of nutrients is key. Learn more.
Learn from a Veterinarian: Discover the causes & symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs, how it affects his joints and how you can help manage the disease.
Learn everything you need to know about hypothyroidism in dogs, including risk factors, signs of the disease and how it gets diagnosed & treated.
Discover the many conditions that cause excessive thirst in dogs, from simple dehydration to more serious issues, and learn when you should visit the vet.
Learn the underlying causes behind excessive dog farting, signs that gas problems may be a larger health concern, and how to help manage these issues.
Learn about megaesophagus in dogs, how it makes digestion difficult & impacts your dog's health, and tips for helping you manage this condition.
Learn whether celery is bad for your dog, how much is a safe amount, and preparation tips if you think they'll enjoy it as a snack.
Learn how to spot separation anxiety in dogs, what you can do to help with his stress, and ways to prevent anxiety in the first place.
Thinking of getting a small dog? Learn the pros & cons of small dog breeds, such as food & living space specifics, to decide if they're a good fit for you.
Learn all about laryngeal paralysis in dogs, including types of the condition, signs & symptoms, risk factors, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
Unfortunately death is a part of life, so be prepared to make arrangements for your dog's body if he dies at home.
Exercising older dogs is the best way to ensure their health, happiness and longevity. Here are three ways to get your pet exercise as they age.
Should I Worry If My Dog Twitches During Sleep?
Learn about dwarfism in dogs, including types of this condition, breeds that are prone to developing it & general effects dwarfism has on a dog's health.
Learn why cars can be a very dangerous place to leave your dog, including how quickly temperatures can get too hot or cold & alternatives to leaving them.
Who knows what dogs do when you're not home? Here are some of the most common activities your pet will take part in while you're away.
You feed tasty and nutritious dog food, yet your dog only sniffs and licks at it. It’s time for the next meal, but the previous meal still isn’t finished. You might have a finicky dog!
Find out how to help your dog get over his fear of thunder by learning what to do and not do during thunderstorms.
It's a tasty treat, but is pineapple safe for dogs? Discover the pros and cons of feeding your dog pineapple and how to do it safely.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool