Domestic dogs are omnivores. Barring allergies or specific health conditions, they will benefit from a diet that includes both plant and meat sources. All canines need carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy. But young, growing puppies have different nutritional and caloric needs than their adult counterparts. You shouldn’t feed adult dog food to your puppy and vice versa.
To understand the difference between puppy and adult dog food, we look at the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines.1 We also discuss flavor options, kibble size, and cost.
At a Glance
Let’s look at the key points of each product.
- AAFCO-recommended protein content of 22% dry matter
- Designed for young dogs that are still growing
- Small kibble for tiny mouths
- Should consist of at least 20% carbohydrates
- High levels of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and sodium
- More calorie-dense than adult dog food
- AAFCO-recommended protein content of 18% dry matter
- Meets the nutritional needs of most breeds, age 1 year and older
- Large, adult-sized kibble pieces
Overview of Puppy Dog Food
Puppy food is not just clever marketing; it’s a necessity. Young dogs grow rapidly during their first year of life. They need the right amount of calories and nutrients until they reach adulthood. You’re laying the foundation for a lifetime of health when you feed your puppy a high-quality diet.
Most commercial dog food brands offer special formulas for puppies, usually in smaller pieces to accommodate tiny mouths but in fewer flavors and protein choices. So, if your young dog has an allergy, you may have difficulty finding puppy food made from novel protein sources. Some puppy food brands are breed-specific, while others tailor their food for small, medium, or large breeds. Ask your veterinarian if you have any questions about what to feed your young dog.
- Meets the nutritional needs of growing puppies
- Small kibble pieces
- Not as many flavors as adult dog food
- Small packages often cost more per ounce
Overview of Adult Dog Food
Your dog can switch over to adult dog food once they stop growing. Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Pugs could reach adulthood as early as 9 months. Larger breeds like Great Danes can continue to grow for 2 years. Most dogs reach adulthood on their 1st birthday. Adult dogs that eat puppy food are at risk for obesity, as puppy food is calorie-dense. There are many more options for adult dogs, including specialty foods tailored to specific breeds and allergies. However, not all dogs benefit from transitioning to a novel protein diet. Talk with your veterinarian before switching to a diet that eliminates any one specific food group.
One advantage of having an older dog is that adult dog food often costs less per ounce. Your dog’s nutritional needs will change again when they reach the “senior stage,” around 7 years of age for many breeds. Senior dog food prevents older dogs from gaining weight while still meeting their dietary requirements.
- Less expensive per ounce
- More flavor options
- More choices for dogs with allergies and other specialty diets
- While heavily marketed, grain-free diets may pose a health risk to many dogs (as many studies show a linkage between these diets and a specific type of heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy)
What Are the Differences Between Them?
As discussed, there are several differences between puppy and adult dog food.
Price
Edge: Adult dog food
Puppy food often costs more because it contains more protein.
Flavor Options
Edge: Adult dog food
Puppy food generally comes in chicken or beef. Adult dogs have choices like salmon, turkey, bison, venison, and more.
Nutrition
Edge: It’s a tie
Puppy food and adult dog food offer the proper nutrition for their respective life stages.
Conclusion
While a toy breed can be done growing at 9 months, a large breed dog can still grow through their 2nd birthday. Most dogs are considered adults on their 1st birthday. Unless your veterinarian specifies otherwise, your dog can eat puppy food until they reach their adult height and weight. Feeding your pet according to their life stage will ensure that they enjoy a healthy, active life.