• What to Feed & How Much to Feed
• The Healthiest Food to Feed My Puppy?
• What Do Vets Recommend for Puppy Food?
• What Does “Healthy Food” Really Mean?
• How Much Protein Does a Puppy Need?
• Grain Free vs With Grain diets.
• Puppy Food for Sensitive Stomachs
• Best Puppy Food Brand for Small Breeds
• Best Puppy Food for Large Breed Dogs
• Hypoallergenic Puppy Food
• Puppy Food for Allergies and Itching
• Puppy Food for Pregnant Dog
• Homemade Recipe for Puppies
• How Long to Feed Puppy Food
• FAQ's
• Final Thoughts

Welcoming a puppy into your home? This vet-informed guide explains what to feed your puppy, how much to feed, and how fresh nutrition—like BARF India raw and cooked dog food—supports healthy growth, digestion, and lifelong health.

What to Feed & How Much to Feed

Choosing the right puppy food is one of the most important decisions a pet parent will make. Puppies grow rapidly, develop immunity, and form lifelong health foundations during their first year. Feeding the wrong food—especially ultra-processed kibble—can lead to digestive issues, allergies, poor bone development, and long-term health problems.

This guide answers the most searched puppy food questions, while explaining why fresh nutrition like BARF India Raw Dog Food and BARF India Cooked Dog Food is the healthiest choice for puppies in India.

“Healthy” puppy food is not about branding—it’s about biology.

A healthy puppy diet should:

✔️ Support immune development
✔️ Promote steady (not rapid) growth
✔️ Reduce inflammation
I✔️Improve stool quality and digestion

Fresh raw and cooked foods consistently outperform kibble in these areas.

Puppy Food High Protein: How Much Protein Does a Puppy Need?

Protein is essential for:

✔️ Muscle development
✔️ Brain growth
✔️ Immune strength

However, protein quality matters more than quantity.

BARF India uses:
✔️ Human-grade meats
✔️ No meat meals or by-products
✔️ Naturally occurring amino acids

This ensures puppies get usable protein without kidney stress or digestive overload.

Grain-Free vs Grain-Inclusive Puppy Food: Which Is Better?

Grain-Free Puppy Food
Best for:
✔️ Puppies with allergies or itching
✔️ Sensitive stomachs
✔️ Frequent ear infections

Grain-Inclusive Puppy Food
May suit some puppies but often includes:
- Wheat, corn, or soy
- Cheap fillers with low nutritional value

BARF India focuses on grain-free, species-appropriate nutrition, using vegetables only when beneficial—not as fillers.

Puppy Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Signs your puppy needs a gentler diet:
- Loose stools
- Gas or bloating
- Vomiting
- Poor appetite

BARF India Cooked Dog Food is ideal for sensitive puppies because it is:
✔️ Lightly cooked
✔️ Easy to digest
✔️ Free from harsh processing

Our sensitive stomach approach includes:

Novel protein options: For puppies with protein sensitivities, we offer lamb, duck, or fish-based formulas featuring proteins they haven't previously consumed, reducing allergic reactions.

Limited ingredient formulas: Single protein source combined with minimal, easily digestible vegetables eliminates common irritants while maintaining complete nutrition.

Natural probiotics and enzymes: Raw meat contains beneficial bacteria and digestive enzymes that support healthy gut flora and improve digestive function. For puppies requiring cooked food, we recommend adding probiotic supplements.

High digestibility: The bioavailable nature of whole food nutrients means less digestive work for sensitive systems. Most nutrients absorb in the small intestine, leaving less residue to ferment in the colon and cause gas or loose stools.

Many BARF India customers report dramatic improvements in their sensitive puppies within 7-10 days of transitioning to raw or cooked diets. Stools become smaller, firmer, and less odorous—clear indicators of improved digestion and nutrient absorption.

Best Puppy Food Brand for Small Breeds

Small breed puppies mature rapidly, have faster metabolisms, and require calorie-dense nutrition in portions their tiny stomachs can handle. BARF India's raw and cooked puppy formulas perfectly suit small breeds by providing maximum nutrition in smaller, more frequent meals.

Our small breed puppy approach includes:
Calorie-dense formulas: Higher fat content from quality sources like chicken, egg yolks, and fish provides concentrated energy without requiring large meal volumes.

Easy-to-eat portions: Raw ground mixtures or finely minced cooked foods accommodate small mouths and developing teeth. Unlike large kibble pieces that small puppies struggle with, our foods are naturally sized appropriately.

Frequent feeding schedules: Small breed puppies benefit from 3-4 small meals daily to maintain blood sugar levels. Our convenient portioning makes this schedule manageable for busy pet parents.

Superior digestibility: The bioavailable nutrients in fresh food mean small breed puppies extract maximum nutrition from smaller quantities, perfect for their limited stomach capacity.

BARF India recommends specific formulas for small breeds featuring slightly higher fat content and more frequent feeding schedules. Toy breeds like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers thrive on our raw and cooked options, experiencing better energy levels, healthier weights, and improved coat quality.

Best Puppy Food for Large Breed Dogs

Large breed puppies face unique developmental challenges requiring specialized nutrition to prevent orthopedic problems while supporting their substantial growth. BARF India's large breed puppy formulas provide controlled, steady growth through carefully balanced calcium, phosphorus, and caloric content.

Our large breed approach emphasizes:

Controlled calcium levels: Raw meaty bones and bone meal provide calcium in natural ratios with phosphorus (approximately 1.2:1), preventing the excessive calcium intake that contributes to developmental orthopedic disease in large breeds.

Moderate calorie density: Large breed puppies should grow steadily, not rapidly. Our formulas provide sufficient calories for healthy development without the excess that accelerates growth beyond what their skeletal system can safely support.

Joint-supporting nutrients: Natural glucosamine and chondroitin from cartilage, collagen-rich bone broth, and omega-3 fatty acids support developing joints and connective tissues.

Extended feeding duration: Large breed puppies remain on puppy-specific formulas until 12-18 months (giant breeds sometimes 24 months), requiring consistent, appropriate nutrition throughout their extended growth period.

BARF India's large breed puppy customers report excellent hip scores, proper growth curves, and strong skeletal development. Breeds like German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Great Danes benefit enormously from species-appropriate nutrition during their critical growth phases.

Puppy Food Hypoallergenic

True food allergies in puppies, while less common than environmental allergies, cause significant discomfort through skin irritation, itching, ear infections, and digestive upset. BARF India's hypoallergenic puppy formulas use novel proteins and limited ingredients to minimize allergic responses while maintaining complete nutrition.

Our hypoallergenic options feature:

Novel protein sources: Duck, rabbit, venison, or fish—proteins your puppy hasn't encountered—reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. Food allergies develop through repeated exposure, so introducing new proteins prevents sensitization.

Elimination of common allergens: Our recipes avoid beef, dairy, chicken (when necessary), wheat, corn, soy, and eggs—the most frequent canine allergens. By removing these triggers, we allow your puppy's immune system to calm and heal.

Anti-inflammatory ingredients: Omega-3 rich fish oil, turmeric, and green-lipped mussel provide natural anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe irritated skin and reduce allergic responses.

Gut health support: A healthy gut microbiome is essential for proper immune function. Raw diets naturally contain probiotics that support beneficial gut bacteria, while reducing inflammation and improving intestinal barrier function.

For puppies with suspected food allergies, BARF India recommends an 8-12 week elimination diet using a single novel protein formula. This period allows the immune system to reset and clearly identify whether food is causing allergic symptoms. Most puppies show significant improvement within 3-4 weeks.

Puppy Food for Allergies and Itching

Persistent itching, hot spots, red skin, ear infections, and excessive paw licking often indicate food allergies or sensitivities. BARF India's anti-allergy puppy formulas address these uncomfortable symptoms through clean, anti-inflammatory nutrition that supports skin health from the inside out.

Our allergy-fighting approach includes:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Wild-caught fish and fish oil provide EPA and DHA—potent anti-inflammatory fatty acids that reduce skin inflammation, support barrier function, and promote healing of irritated tissue.

Clean protein sources: Grass-fed, hormone-free meats reduce exposure to inflammatory compounds and potential allergens found in conventionally raised livestock.

Elimination of irritants: Removing grains, starches, and synthetic additives eliminates common triggers of allergic responses and reduces overall inflammatory burden.

Skin-supporting nutrients: Natural vitamin E from whole foods, biotin from organ meats, and zinc from red meat support skin cell regeneration, coat health, and immune function.

BARF India customers frequently report that switching to raw or cooked diets resolves chronic itching and skin problems that expensive medications and prescription diets failed to address.

The natural, species-appropriate nutrition allows the immune system to function properly rather than remaining in a constant state of inflammation.

For puppies suffering from allergies and itching, we recommend starting with a fish-based formula high in omega-3s combined with limited, hypoallergenic ingredients. Improvements typically appear within 2-4 weeks, with complete resolution of symptoms often occurring by 8-12 weeks.

Puppy Food for Pregnant Dog

Pregnant and nursing dogs have dramatically increased nutritional needs, particularly during the final trimester and throughout lactation. BARF India's nutrient-dense puppy formulas are ideal for expectant and nursing mothers, providing the extra calories, protein, calcium, and vital nutrients required to support both the mother and her growing litter.

Our pregnancy and lactation nutrition emphasizes:

Increased caloric density: Pregnant dogs need approximately 1.5 times normal calories by late pregnancy, while nursing mothers may require 2-4 times maintenance calories depending on litter size. Our rich formulas meet these demands without requiring enormous meal volumes.

Superior calcium and phosphorus: Raw meaty bones provide bioavailable calcium in proper ratios for fetal skeletal development and milk production. Unlike synthetic calcium supplements that can cause imbalances, whole food calcium is naturally balanced with phosphorus and other minerals.

Organ meat nutrition: Liver provides concentrated vitamins A, D, and B-complex essential for fetal development, while heart and kidney supply additional nutrients that support the mother's increased metabolic demands.

Free-choice feeding: We recommend allowing pregnant and nursing mothers unrestricted access to food during late pregnancy and throughout lactation, letting them self-regulate intake based on their bodies' demands.

BARF India suggests transitioning expectant mothers to our puppy formulas around week 5-6 of pregnancy, continuing throughout nursing, and gradually transitioning back to adult formulas after puppies wean. This approach ensures mothers receive adequate nutrition without supplementation complications.

Puppy Food Homemade Recipe

Many pet parents desire the control and quality assurance that comes with preparing homemade puppy food. BARF India supports this approach while emphasizing the importance of nutritional completeness and balance. Our recipes and guidance help you create safe, nutritious meals that support your puppy's growth and development.

A balanced BARF puppy recipe includes:
Muscle meat (60-70%): Chicken thighs, beef chuck, lamb shoulder, or whole fish (with bones for smaller fish). This provides protein and essential amino acids for growth.

Raw meaty bones (10-15%): Chicken necks, wings, or frames for puppies; larger beef or lamb bones for recreational chewing. Bones supply calcium, phosphorus, and minerals while providing dental benefits.

Organ meats (10-15%): Liver (5-7%), kidney, heart, and spleen. Organs are nutritional powerhouses containing concentrated vitamins and minerals that muscle meat lacks.

Vegetables and fruits (5-10%): Pureed or lightly steamed carrots, broccoli, spinach, pumpkin, berries, and apples (no seeds). Process vegetables to break down cell walls, making nutrients accessible.

Supplements: Fish oil (omega-3s), kelp (iodine and trace minerals), and vitamin E complete the nutritional profile.

Sample BARF India recipe:
680 gms ground chicken with bone
130 gms chicken liver
057 gms chicken heart
1/2 cup pureed vegetables (carrots, spinach, pumpkin)
1 tablespoon fish oil
1/2 teaspoon kelp powder
400 IU vitamin E

Mix thoroughly and portion based on your puppy's weight and activity level.

Critical considerations: Consult with a veterinary nutritionist before starting homemade feeding to ensure recipes meet your puppy's specific needs. Never skip calcium—growing puppies require precise ratios that are difficult to achieve without bones or proper supplements. Rotate protein sources for nutritional variety and to prevent sensitivities. Maintain strict food safety practices when handling raw meat.

BARF India offers pre-made balanced formulas for owners who want the benefits of raw feeding without the preparation complexity. Our complete meals ensure nutritional adequacy while providing the convenience busy pet parents need.

Puppy Food How Much to Feed

Determining appropriate feeding quantities ensures healthy growth without obesity or malnutrition.

BARF India recommends feeding puppies 2-3% of their expected adult weight daily, divided into multiple meals. This approach differs from kibble feeding guidelines because fresh food has higher bioavailability and moisture content.

General BARF India feeding guidelines:8-12 weeks:

Feed 10% of current body weight daily, divided into 4 meals. Puppies grow rapidly and have small stomachs requiring frequent, smaller meals.

3-6 months: Feed 5-6% of current body weight daily, divided into 3 meals. Growth continues rapidly, but stomach capacity increases.

6-12 months: Feed 3-4% of current body weight daily, divided into 2-3 meals. Growth slows, and puppies transition toward adult proportions.

Example: A puppy expected to reach 22.7 kg as an adult would eat approximately 454-680 g of raw food daily (2-3% of 22.7 kg), adjusted based on activity level and body condition.

Monitoring body condition: Your puppy should have a visible waist when viewed from above, a tucked abdomen when viewed from the side, and ribs that are easily felt but not prominently visible. Adjust portions weekly based on growth, activity level, and body condition.

Active puppies may require 10-20% more food than sedentary puppies. Working breed puppies or those in active training programs often need additional calories. Conversely, less active puppies may need reduced portions to prevent obesity.

BARF India's customer service team can provide personalized feeding calculations based on your puppy's breed, current weight, expected adult weight, and activity level. We offer detailed feeding guides with each order to ensure your puppy receives optimal nutrition.

How Long to Feed Puppy Food

The transition from puppy to adult food depends on your dog's breed size and growth rate. BARF India's approach makes this transition seamless, as our puppy and adult formulas differ primarily in fat content and feeding quantities rather than fundamental ingredients.

Transition timelines:

Small breeds (under 20 lbs adult weight): Transition to adult formulas at 9-12 months. These breeds mature quickly and reach adult size relatively early.

Medium breeds (20-50 lbs adult weight): Transition at 12 months. Most medium dogs reach physical maturity around their first birthday.

Large breeds (50-100 lbs adult weight): Transition at 12-15 months. Larger dogs benefit from extended growth support, particularly for joint development.

Giant breeds (over 100 lbs adult weight): Transition at 18-24 months. Great Danes, Mastiffs, and other giants continue growing well into their second year and require prolonged nutritional support.

Signs your puppy is ready for adult food:
Your dog has reached approximately 90% of expected adult weight, growth rate has significantly slowed, your veterinarian confirms skeletal maturity through physical examination, and energy levels have stabilized.

Transitioning from BARF India puppy to adult formulas is simpler than changing processed foods. Gradually reduce fat content and adjust portion sizes over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of adult formula with decreasing amounts of puppy formula. The whole food base remains consistent, minimizing digestive upset.

Some dogs with specific health needs may require specialized adult formulas (weight management, joint support, sensitive stomach). BARF India offers customized nutrition plans to address individual health requirements as your puppy matures.

At What Age Is a Puppy No Longer a Puppy?

The transition from puppyhood to adulthood varies significantly by breed size and individual development. From a nutritional standpoint, BARF India considers dogs adults when they've reached physical maturity and their growth plates have closed—a process that occurs at different ages depending on size.

Physical maturity timelines:

Small breeds:
Reach physical maturity at 9-12 months. Toy breeds like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians complete skeletal development relatively quickly.

Medium breeds: Achieve physical maturity at 12 months. Breeds like Beagles, Bulldogs, and Cocker Spaniels are typically fully grown by their first birthday.

Large breeds: Reach physical maturity at 12-15 months. Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Dobermans continue developing well into their second year.

Giant breeds: Don't achieve full physical maturity until 18-24 months. Great Danes, Mastiffs, and other giants have extended growth periods requiring prolonged puppy nutrition.

Behavioral vs. physical maturity: Many dogs continue displaying puppy behaviors—playfulness, high energy, occasional immaturity—well into their second or third year. Behavioral maturity often lags physical maturity by 6-18 months, particularly in working and sporting breeds.

From a nutritional perspective, transition to adult formulas based on physical maturity timelines above, even if your dog still acts puppy-like. BARF India's adult formulas support active, energetic dogs without the excess calories designed for growth.

Your veterinarian can assess skeletal maturity through physical examination or radiographs, confirming when growth plates have closed and your puppy has reached full size. This confirmation is particularly important for large and giant breeds where premature transition to adult nutrition can impact final development.

FAQ's Feeding the Best Dog Food for your Puppy