How much & how often should I feed my puppy?

Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s most joyful experiences. But with that excitement comes a lot of responsibility, and one of the most common concerns for new pet parents is around food. More specifically: how much should I feed my puppy, and how often?
Feeding your puppy the right amount, at the right time, is essential to support their rapid growth and development. From brain function to bone strength, the nutrients in your puppy’s food lay the foundation for a happy, healthy life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about puppy feeding. Be sure to explore our full Puppy Food collection for recipes made with natural ingredients and tailored to growing tummies.

How much food should I feed my puppy?

No two puppies are exactly alike, so there’s no one size fits all answer when it comes to portion sizes. Several factors come into play, including:

• Breed & adult size: Larger breeds have different nutritional needs to smaller ones.
• Age: Young puppies require more frequent meals than older ones.
• Weight: Keeping track of your puppy’s weight is important for portion control.
• Activity levels: A lively, energetic pup will burn more calories than a calmer one.
• Type of food: Wet, dry, and raw foods all have different energy densities
  

It’s important to follow the feeding guidelines provided on your puppy food packaging as a starting point, and adjust as needed. Monitoring your pup’s weight and overall condition regularly can help you spot if they’re being under or overfed.
For more detailed information, see our complete dog feeding guide.

How often to feed a puppy

Just like human babies, puppies have small stomachs and high energy needs – which means little and often is the way to go, at least at first.

How many times a day should you feed a puppy?

As a general guide:

• 8 - 12 weeks old: 4 meals a day
• 3 - 6 months old: 3 meals a day
• 6 - 12 months old: 2 meals a day
  

Always remember, this can vary slightly depending on your puppy’s breed, size, and the specific food you’re feeding. For example, toy breeds may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals for longer, while larger breeds may transition more quickly to fewer feeds.

When to switch a puppy to 2 meals a day?

Most puppies are ready to move from 3 meals to 2 meals a day at around 6 months of age. That said, you should always be guided by your pup’s individual needs and your vet’s advice.
Signs your puppy may be ready for fewer meals include:

• Not finishing all their meals
• Showing consistent energy levels throughout the day
• A settled, consistent toilet routine

If you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to speak with your vet or breeder.

How to create a puppy feeding schedule

Creating a predictable routine helps your puppy feel safe and secure. Try to feed your puppy at the same times each day, around 3-4 hours apart. Allow them time to rest afterwards.  Here’s a sample schedule for an 8-week-old puppy:

• 7am - Breakfast
• 10am - Mid Morning
• 2pm - Later Lunchtime
• 6pm - Dinner

Avoid feeding too late in the evening, as your puppy will need time to digest before bedtime (and ideally do their business outside!). Keep fresh water available at all times, and stick to calm, quiet areas for feeding so your pup can focus on their food.

Vet-approved puppy food & snacks

Feeding your puppy a complete and balanced diet is essential for their growth and wellbeing. Puppies have higher protein, fat, and calorie requirements than adult dogs, so it’s important to choose food that’s specifically formulated for young dogs.
You’ll find several types of puppy food available:

• Dry food: Crunchy, convenient, and great for dental health.
• Wet food: More palatable and hydrating, ideal for picky eaters or younger pups.
• Raw diets: Becoming more popular but should be fed with veterinary guidance to ensure balance.
  

At Forthglade, our range of natural puppy food is crafted with wholesome, high-quality ingredients and free from junk like artificial colours, preservatives, or fillers.
For a deeper dive into what your new pup should be eating, check out our helpful blog post: What To Feed Your New Puppy.

Wet Dog Food for Puppies

Our Wet Puppy Food is gently steamed to lock in goodness and is perfect for sensitive tummies. Packed with natural ingredients like chicken, lamb, and brown rice, it’s soft, tasty, and full of nutrients for growing pups.
Top pick:
Puppy duck & chicken with brown rice wet dog food variety pack
This complete meal is ideal for puppies aged 2 months+ and includes added vitamins, minerals and omega oils to support development.

Dry Dog Food for Puppies

If you prefer feeding something similar to kibble or want to combine wet and dry for variety, our Dry Puppy Food is a brilliant choice. It’s made with natural ingredients and has a crunchy texture that supports healthy teeth.
Top pick:
Small dog cold pressed turkey dry dog food
Cold pressing gently preserves nutrients and makes it easier for small tummies to digest

Dog Treats for Puppies

Treats are a great way to reward good behaviour and help with training, but it’s important to choose the right ones. Our Puppy Treats are grain-free, soft-baked, and made using only natural ingredients, perfect for young teeth and developing tummies.
Top pick:
Meaty nibbles chicken & liver puppy reward treats
These bite sized goodies are ideal for positive reinforcement and won’t upset your pup’s tummy.

In Summary

Feeding your puppy might seem a little overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance, you’ll find a routine that works beautifully for you both. Keep an eye on portion sizes, stick to a regular schedule, and choose food that’s natural, nutritious, and tailored for puppies. If you ever feel unsure, remember your vet is always the best port of call for personalised advice.
Explore our full Puppy Food collection and start your pup’s journey with a diet you can both feel good about.