Getting a new puppy is super exciting but can also be overwhelming, especially if you never had a dog before. For instance, you’ll need to puppy-proof your house and make sure that you have all the necessary supplies so that your precious pup is happy and healthy. Obviously, you’ll need to buy some food. However, it can get a little tricky, as puppies have a slightly different diet than adult dogs. To make sure that you don’t panic while visiting the dog food aisle, here are some suggestions on what kind of food you should be giving your pup. That being said, please talk to your vet about your pup’s dietary needs before you head out to the store. 

According to Fetch by WebMD, puppies make the switch from milk to solid foods, like kibble “at about four weeks.” However, Dr. C.A. Tony Buffington, DVM, Ph.D. cautions that pup parents need to speak to a vet before purchasing your puppy’s first solid food. 

 “In the first six months or so, the nutrient needs are changing very quickly. And, they leave the least margin for error,” explained The Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital professor. 

Once you have that sorted out, you can start perusing the dog food aisle. Some of the most highly rated puppy foods, include Wellness Complete Health Puppy Food, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Puppy, Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food, and Nutro Wholesome Essentials Puppy Food. 

You can also give your pup some occasional treats. However,  Fetch by WebMD warns that owners should “aim for no more than 5% of calories from treats.” You should also refrain from giving your dog any human food, as it “can cause digestive upset and pancreatitis.” You can, however, give your pup certain fresh fruits and vegetables as a tasty treat.