Raising a puppy is one of life’s great joys — but knowing what to feed them during those crucial early months can be overwhelming. With so many brands, ingredients, and feeding methods on the market, it’s easy to feel lost.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about feeding your puppy in New Zealand, including nutritional needs, food types, portion sizes, and recommendations for the best puppy food brands available locally.
Why Puppy Nutrition Matters
Puppies grow incredibly fast — doubling or even tripling their body weight in the first few weeks. This rapid development means they need a diet that’s higher in protein, energy, and key nutrients compared to adult dogs.
Feeding your puppy the right food ensures:
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Strong bone and muscle development
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Healthy immune function
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Proper brain and vision development
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Reduced risk of long-term joint issues
Poor nutrition in early life can lead to stunted growth, weak immune response, and long-term health challenges.
What Nutrients Do Puppies Need?
Here’s a quick look at the essentials your puppy food should include:
| Nutrient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Protein | Builds muscles, organs, skin, and hair |
| Fat | Provides energy and supports brain development |
| Calcium & Phosphorus | Strengthen bones and teeth |
| DHA (Omega-3) | Supports brain and eye development |
| Vitamins A, D, E | Help with growth, vision, and immune support |
💡 Tip: Look for food labeled “complete and balanced” for puppies, or “growth/all life stages” per AAFCO standards.
Types of Puppy Food
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but here’s a breakdown of your options:
1. Dry Puppy Food (Kibble)
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Convenient, affordable, easy to store
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Supports dental health
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Ideal for most breeds
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Available in different kibble sizes for small vs. large breeds
2. Wet Puppy Food
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Higher moisture content (good for hydration)
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Often more palatable for picky eaters
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More expensive long-term
3. Freeze-Dried / Raw-Inspired
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Offers whole-food ingredients with minimal processing
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Often used as a topper to boost nutrition
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Great for sensitive stomachs but pricier
Feeding by Breed Size
🐾 Small Breed Puppies (e.g., Toy Poodle, Jack Russell)
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Faster metabolism → Need calorie-dense food
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Feed 3–4 times per day until 6 months old
🐾 Medium Breed Puppies (e.g., Beagle, Border Collie)
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Balanced growth → Standard puppy kibble usually fits well
🐾 Large Breed Puppies (e.g., Labrador, German Shepherd)
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Prone to joint issues → Requires controlled calcium & phosphorus
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Choose large-breed-specific puppy food
Feeding a large breed puppy regular food made for smaller dogs can increase the risk of hip dysplasia due to rapid growth spurts.
How Often Should I Feed My Puppy?
| Age | Meals per Day |
|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | 4 meals |
| 3–6 months | 3 meals |
| 6–12 months | 2 meals |
👉 Always provide fresh water alongside meals.
Best Puppy Food Brands in NZ (2025)
Here are some of the most trusted puppy food brands in New Zealand, available at Pet Supply.
1. Royal Canin Puppy Range
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Breed-specific formulas available
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Small and large breed variants
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Highly digestible, precise nutrition
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Shop Royal Canin Puppy Food →
2. Hill’s Science Diet Puppy
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Developed by vets and backed by science
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DHA from fish oil for brain development
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No artificial colours or preservatives
3. Pro Plan Puppy by Purina
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High protein (28–32%)
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Contains colostrum for immune support
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Options for large breeds, sensitive skin, and stomach
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Shop Pro Plan Puppy
4. Acana Puppy & Junior
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Biologically appropriate formulas with meat-rich ingredients
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No grain fillers, soy, or artificial preservatives
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Available in Small Breed and Large Breed formulas
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Shop Acana Puppy
Switching Puppy Food: Do It Gradually
Switching your puppy to a new food too fast can cause digestive upset. Follow the 7-day transition rule:
| Day | New Food % | Old Food % |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1–2 | 25% | 75% |
| Day 3–4 | 50% | 50% |
| Day 5–6 | 75% | 25% |
| Day 7 | 100% | 0% |
Common Puppy Feeding FAQs
Q: Can I give my puppy treats?
Yes — but keep treats to <10% of daily calorie intake. Choose puppy-safe, low-fat options like training treats or freeze-dried meats.
Q: Is grain-free food better for puppies?
Not necessarily. Most puppies do well on grain-inclusive diets unless they have a specific allergy. Always consult your vet before switching to grain-free.
Q: When should I switch from puppy to adult food?
Typically at 12 months, or 18–24 months for large breeds. Look for signs like slowed growth and reduced appetite, or consult your vet.
Q: Can I feed my puppy raw food?
Some pet owners do, but raw diets can be risky if not nutritionally balanced. We recommend consulting a vet or canine nutritionist before trying raw feeding.
Q: How do I know if my puppy is eating enough?
Your puppy should be steadily gaining weight, have a shiny coat, and maintain healthy energy levels. Weigh your puppy weekly and adjust portions as needed.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Puppy the Best Start
Feeding your puppy the right food sets the foundation for a lifetime of health and vitality. Whether you go with Royal Canin, Hill’s, Acana, or another trusted brand, be sure to pick a formula tailored to their breed size and life stage.
At Pet Supply, we stock a curated range of the best puppy food in NZ — with fast shipping and expert support. Not sure which one’s right? Reach out to our team for a recommendation.