When should I switch my puppy to adult food?
Your pup’s growing up fast. One day they’re all paws and wiggles, the next they’re starting to look like a full-grown dog. It’s exciting, but it also raises an important question: When should I switch my puppy from puppy food to adult food?
Most dogs are ready to transition around 12 months, but timing depends a bit on your dog’s size and breed.
- Small breeds mature faster and can switch between 9–12 months.
- Medium breeds usually make the change around 12 months.
- Large and giant breeds grow more slowly and might need puppy food until 18–24 months.
Puppy food is specially formulated with extra protein, calories, and nutrients to support healthy growth and development. Once your dog reaches adulthood, switching to an adult formula helps maintain a healthy weight and supports long-term wellness.
If you’re ready to make the transition, do it gradually over 7–10 days by mixing their current puppy food with the new adult recipe — slowly increasing the amount of adult food each day. This gentle switch helps prevent digestive upset and gives your dog time to adjust to their new diet.
At Canidae, we make it easy to find the right fit for every stage:
- Canidae Pure Farm to Bowl offers both Puppy and Adult formulas crafted with real, responsibly sourced ingredients and no fillers, perfect for dogs with sensitive systems or pet parents who want simple, high-quality nutrition.
- Or, if you prefer one formula that works from puppyhood through adulthood, try Canidae All Life Stages. It’s vet-formulated to provide balanced nutrition for dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and no switching required.
No matter where your pup is in life, Canidae’s recipes are made with goodness you can trust, from their first bowl to their forever food. Not sure which option is best for your dog? Your vet can help you decide based on their growth, activity level, and health needs.
