The switch from puppy to adult dog food depends primarily on the dog's breed size, with smaller breeds maturing earlier than larger breeds. Generally:
- Small breeds (under 25 pounds when fully grown) can switch around 9-10 months.
- Medium breeds (25-50 pounds) switch around 12-14 months.
- Large breeds (over 50 pounds) may need to stay on puppy food until 14-24 months to ensure proper growth.
The transition should be gradual over about 5 to 10 days to avoid digestive upset, mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing puppy food. Switching too early can lead to nutritional deficiencies or growth problems, while switching too late can contribute to unwanted weight gain. Consulting a veterinarian is recommended for personalized guidance, especially with mixed breeds or uncertain adult size.
