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As your dog matures, his body functions change. He might have decreased immune-system function, deterioration of skin and coat quality, and more frequent intestinal problems. So it makes sense that what a mature dog eats might also need to change.
Throughout a dog's life, a process called peroxidation occurs. This is a normal process the body uses to destroy cells that outlive their usefulness and to kill germs and parasites, but this process also can destroy or damage healthy cells. As a dog ages, the damage caused by peroxidation accumulates and, in turn, increases the risk of certain problems such as infections.
Antioxidants are naturally occurring components in the body (but also can be acquired through diet). They help maintain overall health by neutralizing the peroxidation process of cellular molecules.
Research sponsored by IAMS™ found that dogs fed a diet rich in antioxidants such as vitamin E had improved immune responses and vaccine recognition. This might be especially important for mature/senior dogs, because IAMS research has found that, as dogs age, immune responses can decrease.
Eating a complete and balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in vitamin-rich fish oils, also helps rejuvenate dry skin and develop a healthy, lustrous coat.
Aging dogs might have higher numbers of unfavorable bacteria and lower numbers of beneficial bacteria in their intestines, which can result in clinical signs of gastrointestinal problems (such as diarrhea). A diet with a moderately fermentable fiber source such as beet pulp can help maintain intestinal health. Beet pulp provides energy for the cells lining the intestine and promotes proper stool formation.
Different dogs show signs of aging at different times, and much of this variation is associated with size. Larger dogs generally appear mature/senior sooner than smaller dogs. The table below can show you when your dog should start a mature diet with a food such as IAMS ProActive Health™ Mature Adult.
Dog Weight and Transition to Mature/Senior Foods
| Weight Range | Age to Begin Transition |
|---|---|
| More than 90 lbs | 5 years |
| 51 to 90 lbs | 6 years |
| 21 to 50 lbs | 7 years |
| Up to 20 lbs | 7 years |
Your small- or toy-breed puppy grows rapidly in the first months of their life: Their immune system is developing, their bones are growing and their muscles are getting stronger. With all this growth, they need the right mix of nutrients to support their development. To make sure your puppy is getting the proper nutrition to protect and maintain their health and well-being, keep these key points in mind.
Research shows that puppies need up to twice as much energy as adult dogs. Because they are growing so quickly at this stage, your small-but-mighty pup needs an energy-rich, nutrient-dense small-breed dog food like IAMS™ Puppy Small Breed. Puppies also need more protein than adult dogs. High-quality animal-based protein will help your puppy create new body tissue as they grow.
Aside from protein, make sure these other important nutrients and ingredients are a part of your puppy's diet:
These are important building blocks of nutrition. Look for them when you choose dry or canned dog food and when you select treats.
When it comes to feeding puppies, one size does not fit all. Small-breed puppies have higher metabolism rates per pound and reach their mature adult weight faster than larger-breed puppies. And small-breed puppies need high levels of protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus to support the growth and development of their bones, muscles and other tissues. So, giving your puppy a food that supports their breed size is the easiest way to make sure they’re getting the right balance of nutrients for their growth rate.
And remember: Small-breed puppies also have small mouths and stomachs! Make sure your puppy's food has small kibble for easy chewing. A nutrient-dense formula will help your puppy get a complete and balanced diet even though their stomach can only hold what seems like a small amount of food.
From the time your puppy is weaned until 4 months of age, you should feed your puppy two to three times a day. Check the food label guidelines to feed them the proper daily amount. After your puppy is 4 months old, feed them twice a day on a regular schedule. And make sure they always have access to fresh water, too!
A small-breed puppy reaches adult weight faster than larger breeds. You can start feeding an adult dog food, such as IAMS™ Adult Small Breed, when they are around 9 to 12 months old.
Your dog might not be thrilled about the change at first, but don't worry. You can help ease the transition by gradually introducing the adult food. Try mixing 25% of the new food with 75% of their puppy food, and then gradually change the proportions over the next three weeks until they are eating 100% adult food.
