What is the age at which a large dog should be taken off of puppy food?

Answer by  Samantha87 (33)

Large breed puppies are not fully grown until they reach two years of age. Even though they may be near full size at a year, it is important to keep them on puppy food until two years. Puppy food has more protein than adult food, which is crucial to your large puppy's developing structure.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

The rule of thumb is that a large dog can still eat puppy food up to 2 years. Large dogs often don't mature out of "puppyhood" till 2- however, this is two-fold: your dog may need the extra nutrition, BUT, your dog may not be getting the nutrition it needs if he has reached full growth. I'd consult the vet.

Answer by  bean11 (2803)

When the dog reaches one year of age, this is generally a good time to make the switch to adult dog food. Check with your vet to be sure, though.

Answer by  smellycat22 (1129)

Large breed puppies should be on dog food specifically formulated for their fast growing bodies and susceptibility to joint problems. Feed him according to the instruction on the bag (generally switch to adult food at 1 year). You can probably start to gradually switch him to a large breed adult food. Consult with a veterinarian if you are unsure.

Answer by  baxtersmom (42)

A large dog should only be fed large breed puppy food. Any other version of puppy food will make them grow too fast. Your dog is old enough to eat adult food, especially if you aren't giving him specially formulated large breed puppy food.

Answer by  angelsdozens (218)

Most vets and breeders will tell you recommend a large breed only be fed high protein/high calcium puppy food for the first 2 months after weaning. Especially for larger breeds where it can cause complications with bone growth. If your large breed dog is almost a year old then it's definitely time for adult dog food.