A Pup’s Nutrition

A Pup’s Nutrition

Our goal is steady, lean growth—not rapid weight gain. Feed for a body condition score (BCS) of 4–5/9: ribs easy to feel under a thin fat layer, clear waist from above, slight abdominal tuck from the side. Recheck weekly and adjust portions up/down 10–15% as needed.

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Daily Calorie Targets (by weight)

Use weight-based targets and then fine-tune by BCS. For large-breed puppies like Golden Retrievers, aim for the lower end of the range to keep growth lean.

8 wks–4 months old (≈ 2.0–3.0× RER range; start near 2.0× for Goldens)

Weight RER (kcal) Daily kcal (low→high)
5 kg / 11 lb 234 470 → 700
7.5 kg / 17 lb 317 635 → 955
10 kg / 22 lb 394 790 → 1,180
12 kg / 26 lb 451 900 → 1,350
15 kg / 33 lb 534 1,070 → 1,600

 

4–12 months old (≈ 1.6–2.0× RER range; start near 1.6× for Goldens)

Weight RER (kcal) Daily kcal (low→high)
10 kg / 22 lb 394 630 → 790
12 kg / 26 lb 451 720 → 900
15 kg / 33 lb 534 855 → 1,070
20 kg / 44 lb 662 1,060 → 1,325
25 kg / 55 lb 783 1,250 → 1,565
30 kg / 66 lb 897 1,440 → 1,795

 

Adults (≥ 12 months)

Typical maintenance is ~1.4–1.8× RER (neutered/low activity on the low end; intact/very active on the high end). Many pet Goldens maintain well around 1,250–1,600 kcal/day; working/very active adults may need 1,800–2,200+ kcal/day.

Meals per Day

  • 8–12 weeks: 3–4 meals/day
  • 3–6 months: 3 meals/day → transition to 2
  • ≥ 6 months: 2 meals/day

Use scheduled meals (no free-feeding). You may moisten kibble with warm water during heavy teething if needed.

Kibble & Healthy Toppers

Feed a complete and balanced large-breed puppy formula. Add measured fresh toppers for variety and palatability.

  • Lean proteins: plain cooked chicken, turkey, beef, or fish (boneless/skinless)
  • Vegetables: lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, green beans (no seasoning)
  • Beef gelatin powder: small amounts mixed with warm water over meals (see samples below)
  • Probiotic: per label directions

Topper limit: keep toppers ≤ 20% of total daily calories unless you’re using a complete, balanced home-prepared recipe designed for growth.

How to Calculate Calories (RER method)

RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (body weight in kg0.75). Then multiply by a life-stage factor:

  • < 4 months: ~2.0–3.0 × RER (use the low end for Goldens)
  • 4–12 months: ~1.6–2.0 × RER (start near 1.6×)
  • Adults: ~1.4–1.8 × RER

Convert pounds to kilograms: kg = lb ÷ 2.2

Body-Condition Checks & Portion Adjustments

  • Recheck BCS weekly in puppies, monthly in adults. Adjust portions ±10–15% based on rib feel, waistline, and energy.
  • Overfeeding increases orthopedic risk; underfeeding stunts growth. Target lean, steady development.
  • Always provide clean drinking water; carbon-block filtration is a good option.

Sample Daily Menus

Note: kibble calories vary (often ~340–450 kcal/cup). Check your bag’s kcal/cup and adjust.

8–12 weeks (3–4 meals; start ~2.0× RER)

  • Kibble: portion to hit your daily kcal target (divide into 3–4 meals).
  • Per meal topper: 1–2 tbsp lightly steamed veggies + 0.5–1 oz plain cooked lean protein.
  • Beef gelatin: ~½ tsp per meal mixed with warm water and poured over.

3–6 months (3 meals → transition to 2; ~1.6–2.0× RER)

  • Keep toppers within ≤20% of daily calories.
  • Probiotic per label directions.

6–12 months (2 meals; ~1.6× RER is a good starting point)

  • Maintain lean condition; adjust portions promptly if ribs become hard to feel or if the waist disappears.

Adults (2 meals)

  • Start near ~1.4–1.6× RER for typical pet activity; increase for working/very active dogs.

Important Notes for Large-Breed Puppies

  • Use diets that meet growth (including large size) with appropriate calcium and Ca:P—do not add calcium on your own.
  • Avoid high-calorie treats and unmeasured table scraps.
  • Avoid onions, garlic, xylitol, cooked bones, alcohol, and excess salt.

Disclaimer: This page is educational and not individualized medical advice. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations.