Homemade Dog Treats & Meal Planning
New Puppy Feeding Schedule by Age (Portions Chart)
Puppies eat 3-4 small meals a day — never one big bowl. This schedule covers 8 weeks to 12 months with portions by size, a 7-day food transition chart and bowl picks that slow down gulpers. For informational purposes, consult your vet.
By PawStyle Daily · Updated 6 October 2026
Total scope: print once, follow daily · Puppy-specific food only · Always supervised; fresh water all day.
Meals by age: 8 weeks to 12 months
8-12 weeks: 4 meals a day, 1/4-1/2 cup each depending on expected adult size. 3-6 months: 3 meals a day. 6-12 months: 2 meals a day, transitioning to adult portions. Small breeds need smaller, more frequent meals; large breeds need measured cups to protect joints. Weigh monthly — ribs felt, not seen, is the target.
Any breed · 4 → 3 → 2 meals · Puppy formula only until 12 months (large breeds per vet advice).
7-day transition chart (new food or new home)
Days 1-2: 75% old food, 25% new. Days 3-4: half and half. Days 5-6: 25% old, 75% new. Day 7: full new. Same chart for breeder-food switches and brand changes. Diarrhea means hold the current ratio 2 extra days before advancing.
Bowls, gulpers and routine
Slow-feeder bowls for gulpers, stainless for chewers, raised stands only for tall large breeds. Feed same times daily, pick up uneaten food after 20 minutes, no free-feeding. Treats stay training size — a puppy's daily treats fit in one small palm.
Routine · Same times daily · Wash bowls daily; fresh water always.
Puppy feeding checklist
- 4 meals (8-12 wks) → 3 meals → 2 meals by 6 months
- Puppy formula only; measure every cup
- 7-day transition on any food change
- Slow-feeder for gulpers; wash bowls daily
- Treats max 10%, training-size only
- Vet weight check monthly in year one
What we use
What we use for puppy feeding
Slow-feeder bowls, stainless sets and measuring cups cover every age — picks in one list.
See the Starter Kit list →As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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Pin the age chart for fridge duty. The Dog Food collection holds the no-bake treats and crockpot topper.
Puppies must never eat adult-only hazards — ASPCA list: ASPCA foods hazardous to dogs.