Types of food

When you first get your puppy, try to keep them on the same diet they’ve been used to. Or, if they are just weaning, look for foods that best match your puppy’s age, size, breed, health - and taste buds. If you're thinking of giving your dog or puppy home-prepared foods, that can be great, but talk to your vet first to make sure you're preparing meals with the right amounts of all the essential food groups. Remember that puppies need more kilojoules per serving than adult dogs. Ask your vet if you're unsure about anything.

Giving your dog a treat for being good or doing well be enjoyable, and rewarding, but be careful you're not walking into a world of medical problems by rewarding them with the wrong things. Many packet dog treats are loaded with hidden fats and sugar, which is why dogs love them. But to avoid potential canine obesity and other health issues, you could try giving natural food treats like crunchy fruit or vegetables. You'd be surprised how much a piece of apple, kiwi or watermelon frozen into an ice cube is appreciated on a hot day! But beware treats that are tasty to humans, like chocolate, raisins, grapes and onions, are all dangerous to dogs.

Always make sure your dog has access to plenty of clean, fresh water. Don’t give them cow’s milk. Dogs are lactose intolerant and cow’s milk can cause abdominal pain and diarrhoea. You’ll find special milk formulations for puppies in supermarkets, pet stores and veterinary clinics.