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What kind of diet should your puppy or small-dog breed be on? First of all don't switch food that he has been eating after you get him home. Leave him on it for 2-3 weeks then start mixing the two if you decide to switch otherwise he could develop diarrhea.
Buy a high quality dry puppy food that is specially for small dogs. Commercial dog food manufacturer's spend millions of dollars researching dog nutritional needs so products are nutritionally complete and balanced.
A good puppy food should have vitamins, minerals and ratio of fat to protein to carbohydrates. It should have high levels of phosphorous, calcium and be highly digestible so it can absorb nutrients. Dry dog food is also good for dental health. Check local pet store for best premium dog foods. Ask your breeder or veterinaian for recommends.
A puppy requires twice the amount of nutrients per pound of body weight than adult dogs. A 6 pound puppy needs 47 calories per pound of body wieght. Check manufacturer's recommendations for the amount to give him.
PUPPY FOOD
Be sure to match puppy food with size of puppy and life stage he is in. Tiny toy dogs don't have very big mouths so you will need small kibble size food.
Small dogs need food for rapid growth development for bones and muscles. In general, their fastest growth is the first six months depending on the breed.
Feed your puppy 3-4 times a day. After 8 weeks go to twice a day. Small dog breeds reach (most of them) adult weight at 9-12 months.
If he is fussy and doesn't want to eat try rehydrating his food with a little hot water. He must enjoy his food so he will eat it! This is a common concern for Yorkies - they don't eat enough so dry food should be offered to them at all times.
Don't give a small dog breed table food. This is not a complete and balanced diet for them. You can give them puppy treats but don't exceed 10% of their total diet.
Check weight of your small dog often because most of them gain weight easily.
Have water available at all times!
For most breeds set up a feeding schedule, leave the food out for 20 minutes, then take it away. If he goes back and forth you may have more trouble housebreaking him.
Watch dogs for signs of listlessness or weakness when he is awake. These breeds shouldn't have to much stress, not eat properly, become chilled or not rest enough because they can develop low blood sugar.
ADULT DOGS
When he becomes an adult (9-12 months depending on the breed) change to adult food. Mix 25% of new food with 75% of puppy food and gradually increase proportion in three week time frame.
Adult dogs need carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals and fats in their food. Most companies provide this and in an absorbable form. Feed adult dogs 2 times a day and leave out 15 minutes.
Don't feed them puppy food because their is too much fat in the food for an adult dog. Don't ever give a dog poultry bones, spicy foods or chocolate. Chocolate is toxic to dogs!
Commerical dog food isn't the only option open to you. Many people believe homemade dog food and treats are much better for your dog. They believe that a dog's health and energy levels are much better. "Healthy Food for Dogs" by John Miller has lots of homemade recipes for a healthy dog. There's nothing like pampering your little dog by making him wonderful homemade treats.
If you have questions on diet always ask your veterinaian.
Check out this great source of dog supplies - everything you need.
