Calcium Phosphorus ratio in puppy diet

Calcium and phosphorus levels are essential minerals in the body and the daily requirement varies depending on age and breed in dogs.

Calcium is required in greater amounts and is essential in the body for bone formation, blood coagulation, muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmissions.

Phosphorus is also required in a relatively high amount but less than the amount of calcium required. 

Phosphorus deficiency occurs very infrequently in dogs that are fed a balanced diet from puppy hood. In fact puppies who are not fed a balanced diet are more likely to have an excess of phosphorus which accelerates the progression of renal failure.

It is extremely important that the amounts of calcium and phosphorus are fed at the correct ratio of 1.2 parts calcium for each 1 part phosphorus (1.2:1) for adult dogs and 1.4 parts calcium for each 1 part phosphorus (1.4:1) for puppies.  Bella & Duke Puppy Food is formulated to meet these requirements.

Puppies require more as they are still growing. 

We are often asked when is a good time to move my puppy over to adult food. The answer I always say is roughly about a year but in fact for small breeds of dogs they can be put on adult food from 7 months. This is due to the fact that they have received the required amounts of calcium and phosphorus through the amount of food given.

For all  breeds of dog you can change to adult food from 12 months as again they have received the right amount of calcium and phosphorus.

For a larger and giant breed of puppy it is recommended and advised that you keep them on puppy food up until they are 18 month to 2 yrs as they are growing longer and faster than a small or medium sized dog.

Please seek Vet's Advice if you are worried about anything in this article