Puppy, Adult and Senior Nutrition 101: What your dog needs for each life stage

Puppies are like little whirlwinds of energy, and they’re growing at lightning speed. That’s why they need the right balance of nutrients to help them develop strong bones, healthy muscles and a sharp little mind.

Key Nutrients for Growing Puppies 

• Protein: This is the building block of all that puppy growth.
• Calcium: Essential for healthy bones and teeth.
• Beta Glucans: Supporting their gut and boosting immunity.
• Salmon Oil: Packed with Omega-3s, brilliant for brain development (and a shiny coat).

Our Puppy Days recipes are packed with all these goodies – and, just as importantly, they’re delicious enough to tempt even the fussiest eaters.

Feeding Schedule and Portion Guidance

Little tummies can’t handle big meals, so our Puppy Feeding Guide recommends feeding four smaller meals a day until they’re 10 weeks and then dropping this this to three meals till around six months old. Then you can gradually move to two meals a day. Not sure how much to feed? Our Puppy Days Feeding Chart will clear up the mystery for you.

Common Puppy Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

We know how easy it is to share a scrap or two from your plate, but human food can upset a puppy’s tummy (and turn them into cheeky beggars at the table). Stick with complete puppy food to make sure they’re getting everything they need.

Senior Dog Nutrition - Supporting Ageing Joints and Digestion

As our dogs grow older, their needs begin to change - and their diet should change with them. A tailored senior dog diet can make a huge difference to their quality of life, helping to keep them comfortable, active and full of character.

Ingredients that support joint and brain health

How to transition your dog to senior food

If your dog is approaching their senior years (usually around 7+), start introducing a specialist senior dog dry food gradually. Mix a small amount of the new food with their current food, increasing the proportion over 7–10 days. This slow transition will help avoid any digestive upsets and allow your dog to adjust happily to their new diet.

The Bottom Line

Feeding a properly balanced senior dog diet is one of the best ways to support your dog through their golden years. By choosing the best senior dog food – one that’s tailored to joint care, digestion and overall vitality – you can help your dog stay healthy, active and content well into later life.

Tips for Choosing the Right Food at Every Stage

Our dogs can’t exactly tell us when something’s off with their diet (if only they could!). But there are plenty of little clues we can pick up on that might suggest their food isn’t quite meeting their needs.

Keep an eye out for these common signs of nutritional imbalances at any life stage:

• Changes in energy levels - Are they suddenly more lethargic or, on the flip side, restless?
• Coat and skin condition - A shiny coat usually means they’re getting the right nutrients, while dull fur or dry, itchy skin could signal a gap in their diet.
• Digestive upsets - Frequent loose stools, constipation or gas can all be linked to diet.
• Weight changes - Losing or gaining weight without an obvious reason is often a sign that adjustments are needed.
• Behavioural changes - A lack of focus, irritability or just seeming “off” can sometimes be food-related.
  

How to know when to adjust their food

If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic - even small tweaks can have a big impact. Think about your dog’s current life stage:

• Puppies growing fast may need more frequent meals or a higher-calorie food.
• Adults with active lifestyles might benefit from extra protein for muscle maintenance.
• Seniors often do better on a lighter senior dog diet that supports joint health and easier digestion.

When in doubt, a gradual change of food can help, but it’s always worth checking in with your vet for reassurance.

We’re here to help, every step of the way

At Barking Heads, we know that choosing the right food can feel like a big decision - and that’s why we’re here to hold your hand (or paw). Our ranges are designed to support dogs at every age and stage, from the bouncy puppy days to the slower senior years. Each recipe is packed with natural ingredients, backed by expert knowledge, and made with all the care your dog deserves.

Whatever stage your dog is at, you can feel confident you’re feeding them food that cares, fed with love.

Daisy has been thriving on Barking Heads, from Puppy Days to Golden Years

Martin M. "Daisy is nearly 13 and has enjoyed this food since she was collected at 10 weeks, she has gone from puppy food to golden years with different flavours enjoying this brand."