What is the Difference Between Adult and Puppy Food

[Mike S]

Is it simply the whim of the manufacturer, or is there a laid down criteria?

[Dottie]

Mike S - AFAIK the main difference is protein content, puppy food being usually circa 30%. As you probably know, there are a lot of high quality dog foods that contain this, and higher percentages. Because of this, they are sometimes  advertised as suitable for all ages. Cold pressed foods are an example of this. As puppies need more calories the RDA is usually higher. Foods for large breed dogs might have the calcium and phosphorous iadjusted because of their potential joint problems. We have some threads about this on the forum and they can be found using the search box. There is an explanation on the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association website. ’

[Mike S]

Thank you!