Food, water & growing well
Choose puppy food, keep meals consistent, and make changes gradually.
General care guidance. Needs vary by species, age and health. Your veterinarian can tailor a plan for your pet.
Start with familiar food
Ask what your puppy has been eating and keep the routine steady during the move. If you change food, introduce the new food gradually.
Use a complete food made for growth. Large-breed puppies need an appropriate growth diet; your veterinarian can help you choose.
Make a feeding plan
Young puppies need age-appropriate meals spread through the day. Ask your veterinarian to set portions and meal frequency for your puppy’s size and age.
Use the food label as a starting point, then review growth and body condition with your vet. Include training treats in the daily food allowance.
Provide clean drinking water. Ask before adding supplements; extra vitamins or minerals are not automatically helpful.
Sources & further reading
Sources checked October 21, 2026. These are original starter summaries; read the full guidance below.
Puppy Basics, one short lesson a day.
Potty training, the crate, the first vet visit, feeding and socializing, in plain words. See the lessons
First 30 Days with your puppy.
A week-by-week checklist, a shopping list and a feeding schedule. Print it and stick it on the fridge.
Join the Gotcha Day club.
Tell us your pet’s name and the day they came home. Every year we send a happy Gotcha Day note.