When can a Bichon Frise switch to adult dog food?

The best time for a Bichon Frise to switch to adult dog food is after 12 months of age, but if the dog is physically healthy and well-developed, it can start transitioning to adult dog food after 8 months. Generally, dogs under 12 months of age require more nutritional components during their growth period, and adult dog food is not suitable for their development.

When to add adult dog food to a Bichon Frise

It is generally recommended to switch a dog to adult dog food after 12 months, as dogs are considered adults after that age. However, it may take until 1 to 2 years for the dog to fully mature. Depending on the dog's physical growth, large breeds can start trying some adult dog food around 8 months, while small breeds can do so at around 1 year old.

Difference between adult dog food and puppy food

The ingredients in adult dog food and puppy food differ. Puppy food: The nutrition content is higher than adult dog food, with increased calcium, fat, and calories to aid in the dog's development. The kibbles are also much smaller than adult dog food, making them easier to digest. Adult dog food: It has a higher fiber content than puppy food and larger kibbles, with different moisture levels. If an adult dog eats puppy food, it may lead to imbalanced nutrition and even obesity or heart disease due to lack of exercise.

Consequences of switching to adult dog food too early

Dogs require different nutrients during different growth stages. Feeding a dog adult dog food during its puppy stage can be detrimental to its health, as the dog may not be able to absorb the nutrients and may even disrupt its digestive function. Therefore, it's essential to feed dogs food appropriate for their growth stage.