If you’re a new owner of a Bullmastiff puppy, you may be wondering how much your furry companion should eat.
How Much Should A Bullmastiff Puppy Eat?
A bullmastiff puppy requires a higher quantity of food than most dog breeds. This dog breed requires a more extensive diet because they are considered a large dog breed. In other words, your pup will be larger than other dogs at a young age.
Here are some key factors on what a bullmastiff puppy should eat, vital signs regarding their hunger, and when to seek assistance from a veterinarian.
What Should A Bullmastiff Puppy Eat?
Bullmastiffs should be eating a high-quality diet of dried foods and protein. This includes wet or dry food and dog-friendly vegetables to ensure they are receiving proper nutrition. Here’s what you need to know about what your puppy should eat and why they are essential to their diet.
Protein
Protein is an essential part of a bullmastiff’s diet and helps digestion. Whether you’re feeding them dried kibble or wet foods, you should always look at the first five ingredients.
There should be at least 2 or 3 sources of protein. This could be fish, chicken, beef, turkey, or lamb.
Fats
Fats in your puppy’s diet are also essential, but you have to consider the fat sources. Fats like coconut oil, chicken, and fish oil are great for your dog’s health.
They provide the necessary amount of fat for your dog’s health while keeping their skin and coat of fur shiny.
Food Irritants
You must be careful of any food irritants your dog may have. Some dogs may suffer from allergens such as soy, chicken, wheat, dairy, and other ingredients.
You should avoid any foods with artificial flavors and sweeteners. Food preservatives should also be avoided, as some can actually be toxic!
Why Do Puppies Need High-Quality Protein and Fat In Their Diet?
As we all know, protein is a vital part of a dog’s diet. Puppies require larger quantities of protein than adult dogs. Here is why puppies need fat and high-quality proteins in their diet.
Protein comprises amino acids, which are essential for growth purposes. It can come from two kinds of sources: animal and plant-based. Although both sources are suitable for your bullmastiff, a high-quality animal source of protein offers better amino acids.
Fats are also a must for a puppy’s diet. A diet with at least 10 to 15 percent of fats is perfect for keeping your puppy in great shape.
They also ensure your dog’s coat stays shiny and polished. If your dog’s fat levels are too low, it can develop itchy, dry skin, and its coat of fur becomes dull.
High-quality fats are essential because they provide energy and they play a vital role in a dog’s development process, such as their cells, muscles, body tissues, and nerves.
Should I Feed My Bullmastiff Puppy Treats?
Many dog owners reward their puppies with treats when they show obedience. Although Bullmastiffs are a large breed, it is essential to consider how many treats you give your dog. Here is what you need to know about feeding your Bullmastiff puppy treats.
Your veterinarian may tell you that dog treats should be no more than 10 percent of their calorie intake.
Consuming too many dog treats can cause joint and muscular issues. Before finding the perfect dog treat, you can consult your veterinarian to establish a well-balanced diet.
Some treats contain a great source of protein, promote dental health, and contain healthy ingredients.
When Should I Feed My Bullmastiff Puppy?
Are you looking for the appropriate times to feed your puppy? As previously mentioned, Bullmastiff puppies require a higher energy intake and more protein than adults. Here is when you should feed your Mastiff puppy.
It is considered best practice to feed your Bullmastiff puppy up to four times per day. Once your pup reaches about 3 to 4 months old, you can reduce their mealtime to two times per day.
The time you feed your pup depends on your schedule. You can feed your dog by creating a feeding regimen. This allows you to set a certain amount of meals for your pup daily.
The amount of food to include in your bullmastiff’s diet depends on their age:
1 to 2 months = 3 to 4 cups daily
2 to 3 months = 4 to 6 cups daily
3 to 4 months = 5 to 7 cups daily
4 to 5 months = 6 to 8 cups daily
6 to 18 months = about 8 to 12 cups daily
Is It Okay For My Bullmastiff to Skip One Meal?
Many dog owners may feed their Bullmastiffs at least twice a day: one meal in the morning and another in the evening.
Although this is one of the most common ways to feed your pup, you mustn’t skip meals. Here are some reasons why you should ensure you are feeding them properly.
“It is implied that leaving food out for your dog can cause uncontrollable eating habits. This method could lead to developing digestive problems.”
Moreover, leaving out meals can cause aggressive behavior in your pup. If you skip a meal, your Bullmastiff will starve for the remainder of the day.
What Are The Signs Of Hunger?
Bullmastiff puppies need to eat more than the average puppy. He may show signs of hunger if he is not getting the recommended amount of calories during mealtime. Here are some signs of hunger to look for.
Check His Ribcage
Your puppy’s rib cage can indicate if he’s eating the recommended amount of calories. You can run your fingers along his ribs. You are not feeding him enough if you can visibly see his ribs.
His Coat May Look Dull and “Scruffy”
If your Bullmastiff is not eating properly, their coat will begin to look dull. They may have dry and itchy/flaky skin as well.
Decline In Energy Levels
Your puppy may show signs of hunger if his energy level is too low. A lack of calories results in a lack of energy.
What Are The Signs Of Overfeeding?
Although bullmastiff puppies require larger amounts of food daily, you want to refrain from feeding them too much. This can result in them developing sudden health conditions and illnesses. Here are some signs of overfeeding.
Increased Flatulence
Overfeeding your puppy can cause issues in its digestive tract and an increase in flatulence. If you notice your dog relieving more gas than usual, it can signify that you are feeding them too much.
Weight Issues/Inflammation
The best way to tell if your dog is overeating is by looking at their waist. Your dog’s waist should be visible, and you should have the ability to feel its ribs, spine, and hips with ease. If these body parts are hardly visible, this could mean they are being fed too much, which can cause inflammation.
Feeding Too Much or Too Little Can Cause Serious Health Problems
Your bullmastiff can develop health issues if they are not being fed properly or if they are overfed. Here are some health problems they can develop.
Malnutrition
Malnutrition can cause physical issues such as a visible rib cage or a dull coat. Malnutrition may also cause your dog to suffer from odorous gas and runny fecal matter. In some cases, they may vomit bile, which helps their digestion.
Health Conditions
Overfeeding can cause your dog to develop osteoarthritis at an early age, a chronic joint disease. They can also suffer from other conditions such as high cholesterol and inflammation, leading to pancreatitis, gastrointestinal diseases, and diabetes.
What Are The Best Foods For My Puppy’s Diet?
Feeding your Bullmastiff the right foods can help promote proper growth and development. Here are some of the best foods for your puppy.
Puppy kibble and wet foods for large breeds are recommended for bullmastiff puppies.
It is recommended to include foods rich in protein, vitamins & minerals, fruits, and leafy vegetables.
You can give your Bullmastiff a raw diet. However, they will require a certain percentage of meat for proper growth. Talking to your veterinarian will assist in creating an appropriate raw diet meal plan.
When To Consult Your Vet About Your Puppy’s Diet
If your Bullmastiff puppy is showing unusual signs related to when and how they eat, you should consult your veterinarian.
Here are some signs to look out for.
- Loss of appetite, where they haven’t eaten in almost two days, it can be a sign of an illness.
- Vomiting, excessive diarrhea, or symptoms of gastrointestinal issues become evident
- Allergic reactions to certain foods in its diet.
Bullmastiffs are considered a large dog breed and require a more considerable amount of food in their diet. By feeding them the right quantity of food and in proper moderation, they will grow properly over time.
