Bringing a large breed puppy into your home is an exciting time, filled with joy and the responsibility of ensuring they grow into healthy, happy adults. For puppies destined to reach an adult weight of 26-44 kg, their nutritional needs during the crucial growth phase, up to 15 months, are unique and require a specially formulated diet. Royal Canin Maxi Puppy is precisely designed to meet these demanding requirements, supporting their development from their first months to their transition into adulthood.
This critical period of growth for large breed puppies involves significant changes and discoveries. During this time, their immune system is still developing and requires support to build its natural defenses. Royal Canin Maxi Puppy incorporates a patented complex of antioxidants, including Vitamin E, specifically to bolster this immature immune system.
Furthermore, large breeds have a prolonged growth period, meaning they need a food that can sustain their energy levels appropriately without leading to excessive or rapid weight gain, which can be detrimental to developing joints. Royal Canin Maxi Puppy provides a moderate energy level, carefully balanced to fuel their growth and activity throughout this extended phase.
Supporting Digestive Health in Growing Pups
A puppy’s digestive system is as delicate as their immune system. To ensure optimal nutrient absorption and a healthy gut, Royal Canin Maxi Puppy features a combination of high-quality proteins, such as L.I.P. (Low Indigestible Protein), known for its superior digestibility. This is complemented by prebiotics like FOS (fructo-oligo-saccharides), which help to maintain a balanced intestinal flora. This carefully curated blend contributes to good stool quality, an indicator of a healthy digestive process.
Key Nutritional Components
Royal Canin Maxi Puppy is formulated with a precise balance of ingredients to support the specific needs of large breed puppies:
- Dehydrated Poultry Protein & Dehydrated Pork Protein: High-quality protein sources essential for muscle development and overall growth.
- Rice & Maize Flour: Easily digestible carbohydrates providing energy for active puppies.
- Animal Fats: A source of essential fatty acids for energy and coat health.
- Minerals, Beet Pulp, Maize Gluten, Vegetable Fibres: Contribute to overall health, digestive function, and nutrient absorption.
- Fish Oil: Provides Omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for brain development and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fructo-oligo-saccharides (FOS), Psyllium Husks and Seeds: Prebiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome and aid digestion.
- Hydrolysed Yeast (source of Mannan-oligo-saccharides), Yeasts Extracts (source of Beta-glucans): Further support the immune system.
- Marigold Extract (source of Lutein): An antioxidant that supports eye health.
- Hydrolysed Crustaceans (source of Glucosamine) & Hydrolysed Cartilage (source of Chondroitin): These ingredients are vital for supporting joint health and development, which is particularly important for large breeds prone to joint issues.
Feeding Guidelines for Maxi Puppy
Proper portion control is crucial for ensuring your large breed puppy receives the correct amount of nutrition. The feeding recommendations provided by Royal Canin are designed to be adjusted based on the puppy’s age and expected adult weight. For instance, a puppy expected to reach an adult weight of 30 kg at 2 months old should be fed approximately 273g per day, divided into multiple meals. As the puppy grows, these portions will need to be adjusted. It is always recommended to consult the feeding table on the packaging or use the online tools provided by Royal Canin for precise daily feeding amounts.
Example Daily Feeding Recommendations (grams/cup):
| Adult weight | 2 Months | 3 Months | 4 Months | 5 Months | 6 Months | 8 Months | 10 Months | 12 Months | 15 Months |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30kg | 273g 3+4/8 | 343g 4+3/8 | 374g 4+6/8 | 413g 5+2/8 | 449g 5+6/8 | 418g 5+3/8 | 355g 4+4/8 | 320g 4+1/8 | 318g 4+1/8 |
| 44kg | 307g 3+7/8 | 403g 5+1/8 | 444g 5+6/8 | 526g 6+6/8 | 597g 7+5/8 | 595g 7+5/8 | 519g 6+5/8 | 432g 5+4/8 | 425g 5+4/8 |
Note: Cup measurements are approximate and may vary.
Transitioning your puppy to a new food should be done gradually over a week to avoid digestive upset. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food. Ensure fresh water is always available for your puppy.
Conclusion: Investing in a Healthy Future
Choosing the right nutrition for your large breed puppy is a fundamental step in ensuring their long-term health and well-being. Royal Canin Maxi Puppy offers a comprehensive solution, addressing the unique nutritional demands of growth, immune system development, digestive health, and energy requirements specific to large breeds. By providing this tailored diet, you are not just feeding your puppy; you are investing in a foundation for a healthy and active adult life. For more insights into canine nutrition and care, explore our other resources.
