Chow Chow Puppy Feeding Schedule

Age-by-age feeding guide for Chow Chow puppies — from 8 weeks to adulthood

Non-Sporting
medium breed
Adult weight: 45-70 lbs
Switch to adult: 12 months

A Chow Chow puppy grows from a tiny bundle to a 45-70 lb adult dog in roughly one year, making their first 12 months the most nutritionally demanding period of their life. During this time, your puppy needs the right balance of protein for muscle development, fat for energy and brain growth, and carefully controlled minerals for bone formation. Getting the feeding amounts right at each stage ensures healthy development without the problems that come from under- or overfeeding.

Chow Chow Puppy Calorie Needs by Age

AgeDaily CaloriesKibble (cups/day)Meals/Day
2-4 months982 kcal2.6 cups3-4 meals
4-6 months1201 kcal3.2 cups3 meals
6-9 months1237 kcal3.3 cups2-3 meals
9-12 months1430 kcal3.8 cups2 meals
12-18 months1399 kcal3.7 cups2 meals

Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Daily Puppy Feeding Schedule

1

Morning (7 AM)

1/3 of daily portion

2

Midday (12 PM)

1/3 of daily portion

3

Evening (5 PM)

1/3 of daily portion

Puppy Feeding Tip

Keep meal times consistent to help with house training. Puppies usually need to go outside 15-30 minutes after eating. Remove uneaten food after 15-20 minutes to establish a routine.

Building Strong Joints from Puppyhood

Since Chow Chows are predisposed to joint issues, the nutritional foundation you build during puppyhood matters throughout your dog's life. Proper nutrition during the growth phase can reduce the severity of inherited joint conditions and delay onset of symptoms.

During Growth (puppy)

  • Controlled calcium/phosphorus ratio
  • DHA for cartilage development
  • Moderate calorie intake (avoid overfeeding)
  • Large-breed puppy formula with joint support

Into Adulthood

  • Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA)
  • Maintain lean body weight
  • Consider foods with added joint-supporting ingredients

Nutrition for Your Chow Chow Puppy's Developing Coat

Your Chow Chow puppy will develop their adult dense double coat, either rough (long) or smooth (short) over the first 12-18 months. Proper nutrition during this period sets the foundation for coat quality throughout life. Ensure the puppy food contains adequate omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, biotin, and zinc — all essential for healthy coat growth. During the transition from puppy coat to adult coat (usually around 6-12 months), you may notice increased shedding, which is normal.

Chow Chow Puppy Growth Chart

Expected weight ranges for Chow Chow puppies by month. Use this as a reference to ensure your puppy is growing at a healthy rate.

AgeMale (lbs)Female (lbs)
2 months33.1-42.2 lbs(avg 37.7)27.7-35.2 lbs(avg 31.4)
3 months36.9-46.9 lbs(avg 41.9)30.9-39.3 lbs(avg 35.1)
4 months40.2-51.2 lbs(avg 45.7)33.8-43.1 lbs(avg 38.4)
5 months43.4-55.2 lbs(avg 49.3)36.5-46.5 lbs(avg 41.5)
6 months46.3-58.9 lbs(avg 52.6)39.1-49.7 lbs(avg 44.4)
8 months51.8-65.9 lbs(avg 58.8)43.8-55.8 lbs(avg 49.8)
10 months56.8-72.3 lbs(avg 64.6)48.2-61.4 lbs(avg 54.8)
12 months61.6-78.4 lbs(avg 70)52.4-66.6 lbs(avg 59.5)

Transitioning Your Chow Chow to Adult Food

Your Chow Chow should be ready for adult food around 12 months. Choose a formula appropriate for medium breeds and transition gradually to avoid digestive upset.

7-Day Transition Schedule

Days 1-275% puppy food + 25% adult food
Days 3-450% puppy food + 50% adult food
Days 5-625% puppy food + 75% adult food
Day 7+100% adult food

Related Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer

The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.

Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.

These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.