Proper nutrition is essential for your Border Collie puppy’s growth, energy levels, and overall development. At GREENHILLS MEADOWS ®, we emphasize the importance of feeding your puppy a balanced and high-quality diet that supports their active lifestyle. A well-fed puppy is not only healthier but also more engaged, playful, and able to reach their full potential. Proper nutrition ensures strong bones, a shiny coat, optimal brain development, and lasting health for your Border Collie throughout their life.
Best Nutrition for Growing Border Collies
Champion Border Collie, we believe that the foundation of a healthy, happy puppy starts with the best nutrition. For our Border Collie puppies, we feed them high-quality, age-appropriate puppy food that is formulated to meet the specific needs of active, growing puppies.
Puppy-Specific Food
We recommend Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Large Breed or Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Puppy Large Breed 
, both of which are top choices for their exceptional quality and tailored formulas. These brands provide the right balance of nutrients to support healthy growth and development, making them our trusted choice for our puppies. We offer both high-quality kibble and wet food options to suit your puppy’s preferences.
Nutritional Needs
The food we choose for our puppies is rich in high-quality proteins for muscle development, healthy fats for energy and coat health, and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. We also ensure that the food is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus for strong bone growth, and omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and a shiny coat. These ingredients help promote strong immune function and optimal growth, giving our puppies the best start in life.
Consistency is Key
Age-Based Feeding
To ensure your Border Collie puppy grows strong and healthy, we recommend the following feeding schedule based on age:
- 8–12 weeks: 4 meals per day
- 12 weeks–6 months: 3 meals per day
- 6 months and older: 2 meals per day
Consistency
At GREENHILLS MEADOWS ®, we emphasize the importance of keeping feeding times consistent. A regular feeding schedule helps establish routine, supports digestion, and prevents overeating or underfeeding. By sticking to set meal times, your puppy will feel secure and know when to expect their next meal, which is essential for building good habits and promoting optimal health. Consistency in feeding also supports their growth and energy levels, ensuring they stay active and happy throughout the day.
How Much To Feed?
As breeders, we understand that every puppy is unique. Generally, we recommend the following portion sizes based on age, weight, and activity level:
- 8–12 weeks: 1/2 to 3/4 cup of food per meal, 4 meals per day
- 12 weeks–6 months: 3/4 to 1 cup of food per meal, 3 meals per day
- 6 months and older: 1 to 1 1/2 cups of food per meal, 2 meals per day
These guidelines are just starting points, and your puppy’s portion size may vary depending on their activity level and growth. We always recommend consulting with your vet for tailored feeding instructions to ensure your puppy is getting the right amount of food for their specific needs.
Fresh Water – Always Available
Proper hydration is key to your puppy’s health and development. We recommend always having fresh water available for your puppy throughout the day. This ensures they stay properly hydrated, supporting healthy digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. Hydration is just as important as nutrition, so make sure your puppy has access to clean water at all times.
For Training & Health
At GREENHILLS MEADOWS ®, we understand that treats play an important role in training and bonding with your puppy. We recommend offering healthy, natural treats that are low in fat and free from artificial additives. Treats should be given in moderation to avoid overfeeding and to maintain a balanced diet.
If needed, we also suggest safe supplements to support joint health, coat condition, and overall well-being. Supplements containing
omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine are great choices for supporting joint flexibility and skin health, but always consult with your vet before introducing any supplements into your puppy’s diet.
Foods to Avoid – Safety First
As responsible breeders, we want to ensure the safety of your puppy. There are certain human foods that are toxic to dogs and should always be avoided, including:
- Chocolate
- Grapes & raisins
- Onions & garlic
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)
- Macadamia nuts
Additionally, Border Collies may have sensitivities or allergies to certain foods, such as dairy or wheat, which can cause digestive issues or skin irritations. Always monitor your puppy’s reaction to new foods and consult with your vet if you notice any adverse reactions. Your puppy’s safety and health are our top priorities.
