Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates give your puppy energy. Common carbohydrates in puppy food are rice, millet, barley, corn, and oats. Be wary of dog foods that list carbohydrates first in their lists of ingredients or that use them as fillers. Dog foods with a lot of carbohydrates also can lead to obesity because your puppy will store the excess as fat in her body.

Fats

Your puppy needs fats to be healthy. If she doesn't get enough fat, she could get dandruff and a dry coat. There is such a thing as too much, however. Too much fat in her diet could lead to pancreatitis, a severe and sometimes life-threatening disease.

Look for ingredients that list specific fats, such as flaxseed oil, rather than just "animal fat."

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals help with digestion, muscle and bone growth and function, healthy skin and fur, the metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by the body, and more.

Water

Water is necessary for life. Always make sure that your puppy has access to fresh, clean water. Wash her water bowl daily with warm, soapy water.