Finding the right dog food for a puppy in the Philippines involves balancing nutritional needs, local availability, and budget. The Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food stands out as the best overall choice, thanks to its tailored formula for small breeds and proven health benefits. For those seeking high-quality ingredients, the Maev Human-Grade Frozen Fresh Chicken Puppy Food offers fresh, human-grade nutrition, though at a higher price point. Meanwhile, the Pedigree Dry Puppy Food with Grilled Steak and Vegetables provides a budget-friendly option that covers basic nutritional needs. Understanding these tradeoffs—premium ingredients versus affordability—is key to making an informed decision. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and more, to find the best fit for your puppy’s needs.
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked products balance nutritional quality with local availability in the Philippines.
- Premium options like human-grade foods cater to owners willing to invest more for higher quality ingredients.
- Affordable brands often provide sufficient basic nutrition but may lack breed-specific formulas or advanced nutrients.
- Size-specific formulas are crucial for small or large breed puppies to support healthy growth.
- Choosing between dry, wet, and freeze-dried foods depends on your puppy’s preferences and your convenience needs.
| Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, 4 lb Bag |  | Best Overall for Small Breed Puppies | Brand: Royal Canin | Weight: 4 lbs | Age Range: 2 to 10 months | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pedigree Dry Puppy Food with Grilled Steak and Vegetables, 3.5 lb |  | Best Value for Complete Nutrition | Weight: 3.5 lb | Flavor: Grilled Steak and Vegetables | Type: Dry Puppy Food | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Maev Human-Grade Frozen Fresh Chicken Puppy Food, 10 lb |  | Best Raw and Grain-Free for Growth & Immunity | Weight: 10 lb | Protein Source: Chicken | Diet Type: Grain-Free, Raw | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula – 6 lb. Bag |  | Best for Texture and Nutritional Balance | Weight: 6 lb | Flavor: Chicken & Rice | Type: High Protein Puppy Food | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb |  | Best for Small & Mini Breed Development | Brand: Hill’s Science Diet | Flavor: Chicken & Brown Rice | Age Range: Puppy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NutriSource Choice Chicken Meal & Barley Puppy Food, 5LB |  | Best Budget-Friendly Nutrition for Growing Puppies | Brand: NutriSource | Flavor: Chicken | Age Range: Puppy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula High Protein Natural Dry Puppy Food – 8 lb |  | Best for Muscle and Brain Development with Natural Ingredients | Weight: 8 lb | Main Ingredient: Real chicken | DHA: Included | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Open Farm Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Salmon Recipe, 4lb Bag |  | Best Grain-Free and Ethically Sourced Nutrition | Brand: Open Farm | Flavor: Chicken & Salmon | Age Range: Puppy | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Puppy Food, 30.6 lb |  | Best for Supporting Large Breed Growth and Joints | Weight: 30.6 lb | Breed: Large Breed | Main Ingredient: Real Chicken | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb |  | Best for Small Breed Puppies’ Growth and Dental Health | Weight: 4.5 lb | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice | Made in: USA | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy Dry Dog Food with DHA & ARA, 5 lbs. |  | Best Overall for Balanced Nutrition | Weight: 5 lbs | Main Ingredients: Chicken, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal | Supports: Immune system, Brain and eye development, Strong bones and teeth | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| dog food for puppy philippine | Weight | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Canin Size Health Nutrit | 4 lbs | Chicken |
| Pedigree Dry Puppy Food with G | 3.5 lb | Grilled Steak and Vegetables |
| Maev Human-Grade Frozen Fresh | 10 lb | — |
| Purina Pro Plan High Protein P | 6 lb | Chicken & Rice |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Smal | — | Chicken & Brown Rice |
| NutriSource Choice Chicken Mea | — | Chicken |
| Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy | 8 lb | — |
| Open Farm Grain-Free Dry Dog F | — | Chicken & Salmon |
| IAMS Proactive Health Large Br | 30.6 lb | — |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Smal | 4.5 lb | — |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection F | 5 lbs | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food, 4 lb Bag
This option stands out for its tailored formulation for small breed puppies aged 2 to 10 months, making it ideal for owners seeking a precise nutritional profile. Compared to Hill’s Science Diet for Small & Mini Breeds, Royal Canin emphasizes a crunchy kibble that supports dental health and digestion, though it comes at a higher price point. Its inclusion of DHA and omega-3 fatty acids enhances brain development, a key advantage over less specialized foods. However, the limited flavor options and the need to supplement with wet food might be drawbacks for picky eaters or those seeking variety. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for owners prioritizing breed-specific nutrition and growth support.
Pros:- Supports growth and brain development with DHA and omega-3s
- Promotes immune health with antioxidants and prebiotics
- Crunchy texture appealing to small puppies
Cons:- More expensive than generic or mass-market brands
- Limited flavor variety; may require mixing with wet food for interest
Best for: Owners of small breed puppies who want a complete, breed-specific diet with focus on growth and immunity
Not ideal for: Pet owners on a tight budget or who prefer feeding multiple flavors without mixing in wet food
- Brand:Royal Canin
- Weight:4 lbs
- Age Range:2 to 10 months
- Breed Size:Small breed
- Flavor:Chicken
- Item Form:Pellet
Our verdict“Ideal for small breed puppy owners seeking targeted nutrition, though at a premium price.”
Pedigree Dry Puppy Food with Grilled Steak and Vegetables, 3.5 lb
This formula makes sense for owners seeking a balanced, affordable option that supports muscle growth and immune health. Compared with premium options like Royal Canin, Pedigree emphasizes a straightforward, complete diet with 36 vitamins and minerals, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious families. Its flavor profile of grilled steak and vegetables appeals to many puppies, but some may find it less enticing than more premium or grain-free options like Maev. The 3.5 lb bag size suits those testing new brands or with smaller puppies, yet it may not offer enough variety or freshness for longer-term feeding. Overall, this is a reliable, economical choice for broad puppy health needs.
Pros:- Supports muscle and immune development with a balanced nutrient profile
- Affordable option for everyday feeding
- Includes a variety of vitamins and minerals
Cons:- Flavor may not appeal to all puppies
- Limited size options; only 3.5 lbs available
Best for: Budget-conscious pet owners needing a complete, balanced diet for growing puppies
Not ideal for: Owners looking for grain-free or premium raw diets, or those with very choosy puppies
- Weight:3.5 lb
- Flavor:Grilled Steak and Vegetables
- Type:Dry Puppy Food
- Vitamins and Minerals:36 included
Our verdict“A solid, cost-effective choice for owners prioritizing basic puppy nutrition without extra frills.”
Maev Human-Grade Frozen Fresh Chicken Puppy Food, 10 lb
This raw, grain-free option appeals to owners wanting to feed a diet made with human-grade ingredients, comparable to Blue Buffalo Life Protection but with a raw twist. It supports puppy growth, immunity, and digestion through visible, high-quality chicken, vegetables, and added probiotics, making it ideal for those seeking a minimally processed diet. Compared to Purina Pro Plan’s shredded blend, Maev offers a more natural, fresh approach but requires freezing and careful thawing, which can be inconvenient. Its raw nature may also pose dietary sensitivities or sourcing concerns, and it lacks detailed ingredient transparency. Nonetheless, it’s a strong pick for health-conscious owners willing to handle raw feeding logistics.
Pros:- Made with human-grade, visible ingredients
- Supports immunity and digestion with added probiotics
- Convenient to serve without cooking
Cons:- Requires freezing and proper thawing before feeding
- Limited sourcing details available
Best for: Owners of health-focused, experienced dog owners interested in raw, human-grade diets
Not ideal for: Pet owners seeking convenience or with puppies sensitive to raw foods or freezing procedures
- Weight:10 lb
- Protein Source:Chicken
- Diet Type:Grain-Free, Raw
- Made in:USA
- Features:Frozen, Complete & Balanced
Our verdict“Ideal for owners committed to raw, natural diets who can manage the logistics of frozen feeding.”
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Food Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula – 6 lb. Bag
This formula excels for owners wanting a mix of crunchy and tender textures, with added DHA from fish oil to support brain and vision development. Compared to Hill’s Science Diet, Purina’s shredded blend provides more variety in mouthfeel, which can help entice picky eaters. Its inclusion of antioxidants bolsters immune health, making it suitable for puppies needing extra immune support. However, the lack of detailed ingredient transparency and higher price point could be drawbacks for budget-conscious buyers. It’s particularly suitable for owners who value texture variety and nutrient-rich formulas for their puppies’ growth.
Pros:- Contains DHA for brain and vision development
- Includes antioxidants to support immune health
- Combines crunchy kibble with tender shredded pieces
Cons:- No detailed ingredient list provided
- Higher price compared to basic formulas
Best for: Owners who want a textured, flavorful puppy food with added brain development nutrients
Not ideal for: Owners seeking fully transparent ingredient lists or on a tight budget
- Weight:6 lb
- Flavor:Chicken & Rice
- Type:High Protein Puppy Food
- Formulation:Shredded Blend
Our verdict“Best suited for owners seeking a textured diet with added developmental nutrients for their puppies.”
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb
This pick targets small and mini breed puppies with a formula designed specifically for their growth needs. Compared to Royal Canin, Hill’s emphasizes natural ingredients and a prebiotic fiber blend to promote gut health. Its small kibble size makes it easier for tiny mouths to chew and swallow, supporting dental development. While it excels in supporting immune and brain health with antioxidants and DHA, its reliance on chicken and the lack of detailed sourcing information might be a concern for some owners. This makes it a good choice for those prioritizing breed-specific growth and digestibility, though it may not suit puppies with chicken allergies.
Pros:- Designed specifically for small & mini breed puppies
- Supports bone, teeth, brain, and immune development
- Made with natural ingredients and prebiotic fibers
Cons:- Contains chicken, which may not suit all allergies
- Limited ingredient sourcing transparency
Best for: Owners of small or mini breed puppies seeking a digestible, breed-specific diet with immune support
Not ideal for: Owners looking for raw or grain-free options, or puppies with chicken allergies
- Brand:Hill’s Science Diet
- Flavor:Chicken & Brown Rice
- Age Range:Puppy
- Item Form:Granule
- Container Type:Bag
- Breed Recommendation:Small Breeds
Our verdict“Ideal for owners needing a breed-specific, easy-to-chew diet supporting small puppy growth and health.”
NutriSource Choice Chicken Meal & Barley Puppy Food, 5LB
This entry-level option stands out for offering a balanced blend of high-quality chicken meal and essential supplements at an affordable price point. Compared with premium brands like Open Farm, NutriSource provides solid nutrition without the higher cost, making it ideal for budget-conscious families. However, it lacks detailed feeding guidelines and flavor variety, which could lead to confusion or limited appeal for picky eaters. Its grain-inclusive formula supports all breed sizes, but the limited information on flavor options may make it less attractive for owners seeking variety or specific dietary needs.
Pros:- High-quality chicken meal as the primary ingredient
- Supports overall health with balanced fatty acids and supplements
- Grain-inclusive formula suitable for all breed sizes
Cons:- Limited information on flavor variety and feeding guidelines
- Price range not specified, which may be confusing for budget planning
Best for: Families seeking reliable, affordable nutrition for puppies of any size without advanced specialty ingredients
Not ideal for: Owners looking for grain-free or highly specialized diets; those who want detailed feeding instructions or flavor options
- Brand:NutriSource
- Flavor:Chicken
- Age Range:Puppy
- Item Form:Granule
- Specific Uses:Coat, Heart
- Item Weight:5 lbs
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for budget-conscious owners who want dependable nutrition for their puppies without complex dietary needs.”
Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy Formula High Protein Natural Dry Puppy Food – 8 lb
This formula emphasizes real chicken as the first ingredient, supporting muscle growth, while DHA enhances brain and vision development. Compared to IAMS Proactive Health, it leans more on natural ingredients and avoids artificial flavors or preservatives, appealing to health-conscious owners. Its higher cost might deter those on a tight budget, and some puppies could prefer softer textures. Still, for owners prioritizing ingredient quality and cognitive support, this offers a strong balance of benefits and natural nutrition.
Pros:- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient for muscle support
- Includes DHA for brain and vision development
- Made without artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons:- May be more expensive than basic options
- Some puppies may prefer softer or wetter foods
Best for: Owners seeking natural, high-protein puppy food that supports brain and muscle growth
Not ideal for: Budget shoppers or owners with puppies preferring softer, wetter foods; those needing detailed feeding instructions
- Weight:8 lb
- Main Ingredient:Real chicken
- DHA:Included
- Artificial Flavors:None
Our verdict“Ideal for health-focused owners who want natural ingredients and cognitive support for their puppies.”
Open Farm Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies, Chicken & Salmon Recipe, 4lb Bag
This grain-free option excels in traceability, with wild-caught salmon and humanely-raised chicken serving as primary ingredients. It surpasses many standard foods like Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites by prioritizing non-GMO superfoods and sustainability, which appeals to owners seeking ethically sourced diets. However, the higher price point and limited flavor options can be drawbacks for cost-sensitive buyers or those seeking more variety. Its focus on immune health and brain development makes it particularly suitable for conscientious consumers.
Pros:- Grain-free with traceable, ethically sourced ingredients
- Supports brain development and immune health with omega-3s
- Contains non-GMO superfoods like sweet potato and pumpkin
Cons:- More expensive than traditional dog foods
- Limited flavor options in this specific recipe
Best for: Owners wanting ethically sourced, grain-free nutrition that supports immune and brain health
Not ideal for: Pet owners on a strict budget or those seeking a wider flavor range for their puppies
- Brand:Open Farm
- Flavor:Chicken & Salmon
- Age Range:Puppy
- Item Form:Pellet
- Main Ingredients:Wild-caught salmon, humanely-raised chicken
- UPC:683547128903
Our verdict“This makes the most sense for owners who prioritize sustainable, grain-free diets with traceability and immune support.”
IAMS Proactive Health Large Breed Puppy Food, 30.6 lb
This sizeable bag caters specifically to large breed puppies, with real chicken as the main ingredient and added nutrients to support bone and joint health. It compares favorably against Hill’s Science Diet Small Bites by offering a larger quantity at a potentially lower cost per serving, ideal for owners with multiple large puppies or those seeking long-term value. Its focus on joint support and immune health is a clear advantage, but the lack of detailed ingredient transparency and higher weight may be less appealing for small-breed owners or those preferring organic or premium options.
Pros:- Real chicken as the first ingredient
- Supports healthy bones, joints, and immune system
- Large quantity suitable for multiple or growing puppies
Cons:- No specific price info available
- Potentially higher cost due to size and ingredients
Best for: Owners of large breed puppies needing support for bones, joints, and overall growth
Not ideal for: Small breed owners or those requiring premium or organic ingredients; owners who prefer detailed ingredient transparency
- Weight:30.6 lb
- Breed:Large Breed
- Main Ingredient:Real Chicken
Our verdict“This is best suited for large breed puppy owners who want a cost-effective, supportive diet for growth and joint health.”
Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Bites Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice, 4.5 lb
This formula focuses on supporting small breed puppies with natural ingredients and high-quality proteins, making it ideal for tiny mouths and developing teeth. Compared with Purina ONE Plus, it emphasizes veterinarian approval and specific small-breed needs, though it offers less detail about ingredient transparency. Its small bites are especially helpful for puppies with delicate teeth, but the limited size and lack of detailed ingredient info might deter owners seeking more comprehensive dietary transparency or larger packages.
Pros:- Supports healthy growth, bones, and teeth
- Made with natural ingredients
- Recommended by veterinarians
Cons:- Limited to small breed puppies
- Price not specified and small size may require frequent repurchasing
Best for: Owners of small breed puppies needing a diet tailored to their size and dental development
Not ideal for: Large breed owners or those seeking grain-free options; owners wanting detailed ingredient transparency
- Weight:4.5 lb
- Main Ingredients:Chicken, Brown Rice
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“This is a solid pick for small breed puppy owners prioritizing dental health and natural ingredients.”
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Chicken & Brown Rice Puppy Dry Dog Food with DHA & ARA, 5 lbs.
This option stands out for its emphasis on real chicken as the first ingredient, which supports muscle development better than some cheaper alternatives like Pedigree. Compared to premium brands like Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo offers a more natural ingredient list with wholesome grains and no artificial additives, making it a strong choice for health-conscious owners. While the inclusion of DHA and ARA promotes brain and eye development—crucial for puppies—this formula comes at a higher price point, which might deter budget-conscious buyers. Some puppies may also prefer wetter foods or different flavors, and the 5 lb bag may require frequent repurchasing for growing pups. Nevertheless, its balanced nutrients and focus on immune health make it a well-rounded pick for most puppy owners in the Philippines.
Pros:- Real chicken as the first ingredient supports muscle growth
- Enriched with DHA and ARA for optimal brain and eye development
- Includes antioxidants and prebiotic fiber for immune and digestive health
- Made with wholesome grains and free from artificial flavors or preservatives
Cons:- Higher price compared to generic or lower-quality puppy foods
- Some puppies may prefer wetter or different textures
- Limited flavor options may not satisfy very picky eaters
Best for: Owners seeking a natural, balanced puppy food that supports growth and immune health, willing to invest a bit more for quality ingredients.
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious families or those with picky eaters who prefer wet or flavored foods, as this dry kibble may be seen as expensive and less appealing to finicky pups.
- Weight:5 lbs
- Main Ingredients:Chicken, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal
- Supports:Immune system, Brain and eye development, Strong bones and teeth
- Formulation:Complete and balanced nutrition for puppies 2-12 months
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for owners who prioritize natural, balanced nutrition and are willing to pay a premium for quality ingredients.”
How We Picked
To determine the best dog foods for puppies in the Philippines, I evaluated each product based on nutritional value, ingredient quality, price, and availability in local markets. I prioritized formulas that meet or exceed established standards for puppy growth and development, especially focusing on those with breed-specific or size-appropriate options. Usability factors like packaging, ease of serving, and freshness were also considered, along with overall value for money. Products were ranked to reflect a balance between quality and affordability, ensuring options suit different budgets and owner preferences, from premium to budget-friendly choices.| dog food for puppy philippine | Flavor |
|---|---|
| Royal Canin Size Health Nutrit | Chicken |
| Pedigree Dry Puppy Food with G | Grilled Steak and Vegetables |
| Maev Human-Grade Frozen Fresh | — |
| Purina Pro Plan High Protein P | Chicken & Rice |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Smal | Chicken & Brown Rice |
| NutriSource Choice Chicken Mea | Chicken |
| Purina ONE Plus Healthy Puppy | — |
| Open Farm Grain-Free Dry Dog F | Chicken & Salmon |
| IAMS Proactive Health Large Br | — |
| Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Smal | — |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection F | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Dog Food For Puppy Philippines
Choosing the right puppy food in the Philippines requires considering several key factors beyond just ingredients. The environment, local ingredient sourcing, and your puppy’s breed and size all influence what makes a food appropriate. Here are some critical points to keep in mind, along with broader considerations to help you avoid common pitfalls and select a product that supports your puppy’s health.Nutritional Content and Breed Needs
Every puppy has unique nutritional requirements based on their breed, size, and growth rate. For small breeds, formulas with smaller kibble sizes and specific nutrient balances help support healthy development without overloading their digestive systems. Large breed puppies need diets with controlled calcium and phosphorus to prevent joint issues. Always check for complete and balanced labels that meet AAFCO standards, especially important when choosing local or less-known brands.
Ingredient Quality and Source
High-quality ingredients are vital for optimal puppy development. Look for foods with real meat, whole grains, and minimal fillers or artificial additives. In the Philippines, sourcing locally produced foods can reduce costs, but owners should verify ingredient transparency. Avoid foods with vague protein sources or excessive fillers, as these can impact your puppy’s health long-term, especially when local options vary widely in quality.
Price and Value
While premium foods often come with better ingredient quality, they may not be affordable for every owner. Conversely, cheaper options can fulfill basic nutritional needs but might lack breed-specific benefits or essential nutrients like DHA for brain development. Consider your budget carefully and weigh the long-term health benefits of investing in higher-quality food versus saving with more economical brands. Sometimes, a mid-range option offers the best balance.
Ease of Use and Accessibility
Availability in local stores and ease of serving are practical factors. Dry kibble is generally more convenient and has a longer shelf life, making it suitable for busy owners. Wet or fresh foods, while more enticing for some puppies, require refrigeration and can be more costly. In the Philippines, availability of certain brands can vary regionally, so choosing a widely accessible product helps ensure consistency in your puppy’s diet.
Additional Features and Special Needs
Some foods include added DHA, ARA, or probiotics that support brain development and digestion. If your puppy has specific health concerns, such as sensitivities or allergies, select formulas designed for those needs. Breed-specific or size-specific foods can also provide tailored support, which is often overlooked but can make a significant difference in your puppy’s overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to feed my puppy dry or wet food?
Both dry and wet foods have their advantages. Dry kibble is more convenient, has longer shelf life, and helps with dental health due to chewing. Wet or canned foods tend to be more palatable for puppies and can aid in hydration, especially in warm climates like the Philippines. Many owners opt for a mix of both, depending on their puppy’s preferences and health needs, but consistency is key to avoiding digestive upset.
How do I know if a dog food is suitable for my puppy’s breed?
Look for formulas labeled specifically for puppies and, if possible, breed or size-specific options. These foods are formulated with the right balance of nutrients tailored to the growth patterns of small, medium, or large breeds. Always check the ingredient list and nutritional profile—breed-specific foods often include adjustments for growth rates and joint health, which are especially important for certain breeds.
Can I switch my puppy’s food easily if I find it isn’t working?
Yes, but it should be done gradually over a week to avoid digestive upset. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with the old, gradually shifting the balance. Watch for signs of allergies or stomach issues during the transition. A slow change helps your puppy adjust to new ingredients and reduces the risk of diarrhea or refusal to eat.
Are local or imported brands better for my puppy?
Imported brands often come with more rigorous testing and higher ingredient transparency, but some local brands are comparable and more affordable. The key is to verify ingredient quality and nutritional standards rather than origin alone. In the Philippines, many reputable local brands meet international standards, making them a practical choice for quality and convenience.
When should I start feeding my puppy adult dog food?
Most puppies can transition to adult food around 12 months, but this varies by breed and size. Smaller breeds may be ready sooner, while larger breeds might need to stay on puppy formulas longer to support their growth. Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if your puppy has specific health issues or developmental concerns.
