There is no definitive point where one is able to predict when a specific diet will spoil or become deficient in one or more nutrients. The common guideline of a six month shelf life is based on longstanding practice in North America. In Europe and Asia, differences in local practices and regulatory oversight have led to Teklad standard natural ingredient diets being routinely used out to nine months and sometimes 12 months post-manufacture. This practical experience, along with literature support and vitamin testing over time, gives us confidence that these diets continue to support animal health and study integrity out to at least nine months post-manufacture. Please refer to your institution for guidance if you are unsure of local policies.

Recommended storage conditions:

• Cool and dry; at or below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, humidity below 50% ideal, but up to 65% is acceptable
• Clean and free of pests
• In original packaging or in a container that prevents continuous exposure to light and minimal exposure to air

Teklad Dog Diets are designed to be fed to dogs under research conditions. Select the feeding method which keeps the animal in the proper body condition. The amount of food the research dog needs depends upon its size, age, breed, temperament, and amount of exercise.

Feed the pregnant female twice a day or ad libitum. Moisten the diet for her first few feedings after delivery. Thereafter, allow ad libitum access to diet and also feed her moistened food once a day.

Puppies will start eating diet (either moistened or dry) when they are about four weeks old. To encourage them to eat, add one cup water to each cup of dog food. Initially, feed the moistened food three times daily. The daily feedings (either dry or moistened) can be reduced to two as the puppies grow. The self-feeding program is ideal for puppies since they like to chew on dry food. They also can eat when they are hungry, assuring proper and adequate nutrition.