Breastfeeding & Bottle Feeding Guidelines in Canada (0–12 Months)

Feeding and sleep are deeply connected—especially in the first year. This guide is a gentle, practical overview of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding basics for babies 0–12 months in Canada, with trusted Canadian resources linked at the end.

Every baby and family is different. If feeding is stressful, painful, or you’re worried about growth, hydration, or your baby’s health, please reach out to your healthcare provider or an IBCLC (lactation consultant).

0–12 months: the big picture

In Canada, breastmilk is recommended as the only food for about the first 6 months, and continued up to 2 years and beyond alongside complementary foods. Infant formula is a safe alternative when breastmilk isn’t available or isn’t the right fit for your family.

Breastfeeding basics

• Frequent feeding is normal in the early weeks (including cluster feeding).

• A deep, comfortable latch matters—pain, cracking, or ongoing discomfort is a reason to get support.

• Watch baby (wet diapers, stooling, alertness, weight gain) rather than the clock alone.

• Night feeds are common and biologically normal in the first year.

Bottle feeding (expressed breastmilk or formula)

• Use paced bottle feeding to support regulation and reduce overfeeding (slow flow nipple, upright-ish position, pauses).

• Follow your baby’s hunger and fullness cues (turning away, slowing, relaxed hands).

• Prepare bottles safely and follow storage/handling guidance for breastmilk and formula.

• If you’re combining breast and bottle, it can help to protect milk supply with regular milk removal (feeding and/or pumping).

Formula feeding basics

• Use an iron-fortified infant formula unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

• Follow the mixing instructions exactly (too concentrated or too diluted can be unsafe).

• If using powdered formula for higher-risk infants (e.g., premature or immunocompromised), ask your provider about extra precautions.

• If you’re unsure which formula is best for your baby, talk with your healthcare provider before switching frequently.

Feeding + sleep: what’s normal

It’s common for babies to wake to feed, especially in the first 6–9 months. Growth spurts, illness, teething, and developmental leaps can temporarily increase night waking. If you’re feeling stuck, we look at the whole picture: feeding, schedule, sleep environment, temperament, and caregiver support.

When to get extra support

• Painful breastfeeding, clicking, or concerns about latch

• Poor weight gain or fewer wet diapers than expected

• Persistent vomiting, blood in stool, or signs of dehydration

• Feeding feels like a battle, or you’re worried about intake

• Your mental health is suffering—feeding and sleep challenges can be intense

Trusted Canadian resources (links)

Health Canada – Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants (0–6 months): https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/infant-feeding/nutrition-healthy-term-infants-recommendations-birth-six-months.html

Health Canada – Nutrition for Healthy Term Infants (6–24 months): https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/infant-feeding/nutrition-healthy-term-infants-recommendations-six-24-months.html

Health Canada – Infant formula (general info): https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/infant-care/infant-formula.html

Canadian Paediatric Society – Breastfeeding and human milk: https://cps.ca/en/documents/position/breastfeeding-and-human-milk-in-the-first-six-months

Work with me

I’m Mellesa, a Registered Social Worker (BSW) and Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant. If feeding and sleep are tangled together right now, I can help you build a gentle, realistic plan that supports your baby and your nervous system.

Book online: https://www.hushandbloomsleepconsulting.ca/book-online

Disclaimer

This post is for general education and isn’t medical advice. Feeding guidance can vary based on your baby’s health, growth, and medical history. If you have concerns about feeding, weight gain, hydration, allergies, or your baby’s wellbeing, please consult your pediatric healthcare provider or a qualified lactation professional.