When spring rolls around most of us start thinking about our eating habits and losing our winter weight. It’s never a bad idea to re-evaluate your diet, but do we ever consider our dog’s diet? Do you know how many times a day and how much they should be fed? We did a little research and have the answers you are looking for.
How many times a day you should feed your dog?
First, it is important that you check the back of your dog’s food bag to get their suggested serving size. That is the amount your dog is supposed to eat in one day, but you don’t have to give it to them all in one sitting. You can also talk to your vet to get a better idea of the amount of food your dog needs in one day.
Experts say that it is best to feed your dog twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening. Most dogs will dig right in but other dogs, especially those from shelters, may be a little more finicky around the food bowl. It’s important to note that puppies younger than 5 months will need to be fed more often in smaller amounts. Usually they need to be fed about three to four times a day depending on their size and breed.
Feed your dog at the same time every day.
It’s important to keep them on a pretty consistent feeding schedule. It establishes a good routine for the day, including trips to the bathroom. It also helps you monitor your dog’s health. You can know if your dog isn’t feeling well because you can easily tell if they have a lack of appetite. If their appetite doesn’t improve in a few days or if you notice a change in their bathroom habits, then you’ll know to contact your vet.
Don’t feed them too many treats in between meals.
Some dogs get hungry in between meals and start to beg for treats. And it is okay to give them treats every day, but treats should only make up about 5-10% of your dog’s daily diet. This amount varies on weight and activity level, so talk to your vet if you’re worried about your dog’s weight. Using things like Kong’s and treat puzzles are a great way to make a small amount of healthy treats last as long as possible.
What to do if your dog always seems hungry?
It’s not uncommon for your dog to always seem to be begging for food. Just like us, they like their treats and snacks throughout the day. But how do you know if your dog is really hungry or just bored? First, try to give them some extra attention and play. They may just be bored and looking for interaction. If you dog has become more active they may need more food. Talk to your vet about the food and the amount your are feeding your dog. It’s possible there may be a better, more filling kibble that will help satisfy your dog for longer.
We want our dogs to be healthy. But we also don’t want them to go hungry either. It can be difficult to know exactly how much to feed them and when, but with a little research and talks with your vet you can easily get their diet perfected.
Recent Comments