This question concerns many dog owners

When and how often should you feed your dog?

The best tips for a healthy feeding routine for your dog

Last week, I happened to meet a new, proud dog owner. This encounter once again showed me how much love and dedication dog owners put into caring for their animals. They are willing to make immense efforts to provide their loyal companions with a happy and healthy life. In this particular case, the new "dog father" had thoroughly informed himself about the right nutrition for his dog. However, he was totally uncertain about how often he should feed his little friend. I can understand him!

Dogs enrich our lives in so many ways. They are not only loyal companions but also our comforters and indispensable members of the family. We want them to be as well off as our two-legged companions.

The right feeding routine plays a crucial role. It is just as important for your dog's vitality and well-being as the right food.

Do you also wonder if your feeding routine is optimal? Then you are in the right place, and you should definitely read the following article.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Why having a suitable feeding routine is essential
• What different feeding methods are available to you
• What you must pay attention to when choosing
• Indispensable tips for feeding

Why having a suitable feeding routine is essential

The right food is crucial for a healthy dog life. But alongside the question of WHAT QUI to feed, the question of HOW OFTEN is of utmost importance.

The wrong method can have serious and long-term effects on the health of your beloved four-legged friend:

• Poor growth
• Overweight
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Reduced performance
• Dangerous stomach twists

But don't worry! If you know what to pay attention to, you will quickly find the optimal method.

What feeding routines are there?

When it comes to feeding frequency, you have four effective options available:

• 4-6 meals
• 2 meals
• 1 meal
• Free feeding

The ideal method primarily depends on your beloved dog's age and breed. No matter which method you choose: it's IMPORTANT to have the right amount of food!

If your dog is overweight, it can cause serious health issues. Remember: snacks also have calories! Incorporate them into the daily food amount to actively ensure your dog's well-being and vitality.

Puppies and young dogs

Are you lucky enough to have a cute puppy or young dog with you? If so, it’s best to feed him 4-6 times a day. Ask the breeder how often your puppy has been fed so far. Moving to his new home can be pure stress for him. Stick to this feeding plan in the first few days. This will help you avoid additional stress for your little protégée.

Puppies have a sensitive digestive system. To avoid overloading it, divide the daily ration into several small portions. Over time, you can gradually extend the intervals between meals.

When your dog becomes an adultexperts generally recommend feeding 1-2 times a day. When this point arrives mainly depends on the breed. Small breeds often reach their full size in 10-12 months,while larger breeds can take up to 2 years.If you are unsure whether your little bundle of energy has grown up, ask your breeder when it will be. He will be happy to help you. Alternatively, you'll find this valuable information in the breed profile as well.

Important: Each breed has specific nutritional needs. Pay attention with large breeds to ensure they don’t grow too quickly. Rapid growth can lead to skeletal deformities, and affected animals often suffer from joint problems as they age.

Once a day

A real challenge for many dog owners is determining the right amount of food. Feeding by sight is not a good idea. Portions are too easily misjudged, which can quickly lead to overweight with all the negative health consequences.

To avoid overfeeding, use a fixed measurement method. Measuring cups or a scale are ideal for this purpose.

When feeding once a day, you keep better track of the ration. If your dog is healthy and grown, this method of feeding is definitely feasible.

Most nutrition experts recommend not to offer la food for free feeding – and for very good reasons:

• Irregular digestion
• Risk of pest infestations
• Lack of routine

This means for you: If your four-legged friend hasn’t finished his food ration, take the bowl away and give him the next meal only at the usual time.

Twice a day

It is often more sensible to divide the daily food amount into 2 meals.

Feeding twice a day is particularly suitable for the following cases:

• Very small breeds: Small dogs have a high energy requirement. For them, 2 meals a day are the better choice.
• Very large breeds: It is also advisable for large breeds to switch to feeding twice a day. This minimizes the risk of dangerous stomach twists.
• Active dogs: Working dogs generally require two feedings a day. This ensures steady energy and supports recovery.
• Fast eaters: Does your dog eat too quickly? Then it may be advisable to split the portions into two meals.
• Pregnant or nursing females: Mother dogs have little space in their stomachs. Smaller, more frequent meals are a better option for them.

At what time should you feed your dog?

Whether you feed your dog in the morning, at noon, or in the evening is not crucial. You can flexibly integrate feeding times into your daily routine. What’s more important is that you consistently adhere to feeding times. This is not only beneficial to your dog's organism. Maintaining a stable routine gives him security and makes him much more relaxed.

Let your dog eat in peace.Dogs don’t like to share their food. Interruptions can make some dogs anxious that their food will be taken away. This can often lead them to start gulping down their food hastily, which can cause stomach and digestive problems. Provide your dog with the space to eat calmly.

Also important

Nettoie soigneusement la gamelle de ton chien après le repas – surtout par temps chaud. Jette immédiatement les restes de nourriture, en particulier la nourriture humide. Cela évite les odeurs désagréables et les parasites

Conclusion

Feeding your dog is crucial for his well-being. The optimal feeding frequency depends on various factors, such as:

• Age
• Size
• Special needs

Puppies need small, frequent meals. Adult dogs can generally be fed once a day without issues. In specific cases, such as for very small or large breeds, feeding twice a day may be advisable.

No matter how often you feed, ensure your dog has regular feeding times. Let him eat peacefully and clean his bowl thoroughly. This way, your furry friend stays healthy, happy, and full of energy!

If you are unsure, it’s best to ask your veterinarian. He will be happy to assist you.

Extra Tip

Stay informed and check our blog regularly! You will find many helpful tips for your beloved pet.

„United for Happy Pet Lives!”

XO

Sabine 💕*