How Much Should You Feed Your Dog?
I get a lot of questions about food, especially regarding how much a dog should eat. I'm not going to hem-haw around - I'll tell you what the deal is right now.
How much should your dog eat? Well ... it depends. It's not as simple as saying your dog should eat one cup.
The reason is this. Every food has different caloric densities and every dog has different caloric needs based on his innate make-up and exercise level (just like our food...and us).
So... how do you know how much to feed?
1. First, you need to determine if your dog is an ideal weight, too thin or too fat.
2. Second, weigh him and determine a baseline weight.
3. Third, start feeding.
Then... this is what you do:
• If your dog is at an ideal weight - I'd recommend feeding the mid-range recommendations posted on the bag.
• If he is under-weight - then feed the high-end range on the bag based on his weight.
• If he is overweight - then feed him the low range on the bag based on his weight.
Lastly, reevaluate. After you feed for 2 weeks, weigh and reevaluate your dog. Determine if his weight went up or down relative to his goal and how much you should feed now.
If his weight was ideal and it increased, then decrease the amount you are feeding by 20 percent. Feed for 2 weeks and weigh him again. If his weight is the same, you believe his weight is ideal, then you are probably feeding the proper amount. If his weight decreased, then increase the amount by 20 percent, etc.
I hope this gives you some guidelines on how much to feed. Remember, every dog is different. The most important thing to do is to feed a good quality food. A new food on the market called The Good Life Recipe®. It is well balanced and very well liked by the dogs I've tested it. Here is more info and a great coupon for the food and treats.
Dr. Jon
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