It's hard to know what, how often and how much to
feed your dog . Read on for answers to the most common feeding questions
for dogs in general. The following pages have The Puppy Place's
answers to dog-specific feeding questions.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I FEED MY DOG?
Feeding guidelines vary depending on weight, age and
activity level of your pet. Refer to the product package label for
general guidelines.
DO PUPPIES EAT MORE THAN OLDER DOGS?
Yes. Compared to adults, young animals of any
species have higher caloric needs and therefore should be fed foods
higher in fat than older animals. For this reason it is improbable,
though not impossible, to see an obese puppy. Your puppy's
voracious appetite is almost certainly normal. Your veterinarian can
confirm this with a routine "well pup" visit and a stool
examination to rule out intestinal parasites as well as unlikely
disorders of the gastrointestinal tract that may cause a ravenous
appetite.
IS IT HEALTHY TO FEED MY DOG CANNED FOOD?
Yes. Canned dog foods are good for feeding everyday
providing the product label states that it is 100% nutritionally
complete and balanced. Canned dog foods are very palatable and enjoyable
for your pet. Always be sure to have fresh water available whether you
are feeding your dog canned or dry food.
DOES CANNED DOG FOOD NEED TO BE REFRIGERATED
AFTER OPENING?
Yes. All canned dog foods should be refrigerated
after opening. Canned dog food contains meat and, like human canned
foods, should be covered and refrigerated. We recommend the opened
product be used within three days.
WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO CHANGE MY DOG'S DIET?
Some dogs do not tolerate a sudden change in their
diet. It is important to introduce any new dietary change gradually. We
suggest that you try mixing a small portion of the new food with the
food previously fed. The amount of new food should be gradually
increased each day, until, at the end of five days, it is being fed the
new food entirely. In this way, the transition is made gradually and can
help reduce any intestinal upset.
IS IT OKAY FOR DOGS TO EAT CAT FOOD?
No. The nutritional requirements for cats and dogs
are very different. The proper diet for a cat or dog must contain
adequate levels of protein, fat, vitamins and minerals in the correct
proportions. A deficiency, excess or imbalance of certain nutrients can
cause a dog to become unhealthy.
Food & Feeding Part
2 
Note: You should not rely on the veterinary advice
or information provided on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any
specific situation. Always consult your own veterinarian for specific
advice concerning the medical condition or treatment of your own pet or
animal. The Puppy Place disclaims all warranties and liability related
to the veterinary advice and information provided on this site.
Full disclaimer.
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