How to Feed Your Dog

Feeding Your Dog

Our recommendations for your dog will vary depending upon your dog’s age, breed, activity level, metabolism and your own schedule. Whether you feed your dog once or twice daily, make sure to feed him at the same time each day and provide fresh drinking water at all times.

HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU FEED YOUR DOG?

Follow the feeding guide on the back of the pack, but remember the guide is only there to give you an idea. Every dog is an individual, so the most important consideration is to feed enough to maintain a lean, healthy condition. Always provide a bowl of fresh drinking water.

If you feed biscuits or treats, remember to reduce your dog’s main meals accordingly. Treats should never constitute more than 15 per cent of your dog’s diet.

DOG FEEDING CHECK-LIST:

• Feed your dog once or twice a day, as part of a regular routine. Deep-chested breeds such as the Doberman will particularly benefit from two smaller meals.
• Serve food at room temperature to ensure your dog can taste and smell it properly. If you are feeding canned food, warming up an opened can may take up to two hours once it has been taken out of the fridge. Alternatively, you might consider microwaving wet foods (out of the can) for a short time. But avoid serving food that is either too hot or too cold.
• If feeding a dry complete food, store it in a dry, clean environment. Resealable packaging or an airtight container keeps it tasty by sealing in the aroma.
• Your dog should be fed in a quiet place away from interruptions and away from where you eat.
It’s always a good idea to feed on a surface that is easily cleaned, like a tiled floor or a mat.
• Don’t allow children to interrupt your dog when he is eating or he may mistake them as a ‘predator’ trying to steal food and react aggressively. If you have more than one dog, feed them separately to avoid bullying or fighting.
• Try not to feed your dog immediately before or after exercise. Many dogs are susceptible to a twisting of the gut and blocking of the stomach, which requires immediate veterinary attention. About an hour’s grace either side is advisable.

Choosing the Right Dish for Feeding Time

Look for a bowl that will resist tipping over and is easy to clean. Separate bowls for food and water will help keep your dog’s feeding area tidy. You may want to buy a smaller bowl when your dog is a puppy, and upgrade to larger ones as he grows and needs more food. You may also want a standard 250ml measuring cup so that you can feed your dog the amount recommended on the bag.

Trying a New Food? Guidelines for a Healthy Transition

It’s always best to transition your pet’s diet slowly to avoid potential stomach upset and allow your pet’s digestive system to adjust to any new ingredients.

DAYS 1–2

Introduce your new food to your pet in small amounts, still primarily feeding him his old food.

DAYS 3–5

Feed a little bit more of the new food to your pet each day.

DAYS 6–7 (UP TO 10)

Gradually increase the amount of the new food and decrease your pet’s former food until you are feeding the new food exclusively.

Does My Dog Need Supplements?

Most of our products are nutritionally complete and balanced. However, some supplements may provide a benefit to dogs with certain health issues. You should check with your veterinarian before providing supplements to your dog.

Feeding Your Dog Treats

We provide all kinds of treats to help you train your dog, bond with him further and reward him with pleasant surprises. Just remember that the caloric intake from treats should not exceed 10% of a dog’s total daily caloric requirement. If you give your dog treats, reduce the food you give him accordingly.

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