Feeding
When your puppy is little it is best to have three to four feeding times per day. This also helps with housebreaking as your puppy will most likely have to eliminate after eating. As they get older you can lessen the feeding times to twice a day. Fresh water should always be available.
If you are feeding raw food, the daily amount your puppy gets should be 1.5% to 2% of their anticipated adult body weight, which for most of our puppies is 12-15 pounds (5.5 to 7 kilograms). For example if your puppy is expected to weigh 14 pounds (6.5 kg) as an adult you would be feeding 1/4 to 1/3 pound (100 - 130 grams) of food per day, split up into at least 3 meals until your puppy is older and then two meals is sufficient. Always keep an eye on your dog’s weight and adjust their meals accordingly, keeping in mind that while they are training they will be getting a lot of treats and may need to eat less at mealtime.
If you are feeding kibble, follow the instructions on the bag, but always check your dog’s weight and adjust accordingly.
If you are trying to train your puppy for various commands (sit, down, stay, etc) you can skip a feeding time depending on what time of the day you are training and have them earn their dinner instead! Kibble can be fed as training treats and raw food can be delivered in a squeeze tube. Puppies will be more eager to get their food if they haven’t already had a meal. Even if you aren’t actively training your puppy, having them eat out of a treat dispensing toy such as a Toppl, Kong, puzzle toy, or treat ball will have them think and work for their food, exercising their brains and giving them critical thinking skills. If you are feeding raw, a slow feeder bowl or lick mat can also help them think to get their food and not just gobble it all down.
For treats we like to use any kind of small, soft treats that are easy for the puppy to eat quickly. We love Zuke’s brand or cut up Rollover. Dried liver treats or freeze dried raw food are also great training treats that puppies love.
