All the manufacturers put the a guide on the bag, but they also put a disclaimer saying to add or subtract based on your dog. If they eat their portion in 10 minutes or so, should I give them more even though that might double their daily recommendation? Do you give them a set amount and when they are done, they are done? Or do you give them all they can eat in a certain time period? I know I have read on here that if they aren't eating in 20 minutes, pick it up and they will learn to eat when you put it down. Help.

How old is your dog, what is their weight, and what food are you feeding?

The 9 month old male is 60 Lbs and the female is 5 months old, about 35-40 Lbs. They both get 4.5 cups a day of Diamond Naturals LB puppy lamb and rice. The male gets fed twice a day and the female 3 times a day

If they eat their portion in 10 minutes or so, should I give them more...

God no! My dogs (well except Prince Darwin) eat whatever's in front of them in less than a minute. Most labs hoover and look for more...it has nothing to due with them not getting enough.

Do you give them a set amount and when they are done, they are done?

Yes

I know I have read on here that if they aren't eating in 20 minutes, pick it up and they will learn to eat when you put it down.

This is for picky dogs. If you have a normal lab, it won't make it anywhere near 20 min. And actually...with my picky boy, if he doesn't start eating within a few moments of my putting the bowel down, I pick it back up. I'm a big meanie ;)


As you know, start with the amount listed on the back of the bag and adjust as needed. You want to be able to easily feel their ribs, but not see them. If you wait a few minutes, I'm sure Labman will post his favorite link to "help" you out...

I'm sure Labman will post his favorite link to "help" you out...

:frusty: Where was Labman when my guy got to be 98 lbs...:nono4:

SATCH shoulda listened...:eek:

You adjust the food to what your dog needs, not wants. Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx