Many owners free-feed their canines instead of feeding them
once or twice a day. But is it a good idea to let your K9 free-feed?
What is Free-Feeding?
Simply put, free-feeding is always leaving food out for dogs (and cats) so they can eat whenever they want; in other words, a never-ending buffet!
Free-feeding is like a never-ending buffet for your dog!
It’s one of the biggest decisions a new dog owner has to make; whether to feed their new dog on a regular schedule or let the dog free-feed. While not recommended by most veterinarians, free-feeding is often triggered by an owner’s feeling of guilt. Since we can eat whenever we feel like it, some want to offer the same freedom to their dogs. (Also, this choice is more convenient.)
But is it a good idea to let your canine free-feed? Most experts say no.
Free-Feeding: 5 Reasons Why It’s a Terrible Idea
Why is free-feeding a terrible idea? The 5 reasons below explain why.
- Multi-dog households
- Households with multiple dogs make it difficult to accurately monitor and track each dog’s actual intake.
- Resource/food guarding
In multi-dog or pet households, free and unsupervised access to food can lead to resource or food guarding by the stronger and larger members of the pack. Worse yet, with no one at home, things could quickly spiral out of control with disastrous results.
- Excess weight and obesity
- Free-feeding can lead to overeating and K9 obesity and in turn, other health complications.
- Difficulty monitoring actual intake
- Being able to accurately monitor your pet’s daily intake of calories helps prevent obesity. In addition, careful monitoring warns you of potential illness if your dog refuses to eat when you offer food.
- Missed training opportunities
- Most dogs are highly motivated by food so feeding your dog twice a day gives you the perfect opportunity to incorporate some quick training rewarded with high-value food! K9 skills like focus, managing impulse control and politeness are easy to reinforce each time you feed your dog or puppy.
- Negative effects on bathroom habits
- It is a simple process, what goes in must come out! With free-feeding, it is much more difficult to determine – and meet – your K9’s bathroom needs consistently.
In multi-dog or pet households, free and unsupervised access to food can lead to resource or food guarding by the stronger and larger members of the pack. Worse yet, with no one at home, things could quickly spiral out of control with disastrous results.Feeding Your Dog: How Often?
Deciding when to feed your dog is one of the first major decisions you will make as a dog owner. Regardless of which feeding frequency you choose, it’s critical to be consistent.
There are 4 other factors to also take into consideration. These include:
- Breed/Size: Larger dogs often require more feedings.
- Age: Puppies need small and frequent meals to properly support their quick growth.
- Activity: Working and sporting dogs require frequent feedings to maintain a consistent level of energy.
- Medical Issues/Dietary Needs: These dogs “may require specialized feeding schedules or restrictions on what and when they eat.” If this applies to your dog, talk to your vet for your dog’s best overall health.
Breed/Size: Larger dogs often require more feedings.Remember, your dog(s) look to you for their best life and overall well-being. Always consult your veterinarian about the best feeding methods
for your dog.
East Valley K9 Services
Dog trainers helping to make happy, confident
and well-mannered dogs with custom programs!
Call 480-382-0144 or send us an email.
Serving Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe and
East Valley areas of Arizona.
Additional Reading:
Whole Dog Journal: 5 Reasons NOT to Free-Feed Your Dog
AKC: How Often Should Dogs Eat?
PetMD: Why Free-Feeding is the Wrong Choice for Most Dogs
Candidae: Free Feeding vs Scheduled Meals: What’s Best?
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