Overfeeding?

soos · #1 11-03-2009, 08:09 PM

I feed Caesar Taste of the Wild and I give him the recommended amount for his weight and age spread out over 2-3 feedings a day. But lately, he's been going to the cabinet where I keep the food and whining. His treats are also kept in there, so I don't know if he's just wanting a treat or food. Sometime I'll give him an extra half cup of food or so and he'll eat it sometimes and sometimes he'll whine for more and others he won't. I don't want him to be hungry by any means, but I don't want to over feed him when he's just trying to get me to give in to give him a treat.

dieselnallie · #2 11-04-2009, 12:35 PM

Sorry, but this strikes me as funny.
I wouldn't worry about feeding him too much as long as it's well spread out and you don't notice him getting chubby.
He could very well be training you to feed him when ever he wants and you don't want is little pleading whine to turn into full out barking to really get you to notice. So, I would be careful not to give in. On the other hand, if you see him loosing weight, or not gaining as he should be if he's a puppy, I would feed him a little bit more at a time. Be Carefull not to cause loose stools which can tell you if he's getting too much as well.

Cami · #3 11-04-2009, 04:21 PM

The feeding limits supplied on food bags are just guidelines. Some dogs need more and some need less.
Dogs that burn more calories than the "average" dog will need more. *Some* Boxers (a lot) tend to fit the bill.
I'd offer feeding a little more each meal to see if that curbs his appetite BEFORE it becomes a habit for him.
If he stays at a good weight with more food then there shouldn't be a problem with feeding more.
Also nothing wrong with giving healthy low fat/calorie treats throughout the day if you think he is more after "something" instead of more food.