10 Golden Rules Every Dog Owner Should Follow When Feeding

Dogs love their food! This appetite can be a key tool in training and bonding with your pet. Feeding your dog properly ensures health, happiness, and well-being.

To keep mealtimes safe, stress-free, and suited to your dog’s needs, here are ten golden rules every dog owner should follow when feeding their pet.

1. Measure Your Dog’s Food

Dogs often eat whatever food is offered, even past fullness. Measure food portions carefully, referring to guidelines on packaging and adjusting for your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. Regular weight checks help ensure feeding stays appropriate and prevent obesity.

2. Respect Food Guarding and Your Dog’s Space

If your dog stiffens, growls, or snaps when approached during meals, do not force them to give up their food. Instead, build trust by calmly dropping extra treats nearby as you pass. This positive approach helps reduce guarding behaviour. Always allow your dog to eat in peace without disturbances from people, children, or other pets.

3. Feed Dogs Separately if You Have More Than One

Feeding multiple dogs at the same time is common, but ensure bowls are spaced well apart to avoid competition or anxiety. This prevents conflicts and helps each dog eat at their own pace without stress.

4. Don’t Exercise Your Dog Immediately After Feeding

Wait at least two hours after meals before engaging your dog in walks, vigorous play, or exercise. Dogs need time to digest, and exercising too soon may cause discomfort, upset stomachs, or serious issues like bloat.

5. Avoid Feeding Your Dog Human Food Regularly

Dogs have quite different nutritional needs than humans. Many human foods are unsuitable or potentially harmful. Commit to feeding high-quality, nutritionally complete dog food rather than scraps or leftovers. This supports their health and longevity.

6. Choose Quality Food and Appropriate Bowls

Pick dog food with a reputable meat source as the main ingredient and balanced nutrients such as protein, fats, and vitamins. Avoid fillers and artificial additives. For feeding bowls, select ceramic or stainless steel options that are sized suitably for your dog and clean them regularly to prevent bacterial build-up.

7. Limit Supplements and Vitamins Unless Recommended by Your Vet

Some owners like adding supplements to support health, but overdoing these can cause unintended effects. Always seek veterinary advice before introducing new supplements to your dog’s diet to ensure safety and necessity.

8. Establish a Feeding Routine and Leadership

Feeding at regular times, usually two meals daily, maintains digestive health and helps prevent overeating. Controlling mealtime and portions establishes a structure your dog can rely on, which can enhance training and behaviour management.

9. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times

Hydration is critical alongside nutrition. Always provide your dog with access to clean, fresh water. Change water regularly to keep it appealing and safe.

10. Transition Foods Gradually

When changing your dog’s food brand or type, mix the new food in increments over a week or more to minimise digestive upset and help your dog adapt to different tastes and nutrients comfortably.

By following these golden rules, you’ll promote your dog’s wellbeing, prevent common feeding issues, and build a positive feeding experience that supports healthy habits and good behaviour. For specific nutritional advice tailored to your dog’s individual needs, always consult your veterinary surgeon.