How many times a day should I feed my dog?
This is a question that we often get from sitter and owners who work with Rover. Help the community out by answering them in our forum!
3 Answers
Honestly, it depends on the dog and your schedule. Most people I know feed their dog twice a day. Some free feed because the dog likes to graze and doesn't eat much at once. Some feed once a day because it's easier and more convenient. Puppies may need to eat more than twice a day, especially if they are very small or young. Diabetic animals have to be fed when they get their insulin. Some dogs have physical problems that require that they eat multiple times a day.
My dog is a free-feeder. His bowl is always out and food is always there.
I have to fill his bowl maybe three times a week because he only eats when he's hungry or wants a nibble. I only feed him dry, grain-free and he gets blueberries, frozen peas or carrots on occasion.
Because he knows food is always there, he's never been food aggressive. He does tend to eat more when we're more active but mostly, he eats when he needs to, same with his water.
I understand the whole predator / prey thing, but he's a domesticated animal and I don't need to feed into his food fears / predatory instincts.
His vet says he's healthy and right on target.
Look into a prey model raw diet and how many times a day to feed. Biologically, once per day.
One of the best ways to feed a dog is by free feeding, or leaving food available for your dog all day. This encourages them to eat when they are hungry and also helps to avoid overeating and food aggression. Much like water, many dogs function best when food availability is not a concern!