Is it best to feed a dog in the morning or evening

What is the Best Time of Day to Feed your Dog? (According To The Experts)

Article Last Updated April, 2024

Key Takeaways

• Regular meal times are crucial for your dogs digestion, energy, and overall well-being.
• Free feeding can lead to overeating and weight gain; regular meals help maintain a healthy weight.
• Proper feeding goes beyond nutrition; its a vital part of caring for your dogs overall well-being.

Hello, dog lovers! As dog parents, we always aim to keep our four-legged mates happy, healthy, and well-fed. But what time should your dog eat?

Feeding is more than just putting kibble in a bowl. Its about understanding their nutritional needs, age, health, and lifestyle.

Why does this matter? Feeding your dog at the right time impacts its health and behaviour.

Regular feeding can maintain a healthy weight, support digestion, and promote better behaviour.

In this article, we delve into canine nutrition, guided by experts, to uncover optimal feeding times. Well explore the best times, the pros and cons of feeding once or twice a day, and puppy feeding requirements and provide a sample feeding schedule.

So, grab a cuppa, get comfy, and lets journey into canine nutrition. Its time to optimise feeding time for your dog.

The Best Time to Feed Your Dog

While theres no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to feed your dog, most experts agree on a few general GUIDELINES.

Typically, most adult dogs should be fed twice daily, with meals ideally spaced 10-12 hours apart to support their digestion and keep ENERGY LEVELS consistent. This could mean serving their morning meal early, around 7 am, and dinner early in the evening, at approximately 6 pm.

However, remember that every dog is unique, and their feeding times might vary based on age, health, and lifestyle. Ensuring your dog has a consistent feeding schedule is more IMPORTANT than the specified time meals are given.

Tailoring the feeding schedule to your dogs specific needs will help them stay happy and HEALTHY. Always remember consistency is key when it comes to meal times.

Feeding Your Dog Once a Day

Adopting a once-a-day feeding schedule for your dog can be a PRACTICAL solution for some. The convenience it offers can fit seamlessly into a hectic routine.

Moreover, some argue that a single daily meal aligns more naturally with a dogs instinctive feeding habits in the wild, where they would feast when food is available.

However, its key to note that this approach isnt ideal for all dogs, especially smaller breeds. Smaller dogs have faster metabolisms and, therefore, may require more FREQUENT MEALS to sustain their energy levels throughout the day.

On the other hand, larger dogs often have slower metabolic rates and might be content with one WELL-BALANCED meal a day [1].

Pro Tip: If you feed your dog once a day, its best to give them their meal in the morning as it provides fuel for the whole day and prevents overeating at night.

Feeding Your Dog Twice a Day

Many vets recommend feeding an adult dog twice a day, as this routine can offer several BENEFITS to your pets health and well-being.

A twice-daily feeding schedule helps maintain STABLE BLOOD SUGAR levels and provides a steady energy supply, keeping your dog active and content throughout the day.

This practice is backed by research. A study by The National Institute of Health showed that dogs fed once a day were more likely to GAIN WEIGHT. In contrast, those fed twice daily had stable body weights throughout the research period and lower calorie consumption overall [2].

Twice-daily feeding can help reduce bad behaviour due to boredom and hunger and prevent them from binging on food when given the opportunity.

How Often Should You Feed A Puppy

Feeding your puppy properly is key to their GROWTH and development.

Up until 8 weeks, puppies should primarily feed on their mothers milk. Its important not to adopt a puppy before this age, as premature weaning can lead to behavioural problems later in life.

From 6-8 weeks, puppies can start having SMALL PORTIONS of dry food four times a day alongside their mothers milk. As they grow, their diet needs to change too.

By the time theyre 2-3 months old, puppies should be weaned off their mothers milk and be on 3-4 solid meals a day.

The exact number of servings of dog food will depend on the BREED of the dog, with smaller breeds often requiring different feeding schedules than larger ones.

As your pup matures and becomes accustomed to solid foods, you can adjust its feeding schedule.

At 3-6 months, you can reduce the number of feeds to three times daily.

By the time theyre 6 12 months old, this can be gradually REDUCED to two meals a day.

Choosing the right food for your puppy is crucial to this process. For detailed information on the best foods to support your puppys growth, be sure to check out our article on the best puppy food.

Pro Tip: Remember, not all breeds are classed as adult dogs at the same rate. So, its essential to tailor the feeding schedule to the specific needs of your breed.

How Often Should You Feed Senior Dogs

Feeding our senior dogs is a bit like fine-tuning a beloved instrument. As our furry friends age, their activity levels decrease, and their metabolism slows down, affecting their dietary needs.

Many vets suggest sticking to a twice-a-day feeding routine for our golden oldies. Smaller, more FREQUENT MEALS can be easier on their tummies and help keep their blood sugar levels steady.

But, just as each wrinkle tells its own tale, each senior dog has UNIQUE health considerations.

Keep a watchful eye on your dogs weight and overall condition as they age because our senior companions might be more susceptible to weight changes.

Pro Tip: Ensure your senior dog eats in a calming environment to reduce stress and encourage them to finish their meal.

What Is Free Feeding?

Free feeding, you ask? Its a bit like a buffet for dogs, where their food is available all day to nibble at their leisure.

Sounds pretty convenient, doesnt it?

Especially for those of us with erratic schedules, this feeding method seems like a TIME-SAVER.

However, before you start filling up that food dish to the brim, lets delve a little deeper.

Free feeding, while appearing convenient, can often lead to OVEREATING and weight gain in many dogs.

A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found a link between free feeding and obesity in dogs, mainly because its challenging to monitor their calorie intake [3].

Each dog is a unique character with individual nutritional needs. Free feeding doesnt consider these, and it can be especially risky for dogs prone to weight issues or those with specific dietary needs.

A Dogs Feeding Schedule

Ever noticed how our four-legged friends seem to have a sixth sense about when dinners on its way?

Thats because dogs thrive on routines, including a regular feeding schedule.

This routine not only satisfies their tummies but also brings a sense of predictability and SECURITY to their day.

This can be particularly beneficial for rescue dogs, who may have experienced inconsistent care in the past.

A sample feeding routine could look something like this: breakfast served at 7 am, perhaps a small midday snack or treat for training, and then dinner at 6 pm. But remember, this isnt one-size-fits-all.

Time	Activity
7:00 am	Breakfast
12:00 pm	Midday snack or treat for training
6:00 pm	Dinner

As I have said before Our dogs are as individual as we are, so a chihuahuas feeding schedule might DIFFER from a labradors.

Sticking to a meal schedule helps to maintain REGULAR bathroom habits (trust us, youll appreciate this one!), supports healthy digestion, and can even alleviate anxiety by providing structure to your dogs day.

So, as we navigate the world of doggy dining, lets remember the importance of a CONSISTANT feeding schedule.

Its more than just filling their bowl; its about providing our dogs with a routine that helps them feel secure and loved.

After all, they do say that the way to a dogs heart is through its stomach!

Conclusion

And there we have it, folks! The ins and outs of when to feed our precious pups. Whether theyre sprightly puppies, energetic adults, or golden oldies, its clear that a regular and well-considered feeding schedule plays a pivotal role in their health and happiness.

From early morning breakfasts to evening dinners, the timing, frequency, and consistency of meals all contribute to our dogs well-being.

But remember, just as no two dogs are the same, their feeding schedules will differ, too. Always consult with your vet to tailor the feeding schedule to your dogs unique needs.

So, as we embark on this feeding journey, lets remember that were doing more than just filling their bowls. Were providing love, care, and nourishment, one meal at a time.

Sources

1. Middleton RP, Lacroix S, Marie-Pier Scott-Boyer, et al. Metabolic Differences between Dogs of Different Body Sizes. 2017;2017:1-11. doi:https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/4535710
2. Bray EE, Zheng Z, M Katherine Tolbert, McCoy B, Kaeberlein M, Kerr KF. Once-daily feeding is associated with better health in companion dogs: results from the Dog Aging Project. 2022;44(3):1779-1790. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11357-022-00575-7
3. Heuberger R, Wakshlag JJ. The relationship of feeding patterns and obesity in dogs. 2011;95(1):98-105. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0396.2010.01024.x

Jeff Carbridge is a dog behaviourist and trainer with 15 years of experience. He is strongly interested in nutrition and diet for both canines and humans. Jeff has been featured in several publications, providing expert commentary on dog-related topics. His knowledge and expertise make him a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve the health and well-being of their dogs.

Should Dogs Eat More In The Morning Or Evening

[ad_1]When it comes to feeding our furry friends, there is often a debate on whether dogs should eat more in the morning or in the evening. Some pet owners swear by feeding their dogs a hearty breakfast to fuel them for the day, while others believe that a larger dinner is more beneficial. So, which is the best option for your canine companion? Lets delve into this topic and explore the various trends, concerns, and opinions surrounding the issue.

Trend 1: Morning Feeding

One trend that has gained popularity among dog owners is feeding their pets more in the morning. Some believe that a larger breakfast provides dogs with the necessary energy to start their day off right. This can be especially beneficial for dogs who are active or have high energy levels.

Professional Dog Nutritionist: Feeding your dog a substantial meal in the morning can help kickstart their metabolism and provide them with the energy they need for their daily activities. It can also prevent them from feeling hungry and restless throughout the day.

Trend 2: Evening Feeding

On the other hand, there are pet owners who prefer to feed their dogs more in the evening. They believe that a larger dinner can help keep their furry friends full and satisfied throughout the night, preventing late-night hunger pangs.

Veterinarian: Feeding your dog a bigger meal in the evening can be beneficial, especially for dogs who tend to be more active at night. It can help keep them satiated and prevent them from begging for food late at night.

Trend 3: Splitting Meals

Another trend that has emerged in recent years is splitting a dogs daily food intake into multiple smaller meals. This approach involves feeding dogs smaller portions throughout the day, rather than one or two large meals.

Animal Behaviorist: Splitting your dogs meals into smaller portions can help regulate their blood sugar levels and prevent spikes and crashes. It can also prevent overeating and promote better digestion.

Trend 4: Free-Feeding

Some pet owners opt for free-feeding, where they leave food out for their dogs to eat as they please throughout the day. This approach allows dogs to graze and eat whenever they are hungry, rather than sticking to a strict feeding schedule.

Dog Trainer: Free-feeding can work well for some dogs, especially those who are good at self-regulating their food intake. However, its important to monitor your dogs weight and adjust their portions accordingly to prevent obesity.

Trend 5: Time-Restricted Feeding

Time-restricted feeding is another trend that has gained traction in the pet industry. This approach involves feeding dogs during a specific window of time each day, such as within an 8-10 hour period, and fasting them for the rest of the day.

Pet Nutritionist: Time-restricted feeding can help regulate your dogs metabolism and promote healthy digestion. It can also prevent overeating and reduce the risk of obesity.

Trend 6: Customized Feeding Schedule

Some pet owners choose to customize their dogs feeding schedule based on their individual needs and preferences. This may involve adjusting the timing and portion sizes of meals to suit their dogs activity level, age, and health condition.

Canine Behavior Specialist: Customizing your dogs feeding schedule can help ensure that they are getting the right amount of food at the right times. It can also address any specific dietary requirements they may have.

Trend 7: Rotating Feeding Schedule

Rotating a dogs feeding schedule is another trend that has gained popularity among pet owners. This approach involves varying the timing and type of meals given to dogs on a regular basis to prevent boredom and provide nutritional variety.

Holistic Veterinarian: Rotating your dogs feeding schedule can prevent them from getting bored with their food and help expose them to a variety of nutrients. It can also prevent them from developing food sensitivities.

Common Concerns and Answers:

1. Will feeding my dog more in the morning make them gain weight?

Answer: Not necessarily. Its important to monitor your dogs overall caloric intake and adjust their portions accordingly to prevent weight gain.

2. Can feeding my dog more in the evening cause digestive issues?

Answer: Feeding your dog a larger meal in the evening may cause digestive issues for some dogs, especially those prone to gastrointestinal upset. Its best to monitor their response and adjust their feeding schedule as needed.

3. Is it okay to split my dogs meals into smaller portions?

Answer: Yes, splitting your dogs meals into smaller portions can be beneficial for their digestion and overall health. Just make sure to provide them with balanced nutrition throughout the day.

4. Will free-feeding lead to overeating?

Answer: Free-feeding can lead to overeating in some dogs, especially those who are prone to obesity. Its important to monitor your dogs weight and adjust their portions accordingly if necessary.

5. Can time-restricted feeding help with weight management?

Answer: Time-restricted feeding can help regulate your dogs metabolism and promote weight management, as long as they are receiving balanced nutrition within the designated feeding window.

6. How do I know if my dog needs a customized feeding schedule?

Answer: If your dog has specific dietary requirements, health conditions, or activity levels, a customized feeding schedule may be beneficial. Consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist for personalized recommendations.

7. Is rotating my dogs feeding schedule necessary?

Answer: Rotating your dogs feeding schedule can provide them with variety and nutritional benefits, but it is not necessary for all dogs. Consider your pets preferences and dietary needs when deciding whether to rotate their meals.

8. Can feeding my dog more in the morning affect their behavior?

Answer: Feeding your dog a larger meal in the morning may provide them with the necessary energy to be more active throughout the day. However, it should not significantly impact their behavior in a negative way.

9. Should I adjust my dogs feeding schedule based on their age?

Answer: Yes, its important to adjust your dogs feeding schedule based on their age and life stage. Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs may have different nutritional needs and feeding requirements.

10. Will feeding my dog more in the morning affect their bathroom habits?

Answer: Feeding your dog a larger meal in the morning may lead to more frequent bathroom breaks, especially shortly after eating. This is a normal response to food intake and should not be a cause for concern.

11. Can feeding my dog more in the evening lead to weight gain?

Answer: Feeding your dog a larger meal in the evening may not necessarily lead to weight gain if their overall caloric intake is balanced. Monitor their weight and adjust their portions accordingly.

12. Is it safe to leave food out for my dog to free-feed?

Answer: Free-feeding can be safe for some dogs, but it may not be suitable for those who have a tendency to overeat or have specific dietary restrictions. Monitor your dogs food intake and adjust as needed.

13. How do I know if my dog is getting the right amount of food?

Answer: Monitor your dogs body condition, weight, and energy levels to determine if they are getting the right amount of food. Consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist for personalized recommendations.

14. Can feeding my dog more in the morning affect their sleep patterns?

Answer: Feeding your dog a larger meal in the morning may not significantly affect their sleep patterns, as long as they are getting enough rest and exercise throughout the day.

15. Should I consult with a professional before changing my dogs feeding schedule?

Answer: Its always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist before making any significant changes to your dogs feeding schedule. They can provide guidance and recommendations based on your pets individual needs.

In conclusion, the debate over whether dogs should eat more in the morning or evening ultimately comes down to individual preferences and needs. Some dogs may thrive on a larger breakfast, while others may prefer a heartier dinner. Its important to consider your dogs activity level, age, health condition, and dietary requirements when deciding on the best feeding schedule for them. By monitoring their weight, energy levels, and overall well-being, you can ensure that your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to lead a happy and healthy life.[ad_2]