How many times to feed?

[Jane and Sara]

We used to feed the dogs three times a day but when my mum went into a care home I reduced it to twice a day as, due to work commitments, this was more convenient. I could now go back to three times a day - as teaching part-time - and it might work quite well as once a week I have to be out at their normal supper time (3.30) and by the time I get back they will be very hungry. Are there any scientists who know if there are any benefits to feeding three times a day, rather than two - particularly for my newest little girl who has always had difficulty keeping weight on?

[Flaperoo]

I feed mine twice a day. My Roo is skinny; he is a good eater just lots of nervous energy, so I give him a bigger portion than the others.

Mx

[vickyb]

I've always had to feed River 3x a day as he was in a bad way when we got him and could only tolerate very small meals. Every time I've tried to go to 2 it upsets his digestion and we have also had problems keeping his weight up on 2 in the past. Consequently the other 2 also get 3 small portions a day too and I do find it seems to stop them hassling for food so much and they settle for a while after a feed, which is good if I'm going out. Most people seem to feed twice a day. I think it's up to you and your hounds and also how it fits in with walks and toileting.
vicky

[mtbbuxton]

Mayo is on three meals a day as he can't properly absorb his food and the vet said this would help him. Daisy is having three small meals a day too as it's easier and prevents conflict. I think whatever works for you is fine by them.
Moira x

[blackdiamond]

I feed mine 2 meals per day.
The first is around 11:00am - 11:30am & the second feed is 6:00pm - 6:30pm.

Suits us all
XxX

[Alisa Bee]

As has already been said, whatever seems best for your dog. Mine get two proper meals a day, roughly about 9.30 am after our first walk, then about 5.30 pm or 6 pm. Though they do get a treat or two inbetween when I go to work, pigs ear, bone etc. not a meal but a substantial snack really.

[Houndlover]

Oct 2, 2008 9:20:52 GMT -5 Alisa Bee said:

Though they do get a treat or two inbetween when I go to work, pigs ear, bone etc. not a meal but a substantial snack really.

Just be a bit careful of what treats you leave your dogs with, personally I wouldn't give my dogs something like a bone, pigs ear or rawhide chew and go to work/shopping etc., as I know of dogs that have died through getting into difficulties with these

[ragsysmum]

I think a lot depends on the dogs. I have always fed our dogs twice a day 7am and 5pm but my greyhound bitch Tru doesn't eat much at breakfast time so I give her some extra normal kibble at lunchtime to see her through till her main 5pm meal.

[shellie3]

I think oldies benefit from 3 meals a day....it seems to suit their digestion better but for younger dogs I agree that it can vary according to the dog and their health problems (if any).

Flo just butted in to say that about....ooo....12 meals a day would be about right...