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Training Tips & Articles Housetraining Dealing with aggression >Feeding styles Some reasons for behavioral problems Buy or adopt? Basic commands |
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Feeding StylesThe subject of feeding your dog generally has two schools’ of thought: Scheduled Feeding and Free Feeding.Free feeding is basically placing the food in a bowl allowing the dog to have access all or at least part of the day. Many people may find this convenient and easy but it is not my favorite choice.  Scheduled feeding is giving food at scheduled times throughout the day. This is my method of choice for several reasons. First and foremost, scheduled feeding reinforces your position as Top Dog. Remember, dogs have a “pack” mentality. They see their owners as dogs. In your dog’s mind, you are another dog he can either dominate or not. In addition, meal times can be a great motivator for commands like sit, stay and down. Scheduled feedings will also give you additional control while housebreaking your puppy. You will get a much better handle on when your dog needs to relieve himself. Finally, scheduled feedings reduce the possibility of the “finicky eater” syndrome. Most dogs become finicky eaters because we, as owners allow it.To be more specific, I like feeding twice a day. (For puppies, this may initially be three times per day). Generally, I like these feedings to be twelve hours apart: say 7a.m. and 7 p.m. Your dog should get enough food so that he eats all of it. I like to enforce a command or two before he gets to eat. This is a good time to enforce your position as Top Dog. Remember, if you don’t take that position, your dog will! Your dog is looking to you for love and guidance. After 20 minutes, I pick up his bowl. Enforcing the above feeding schedule creates routine for your dog and maintains alpha position for you. You can almost always count on the fact that he will need to go out for a walk within 1 hour of a feeding. This will drastically reduce the amount of time it will take to housetrain your dog. This method of feeding will also keep your dog trim and not overweight. Additionally, you get the opportunity to practice a few commands when he is most motivated. About Us
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