Switch from free feeding to scheduled feeding ?'s

[Dee]

Hi,

Just wondering if someone could give me advice on how to switch my 3 dogs to scheduled feeding. We've always free fed and have never had a problem with it, but since we want to start NILIF with our 7 mo. old rottie, we thought it might be best (and much easier) to switch everyone over. How do I figure out who eats how much? How will I know if my pup's getting enough? Also, are there other benefits to scheduled feeding?

And, I know this must sound really stupid, but approx. how long after they eat will they have to eliminate? Just trying to figure out a good schedule and to make sure I stay home long enough after they eat so they're comfortable.

Thanks for all your help!

Dee

[Rott-Wiley]

Well, how much you feed is going to depend on what you are feeding. Is it a dry kibble like dog food? There should be a chart on the bag that gives you an idea of how much to start feeding. I would suggest feeding twice a day and pick up the food after about 20 minutes. After they eat, let them out to eliminate. May want to let them out again in a couple of hours until they get into a routine.

[Judi W]

That will help you decide the amount for starting out.

In the morning, put half of the ration in each bowl. Call dogs to breakfast. Drink you coffee for 15 minutes. Pick up food bowls. If not empty, put them up high until dinner time. In the evening, repeat the process.

[Dee]

Thanks Rott-Wiley and Judy W!!

We've switched them over and everything is going fine!

Thanks for your time.

Dee