Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/6/2005

Question
My dog always swallows her food whole and then chokes.  She will also eat until she pukes, she just will not stop eating until the food is gone and she also does that will chew bones, dental bones, rawhide bones,etc.  We once gave her this BIG cow ear and went to the store she had it gone by the time we got back from the store which was only about 1 hour.  Is there any way to get her to chew?, or a bigger chunk dog food where she will have to chew?  Also what would you suggest about the chew bones, etc? I mean shouldn't she stop eating and chewing when she is done and not keep going until it is gone?  Thank you for your time and advice in advance.  

Answer
Actually, I would recommend pre-soaking the food so it swells before she eats it.  That way it moves faster through the stomach. Feed two or three times daily so she will be less hungry with each feeding. As far as chewbones, etc.,  if she swallows them whole, they should be avoided.