Expert: Angela Donald - 1/20/2010

Question
Hello Angela,

I had asked you a few questions earlier on about a 13 week old boxer pup with Tibia fracture. This time my question is about her feeding regime. I feed her 4 meals a day . 2.5 cups of Eukunuba and Advance medium breed puppy formula dry kibble mixed along with a hanful of raw lean beef mince divided into small portions. some puppy milk before bed time and bones to chew on which is generally supervised so she doesn't choke on it and ofcourse some treats aswell. Is this too much or less? The recommendation on the packets are not very useful. She also does occasionaly eat sardines/ grated cheese. Anything else I can add or reduce. She is a bit on the leaner side and do notice some ribs showing and a sunken stomach. My vet says she is alright but I need some advice.

Thanks,
Shilpa.

Answer
Hi Shilpa,

Check the label on the dog food packet and feed the amount for a 60-70 lb adult dog. Split the amount into 3-4 meals per day up until she is a year old then you may feed twice daily. Please see this list of foods not to feed to dogs which can be harmful to them http://www.hitowerboxers.com/foodsnottofeedboxers.htm . It isn't uncommon to see the puppies ribs and the sunken stomach as the young boxer is lean in statue however its best to feel the ribs but not see them. The best way to eliminate the ribs from showing is increasing the amount of daily food intake until the desired results are obtained. I personally feed my boxers no less than 4 cups of food daily, two cups in the morning and two cups in the evening. I personally give my own boxers a supplement called NuVet Plus daily. Thank you for your question.

Angela Donald
Canine Behavior Consultant
http://www.hitowerboxers.com