AboutKim Wingate Expertise I can answer general questions about Poodles. My specific area of expertise is Standard Poodles, but I will answer all questions about Poodles and dog related questions if I can. If I can't answer your question, I will be able to find information or someone who can.
Experience I am a Dog Groomer and Dog Trainer, who has raised Standard Poodles for over 20 years. I can answer Housebreaking questions, Obedience questions, Grooming questions, Breeding questions, and General Dog questions.
Organizations I am a member of the AKC.
Education/Credentials I have worked at several Pet stores in my area, worked for a year as a Vet Tech, was an apprentice for a Dog Trainer, and have also worked at a Grooming/Showing kennel for several months. I have also raised, shown, trained, and groomed my own Standard Poodles for over 20 years.
Question My toy poodle is just over eight pounds and is 5 years old. I have been feeding only dry food and about a cup a day. Once in a while I give her some egg or cheese or meat, but only a little bit. I would like to know if I am feeding her too little and also if I should incorporate wet food. She eats her dry food well and likes it so I don't know if wet food should be introduced at this stage of her life.
Answer Hello Patricia,
It is totally up to you at this point if your dog is eating well on her own. You can add things like salmon, sardines, carrots, peas, hamburger (or chicken, turkey or lamb burger), or canned food once in a while as a treat, but I would continue with her dry food on a daily basis.
If your dog is looking on the thin side, and eats her food then looks like she is still hungry you can feed her a bit more, 1 1/4 cups a day. If she looks to be in good weight (where you can feel her ribs and a small layer of fat under her skin, but can't see them just by looking) then you can stick with 1 cup a day. If you do give her any of the suggestions that I recommended, give her 3/4 a cup dry food and 1/4 cup of the suggested item.
Salmon or Sardines are a good source of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that are good for a dogs skin and coat. You can also give her cooked eggs (like what is left over from breakfast) as they are also good for her.
I hope this helps you some. If you have other questions for me, please feel free to ask.
