AboutDave Expertise My wife and I are active Sheltie owners. Helpful hints on discipline, training, disposition, selection, and of course acquisition. We think like dogs, so we can help you understand yours!
Experience 2 Shelties currently owned. Rescued and placed 9 dogs (3 non Sheltie).
Expert: Dave Date: 2/17/2008 Subject: Overweight puppy
Question Hello, We have a 5 month old sheltie that is the most perfect pet. She has been eating Iams puppy food since we got her and as per the instructions I have been giving her 1 cup in the morning and another in the evening. She does not get treats or people food and is walked 3 times a day, totally approximately one hour plus play time at home. She already weighs 25 lbs. I have been taking her to puppy class and the trainer remarked how overweight she was. Should I be feeding her less or change food. I am surprised with all the exercise she gets that she would have a weight problem. Thanks for any advice
Answer Hi Sue,
Remember that Shelties are an efficient herding machine that can go all day on a small amount of food. In comparison, our pets don't do nearly that much exercising (even walking 3 times a day) so feed them accordingly.
First, I recommend one cup of food per day for a normally active Sheltie, not two. Second, I advise owners to balance your food with the exercise and appearance. When she appears to get fat, cut back on food. Anything more than a loose pinch of skin is fat.
Cut back to one cup total. Half the puppy food, the rest make it adult formula and mix it. Keep up the exercise.
