Expert opinion | Ask our vet: How do I control feeding in dogs

Our pets add more to our lives than is often realised, including unconditional love, companionship and the emotional connection that humans crave.

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So, when they fall sick, stop eating or are generally not themselves, it’s often an emotional time for owners.

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Booking an appointment at a veterinary hospital or clinic can be stressful, with owners quick to jump to a ‘worst case’ diagnoses.

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To help ease the stress of the waiting room at your nearest vet, The South African website has enlisted the expert opinion of veterinarian Nyahoda Bertha Faustina to help answer your questions regarding what might be ailing your beloved pet.

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Do you have a question regarding your pet’s health that you’d like an answer to?

If so, let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1

Question: How do I control feeding in dogs 

Feeding in dogs can be challenging as they have the begging eyes compared to cats. Can you imagine your be-loved fur baby sitting by your table with those big begging eye looking straight into your eyes/ soul most of us can’t resist the temptation. If feeding is not controlled it will lead to obesity in most cases, which will result in many diseases e.g  heart disease, diabetes ( cats) , arthritis, pancreatitis e.t.c. Sometimes if a pet eats large amounts of food very fast this can lead to bloat which is an emergency 

Separating the animal during feeding helps the owner control the food the animal eats and what type of food the pet eats. One can use automatic feeders that can be set to dispense a certain amount of food at a certain time. Staggering the feeding times and feeding smaller measured amounts more frequently e.g. feeding 3 or 4 in a day. Some pets feel satisfied if the meals are frequent, unlike, having one big meal daily. Try and avoid treats high in fats and carbohydrates and use high fiber treats, e.g. green beans, and carrots; this will keep the pet with a feeling of being full. Weight loss diets that have a good balance (please consult your vet for a good recommendation) also keep the pet feeling full. 

Use of puzzle toys or special bowls that are puzzle-like or maze-like to slow the pet when eating and also provide mental stimulation in cases the pet is bored. One can use slow feeders or scatter the food on a flat, clean surface, e.g. a tray. Enrich the environment with toys and provide time for playing and mental stimulation. This reduces boredom. 

Always keep food stored securely to avoid access of the food to pets. Please consult your vet or the nearest vet, as there might be underlying health issues if the pet is consuming a large amount of food. 

DISCLAIMER: Always seek the advice of your nearest veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately.