Free feeding

Free feeding, is a term regularly used within the Canine Science community. It refers to a specific method of feeding domestic dogs. But what exactly does 'free feeding' mean? Essentially, free feeding is when you allow your dog to eat food whenever they choose, rather than adhering to a rigid feeding schedule. In this guide, we'll delve into the details about free feeding, including its benefits, drawbacks, and what to consider if you're thinking about free feeding your dog.

What is Free Feeding?

'Free feeding' is a feeding technique where dogs can access food at any time throughout the day. The owner fills up the dog's food bowl and lets the dog eat when it wishes. As the day goes on, the owner refills the bowl whenever it's empty.

Benefits of Free Feeding

Free feeding comes with certain benefits. It's convenient for dog owners who work long hours and are not available for scheduled feeding times. For dogs, free feeding can help alleviate anxiety related to meal times, allowing them to eat in a relaxed manner, at their own pace.

Drawbacks of Free Feeding

Despite its convenience, free feeding has downsides. It can lead to weight gain, since some dogs lack self-control when it comes to food. It makes monitoring food intake difficult, and overeating might go unnoticed. Hence, it's not recommended for dogs at risk of obesity or diabetic dogs.

Things to Consider Before Free Feeding

If you're thinking about free feeding, it's important to consider your dog's breed, age, health status, and personality. Dogs with health conditions might not be suitable for it, and dogs who pack on pounds easily should be monitored. Also, multi-dog households might experience food aggression issues.

Ultimately, it's fair to say that free feeding isn't for every dog. Whether you choose to practice free feeding or stick to a feeding schedule should come down to what's best for your dog's health and wellbeing. Be sure to consult with a vet or a canine nutritionist before making a feeding decision. Remember that the core aim in any feeding method should always be to provide a balanced diet and ensure your dog stays in a healthy weight range.