Feeding Amount Question

[leorah]

Rather than go by the packaging estimates, you can calculate the actual number of calories your dog needs and feed enough to support that. Calories per cup, if not listed on the packaging, can be obtained from the product's website or customer service department.

Metabolic Energy Requirements For Dogs

Above is an easy to use calculator to help determine calorie needs for dogs of varying activity levels and pups. The page also contains a link to a dog food calculator Dog Food Calculator that will help calculate the quantity of food needed to meet calorie needs.

[FiveHorses]

Originally Posted by Josci

but we may not be able to afford the way top of line, so that was what I meant about the cost side of things.

And that's perfectly fair enough - there's the old saying about cutting one's cloth.

I have seen other posts where people claim that making their own dog food was as expensive as buying it. I've never found that to be the case personally, but I think I a LOT depends on what part of the country you're in and the availability of cheap cuts of meat. Certainly - IMHO - adding home cooked things like brown rice, sweet potatoes, veg (fresh or frozen), plain youghurt, etc helps stretch the dog food.

On Dr. Fox's website (the address escapes me at the moment) he has a recipe for dogs that you make up and freeze in patties. Although for your wee doggie, I'd suggest ice cube trays.

[need4Trees]

Originally Posted by Josci

I understand your opinion but I do not think our dog will be malnourished from eating Puppy Pedigree. I think that is taking things a little overboard. While you do not like the food...I get that...you do not have make the assumption she will become malnourished from eating it.

Well, ... o. k. ...

I am sorry if you thought I was taking things a little overboard...
However, I do Not feel that way because I am thinking from the viewpoint of the animals' health and I Honestly want what it best for all animals/pets. Each one.

Toxins and chemicals, artificial colors and flavors, fillers and by-products fill many bags and cans of food.

I Do believe that this food (and a lot of other foods) Lack all of the necessary nutrients needed for doggie health and longevity.

Right, I do Not like this food and there is a lot of other food that I do not like as well, but there are Many brands/companies that I do like!

And, so, Yes, I will make the assumption that she (and others eating the same types of food) will become malnourished from eating it.

My direction here is clearly with love and concern for animals. I write to be an informative source. I write to give suggestions, advice, tips and life experiences of what may be good and what may not be so good. Anyone can take it that way or not, anyone can take offense to posts but there is No way that anything I said here (IMO) to be offensive to others,... Just looking out for the doggies... True! in every way! ...