My Maltese puppy is always hungry. How much and how often to feed?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on November 2nd, 2018

  You should weigh your dog. If you take him to your vet, you can usually weigh him for free. Then follow the instructions on the bag. If they recommend 2-3 cups (daily) for 15 -25 lbs puppies, then a 15 lbs puppy would get 2 cups split up over 4 feeds/day. If your puppy loses condition or weight I suggest you either increase the amount of feed or change (transition over several days) to a better puppy food such as manufactured by Hill's, Royal Canin or Purina Pro Plan, etc.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

  Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

  Published on April 6th, 2019

  Hi there. This will depend on the puppy's size, age, activity level, and what kind of food you're feeding. I would recommend following the feeding guidelines on the puppy food you're using - the package should have a chart showing how much to feed per day, based on the size of your puppy.

  

  2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Chad Brown, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 30th, 2018

  Hi there and thank you for your question.
  
  First, to answer your question about feeding two or three times daily. Over the years in my practice I have seen many puppies fed both ways. And these puppies look and act healthy and happy. As long as the owners are feeding the same total daily amount required to maintain healthy weight, You can feed either two or three times daily based on your schedule and what is convenient to you.
  
  Second, to answer your question about how much to feed. I try and keep this answer as simple as possible. During the first year that they are a puppy, I recommend weighing them each week on an accurate scale. After you obtain their weight and you feel as if their body condition score is ideal, please look on the back of your bag of food and feed the amount of food they recommend for that age and that weight of your animal. It’s just that easy. Once they reach adulthood, you do not need to weigh them nearly as frequently.
  
  Lastly, I cannot give you an accurate answer as to when to re-order the bag but you should have a real good idea once you start utilizing the method that I have recommended above.
  
  I hope this has helped you. Have a great day.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful