Researchers have established that small dogs possess a dramatically different metabolism as compared to large breed dogs, due to physiologic effects of body mass. For example, studies have shown that a Great Dane weighing 100 pounds needs to consume about 23 calories per pound of body weight every day to maintain condition, whereas a 6-pound Pomeranian must take in 47 calories per pound of weight every day - more than twice as much. Also, small dogs and particularly toy breeds, have smaller stomachs that cannot handle a large amounts of food at one time. As a result, some highly active, adult small dogs may need to be fed 2-3 times a day to help to meet their unique nutrient and calorie needs. Most dog owners treat their small dog as a family member, preferring to feed their dog during breakfast and dinner times. Timing their meals with your meal will also help to reduce undesirable behaviors, such as begging at the dinner table.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the mother should be fed a palatable, digestible and high-energy food. Females should be fed a product specifically for all life stages the will supply the necessary nutrients for all stages of gestation and lactation. It¡¯s important to maintain the bitch in good body condition without allowing her to become over weight during early stages of gestation. Because of their small stature and higher metabolic needs, pregnant small dogs may need to be fed 3 to 4 times a day to get the energy and nutrients needed to maintain increased demands of a healthy pregnancy. After the puppies are born, the mother must still be fed with a nutrient dense high-energy food to help her produce adequate milk for the puppies. The 6 to 8 weeks of nursing puppies is one of the most demanding times of a dog¡¯s life.
Puppyhood
At 3 to 4 weeks of age, puppies usually begin the weaning process by eating their dam¡¯s food. This will help in reducing the demand for mother¡¯s milk, and get the puppies accustomed to eating a solid food that will help keep them in the best condition throughout their lives. This can be done by mixing solid food with warm water to make a soft and easy to chew gruel. The puppies should be fed several time times a day. They will often play with the food, and lick the gruel off of their paws - so make sure that they are eating adequate amounts for proper nourishment. Do not allow food to spoil in the bowl and change frequently to avoid spoilage.
Small breed puppies should be completely weaned between 6 to 8 weeks of age. Because their mouth and teeth are small, they must be fed a diet that is easy to chew and swallow. At this age, they will need to be fed 3 to 4 times a day to prevent low blood sugar, which is common in small breed dogs. This may occur simply from not consuming adequate amounts of calories. In addition, multiple feedings throughout the day helps to ensure that the puppies are getting all of the energy needed to grow and stay healthy.
Adulthood
Small dogs may be finicky eaters, requiring highly palatable diet that is specially formulated to meet the nutritional requirements for small breed dogs. You should never feed table scraps to your dog! Table scraps are not complete and balanced for dogs, and will often lead to a finicky eater or a dog that is constantly begging for people food. If you don¡¯t keep your dog on a diet specifically formulated for his nutritional needs, you may experience dry skin and coat problems, weight gain or other health concerns with your pet, which could have been avoided.
Senior Years
Dogs begin to show signs of aging at 7 years of age-hair coat changes, less jumping/activity, perhaps some visual or hearing losses. These body system changes may be subtle, so don¡¯t let them sneak up on you. Make sure you have your dog examined by your veterinarian at least once a year. It is always easier for both you and your pet to prevent a problem than it is to experience the treatment of one.
As dogs get older, they may tend to be less active. As a result, these dogs may require diets that are specially formulated for senior pets. These diets usually have increased protein and less calories for the less active pet. These diets designed with your senior pet in mind have the nutrients he needs to stay active and healthy throughout his senior years.
