Instructions
Designate a specific spot for your Labrador retriever's meals. Select a spot that allows your dog some privacy. Although you may feel that your dog wants to eat near others, the proximity could lead it to feel defensive about guarding its food. Allow your Labrador retriever a quiet and calm place to eat in a slow and relaxed manner.
Feed your dog twice daily. If you have a Labrador puppy, give it three daily meals during its initial growing spurt. Once your dog has reached roughly three months in age, decrease the feedings to two times every day, no matter how much it may beg for more.
Maintain consistent meal times, and discard any old food that your dog ignores after the meal is over. Doing this will help your Labrador retriever understand the concept of a feeding schedule.
Give your dog dry food that contains a lot of protein as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Since Labrador retrievers are on the large side, seek out a food that is intended for bigger breeds. If you are unsure about what food to get, ask your veterinarian for recommendations.
Provide your dog with fresh, cool water at all times.
Control your dog's meal portions. For young Labs, a cup-size meal should suffice. As the dogs get older, slowly increase meal sizes. For adult dogs, two cups are generally enough.
Watch out for weight gain. The breed tends to have a voracious appetite, so weight gain is common. If you feel your Lab is overweight, cut back on how much it is consuming, and make sure it is getting sufficient daily exercise.
How to Feed a Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is a dog breed that is beloved around the world for its smart, loyal and affectionate nature. The sporting dog breed is native to the province of Newfoundland in Canada. Historically, the dogs assisted fishermen. If you are considering the possibility of bringing a Labrador retriever into your home as a pet, first learn how to properly feed the dog to keep it healthy, happy and energetic.