How to Feed a Baby Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher puppies perform best on whole meat ingredients such as chicken, lamb and venison. The best foods are free from animal by products, additives and artificial colors. Along with a quality diet, baby Dobermans also require a committed feeding schedule, some food preparation and discreet choices when it comes to treats and supplements. However, as complicated as it sounds, feeding your baby Doberman takes only a few minutes a few times a day using supplies readily available at most pet supply stores.

  1. Quality Diet

    • Feed a quality diet with whole meat ingredients appropriate for your baby Doberman̵7;s life stage. Low quality foods cost less up front but cost you more in the end with higher veterinarian costs. Quality puppy foods provide all of your puppy̵7;s essential vitamins and minerals that are highly palatable and easy to digest. Low quality foods and table scraps generally cause stomach upset, skin and coat problems and increase the chance your puppy becomes ill because of being fed a nutrient deficient diet.

    Food Preparation and Feeding Schedule

    • Feed three to four small meals a day of dry kibble soaked in water. It is necessary to wait until the kibble has fully expanded with water before feeding to prevent stomach upset. Not soaking the kibble allows the kibble to swell inside the puppy̵7;s stomach. Equally, increase the amount of food in each serving to meet the puppy̵7;s needs. Growing puppies may eat three 1/2-cup meals one day and need three 1/4-cup meals the next day. Your puppy should eat enough food in one day to keep it satisfied throughout the night.

    Food Dishes and Sanitation

    • Feed puppies from stainless steel dishes, with sloping sides and a rubber ring around the bottom that stays in place, making it easy for your Doberman to eat. Dishes that flip over and frighten puppies can discourage good eating habits. Wash food and water dishes after each feeding to prevent bacteria from growing around the puppy̵7;s feeding station. It also helps to wipe the puppy̵7;s face and muzzle off with a warm, moist paper towel after meal times. Doing so removes food particles and debris that can feed bacteria and cause puppy acne.

    Treats and Supplements

    • Feed high quality, low-fat puppy treats sparingly to prevent obesity and poor eating habits. Dry kibble fed in small quantities, carrots and apple slices can also be used as treats and rewards. For puppies motivated by treats, avoid feeding commercial treats that include harmful ingredients such as dyes and additives to prevent skin and digestive disorders. Supplements generally are not necessary for puppies on a high quality diet. However, because Dobermans are prone to skin disorders, many Doberman puppy owners use supplements along with a high quality diet for optimal skin and coat health.