Dog Feeding

The right amount of food depends on your dog’s size, age, activity level, health and the type of food you use. The feeding guide on the food package is a good starting point, but individual needs can vary. Your dog’s body condition, weight, energy level and overall wellbeing should be monitored regularly, and the portion size adjusted when needed.

Most adult dogs are fed once or twice a day. Puppies need more frequent meals, usually 3–4 times a day during the early growth stage. More frequent, smaller meals may also benefit some dogs with sensitive stomachs. The best feeding routine depends on the dog’s age, size, activity level and individual needs.

Foods that can be harmful or even dangerous for dogs include xylitol, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and garlic. Some foods can cause digestive upset, while others may be toxic even in small amounts. If you suspect your dog has eaten something dangerous, contact a veterinarian for advice.
For more tips, read our article Foods Dogs Should Avoid.

Many fruits, berries, vegetables and cooked meat or fish can be suitable for dogs in small amounts as part of a varied diet. For example, banana, apple, blueberries, carrot and cooked chicken are safe treats for many dogs. However, not all human foods are suitable for dogs, and some can be harmful or toxic.

  Special attention should be paid to salt, spices and highly processed foods. Many ready-made human foods contain too much salt, fat or seasoning for a dog’s needs and are generally not recommended for pets. Onion, garlic, xylitol, chocolate, grapes and raisins are also harmful or toxic to dogs.

  New foods should be introduced in small amounts while monitoring your dog’s wellbeing. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, allergies or a medical condition, dietary changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.

The best dog food is one that meets the individual needs of your dog. Age, size, activity level, breed, possible allergies, sensitive digestion and overall health all affect the choice of food. A growing puppy, an active sporting dog and an ageing senior dog may all need different types of complete dog food.

High-quality dog food provides the nutrients your dog needs in the right balance and supports wellbeing, digestion, muscle condition and healthy skin and coat. Grain-free or wheat-free dog food may suit many dogs, while for others, a complete food containing grains can also be an excellent option.

FINNERO’s ERA dog food range offers options for different needs, including grain-free recipes, foods suitable for sensitive dogs and complete foods designed for different life stages and sizes. The most important thing is to follow your dog’s wellbeing, weight, energy level and skin and coat condition over time.

Strenuous exercise should be avoided right before and immediately after feeding. This is especially important for large and deep-chested dogs, as allowing enough time between meals and intense activity may help reduce the risk of gastric torsion. A calm walk is usually different from heavy exercise, but feeding routines should always be adapted to the individual dog.

A puppy’s nutritional needs are very different from those of an adult dog. A growing puppy needs more energy, high-quality protein and the right balance of minerals, vitamins and fatty acids to support the normal development of bones, muscles, joints and internal organs.

Complete puppy food is designed to meet these needs. For large-breed puppies in particular, balanced nutrition is important, as overly rapid growth can put strain on developing bones and joints.

Puppies also need more frequent meals than adult dogs. Young puppies usually eat 3–4 times a day, and the number of meals can be gradually reduced as the puppy grows. A suitable diet supports healthy growth, immunity, learning and energy in everyday puppy life.

Food allergy in dogs can cause a variety of symptoms, and they are not always limited to digestion. Common signs include itchy skin, paw licking, ear infections, skin redness, rashes and recurring digestive issues such as diarrhoea, flatulence or vomiting. Some dogs may also show symptoms around the eyes or ears.

Food allergy symptoms can resemble many other conditions, which is why finding the cause is not always simple. If your dog has ongoing itching or recurring stomach problems, it is best to consult a veterinarian. Food allergies are often investigated with an elimination diet, where possible trigger ingredients are removed from the diet for a set period of time.

In addition to food allergy, symptoms may be caused by environmental allergies, parasites or other health issues. With the right diagnosis, it is easier to find a suitable diet that supports your dog’s wellbeing and helps reduce symptoms in the long term.

Yes, they can. Raw feeding, also known as BARF feeding, is of interest to many dog owners and can be one way to feed a dog when done correctly. The most important thing is to make sure the diet contains all the nutrients the dog needs in the right balance. Meat alone does not form a complete and balanced diet, as dogs also need fats, minerals, vitamins and other essential nutrients.

Raw diets typically include meat, bones, organs and various supplements. When planning a raw diet, the dog’s age, size, activity level and possible health conditions or special needs must be taken into account. Extra care is needed when planning diets for growing puppies, senior dogs and pregnant females.

For many dogs, high-quality complete food is the easiest way to ensure balanced nutrition. Combination feeding, where raw food is offered as part of an otherwise balanced diet, is also common. If you are considering raw feeding, it is important to learn about the topic carefully and, if needed, consult a veterinarian or a professional familiar with dog nutrition.

A well-nourished dog is alert and active, maintains a suitable body weight, and has healthy-looking skin and coat. Regularly monitoring your dog’s body condition, energy level, digestion and general wellbeing helps you notice changes early. If your dog’s weight changes clearly or you notice changes in behaviour, appetite, coat quality or stool, it may be time to reassess the diet.