Hi everyone, I wonder if anyone can help with my problem. My small breed dog had six healthy puppies four and a half months ago and obviously I kept one of them (a girl). Mia the mother has always been quite fussy but her daughter Zeeva is the same way. I put their dog food out everyday and they don't touch it what so ever. If Mia does go for the odd bite then Zeeva will copy her. If I give Mia and Zeeva a treat then the daughter will take hers but drop it and go straight for mums then go back to her own. It's at the stage now with feeding that I am worrying they are not getting all the nutrients and suppliments that they need. They will eat sliced meat and chicken but it seems to be only if they have got themselfes so hungry. I am at my wits end with trying to feed them properly so please guys, I need some advice. I have tried putting food down for ten mins and lifting it and so on but nothings working. They are not underweight by any means, infact Mummy needs to loose .8kg to be a perfect weight and daughter is just fine too.
Thanks
Gareth

Well, if they are a healthy weight then they are clearly eating enough! I would make sure you offer them a good quality balanced diet only ( I feed raw, it's not for everyone but it is easier than ever to get into now as loads of companies are doing 'complete' minces etc, the dogs will love it!) and they will be ok. If you are feeding dry I suggest you weigh exactly what they are eating between them (weigh it into the bowl, weigh any left overs and keep track) for a few days/week and when you know see if it sounds about right to other toy owners on here.
Basically though, if you have dogs who naturally eat the correct amount to keep themselves at a healthy weight then I would stop worrying, no need to tempt them with random treats, just give them a good balanced food and relax! Obviously keep an eye that they don't suddenly lose a lot of weight, maybe worth checking them once a week for a while and noting it down so you can be sure.

I agree completely with agilabs - just keep track to be sure they aren't losing a lot, and try not to worry. I know most dogs are so greedy they will eat until they burst, but it's no bad thing to have dogs who just eat what they need. Feed them a balanced diet and keep track of their weight and relax! :-)

My dog can be fussy but I have found that she will eat her kibble as treats for bringing the ball back. This is the same kibble that sits on the plate all day untouched !!!

Lucy how did your 'fussy' girl settle down (assuming she has) as I know she worried you with her eating patterns, or lack of.

Fingers crossed she has been fine for a good while now, apart from once in a blue moon. She eats ridiculously expensive kibble (Orijen!) with a small amount of cooked beef mince mixed in and warmed. Feels like pandering to her, but we've tried gradually cutting out the mince and she immediately stops eating again! And it's not that much work just to keep a week's worth cooked and warm it each night. Kind of makes me appreciate the ones that are throwing themselves at the counter screaming in excitement though! :-)

OMG I spoke too soon, I thought there was another bag of Orijen in the garage but there isn't, so tomorrow we'll be seeing if she'll condescend to eat JWB like the others!!!