Hi I hope someone can offer advice, I have a 14 week Bichon, Molly, she is a real cutie, I am worried about her diet, I dont seem to be able to find anything she likes, the breeder reccomended IAMs we had to crush it a bit & soak in water to soften, but she never really appeared to like it & left more than ate or ate none at all, after a few weeks I tried pedigree chum puppy food & although she eats a VERY small amount she generally turns her nose up. Any suggestions would be greatly received, I would also welcome any ideas on quantity she should be eating, I know all puppies are different but a general guide would be helpful. Regards Pauline

Hi Pauline , unless she has something physically wrong with her , she will eat as much as she needs. Pups often go throughfaddy phases and some owners make the mistake of changing food over and over to try and get their pup to eat. :)

As long as her poo is normal on the food you are feeding her , as long as she is drinking okay and is in good shape otherwise , stick to one food . Put some down for breakfast , leave it for 10 minutes and then lift it up. Do the same at each meal and she will soon learn that the food is only there for a short while and she better eat it unless she wants to stay hungry to the next meal.

Quantities will vary on the individual ...don't put much down at each meal and if she eats it all very quickly and appears to be looking for more each time , gradually increase the amnount but keep an eye on her to make sure she doesnt get podgy

HTH

Melody :)

Hi Melody
Thanks for the advice I will certainly try it. Another question, do you know at what age to stop puppy milk? I am giving Molly watered down mpuppy milk on the advice of the vet but wondered when to stop & give just water, also do you think I should give her cows milk for a while, I am really not clear what to do, I have read plenty but nothing appears to address fluids apart from saying give plenty which I do. Thanks Pauline

you can probaly stop the puppy milk within the next month or so,one of my dogs is 3yrs. and drinks puppy milk ,she loves it!!
some dogs get upset tummies on cow's milk so take it slowly.

good luck christine

p.s make sure your pup always has fresh water down,dont rely just on the milk for fluids.

Hi Christine
Thanks for the advice, do you use full fat milk & do you put it down all the time with the water or just a bowl full once a day? I have been giving Molly ice cubes to lick will its been so hot as well as constant fresh water. Thanks Pauline

Hi Melody
Can you suggest a suitable popular food for a bichon, I know they are all different but dont want to keep swapping & changing. Regards Pauline