Doggone Etiquette—

Feed Me!

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dog:

I have a couple of questions for all you dogs. How often do you beg for food? Whenever you smell it? Or whenever any person in your family is eating anything at all? Do you con them into thinking they must share it with you? If you are a beggar and are rewarded with all those tidbits, shame on you! Or maybe the shame is on your people for swallowing your clever con artist act! Food is a very big part of your life, so let’s try to straighten out the problems that crop up.

A Word to the Dog’s Owner:

Like all other living creatures, dogs are self-preservationists and therefore food is always enticing. A keen sense of smell helps, too. A pet with no appetite is taken to the vet to find out what is wrong that the dog has no interest in food. More common are the dogs that are overweight due to overindulgent owners. It is so easy to feed Rufus a small breakfast of dog food, plus a hearty doggy dinner, all of which he polishes off in no time flat — and then to fall for those pleading looks that are asking for “dessert” or between-meal snacks.

There have been many discussions, and much research done, regarding the numerous dog foods on the market, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of making your own. When in doubt, rely on the food recommended by the breeder of your dog or your veterinarian. Commercial dog foods today cover just about every stage in a dog’s life from special food for puppies to grow on, to adult food for small dogs and large dogs, as well as foods for overweight dogs and senior citizens. A higher price does not guarantee any better nutrition for your dog. Look for foods labeled “complete and balanced” because they meet the nutritional requirements set forth by the associations regulating cat and dog foods.

There are almost as many ways to feed dogs today as there are breeds of dogs. Some people will only buy foods labeled natural, organic, vegetarian, or whatever, and if that is what satisfies you and your dog, fine. Some pet owners will only feed canned dog food, others only dry dog food, while most opt for a combination of dry kibble and canned. If your dog is healthy and doing well on what you are feeding him, stay with it, and if you must change for any reason, do so gradually over a period of days. 

Treats are a great part of a dog’s life and should be doled out as something special, primarily as a reward. Handing out a huge dog biscuit to a dog that is merely begging is a no-no. That’s the kind of treat you offer when you are about to leave Rufus home alone for a couple of hours. Treats are the very small bits of dog or people food that the dog earns by doing something obediently. Ask for a prompt “Sit” or “Down” before handing over that bit of cheese or hot dog to be taken gently from your hand. Pleading doggy eyes get a smile and a pat. And if all this reminds you of hand-outs to your kids, you’re right!

Speaking of tiny bits of treats, remember (and remind the kids) the caution about tossing treats to Rufus. Dogs generally inhale and gulp as they catch any bit of food tossed to them, just as they would a toy. The warning is that dogs of any size can choke very easily on foods such as popcorn, marshmallows, rice cakes, etc. Even a small piece of hot dog or hamburger can catch in the dog’s throat and cause serious choking. The Heimlich maneuver is better first aid than trying to shove your finger down the dog’s throat to dislodge the blockage. As usual, prevention is even better!

Until next time – BE GOOD!

—Bardi