[DuncansDad]

We have a 8wk old lab who is adjusting well but we are concerned on how much to feed him. From what I have read Labs are synonymes w/ overeating but we want to make sure he has enough. What is the best way to judge he's eating enough but not too much?

[labman]

Believe it or not, there are Labs that hardly eat enough to cover their ribs. A half a cup 3 times a day should be a good starting place. As you realize, his appetite is no guide. This link tells how to evaluate his condition, http://www.puppychow.com/products/po...condition.aspx Likely he is overweight now, perhaps a soccer ball with legs and a tail sticking out. You don't want a fast weight loss. Just stick with the half a cup each meal until he is narrower at the waist than chest, and his belly tucks up. At that point, the ribs should have just enough fat between them to keep the skin smooth. Once he has a nice waist, you can start to increase it little. Just keep a good eye on him, and adjust his chow as needed. My Labs always turn out a little on the small side 50-60 pounds at a year old. I usually am feeding them 3-4 cups a day of Pro Plan chicken and rice. For some reason, I had to feed Lucky more like 6 cups. My 5 month Holly is very small, 30 pounds at 5 months. She is nice and lean now and getting about 2 cups a day of Iams adult lamb and rice.

[DuncansDad]

Ok, we have been giving him a cup in the morning & 1 again at night. The odd thing is he will eat a little then walk away. Unless I stay by the bowl & tap it from time to time he will not finish. If there is anything left after a half hour I remove it & leave the water.

I'm guessing if he is still hungry he will search for his food bowl, correct?

[labman]

That is not typical Lab behavior. Usually they eat like they misunderstood the rule and though it was 15 seconds. Two cups may be more than he needs. Evaluate him as in the link I gave you. Don't hesitate to have the vet comfirm your judgement when if for routine shots. Then follow this procedure:

Put down the dish with what the dog should eat, and give it 15 minutes to eat. Then take it up. Do not give it anything to eat until its next scheduled meal. In a few days, it should be eating what it needs. Continue to check its ribs and adjust the food as needed. This is not easy. I had a Shepherd go 3 days on a few nibbles. I was a wreck, but she was fine. It is almost unknown for a healthy dog not to eat what it needs. Unfortunately, in too many cases, it is less than the package says, and less than the owner thinks the dog should have. Many dogs are quite good at holding out for tastier chow. Like kids, sometimes it calls for tough love.

[DuncansDad]

Thanks. I have another question but I will post it & see what you have to say.