[wendy003]

Hi! I'm new here, I have two puppies and one of them which is about 9 months old use to be eating so fast that it probably takes him about half a minute to finish his food but lately he's been eating really slow, about 1 and a half minute? I'm not sure what's wrong with him but I'm really worried. What could I do? DOes he have a chance that he has heartworm disease?

[labman]

I doubt it is a problem. It certainly isn't heartworm. There the dog just falls over dead with no warning. I think his nutritional needs may be dropping as his growth slows and you may be over feeding him. Check both of them as illustrated in this link, http://www.puppychow.com/products/po...condition.aspx Adjust their food and exercise as needed to reach ideal body condition. I wouldn't worry as long as both are eating enough to keep their ribs from showing. And oh, by the way, most of their calories should be coming from a dry dog chow. It is the best way to insure the dogs are getting the complete and balanced diet they need.

If you haven't had them on a heart worm prevenative, have them checked. Unless you live where a harsh winter has set in, start them on a prevenative and use it year around.