Feeding

Many new owners already know how and what they want to feed their dog, based on past experience. There is a huge range of food products to choose from. These guidelines will help to keep your Greyhound fit and healthy. Ask the kennel for details of the feed your dog has been fed and introduce change gradually.

Water:

Should be available at all times and changed regularly. Never leave your dog without fresh water.

Complete Foods:

Are the most effective, economical and efficient way of feeding your dog the proteins, vitamins and minerals they need. When you buy, look for a complete food with approximately 20% protein, which is ideal for a pet dog. Use cold water only to soak or the vitamins will be destroyed. Follow the feeding instructions on the packaging according to the weight of the dog. Feeding the main meal early in the afternoon can assist with housetraining. Keep an eye on your dog’s stools. Should they become loose, you may need to change the brand. Generally complete foods are based on biscuits or cereal, tinned food is not necessary but can make a meal more appetising.

Fresh Meat & Vegetables:

All Greyhounds will enjoy this treat and are very appreciative of any left-overs. However, this is not needed everyday and should form part of the main meal.

When to feed:

It is generally agreed your Greyhound will benefit from a small cereal breakfast in the morning. Warm milk or milk and water will be much appreciated! A main meal can then be given at lunch time or in the evening – whichever suits your routine, but try to stick to regular feeding times each day.

Biscuits and chews:

These will aid the dog’s digestion and help to keep their teeth clean. They can also be used as training aids and of course as an extra treat!

Additional items:

A teaspoon of sunflower/vegetable/fish oil added to the main meal will help maintain a glossy coat. Cooked eggs in any form can be enjoyed once a week or so. Cheese, an excellent training aid, can be crumbled on top. Oily fish, such as sardines or pilchards and other filleted fish are a healthy treat.

Human chocolate, raisins, salt and raw onions are poisonous to dogs. They simply cannot digest it. Only give doggy treats. Make sure all children and visitors are aware of the significant danger to your pet. Be aware of danger if your pet gets into household waste bins from open tins and glass etc. Keep the bin secure. Never allow your Greyhound to scavenge or pick up bits of food outside the home. There may be poison or vermin bait present and the consequences can be a serious illness or even death.

Common sense will tell you not to feed the dog before a long journey, just carry water for the comfort stops. Never feed just before or just after exercise. Always wait about one hour. It is recommended that you feed your greyhound from a raised bowl on a stand whenever possible as greyhounds have such long necks and legs that it is awkward for them to eat from a bowl placed on the floor. For them, an elevated dog bowl on a stand (as pictured below), available from pet supply stores or catalogues may be the answer. An upturned bucket may serve the same purpose. Contact any member of our team for help with feeding problems. We will have encountered them before and are happy to help.