For many dog owners, a Doberman being picky about food can be as frustrating as a child refusing meals. Owners often know that human food is not ideal for dogs, yet the Doberman still refuses its dog food. To avoid picky eating in dogs, a Doberman should develop stable eating habits from a young age.
Many people believe that a Doberman can chew bones to grind its teeth and also enjoy the activity. However, chicken bones are not suitable. Chicken bones are hollow, unlike solid pork or beef bones, and after being broken they splinter into sharp fragments. These fragments can cut or even puncture the dog’s stomach and intestines. If the digestive tract begins bleeding, the dog may show bloody stool, diarrhea, or vomiting, and in serious cases surgery may be required. This is especially dangerous for puppies. Some veterinarians believe that if a Doberman already receives enough balanced nutrition, it does not need extra treats at all. Others believe that moderate treats can help strengthen the bond between owner and dog.
According to professional veterinary suggestions, owners can follow several principles when choosing treats:
1. Pay attention to the ingredients and appearance of the treats. Check whether there are too many colorings or additives, and whether the color looks unnaturally bright.
2. It is best not to let the Doberman form the habit of eating treats every day. The best time to give a treat is when the dog has done something that satisfies you. In this way, the dog learns that certain behaviors earn rewards, and it also understands that you are the one who decides whether treats are given.
3. Snacks for a Doberman can certainly contribute to obesity. Once the dog begins gaining too much weight, owners should immediately consider reducing treats.
4. When the Doberman does not want to eat, treats should never be used to replace a proper meal.
A reminder:
It is generally recommended to feed four times a day before three months of age, three times a day from three to eight months, and twice a day after eight months. If you do not want the Doberman to become interested only in tasty food, then from puppyhood its regular dog food should be the only main meal. During meals, help the dog form the habit of focusing on eating. If the dog has not finished within thirty minutes, remove the food and wait until the next mealtime. Do not let the Doberman develop the habit of eating whenever it wants or refusing food because something tastier may appear later.