[nanniesrock]

I'd like to hear some opinions on why you should not free feed. I've had a very difficult time feeding Harley & taking her food away after 20 min. She's never anywhere close to being done. I understand that once she realizes it won't be available, she'll eat. I just wonder if it's necessary for a mellow/ laid back dog. She prefers to graze, and I'd be interested in hearing any reasons why I should not alllow it.

 

[nanniesrock]

ok, I do monitor the amount I feed (1 & 1/2 scoops) This will often last for 24 hours. She has never eaten more than 2 scoops a day.
Also, a neighbor gave me a dog igloo recently, so instead of crating her, she stays in the yard while I'm at work. Water, but no food. (My fence is 8 ft. privacy fence, and she's not a barker, which makes me worry less about her being stolen)
She doesn't have dominance issues, which is one area where food comes into play.
This info has been helpeful, so if anyone else has anything to add....
Thanks

 

[nanniesrock]

1) It can lead to finicky eating...after awhile, many free fed dogs turn thier nose up at thier food, and panicked owners start coming up with creative ways to make meals more enticing. This can lead to some major health issues.


This is Harley all the way. It never occured to me it might be linked to free feed.
This thread had been very informative.