One of the perks of making healthy dog food is that we get to answer some interesting questions from dog owners. One question we hear a lot is: “Is there a best time of day to feed my dog?” The answer is both yes and no. We’re not trying to dodge the question—there’s just a little nuance to it. Let us explain.
Yes, there is a “best” time in the sense that you should pick a feeding schedule and stick with it. But no, there’s no universal rule that says all dogs need to eat at 8:00 am sharp. The best time to feed your dog depends on their routine and needs. Once you figure out what works, consistency is key.
Two Feedings a Day
Let’s talk about feeding schedules. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines—if your dog has unique health concerns, your vet can help you develop the right plan.
Most vets recommend feeding adult dogs twice a day, ideally spaced about 12 hours apart. For example, if you feed your dog at 6:00 am before heading to work, aim for the second meal around 6:00 pm.
You don’t need to be precise down to the minute. Life happens, and it’s okay if feedings are off by an hour or so. What matters more than exact timing is sticking to a consistent routine.
Feeding twice a day helps maintain dietary stability. It can also prevent issues like nausea, bloating, or your dog scarfing down food too quickly because they’ve gone too long without eating.
Puppies Need More Frequent Meals
While two meals a day works for adult dogs, puppies need to eat more frequently—just like human babies do. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- New puppies: 3-4 meals per day
- Puppies 6-12 weeks: 4 meals per day
- Puppies 3-6 months: 3 meals per day
Try to space meals evenly to keep your puppy’s digestion stable. For example, if you’re feeding four times a day, aim for every 4 hours during the day, with a break for sleep at night.
The same goes for senior dogs, nursing mothers, and highly active dogs—they may need more frequent feedings too. If you’re unsure, your vet can recommend the best schedule based on your dog’s needs.
What About Free-Choice Feeding?
Some dog owners leave food out all the time, a practice known as free-choice feeding. While it works for some dogs, veterinarians generally recommend avoiding this method. Leaving food out all the time can encourage overeating, which can lead to weight gain and health problems over time.
If your dog prefers to graze throughout the day, try portioning out their food and offering it at set times. This way, you can maintain control over their intake while still giving them flexibility.
A Consistent Routine + Healthy Food = A Happy Dog
Feeding your dog isn’t just about keeping their belly full. It’s also about making sure they’re getting the right nutrition on a reliable schedule that works for both of you. Choosing a healthy, easily digestible food—like Nextrition—is one way to support your dog’s well-being.
Nextrition’s cold-pressed dog food is packed with natural ingredients that promote good gut health, and it’s designed to be appealing even for picky eaters. When you combine a consistent feeding schedule with nutritious food, you’re giving your dog the best chance to stay healthy, happy, and energized.
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “best time to feed your dog.” But with a bit of trial and error—and some help from your vet—you'll be able to find a schedule that works for your furry friend. Stick to that routine, and pair it with a quality food like Nextrition, and you’ll be on the right track to keeping your dog in great shape.
