Feeding Your Lab Puppy: Avoid Overfeeding (Know How Much Food)

Okay, folks, let's talk about feeding your Lab puppy. This whole thing can be super confusing, I remember when I first got my boy, Buster, I was totally lost.

First, I started by reading the back of the food bag. You know, those feeding guidelines? Yeah, those are just a starting point, seriously. Every dog is different, just like us!

So, I grabbed a measuring cup – not just any cup, an actual measuring cup for baking. Precision is key, or you'll end up overfeeding or underfeeding your pup.

Then, I looked at Buster. Was he skinny? Pudgy? Just right? This is where you gotta use your eyes and hands. You should be able to feel his ribs, but not see them too prominently.

My Feeding Schedule (and how it changed)

• 8-12 weeks: I fed Buster three times a day. Small meals, spread out. I think it was about 1/2 cup per meal, but again, check that food bag and adjust!
• 3-6 months: I stuck with three meals a day, but I gradually increased the amount. I was watching his body condition like a hawk, making sure he wasn't getting too chunky or too thin.
• 6+ months: I switched to two meals a day. And the amount? Still adjusting! It’s a constant process of looking, feeling, and measuring.

I also paid attention to his…output. Yep, his poop. If it was too loose, I might have been feeding him too much, or the food might not be agreeing with him. If it was super hard, maybe not enough.

And I talked to my vet! Seriously, they're the experts. They helped me fine-tune the amounts and made sure Buster was growing at a healthy pace.

Honestly, it's a bit of trial and error. There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The best advice I can give is: read the guidelines, measure the food, observe your puppy, and consult your vet. You'll figure it out!