Dog Feeding Tips Every UK Owner Should Know

Table of contents

dog feeding tips

We hope this article and our related article on Toxic foods for dogs will be helpful to you – especially if you are a new dog owner.

Tips Every UK Owner Should Know

Feeding your dog can feel overwhelming at times. There are endless brands, conflicting advice, and strong opinions from every direction. But it doesn’t have to be complicated.

I’ve written this guide to help you cut through the noise and make clear, confident choices around feeding your dog. Whether you’re a first-time owner or want to improve your current routine, these dog feeding tips are based on real-world experience and current UK guidance.

This article covers everything from how to feed your dog properly to choosing the best dog feeding routine for their age, lifestyle, and health.

You’ll also find practical advice on common feeding mistakes, portion sizes, and what to do if your dog stops eating.

Let’s start with the basics.

How to feed your dog properly

Feeding isn’t just about what’s in the bowl. It’s also how, when and where you feed your dog.

Here’s what I recommend:

Feed in a calm environment
Choose a quiet space without distractions. Make it consistent. Avoid feeding straight after walks or when your dog is very excited.

Use feeding times as part of the routine.
Dogs thrive on structure. Feeding at roughly the same times each day can help with digestion, behaviour and even toilet habits.

Watch body condition, not just the packet
Feeding guides on food packets are a helpful starting point. But your dog’s individual needs depend on their breed, age, activity level and metabolism.

Weigh food rather than guessing.
Guessing by eye often leads to overfeeding. Use scales or a measuring cup to stay consistent.

Finding the best dog feeding routine

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some general feeding schedule tips:

Puppies (under 6 months)
Feed 3–4 small meals a day. Their tummies are small, but their energy needs are high.

Adult dogs
Most do well on two meals a day – morning and evening. It helps manage hunger and keeps blood sugar steady.

Senior dogs
May benefit from smaller, more frequent meals if their digestion has slowed.

Active dogs
Breeds like Collies or Spaniels may need more food or an extra meal, depending on exercise levels.

Avoid free feeding
Leaving food down all day can encourage picky eating and overfeeding. Stick to set mealtimes.

Ditch the bowl
Feeding from enrichment toys, scatter feeding, or snuffle mats turns mealtimes into a mentally stimulating activity.

Healthy dog feeding guidelines: what to feed and why

In the UK, pet food must meet certain labelling standards, but quality varies widely.

Here’s what to look for:

  • Clear ingredient lists (meat, not vague derivatives)
  • Named protein sources (e.g. chicken, not “animal protein”)
  • Avoid foods loaded with cereals, colours, and preservatives
  • Consider fresh or raw diets if well-balanced and vet-approved

You can check food reviews on All About Dog Food, a UK-based, independent site.

I feed fresh food myself, with occasional high-quality kibble like Barking Heads or Forthglade.

dog feeding tips

Avoid feeding foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate or artificial sweeteners; these can be toxic.

Puppy vs adult dog feeding advice

Your dog’s needs change over time.

Puppies
Need more frequent meals and a diet high in protein and fat to support growth. Look for foods labelled specifically for puppies or all life stages.

Adult dogs
Need balanced maintenance diets. Watch weight and activity levels closely – this is when habits form.

Senior dogs
May have reduced appetites or need food with joint support and easy digestion. Some also need fewer calories.

Speak to your vet if your dog has a health condition – food can play a key role in managing it.

Common mistakes and what to avoid

Feeding too much
One of the most common issues. Overweight dogs are at higher risk for joint problems, diabetes and heart issues.

Changing foods too quickly
Sudden switches often cause upset stomachs. Transition over at least 7–10 days, gradually mixing the new food in.

Overdoing treats
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Use some of their regular food for rewards during training.

Skipping meals
Dogs benefit from regular mealtimes. Skipping meals or feeding at random times can cause behavioural and digestive issues.

What to do if your dog refuses food or has an upset stomach

This happens now and then, especially after changes in routine, food, or stress.

Try these steps:

  • Check for obvious causes (new food, medication, stress)
  • Offer bland food like plain chicken and rice for a day or two
  • Make sure they’re drinking water
  • Avoid coaxing with too many treats – it encourages fussiness

If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours (or 12 hours in a puppy), speak to your vet. Vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy also need attention.

FAQs

How often should I feed my dog?
Most adult dogs do well on two meals a day. Puppies need three to four meals, while older dogs may benefit from smaller meals more often.

What’s the best food for dogs in the UK?
There’s no single best. Look for foods with clear ingredients, good meat content, and few fillers. Sites like All About Dog Food can help.

Can I feed my dog human food?
Some yes, some no. Plain chicken, rice, and cooked vegetables are fine. Avoid onions, grapes, chocolate, and foods with added salt or sugar.

Should I stick to the same food or change it up?
Dogs do well with consistency. If changing food, do it gradually over a week or so to avoid upset stomachs.

How can I make feeding more interesting?
Try ditching the bowl. Use puzzle toys, snuffle mats, kongs, or scatter feeding to make meals more engaging.

Conclusion: Building the right feeding habits

Feeding your dog isn’t just about calories. It’s about routine, health, and building trust through consistency.

Take the time to find what works for your dog. Observe, adjust, and don’t be afraid to ask for support.

If you’re unsure where to start, I offer one-to-one support for local dog owners. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes makes all the difference.

See my services or drop me a WhatsApp message on 07707 63344 if you’d like tailored advice.

Resources

Related blog posts you may be interested in