Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid with Lhasa Apso Dogs
As a Lhasa Apso owner, you want to ensure that your furry friend is healthy and happy. Feeding your dog is an important part of their daily routine, but it’s not always easy to know what the best approach is. There are a number of common feeding mistakes that owners make when it comes to feeding their Lhasa Apso dogs. These mistakes can lead to a range of health problems and should be avoided at all costs. In this article, we will delve deeper into some of the most common feeding mistakes to avoid with Lhasa Apso dogs, and provide actionable advice on how to keep your pup healthy and happy.
Feeding Too Much
Overfeeding your Lhasa Apso can cause a range of health issues and ultimately affect their quality of life. It’s easy to fall into the trap of giving in to those pleading puppy eyes or believing that a little extra won’t hurt. However, too much food can lead to obesity, diabetes, or joint problems. If you want to ensure that your Lhasa Apso remains healthy and happy, you should pay attention to your pet’s diet and feeding habits. Let’s dive deeper and look at some common feeding mistakes to avoid, like not counting treats or ignoring portion sizes. Don’t forget that feeding your dog a balanced diet is crucial, and you can read more about it at our article on balanced diet for Lhasa Apsos.
Not Counting Treats
It can be easy to forget just how many treats your Lhasa Apso has had throughout the day. Treats are an important part of training and rewarding good behavior, but over-treating can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Not counting treats can quickly add up and ruin your pet’s diet.
To avoid this mistake, it’s a good idea to keep track of the number of treats your Lhasa Apso is consuming each day. You can use a simple table to keep track of the treats your dog has had, and limit the treats to a certain number per day. Below is an example of how you can keep track of your Lhasa Apso’s treats:
| Date | Treat Type | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| December 1st | Chicken Jerky | 2 pieces |
| December 1st | Peanut Butter Biscuits | 1 biscuit |
| December 2nd | Salmon Bites | 3 pieces |
By keeping track of your Lhasa Apso’s treats, you can ensure that you’re not overfeeding, and that your pet is receiving an appropriate amount of nutrients. Remember to choose high-quality, nutritious treats, and to limit the number of treats you give your dog each day.
For more information on Lhasa Apso nutrition and treats, visit our articles on Lhasa Apso puppy nutrition, homemade vs commercial dog food for Lhasa Apsos, and Lhasa Apso food allergies. Learn more about the importance of healthy dog treats on our article about Lhasa Apso treats, nutrition, and health.
Ignoring Portion Sizes
Proper portion control is crucial for Lhasa Apso dogs to maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity-related health issues. However, many dog owners tend to ignore portion sizes, which can lead to overfeeding their pets. It is important to follow the feeding guidelines provided by your veterinarian or the dog food manufacturer to ensure that your Lhasa Apso gets the appropriate amount of food each day.
One common mistake in ignoring portion sizes is not measuring the food accurately. Many dog owners estimate the amount of food based on the size of the bowl or the dog’s appetite, without considering the recommended serving size for their pet. Using a measuring cup or a kitchen scale can help ensure that your Lhasa Apso is getting the right amount of food, without the risk of overfeeding.
Another mistake that dog owners make is feeding their pets too frequently or infrequently. Most Lhasa Apso dogs do well with two meals a day, but some may require more or fewer meals depending on their individual needs. Feeding your dog too frequently can lead to overeating and weight gain, while infrequent feedings can cause your dog to become too hungry and eat too quickly, which can lead to digestion issues.
To help you determine the appropriate portion sizes for your Lhasa Apso, consider using the following table as a general guideline:
|Weight of Dog|Recommended Portion Size|
|:———–|:———————–|
|5 lbs. |1/3 – 1/2 cup |
|10 lbs. |1/2 – 3/4 cup |
|15 lbs. |3/4 – 1 cup |
|20 lbs. |1 – 1 1/4 cups |
Note that these are general guidelines and your Lhasa Apso’s individual requirements may vary. Factors such as age, activity level, and overall health should also be considered when determining the appropriate portion size for your pet.
By not ignoring portion sizes and following a proper feeding schedule, you can help your Lhasa Apso maintain a healthy weight and live a long, happy life.
Feeding the Wrong Foods
One common feeding mistake that can negatively impact the health of Lhasa Apso dogs is providing them with the wrong types of foods. It can be tempting to share your own meals or serve them low-quality dog food, but this can lead to serious health issues in the long run. It’s important to pay attention to the ingredients in your dog’s food and choose options that provide them with the necessary nutrients for their wellbeing. Let’s take a closer look at the specific types of foods you should avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso.
Human Food
Feeding your Lhasa Apso human food might seem tempting, but it is crucial to understand the harm it can cause. Human food is often high in fat, salt, and sugar, which can lead to obesity, kidney damage, and diabetes in dogs. Additionally, certain human foods can be toxic to Lhasa Apsos, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
To avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso harmful human foods, consider sticking to a strict dog food diet. If you feel the urge to give your furry friend a taste of human food, make sure it is dog-friendly, such as boiled chicken, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
Here are some harmful human foods to avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso:
- Chocolate (contains theobromine and caffeine, which can be toxic)
- Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney damage in dogs)
- Onions (contains a compound that can damage dogs’ red blood cells)
- Garlic (can cause anemia in dogs)
- Avocado (contains a toxin called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs)
- Alcohol (can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in dogs)
- Caffeine (can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, and muscle tremors)
It is best to consult with your veterinarian about your Lhasa Apso’s diet to ensure they receive optimal nutrition and avoid any harmful foods. By following a strict dog food diet and avoiding human foods, you can keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Low-Quality Dog Food
When it comes to the well-being of your Lhasa Apso, feeding them low-quality dog food can be a big mistake. Your dog’s food is the foundation of their health and longevity, which is why choosing the right type of food is crucial. Feeding your Lhasa Apso with cheap, low-quality dog food may seem like a budget-friendly option, but it can have long-term negative effects.
Here are some reasons why you should avoid feeding low-quality dog food to your Lhasa Apso:
- Low Nutritional Value: Low-quality dog food lacks the essential nutrients your Lhasa Apso needs to thrive. It often contains fillers and by-products that offer little to no nutritional value, leaving your dog with empty calories.
- Poor Digestibility: Unlike premium dog food options, low-quality dog food can be hard on your dog’s digestive system. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset, leading to poor health and discomfort for your pet.
- Artificial Colors and Flavors: Many low-quality dog foods contain artificial colors and flavors, which can harm your dog’s health. These additives can cause allergies, auto-immune disorders, and even cancer in some cases.
- Lack of Quality Control: Low-quality dog food manufacturers often use questionable ingredients that may not be up to the required standards. This can put your dog’s health at risk, as the food may contain contaminants, mold, or harmful toxins.
To ensure that your Lhasa Apso stays healthy and happy, it’s important to invest in high-quality dog food. Look for options that are made from whole ingredients, free from fillers and by-products, and have a high nutritional value. Your Lhasa Apso deserves the best, so make every meal count by giving them a balanced and nutritious diet.
Feeding the Wrong Times
Feeding your Lhasa Apso at the wrong time can have negative consequences on their health and behavior. You may be perplexed about when to feed your pup, but fear not! With a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that your Lhasa Apso is receiving their meals at the optimal times throughout the day. Let’s explore some common mistakes to avoid when it comes to feeding times.
Too Close to Exercise
Feeding your Lhasa Apso too close to their exercise routine can lead to discomfort, digestive issues, and even vomiting. This is because during exercise, blood flow and oxygen are redirected away from the digestive system and towards the muscles. If your Lhasa Apso has recently eaten, their body may struggle to digest the food properly, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.
How long to wait before exercise after feeding?
A general rule of thumb is to wait at least 1-2 hours after your Lhasa Apso has finished their meal before engaging in exercise. This allows their body enough time to digest the food and prevent any potential health issues. However, the length of time may vary depending on the size and age of your Lhasa Apso.
To make it easier for you to determine the appropriate waiting time, refer to the table below.
| Lhasa Apso Size | Waiting Time after Feeding |
|---|---|
| Small (0-10lbs) | 1 hour |
| Medium (11-20lbs) | 1.5 hours |
| Large (21-30lbs) | 2 hours |
Other considerations to keep in mind
Aside from waiting enough time before exercise, there are other factors to keep in mind to ensure your Lhasa Apso’s health and safety during and after exercise. These include:
– Providing enough water: Make sure to provide fresh water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
– Adjusting their food portions: If your Lhasa Apso is very active, they may require more food to fuel their activities. Conversely, if they are more sedentary, they may need less food to avoid becoming overweight or obese.
– Sticking to a consistent feeding routine: By feeding your Lhasa Apso at the same time every day, you can help regulate their digestion and prevent any potential issues with their digestive system.
By keeping these factors in mind and waiting the appropriate amount of time before exercise, you can help ensure your Lhasa Apso stays healthy, happy, and active.
Leaving Food Out All Day
Leaving food out all day for your Lhasa Apso may seem like a convenient option but it can lead to several problems. If you leave food out all day, your dog is more likely to overeat, which can lead to obesity and related health problems such as heart disease and arthritis. Leaving food out all day can attract insects and rodents, which can contaminate the food and make your dog sick.
To avoid these issues, it is best to establish a regular feeding schedule for your Lhasa Apso. Feed your Lhasa Apso at the same times every day, and once the feeding time is over, remove the food bowl from sight. This approach will help your dog understand that food is only available for a limited time, and it will make it easier for you to monitor their food intake.
If you are concerned about your Lhasa Apso getting hungry between meals, you can offer healthy snacks or treats at designated times during the day. Be sure to choose snacks that are appropriate for your dog’s age, size, and dietary needs. Additionally, make sure that your Lhasa Apso has access to plenty of fresh drinking water throughout the day by providing multiple water bowls throughout your home.
While it might be tempting to leave food out all day for your Lhasa Apso, it can lead to several problems ranging from overeating to contamination. Establishing a regular feeding schedule and providing healthy snacks in between meals can help keep your Lhasa Apso healthy and happy.
Not Providing Enough Water
A vital aspect of a Lhasa Apso’s health is hydration. Without enough water, your furry friend’s body can experience severe consequences. However, it’s not just about providing them with water. You need to consider the quality and quantity, as well as accessibility, to ensure your Lhasa Apso is properly hydrated throughout the day. Here are some crucial factors to keep in mind when it comes to water consumption.
Not Enough Bowls
One of the most common feeding mistakes to avoid with Lhasa Apso dogs is not providing enough bowls. It may seem like a minor detail, but it can actually have a big impact on your dog’s health and well-being. A single bowl for food and water is not enough. Your Lhasa Apso should have two separate bowls, one for water and one for food. This ensures that your dog always has access to clean water, and it also helps to prevent the transfer of bacteria from the food bowl to the water bowl.
To avoid this issue, consider purchasing a set of bowls specifically for your Lhasa Apso. You can find a variety of options at your local pet store or online. Choose bowls that are the appropriate size for your dog and are made from safe materials, such as stainless steel or ceramic.
Another option to consider is a raised feeding station, which can help to reduce strain on your dog’s neck and spine while eating. Make sure that the feeding station is the appropriate height for your Lhasa Apso.
It’s also important to clean your dog’s bowls regularly, as bacteria can build up over time. Wash them with warm, soapy water daily, and replace them if they become cracked or damaged. Not providing enough bowls for your Lhasa Apso may seem like a small mistake, but it can have a big impact on your dog’s overall health and well-being. Make sure to provide your furry friend with the appropriate number of clean bowls for food and water to ensure a happy, healthy life together.
| Common Mistake | Consequences | Solution |
| Not enough bowls for food and water | Can lead to dehydration and bacterial transfer between bowls | Provide separate bowls for food and water and clean them regularly |
Dirty Water
One of the most common feeding mistakes that pet owners make with their Lhasa Apso dogs is not providing enough clean water. Often, pet owners might not realize that the water bowl should be refilled or cleaned regularly. Dirty water can cause several issues for your Lhasa Apso, such as infections and dehydration. It’s essential to provide your Lhasa Apso with a clean bowl of fresh water every day.
To begin with, pet owners should make sure they have enough bowls available for their Lhasa Apso. One bowl might not be enough, especially during hot weather when your dog is more likely to drink more water. You should consider keeping multiple bowls around your home in different areas, such as in the kitchen and outside in the yard.
Additionally, Lhasa Apsos are known to be picky drinkers, so pet owners should consider the type of water they are providing. Some Lhasa Apsos prefer cooler water at room temperature, while others prefer slightly warm water. It’s essential to observe your dog’s drinking habits and change the temperature of the water accordingly.
Lastly, pet owners should ensure that the water is not contaminated or dirty. Lhasa Apsos have a sensitive digestive system and might get infections from drinking contaminated water. You should change the water bowl regularly and wash it using soap and warm water. Additionally, you should ensure that the container is dried thoroughly before refilling it with fresh water.
To summarize, providing clean water to your Lhasa Apso is critical for their health and wellbeing. Pet owners should make sure they have enough water bowls, provide the right temperature of water, and keep the container clean and free of contaminants. By avoiding the mistake of dirty water, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry companion.
| Dirty Water: | Solutions: |
|---|---|
| Presence of bacteria and other contaminants in the water. | Wash the water bowl regularly with soap and warm water. Ensure that it is dried thoroughly and refilled with fresh water. |
| Lack of enough water bowls around the home. | Ensure that water bowls are available in different areas of the house, such as the kitchen and yard. |
| Lhasa Apsos prefer drinking clean water at a specific temperature. | Observe your dog’s drinking habits and change the temperature of the water accordingly. |
Feeding Too Many Table Scraps
Feeding your Lhasa Apso too many table scraps can be a common mistake that many pet owners make. While it may be tempting to share your human food with your furry friend, this can actually be harmful to their health.
The Dangers of Table Scraps
Table scraps often contain high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar. While small amounts may not immediately harm your pet, over time, these types of foods can lead to obesity and other health issues such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and heart disease. Table scraps may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs such as onions, garlic, and chocolate.
Alternatives to Table Scraps
If you want to give your Lhasa Apso a special treat, there are healthier options available. Consider giving them small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey without the skin, or raw carrots or green beans as a snack. You can also purchase dog-specific treats that are low in calories and made with natural ingredients.
Breaking the Habit
If you’ve already established the habit of feeding your Lhasa Apso table scraps, breaking the habit can be challenging. Start by reducing the amount of scraps you give them gradually, and replacing them with healthier options. You can also try to distract them with a new toy or activity after meals, to redirect their attention away from food.
Establishing Healthy Feeding Habits
In addition to limiting table scraps, it’s important to establish healthy feeding habits for your Lhasa Apso. This includes providing them with a balanced diet of high-quality dog food, monitoring their portion sizes, and feeding them at regular times throughout the day. By establishing healthy habits, you can help ensure that your furry friend will live a long and healthy life.
Feeding Bones Improperly
Feeding bones improperly can be a serious problem for Lhasa Apso dogs. While bones can provide many benefits to dogs, if they are not fed correctly, they can pose serious health issues. It is important to avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso bones that are small, cooked, or have sharp edges.
Small Bones: Small bones can easily get lodged in your dog’s throat, leading to choking or even death. Make sure to avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso chicken bones, small pork bones or any other small bones under three inches in length. Stick to larger, beef bones that won’t pose a choking hazard.
Cooked Bones: Cooked bones can easily splinter and break, which can be dangerous if swallowed by your dog. These types of bones can cause serious injuries, such as lacerations to your Lhasa Apso’s mouth, throat or intestines, perforation of the stomach or even death. Always make sure to avoid feeding your dog any cooked bones.
Sharp Edges: Bones with sharp edges can cause damage to your Lhasa Apso’s digestive system. Make sure to avoid feeding bones that have been cut with a knife or have sharp edges like rib bone. Instead, opt for softer bones like marrow bones, which are less likely to cause damage to your dog’s digestive system.
Feeding your Lhasa Apso bones can be a great way to help keep their teeth clean and healthy, as well as providing them with a source of essential minerals and nutrients. However, it is important to make sure you are feeding the right types of bones and that they are properly prepared to avoid any serious health risks to your beloved pet. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best types of bones for your Lhasa Apso and the correct way to feed them.
Not Considering Age and Lifestyle
As pet owners, we want the best for our beloved Lhasa Apso dogs. One of the ways we can ensure their overall health and wellbeing is by considering their age and lifestyle when it comes to their diet. Every Lhasa Apso is unique, which means their dietary needs may differ based on these factors. It can be perplexing to determine the appropriate feeding regimen, but neglecting to consider your furry friend’s age and lifestyle can lead to costly mistakes. Let’s dive into some key considerations when it comes to feeding your Lhasa Apso.
Puppy vs Adult Lhasa Apso
It’s important to differentiate between feeding a puppy and an adult Lhasa Apso. Puppies have higher energy levels, and they require more frequent feeding and smaller portions than adults. Puppies should be fed three to four meals a day until they are six months old, and then the frequency can be reduced to two meals a day. Additionally, Lhasa Apso puppies need a specific balance of protein, fat, and nutrients for their growing bodies. The food given to dogs should be specially formulated for puppies to meet their nutritional requirements. Giving adult food to a puppy can lead to malnutrition, stunted growth, and health problems.
Adult Lhasa Apsos, on the other hand, need high-quality, well-balanced meals that cater to their specific needs. They require less food than puppies and a consistent meal schedule. You must also consider how active your adult Lhasa Apso is. If your pet is more active, they require more calories to keep up with their energy. However, if your dog is less active, giving too many calories without enough exercise can lead to obesity.
Feeding a Lhasa Apso puppy and an adult dog requires different considerations. Puppies require more frequent feeding, smaller portions, and specialized food for their growth and development, while adult dogs need balanced, high-quality food depending on their activity levels. It’s necessary to understand your pet’s nutritional needs and provide them with adequate food to ensure they lead a healthy and happy life.
Active vs Sedentary Lifestyle
When it comes to feeding your Lhasa Apso, it’s important to consider their activity level and lifestyle. Different dogs have different energy expenditure rates, and this can affect their dietary requirements. Here are some factors to consider:
- Activity level: Active Lhasa Apsos require more calories to fuel their physical activity. They may benefit from a high-protein diet to maintain their muscle mass. On the other hand, sedentary Lhasa Apsos may not need as many calories and may do better with a lower-calorie diet to prevent weight gain.
- Age: As Lhasa Apsos age, their metabolisms may slow down, and they may require fewer calories overall. It’s important to adjust their diet accordingly to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related health problems.
- Health status: If your Lhasa Apso has any health conditions such as diabetes, they may require a special diet to manage their condition. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s unique needs.
It’s important to pay attention to your Lhasa Apso’s lifestyle and adjust their diet accordingly. This can help ensure that they are getting the right nutrients to maintain a healthy weight and live a happy, active life.
Feeding Too Many Treats
One common feeding mistake to avoid with Lhasa Apso dogs is providing too many treats. While treats can be a great way to positively reinforce good behavior and show love to your furry friend, overdoing it with the treats can lead to health problems.
The Consequences of Too Many Treats
Feeding your Lhasa Apso too many treats can lead to weight gain, obesity, and related health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and heart disease. Treats are often high in calories and fat, and if you’re not careful with portion sizes or you’re handing them out like candy, it can quickly add up.
Healthy Alternatives
If you want to show your pup some love without overloading them with treats, there are plenty of healthy alternatives. Try offering your Lhasa Apso small pieces of lean protein like boiled chicken or turkey, or crunchy vegetables like carrots or green beans. These options are low in calories but still provide a tasty reward.
Training Tips
If you’re using treats as a training tool, it’s important to use them strategically. Try breaking larger treats into smaller pieces so you can reward your pup more frequently without overfeeding them. You can also try using praise, cuddles, or playtime as rewards in addition to or in place of treats.
Portion Control
Even if you’re offering healthy treats, it’s important to keep portions under control. A good rule of thumb is that treats should make up no more than 10% of your Lhasa Apso’s daily caloric intake. You can calculate this by consulting with your veterinarian or using a pet food calculator to estimate your pup’s daily calorie needs based on their weight, age, and activity level.
By avoiding the mistake of overfeeding treats, you can keep your Lhasa Apso healthy, happy, and loving life to the fullest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding your Lhasa Apso dog requires careful consideration and attention to detail. To ensure their overall health and well-being, it is crucial to avoid common feeding mistakes such as feeding too much, feeding the wrong foods, feeding at the wrong times, not providing enough water, feeding too many table scraps, feeding bones improperly, and not considering age and lifestyle.
Taking the time to count treats and portion sizes, choosing high-quality dog food, avoiding feeding too close to exercise or leaving food out all day, providing clean water in multiple bowls, and considering the unique needs of your Lhasa Apso based on their age and lifestyle are all important factors to keep in mind.
Remember, your Lhasa Apso relies on you for their nutrition and it is up to you to make sure that you are meeting their dietary requirements in a way that promotes optimal health and happiness. By avoiding these common feeding mistakes and staying attuned to your dog’s needs, you can help ensure that they live a long and healthy life by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my Lhasa Apso dog human food?
It is not recommended to give your Lhasa Apso human food as it can upset their digestive system and also lead to obesity.
Is it okay to leave my Lhasa Apso’s food out all day?
No, it is not recommended to leave your Lhasa Apso’s food out all day as it can attract bugs and bacteria, and also lead to overeating and obesity.
How much water should I provide for my Lhasa Apso dog?
You should provide at least one bowl of fresh and clean water for your Lhasa Apso at all times. If you have multiple dogs, provide multiple bowls.
Can I feed my Lhasa Apso bones?
No, it is not recommended to feed your Lhasa Apso bones as they can splinter and cause damage to their digestive system.
How often should I feed my Lhasa Apso dog?
You should feed your Lhasa Apso twice a day, at consistent times in order to maintain a healthy feeding routine.
What are some common signs of overfeeding my Lhasa Apso?
Some common signs of overfeeding your Lhasa Apso include weight gain, lethargy, and gastrointestinal upsets.
What foods should I avoid feeding my Lhasa Apso dog?
You should avoid feeding your Lhasa Apso dog chocolate, onions, garlic, avocado, and grapes/raisins, as they can be toxic to dogs.
How much should I feed my Lhasa Apso puppy?
You should feed your Lhasa Apso puppy a smaller portion size, more frequently throughout the day, and follow the feeding guidelines on the puppy food bag
Can I give my Lhasa Apso dog dental chews?
Yes, dental chews can be given to Lhasa Apso dogs, but it is important to monitor their consumption and not overdo it.
Can I feed my Lhasa Apso dog fruits and vegetables?
Yes, fruits and vegetables are a healthy addition to a Lhasa Apso’s diet, but it is important to research which ones are safe and to serve them in moderation.
References
- Is Your Lhasa Apso a Picky Eater? Try This Simple Hack.
- Feeding Schedule & Amounts – Kai-Ara Lhasa Apsos
Britta Thygesen
A passionate dog owner and a full-time certified dog trainer. Aspires to make DogCareHacks a go-to place for all the doggo info. Shares personal experience and professional knowledge.
