what is the best way to change my 3 y. o. chihuahua's (and mine) bad eating habits?

A

Alondra

New member
I have always free fed my 2 chi's, and they stayed at a healthy weight untl I had my female spayed 4 months ago. Since then she has ballooned from a perfect for her frame 8 lb, to an almost obese 12.5 lb. It isnt so much that she constantly eats whats in her bowl, its mostly the treats my husband gives her. He now realizes that his spoiling is hurting her, but I need to know what is the best way to get her to eat on a schedule, because when I put her bowl down she ignored it because it's always just been there. I know this is all my fault, but I truely love her so much and am honestly committed to making these changes. Also our other chi, a 4 lb boy doesnt have a weight problem, but has the same snacking and schedule prolem she does. All advice would be appreciated. Thanks
 
You're doing fine, it's just going to have to take some time. Just keep on laying out the food bowl and the scheduled times and then take it up after maybe 15-20 minutes whether the bowl is empty or not. Eventually she will get the picture that if she doesn't eat at the scheduled feeding times, than she won't get to eat until the next scheduled time. She will most likely whine when she does start to get hungry, but don't give in! I also recommend getting a weight control food, either from your vet's or a pet store if you haven't already. As far as your boy, I would keep him on a timed scheduled also, but feed them in separate areas, since if they're together, she might be tempted to eat his food. Good luck!
 
When you put her food down, give her 20 minutes and pick up whatever isn't eaten by then. Try again at the next mealtime (about 12 hours later). No snacks in between. Just like a person on a diet, reduced calories and more exercise.
 
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