Feeding question

[oksanakazan]

Hre is my breeder sudgestion: Ridgeback puppies need to be free-fed during their first six months (at least during the daylight hours).
I dont think that godd idea.
Puppy is 9-weeks old. Maybe I need to feed-free her till I start housbreaking her, after she reach 16 weeks?
Or should I start feed her on a 3, 4 times a day schedule right away?
Thank you.

[BabyElephant]

You should really keep her on the schedule that her breeder had her on - she might be on 3 times a day, she might be on 4 times a day. When I got Poppy she was on 3 times a day and I kept her on that until 6 months. You will find it easier to house train her if you do not free feed her.

[Moo]

Start housebreaking her from DAY ONE... 3 times a day is a good plan.

[sheplovr]

I do NOT believe in Free feeding for any breed regardless. Dogs thrive on a schedule of and they adapt to one most readily.

Feed the pup morning say nine, then about one and then about four. LIft water at six p.m to Potty train, take out late as possible. Pet and praise when it goes Potty.

I feel if u schedule the pup on feedings it digestion system adapts to this more readily and Potty training is more likely to be a huge success. Once the dog knows the same door u exit to same area it will learn to go potty and hang some old keys on a ring on that special door knob it will learn to hit them to get your attention to go out.

Good Luck nice breed of dogs.

[doglady]

The housebreaking should be done right away and feed her 3 times a day. After each time they eat,drink or wakes up take her out afterwards to eliminate. Use a key ward each time you take her out like " Go Potty" or whatever you like to use ..say it while she is going then praise her afterwards for going outside.

[oksanakazan]

Thank you all for your advises!
I will put puppy on 3 times a day schedule.
She is SOOO happy dog! I love her!