how many times do i feed him?

[Heather Duwaji]

my puppy Louis is 9 weeks old and his breeder just left food out for him all the time but i've been feeding him 3 times a day but that means taking him out all the time. is twice a day enough? I should also tell you that ive never had a pet in my life so this is all new to me.

[Carol and Banjo]

Heather,  A puppy at nine weeks needs to be taken out all the time no matter how often he's fed.   That's just the way puppies are.   During the day we took Banjo out every 1/2 hour.   He only piddled twice in the house and each time we "caught" him in the act, scooped him up and brought him outside to "finish" his business and then lots of praise.  When we couldn't be watching him he was in his little crate....just enough room for him to sleep comfortably.  Puppies are not inclined to soil their beds.   This puppy time goes by quickly, if you put your time in now it will pay off.

[Heather Duwaji]

thanks Carol

[Ginny Nightingale]

I agree with Carol and the pup should be fed three times a day and then no food or water after 6 or 7 pm to help get them to sleep thru the night. Their bladders are tiny and they will need a few months of maturity before they can hold it very long. I would also add that the MINUTE the pup comes out of the crate after a nap, take him outside--do not put him down while you look for your shoes! Be ready to go OUT the door!

I had a dog named Louis for 12 years---love the name. He is a cutie.

[Jen and Annie]

Yes, I agree with what's posted here.  As a tiny puppy, they are CONSTANTLY growing, so they do need to eat 3 times per day.  From birth to about 6 months, puppies are in a "Rapid growth" period, and some days you'll swear he is growing right before your eyes.  I wouldn't switch to 2 meals per day until about 5 months old.  You should also join the 'puppy madness' group.  lots of puppy information sharing going on there.  I also think crate training is the way to go when potty training.  Good luck with your new baby.  we like to see pictures.....

[Heather Duwaji]

thank you all for your great feed back Louis and I had a great day today i was on the dot with him and he did great. As i said before i am new at this so i need all the help i can get i dont want to do anything wrong. We played fetch the ball today and he did so well. I posted some pictures of him on my albums check out my handsome prince!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

I agree, he needs to be fed three times a day. And please join the Food Group for lots of info.