Many new owners already know how and what they want to feed their dog, based on past experience. There is a huge range of food products to choose from. These guidelines will help to keep your Greyhound fit and healthy.

Water

Should be available at all times and changed regularly. Never leave your dog without fresh water.

Complete Foods                                                                                                                                     

Are the most effective, economical and efficient way of feeding your dog the proteins, vitamins and minerals they need. It is best to feed the dog on the same food as is used at the kennels, when the dog leaves our kennel as a familiar food will help them settle. When you buy, look for 20% protein, which is ideal for a pet dog. Gradually mix ½ of the food supplied with your greyhound, with yours until he is eating your brand. Use warm water only to soak or the vitamins will be destroyed. Follow the feeding instructions on the packaging according to the weight of the dog. Feeding the main meal early in the afternoon can assist with housetraining.

Keep an eye on your dog's stools. Should they become loose, you may need to change the brand. Generally complete foods are based on biscuits or cereal, additional tinned food is not necessary but can make a meal more appetising as can the addition of gravy granules. It is recommended that you feed your greyhound from a raised bowl on a stand whenever possible.

Fresh Meat & Vegetables

All Greyhounds will enjoy this treat and are very appreciative of any leftovers. However, this is not needed everyday.

Breakfast

It is generally agreed your Greyhound will benefit from a small cereal breakfast as well as their meal. Warm milk or ½ milk and water will be much appreciated!

Biscuits and chews

These will aid the dog's digestion and help to keep their teeth clean. These can also be used as training aids and of course as an extra treat!

Additional items

A tablespoon of sunflower/vegetable oil added to the main meal will help maintain a glossy coat. Cooked eggs in any form can be enjoyed once a week or so. Cheese, an excellent training aid, can be crumbled on top. Oily fish, such as tinned tuna or pilchards and other filleted fish are a healthy treat.

Human chocolate, raisins and raw onions are poisonous to dogs. They simply cannot digest it. Only give doggy chocolate treats. Make sure all children and visitors are aware of the significant danger to your pet. Be aware of danger if your pet gets into household waste bins, from open tins and glass etc. Keep the bin secure. Never allow your Greyhound to scavenge or pick up bits of food outside the home. It may be poisoned or vermin bait and the consequences can be serious illness or fatal.

Common sense will tell us not to feed the dog before a long journey, just carry water for the comfort stops. Never feed just before or just after exercise. Always wait about one hour. Some greyhounds have such long necks and legs that it is awkward for them to eat from a bowl placed on the floor. For them, an elevated dog bowl on a stand, available from pet supply stores or catalogues may be the answer. Contact any member of our team for help with feeding problems. We will have encountered them before, and are happy to help.