While any breed of puppy has to eat a lot, boxers require more specialized treatment. Because of their size and their health risks, boxers have to be fed a specific diet on a carefully timed schedule. Starting out when your boxer is a puppy is the perfect training for adulthood.
Step 1
Choose a puppy food formulated for large dogs. These are not as high in fat, protein or calories as other puppy foods, and help prevent health problems that boxers are particularly at risk for, like hip dysplasia.
Step 2
Feed your boxer puppy at least twice as much food as he will eat as an adult. Adult boxers typically eat about two cups of food per day, so feed him about four cups per day until he is 6 months old. Refer to the portion guidelines on your puppy food package.
Step 3
Portion your puppy's food into several meals. Boxers are at higher risk for bloat, a life-threatening condition that often results from eating too much too fast. Instead of feeding your puppy twice a day, feed him smaller meals throughout the day, at scheduled times.
Step 4
Monitor your puppy's weight. You should be able to feel his ribs when you hold him, so if you can't, slow down his food intake. Conversely, if you can see his ribs, increase his food intake.
References
Tips
- As your puppy gets older, take him in for regular veterinary appointments to ensure that he is growing at a healthy rate.
Writer Bio
Tom Ryan is a freelance writer, editor and English tutor. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English writing, and has also worked as an arts and entertainment reporter with "The Pitt News" and a public relations and advertising copywriter with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.