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Old 08-20-2010, 11:24 PM   #4
Marilize
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Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Cape town, South Africa
Posts: 703
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Okay, at 8 weeks she isn't too small. That's great - it makes everything so much easier, I think.

I struggled for more than 2 years with my first yorkie, trying to get him to eat his kibble. My vet had told me that I should feed him Science Plan and I did. But he didn't pick up weight, his coat was terrible and he had gross breath. Because we don't have a better kibble option than Royal Canin (although Orijen is being launching here in September) in South Africa, I was sort of forced into trying home cooking.

The home cooking with loads of rice was gross to feed them and it caused loose stools, so I tried something else: the BARF diet. This system is based on how dogs would eat in the wild: eating the stomach of the prey first, moving onto the organs and finishing off the carcass by pulling it apart. The dogs would then chew on the meaty bones for hours.

So, BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) consists of raw meats (lean muscle meats, organs, etc.) and various pureed veggies and fruits. The more variety there is, the better. While anything you make for your dog is better than low and medium-grade kibble, it is always helpful to get prepackaged meals from a local supplier.
We either pick up our monthly batch or they deliver it. Maybe there is someone in your area? Just check that their diet is balanced.

Try to find something she likes, but don't offer it after she refused other food. If she doesn't want to eat, pick up the bowl after 15 minutes and feed her something else at the next meal interval. Do this until you find something she will eat. And remember not to feed her too many treats in between meals, otherwise you will ruin her appetite.

Good luck!
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