Help needed regarding feeding softened kibbles...
 

I got my 9-week old puppy recently, and have asked for advice in another post. However, I just remembered another thing that I am worried about... So I'm seeking advice here again.

I know that baby pups should be eating softened kibbles. With the baby pup that I co-owned with my ex, we fed the pup softened kibbles... However, when I got this pup, I was specifically told that he eats dry, unsoftened kibbles. :confused: I was uncertain and skeptical, so the previous owner actually fed some in front of me and assured me that he eats them w/o any problem. I was told that he has been trained to eat them dry... and I should continue feeding w/o softening the kibbles. So that's what I have been doing for the past few days... even though I'm still uncertain about this.

I can't really see if he's chewing them (though I hear crunching sounds) or just swallowing them whole. He eats happily, and his stool is normal. But if he's swallowing whole I'm worried there's long-term effect on his digestive system. Is there?

Another thing is that I don't want him to end up being a gulper... I want him to learn to chew his food... (Just read some horror stories about dogs gulping down Greenies whole...)

I don't know if I should just start softening the kibbles or continue as directed. He's eating okay right now, but I feel so wrong feeding a 9-week old puppy unsoftened dry kibbles...... :( What should I do?!?!

Are all his teeth in?

As soon as they have all their teeth (and are good eaters), I personally think it's best to give them dry kibble...puppies LOVE to chew! I figure the more they are chewing & crunching & chomping on the food, they less they will on furniture, etc.

However, if he doesn't have all this teeth, or isn't eating well, then I'd add warm water or chicken broth...whatever it takes to get the little guy eating well.

If he's eating well & stools are good then I would not change anything, and only add chicken broth IF he's not eating well or you'll spoil him to the broth & then he will not eat his food without it. Congratulations on your new little family member.