Common Dog Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

You fill your dog’s bowl, maybe toss in a little extra because those puppy dog eyes are just too convincing, and call it good.

Easy, right? Feeding our dogs seems simple enough but some surprisingly common habits can quietly affect their health, energy, and even behavior.

That’s why today, we’re unpacking the most common dog feeding mistakes (and how to fix them) so you can keep your pup’s bowl and belly in great shape.

1. Overfeeding: The “A Little Extra Won’t Hurt” Trap

A few extra scoops here, an extra treat there and before you know it, your pup has packed on a few extra pounds. Overfeeding is one of the most common feeding mistakes, and it’s almost always done out of love.

The problem? Those extra calories add up quickly, leading to obesity, joint strain, and lower energy.

💡 Tip: Use a measuring cup for every meal instead of eyeballing portions. And remember, treats count toward daily calories too!

If you've already noticed that your dog might be rounding out a big, we put together a guide on how to help your dog lose weight.

2. Feeding Too Fast: When Dinner Disappears in 10 Seconds

If your dog eats like they’re in a speed-eating contest, they’re not alone. Many pups gulp their food too quickly, which can cause choking, vomiting, gas, and for deep chested breeds, even bloat (a dangerous and life-threatening condition).

💡 How to Help:

• Try a slow feeder bowl or puzzle feeder to make them work for their food.

• Split meals into smaller portions throughout the day.

• Scatter kibble on a lick mat or towel for a fun “sniff-and-search” meal.

We carry a variety of slow feeders and food puzzles at Black Dog Barkery. These activities serve double duty: slowing down your dogs eating and providing mental stimulation.

For more techniques to slow down your dog's eating, check out our full post on How to Slow Gulping.

3. Feeding the Same Food Forever

Dogs thrive on routine, sure, but that doesn’t mean they should eat the same food for years.

Feeding the same protein or formula day after day can limit nutrient variety and even increase the risk of developing food sensitivities.

💡 Better Approach:
Rotate between different proteins (chicken, beef, lamb, fish) and even different food types (like gently cooked or freeze-dried) to support digestive health and keep meals exciting for your pup.

If you’re not sure where to start, our Rotating Protein Guide walks you through how to make the switch safely.

4. Choosing the Wrong Food Type for Your Dog

With so many options (kibble, fresh, dehydrated, raw, gently cooked) it’s easy to assume they’re all interchangeable. But the reality is that each has its strengths and challenges, and the mistake often lies in choosing a food that doesn’t match your dog’s needs or your feeding habits.

💡 Here’s how that can go wrong:

• Relying solely on dry kibble.
  It’s convenient, but many dogs benefit from more moisture in their diet. Long-term, an all-dry diet can contribute to mild dehydration or digestive sluggishness. Add bone broth, kefir, or even a splash of warm water to boost hydration and flavor.

• Feeding raw or fresh food without proper handling or balance.
  Raw and fresh diets are nutrient-rich but need correct storage, thawing, and portioning. Skipping complete, balanced recipes can create nutritional gaps. It’s important to stick with canine nutritionist–approved formulas (like the ones we carry at Black Dog Barkery).

• Serving dehydrated or freeze-dried food without rehydrating.
  These are great for convenience and travel, but always add water or broth before feeding. When given dry, they can cause digestive upset or mild dehydration over time.

💡 The takeaway: The “best” food isn’t about a single perfect type, it’s about finding what fits your dog’s digestion, your routine, and your comfort level with prep and storage.

For a deeper dive into how these options stack up, check out our post on the Pros and Cons of Different Dog Food Types.

5. Forgetting to Adjust for Age, Activity, or Season

Just like us, your dog’s metabolism and needs change over time. Puppies need more calories and protein to grow, while seniors benefit from joint-supporting nutrients and easy-to-digest foods.

Activity level matters, too. A couch-loving senior Labrador simply doesn’t need as much as an agility-loving Border Collie.

💡 Small Tweaks Make Big Differences:

• Reduce portions slightly during the colder months when walks are shorter.

• Add omega-rich supplements for coat and joint support in seniors.

• Choose fresh or gently cooked options for dogs with sensitive digestion or elderly dogs.

If you’re not sure how to adjust, we’re happy to help you figure it out, just stop by and chat with us in Bristol!

6. Handing Out Too Many Human Foods

A little nibble from your plate might feel harmless, but many human foods are too rich or outright unsafe for dogs. Even “healthy” foods can become a problem if they’re too seasoned or fatty.

💡 Common slip-ups include:

• Fried foods or anything cooked in oil or butter (too fatty for dogs’ digestive systems)

• Rich leftovers like pasta with sauce, casseroles, or gravy

• Cooked bones, which can splinter and cause internal injuries

• Cheese and other dairy-heavy treats that can trigger stomach upset

💡 Healthier Alternatives:

• Plain cooked veggies like carrots, pumpkin, green beans, or broccoli

• Dog-safe toppers such as bone broth, kefir, or a spoonful of plain pumpkin puree

• Raw bones (great for dental health and nutrition but should always be supervised)

• Goat milk based treats (like the ones from Answers Pet Food brand) for a tasty and gut-health friendly switch

Feeding treats and table food doesn’t have to stop, it just takes a little awareness. The right swaps can keep your dog’s tail wagging and their tummy happy.

Find more safe snack ideas in our Dog-Friendly Vegetables post.

7. Skimping on Hydration

Hydration is one of the most overlooked parts of your dog’s diet. Water supports everything from digestion to joint health, yet many dogs don’t get enough. This is especially if they eat dry kibble.

💡 Easy Fixes:

• Add moisture to meals with bone broth, goat’s milk, or kefir (bonus: gut health benefits!).

• Offer hydration treats like frozen broth cubes or water-rich foods such as gently cooked recipes.

• Consider switching part of their diet to fresh or raw options, which naturally contain more moisture.

We carry several moisture-boosting options at Black Dog Barkery, from broth toppers to fermented supplements.

8. Guessing Instead of Asking

Feeding your dog isn’t one-size-fits-all. Breed, size, lifestyle, and health conditions all play a role. Instead of guessing what or how much to feed, it’s always worth asking for guidance.

💡 Where to Turn:

• Your veterinarian for medical-specific diets.

• Our team at Black Dog Barkery for nutritionist-approved foods and balanced meal planning.

• Our VIP Program, which includes access to exclusive discounts, early product releases, and help selecting the right diet for your dog’s needs.

Feeding Smart, Not Perfect

Nobody’s perfect, every dog parent has learned a feeding lesson or two the hard way. What matters most is that you’re paying attention, making informed choices, and adjusting along the way.

By avoiding overfeeding, slowing mealtime, adding variety, and choosing quality foods, you’re already miles ahead of the curve.

At Black Dog Barkery in Bristol, TN, we love helping local pet parents feel confident about what’s in their dog’s bowl. Whether you’re exploring fresh food for the first time, upgrading to slow feeders, or adding a moisture-rich topper like bone broth or kefir, we’re here to help you find what works best for your pup.

🐾 Stop by and let’s make mealtime healthier, happier, and a little more fun for your four-legged family member.