Veterinarians typically recommend feeding adult dogs twice daily, often aligning with human meal times. New research from the Dog Aging Project suggests potential health, cognitive, and longevity benefits from feeding dogs once a day. The Dog Aging Project is a long-term study involving over 24,000 dog owners, researchers, and veterinarians across the U.S.
- The study aims to understand how genetics, environment, and lifestyle affect canine health and aging.
- Preliminary data shows most owners feed dogs twice daily, some free-feed, and 8% feed once daily.
- Dogs fed once a day have lower odds of developing cognitive dysfunction and multiple diseases.
- Conditions less likely in once-daily fed dogs include gastrointestinal, dental, orthopedic, kidney, urinary, liver, and pancreatic issues.
- Intermittent fasting in humans and rodents shows health benefits, and similar patterns may apply to dogs.
- The link between feeding frequency and health is correlational, not causal, requiring further research.
- Canine obesity affects over half of U.S. pet dogs, contributing to health issues that may impact lifespan.
- Once-daily feeding might reduce caloric intake, aiding weight management and improving orthopedic and cardiovascular health.
- Allowing the gastrointestinal system rest time may contribute to health benefits.
- Dogs fed once daily may have better cognitive outcomes or delayed onset of canine cognitive dysfunction.
- However, Dr. Emily Bray advises against changing feeding schedules based solely on preliminary findings. There are times when feeding once a day can be problematic. Feeding frequency should be individualized, considering a dog’s age, size, health, activity level, and veterinarian advice:
- Some dogs are happier and more settled with two smaller daily meals instead of one large one.
- More frequent feeding is recommended for puppies or senior dogs to aid digestion.
- Dogs requiring multiple daily medications with food benefit from frequent meals.
- Conditions like bloat, canine diabetes, and bilious vomiting syndrome may require multiple feedings to reduce risks.
- High-activity sporting or working dogs need frequent meals to maintain energy levels.
- Greedy dogs on weight loss plans may manage better with multiple small meals.
- Emaciated dogs require frequent feeding to avoid life-threatening refeeding syndrome.
Source: American Kennel Club February 28, 2025
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