Pet expert's warning that one dog eating habit could be sign of serious problem

Vets have warned dog owners that a particular eating behaviour could signal illness, prompting an immediate trip to the surgery.

Dogs don't just become brilliant companions to their ownersbut transform into genuine family members - some even regard them as their first 'baby' - and deserve proper care when it comes to their feeding habits and daily routine.

Canines require a well-balanced diet, similar to humans, which establishes a steady routine that helps with any household changes and fosters a peaceful home environment. This follows news of a mum who claimed she'accidentally named baby after dog food brand and I don't know what to do'.

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Just as adults might experience being 'hangry' (hungry and angry), dogs can feel the same way, making it crucial to maintain consistent feeding times daily, according to specialists at VCA Animals.

Once a dog has settled into its schedule and grown accustomed to mealtimes, this benefits the animal's health whilst also alerting owners to potential concerns, reports the Express.

VCA Animals experts emphasise that "a break in eating habits can be a warning sign of illness. When dogs eat on a regular schedule, that habit becomes strong".

"It is easy to see if all the food from a meal is consumed," they added. Going further, the shared that "if food is left, whether all or part of a meal, that is an important signal that something is wrong, and it is time to schedule a veterinary appointment".

If a dog develops a medical condition, it is helpful to already have a routine in place, as some conditions require that dogs eat at specific times during the day (e.g. diabetes ) or take medication with food. It will be easy to adjust this way. It can be challenging for owners to try to stick to this as situations change and work schedules clash.

A user on Reddit admitted: ''Sadly, my dogs get fed when they get fed,'' followed by another in response, sharing, ''they probably feel bad that a more set schedule isn't possible for them. For my wife and me, breakfast is pretty solid at 7 AM''.

Sometimes, because of this clash, it can be easy to think that it will be a better option to feed your furry friends human food, which is not always bad, but also not advised.

The Kennel Club said: "Some things that humans eat are not always appropriate for dogs. Foods such as grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate, and some artificial sweeteners can be poisonous to dogs.

"Table scraps are also often fatty and high in calories, which will not help your dog lose weight and may upset their stomach.".