Two Yellow Lab Puppies Waited Politely Beside a Very Full Food Bowl

A very large steel bowl of kibble has appeared on the floor, and two yellow Labrador Retriever puppies are staring at it with great interest. One sits tall and looks upward as if checking whether the meal is real, while the other leans toward the camera with hopeful eyes. A few pieces have spilled onto the tiled floor, and a curtain, a cabinet and a pile of laundry stand in the background.

Labs are famous for loving food, and many will eat until the bowl is empty and then look for more. That makes careful feeding important. Overweight Labs are at risk for joint problems and other health issues, so measure portions, follow the feeding guidelines for your puppy's age, and talk with your vet about how much to feed. Divide the daily amount into several small meals for a young puppy, and avoid leaving food out all day. A slow-feeder bowl or puzzle toy can help a fast eater slow down. Treats should be small and counted as part of the daily amount. Keep fresh water available, and never feed chocolate, grapes or onions. Healthy habits formed in puppyhood help a Lab stay fit for life.

These two are on their best behavior, at least for now. The bowl is full, the kitchen is quiet, and the waiting is clearly the hardest part.