Free-Feeding
Free-feeding is when the owner leaves a bowl of food out for the dog to eat as he pleases. It is convenient since the owner doesn't have to establish a feeding time and only has to remember to keep the dog's food bowl filled. But do not do this.
Dogs that free-feed are less apt to look on their owners as dominant. Establishing a feeding time should be part of your rottweiler's training. You determine how much food and when your rottweiler eats. Put him in a sit/stay when you fix his food. After you put the food down, release him with a word such as “okay.”
Table scraps are not good for your rottweiler. Most table scraps are high in fat, salt, carbohydrates, and calories that he doesn't need. Feeding table scraps may also turn him into a picky eater. If you want to give your dog a treat, save a couple of choice tidbits and give them to him after he has eaten his dinner.
If he is too fat, you can control how much your rottweiler eats. Likewise, you will immediately know if something is wrong if your rottweiler ignores his food. Dogs fed on a schedule are less likely to become picky eaters. If your rottweiler is normally a chowhound and suddenly begins to ignore or pick at his food, it is time for a trip to the veterinarian. A sick dog will normally not eat. You can use your rottweiler's eating habits as a barometer for his health.
