GraceHill & Laron
GraceHill GraceHill
Laron Laron
GraceHill GraceHill
Hey Laron, I’ve been thinking about how the same discipline we use with athletes could help animals perform better too. Have you ever tried a structured nutrition plan for a dog or horse in training?
Laron Laron
Yeah, I’ve done it. Dogs and horses are just as picky and just as driven. Feed them the same way we feed runners: balanced macros, timed meals, and a strict schedule. Make sure the carbs come from oats or sweet potatoes, protein from lean meats, and a steady dose of electrolytes. Keep the portions exact and the feeding times consistent, like a training session. If the animal isn’t sticking to it, cut out the extras until they’re back on track. Results come from consistency, no excuses.
GraceHill GraceHill
That sounds like a solid plan—having a strict routine really helps animals feel secure. How do you handle a dog or horse that keeps snacking on the side between meals?
Laron Laron
You stop the snacking, period. Put the treats in a separate spot, and give them a firm “no” each time they try. If they’re still tempted, cut the meal size or use a slower feeder bowl. The key is to keep the routine tight—no surprise snacks, no excuses. If they can’t follow that, you’re not going to see progress. Push them, and they’ll adapt.
GraceHill GraceHill
I hear you, Laron. A firm routine can be helpful, but sometimes a softer approach works too. If a dog or horse keeps nudging at treats, I’ll try giving them a tasty, low‑calorie option right before mealtime, or use a puzzle feeder to make the snack feel like a reward for a job well done. That way the animal feels respected and still stays on track.
Laron Laron
Nice idea, but keep it tight. A puzzle feeder is fine if you time it and limit the calories, but don’t let them slip. Treats have to be part of the plan, not a free pass. Keep the routine, monitor the intake, and adjust the reward schedule so they still stay on track. If they’re going to do it, do it right.
GraceHill GraceHill
I totally agree—keeping the routine tight is key. I’ll set a strict schedule for the puzzle feeder and track exactly how many calories it adds. That way the treats feel earned, not free, and the animal stays on track. If they stray, I’ll read their cues and adjust the reward timing to keep everything balanced.
Laron Laron
That’s the attitude. Track it, keep it strict, and never let the animal feel they’re slipping off course. If they’re close to breaking the plan, pull the trigger on the next training session. Stay focused, stay disciplined.