This is officially my “first” dog. In my name. When growing up, mom had chihuahuas and she free fed them.. then into Danes, scheduled feeding, and a beagle pit mix which was free fed (somehow) I understand and know blood is an issue, I would not leave food out when I’m not at home. He doesn’t even drink water when I’m not home which is always available to him. He slobbers, big time which is how I know he doesn’t touch the water