Puppy eating

Question
Hi.
We recently got a new puppy, he is about 4 months now.
We are slightly concerned about how much he eats. we have heard that puppies and dogs in general don't starve themselves, but he barely eats anything. we have read on the packet that he should eat a bowel full of puppy food, he is just about getting through half of what he should be eating if that.
Do you have any suggestions as to how to make him eat more? We don't want to hand feed him because then he wont eat unless we feed him.
Is this normal if you have had a puppy for a over a month?
Thanks in advance.
Catherine

Answer
If his ribs are showing, see the vet.  Likely he has been in for shots, and if he was too thin, the vet would have said so.  Some of them fail to discuss the more common overweight.  Package recommendations are notorious for being high.  

How big is he?  Switching to an adult chow for the larger breeds at 4 months, slows growth and helps develop sturdier joints.

Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx