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You’re not alone if you are struggling with a picky eater. Many dog owners face challenges when it comes to feeding their picky puppies. There’s hope, though. This guide has you covered whether you’re wondering how to feed a picky dog or how to get a picky puppy to eat. We’ll also give you tips on how to encourage a fussy dog to eat. Let’s get into it!
Understanding Why Dogs Become Picky Eaters
First, it’s important to understand why your pup might be fussy about food before tackling the issue.
Common reasons include:
- Health Issues: Your dog may have dental problems, digestive issues, or an underlying medical condition that can stifle appetite.
- Diet Fatigue: Just like you don’t want to eat the same meal all the time, your dog may also get bored with the same food day after day.
- Overfeeding Treats: Give your pup too many treats or table scraps and they may find regular dog food less appealing.
- Stress or Anxiety: Changes in the home, new pets, or a loud environment can make your dog less eager to eat.
- Preference for Taste or Texture: Your dog may simply prefer specific flavours or textures.
How to Feed a Picky Dog
Consistency and patience are key when addressing picky eating in dogs. Here are some proven methods to help your dog love the grub.
- Stick to a Feeding Schedule
- Serve meals at the same time every day to help regulate your dog’s appetite.
- Don’t leave food out all day. Instead, offer the food for 20-30 minutes and discard it if it goes uneaten.
- Enhance the Flavour
- Consider warming up the food slightly if the recipe allows. This should release aroma and get your dog’s nose twitching.
- Add some bone broth, canned pumpkin, or plain yogurt to diversify the flavour.
- Mix in small amounts of cooked chicken, turkey, or beef , or consider a topper.
- Experiment with Food Types
- Rotate between wet, dry, and freeze-dried raw options until you find a type your dog prefers.
- Try different protein sources like lamb, salmon, or venison.
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Consider grain-free or limited-ingredient diets if your dog has a sensitive tummy.
- Limit Treats and Table Scraps
- Treats can spoil your dog’s appetite, so we recommend them as a reward.
- Avoid feeding your dog from the table as this can encourage bad habits.
- Use Interactive Feeders
- Puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys can make mealtime more engaging and fun.
- These tools also help slow down eating and stimulate your dog’s mind.
How to Get a Picky Puppy to Eat
Picky eating in puppies can be a real worry. Your puppy requires consistent nutrition for growth. Here are some ways you can fix it.
- Opt for Puppy-Specific Foods
- Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs. Choose high-quality puppy food.
- If your puppy is teething, soften dry kibble with warm water.
- Frequent, Small Meals
- Your little guy or gal will benefit from smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
- Divide your puppy’s daily portion into 3-4 meals to keep their energy levels stable.
- Encourage Mealtime Routine
- Feed your puppy in a quiet, distraction-free area.
- Stick to a consistent schedule to build healthy habits.
- Positive Reinforcement
- Praise your puppy when it eats its food.
- Don’t punish or scold your little one for not eating. This can lead to negative associations.
How to Feed a Fussy Dog
The following tips can help if your adult dog is a fussy eater:
- Slow Transition to New Foods
- Gradually introduce new food by mixing it with their current food over 7-10 days. This minimizes digestive upset and helps your dog adjust to the new taste.
- Add Nutritional Boosts
- Include natural toppers like fish oil, sweet potato, or pumpkin.
- Minimize Stress
- Make sure your dog’s eating area is calm and quiet.
- Avoid feeding near other pets if this creates competition or stress.
- Monitor Portions
- Overfeeding can make your dog less interested in meals. Stick to the recommended portion size for their weight and age.
How to Encourage a Fussy Dog to Eat
Encouraging a fussy dog to eat often requires creativity and persistence. Here are some additional strategies:
- Hand-Feeding
- Hand-feeding small portions can help reluctant eaters, especially if they feel anxious.
- Try New Feeding Bowls
- Use shallow, wide bowls or raised feeders for dogs who might be uncomfortable bending down.
- Set a Positive Example
- Pretend to eat the food yourself to pique your dog’s curiosity.
- Praise and reward them when they approach or eat their food.
- Consult a Professional
- If all else fails, check in with your vet or a pet nutritionist. They can recommend specialized diets or identify underlying issues.
Final Thoughts
Feeding a picky eater dog can be a real chore. But with patience and the right approach, you can
turn your dog’s meal into a divine dish. The key is to stay consistent and creative, whether you’re figuring out how to feed picky dogs or how to get a picky puppy to eat.
Remember, your dog is unique. What works for one dog may not work for others. Keep a close eye on your dog’s behaviour and adjust your technique as needed. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance when you need it.
This article is meant only as an example of what might work well for your pet, please reach out to our Pet Parent Experience Team if you have any questions about your pet’s own unique circumstances! To ensure these products are a good fit for your furry friend, we also recommend consulting your vet about any new diet, or environment changes, especially if there is a medical concern. They should be able to help as you and your vet know your pet’s medical history best!
