15 Tips To Help Your Dog Overcome Picky Eating
Every dog owner has faced it: the battle with a picky eater. You’ve got their food ready, and they just stare at you like you’ve offended them. If you feel you can help your dog overcome this habit, we’re here with some easy tips. However, note that picky eating is pretty common, and food preferences can vary. So, it’s always smart to consider their specific needs and check with a vet before making big changes.
Establish A Consistent Feeding Schedule
Dogs love routines, just like your morning cup of coffee. They stay happy when they know exactly when it’s time to eat. Imagine how you’d feel if your meals were served at random times throughout the day—no breakfast or dinner time. That’s exactly how your dog feels when you skip mealtime or feed them sporadically.
Opt For Nutrient-Dense Food
High-quality dog food isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Search for a brand that lists meat as the first ingredient. Plus, keep an eye on the fillers, things like corn and soy are a bit like the “junk food” of the dog food world. Nutritious food will make mealtime more appealing, too.
Introduce Wet Food
If your dog is tired of the same old kibble, wet food is a great way to create some variety in your dog’s diet. It’s got a stronger aroma and a little more excitement. Ever noticed how your dog’s nose perks up when you open a can of wet food? That’s the magic of scent!
Warm Food
We all know how much more appetizing food is when it’s warm. With only a few seconds in the microwave, it can make a world of difference. You’ve probably seen your dog’s tail wagging just from the scent of something cooking. Try it out and watch them dig in like they’re at a five-star restaurant.
Use Food Toppers
Do you know how adding a little extra cheese can turn any meal into something special? Well, the same goes for your dog’s dinner. A bit of bone broth or a spoonful of peanut butter can make mealtime way more exciting. Dogs love the extra burst of flavor.
Limit Table Scraps
You’re eating dinner, and those puppy dog eyes are just too much to resist. But if you’re constantly giving your dog table scraps, you might be doing more harm than good. Those treats can spoil their appetite and encourage bad habits. Stick to healthy dog treats and keep your meals separate.
Adjust Portion Sizes
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the food but the amount. If you’re overfeeding your dog, they might not have the appetite to eat more. Adjusting portion sizes is a simple way to help balance things out. Make sure the portions are right for your dog’s size and activity level.
Avoid Free-Feeding Or Overfeeding
After having a buffet, most people would probably overindulge for the next meal. That’s what can happen when you leave food out all day for your dog. Instead, serve meals at set times and remove the bowl after about 20 minutes. If your dog isn’t hungry, they’ll have to wait until the next feeding time.
Create A Quiet Mealtime Environment
You’re sitting down to eat, and there’s a loud noise, and the dog next door starts barking. Not exactly the best conditions for enjoying a meal, right? Dogs are no different. Creating a calm and quiet setting during mealtime can work wonders for a picky eater. Try feeding your dog in a quiet, distraction-free area.
Avoid Rushing Your Dog
Dogs aren’t racing against the clock, so why rush them during mealtime? A relaxed pace helps your dog enjoy their food more and feel less stressed. If you’re trying to get your dog to finish quickly, they might become anxious and back away from the food. After all, it’s not a race.
Experiment With Different Types Of Bowls
Believe it or not, the type of bowl you use can impact how much your dog eats. Some dogs are picky about the material or depth of their bowl. For instance, a deep bowl might make it harder for them to access their food, while a plastic bowl can irritate their nose.
Increase Exercise Before Mealtime
A tired dog is a hungry dog. Taking your dog for a short walk or playing a game of fetch before mealtime can help stimulate their appetite. Think of it like how you get hungrier after a workout. By burning off some energy, your dog will want to sit down and enjoy their meal.
Gradually Transition Between Different Foods
Switching up your dog’s food can cause some digestive upset if done too quickly. Gradually transition between different foods by mixing a little of the new food with the old. Slowly increase the new food and decrease the old until you’ve fully switched. This gradual process helps your dog avoid stomach issues.
Add Probiotics
If your dog’s digestion isn’t in tip-top shape, it could affect their appetite. Adding probiotics to their diet can help balance their gut health and make them feel better overall. A healthy gut equals a happy pup, and a happy pup is more likely to eat!
Take Your Vet’s Help
Sometimes, picky eating is a sign of an underlying health issue. Dental problems, digestive issues, or even stress can all contribute to a loss of appetite. If you’ve tried everything and your dog is still turning their nose up at food, it might be time for a vet visit.
