Despite the stereotype, some pups can be quite selective about their food choices. If your dog is a picky eater, it’s important to ensure they’re receiving the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life.
I am no expert in this area. My cavoodle pup can be the fussiest of eaters. Tonight, for example, she has turned up her nose to a Lyka flavour she loved two days ago. She goes on and off different meals all the time which is super frustrating.
It’s because of this fussy little pup that I have now done my research about fussy eating dogs and I’m writing this post to share some tips and ideas that I’ve come across after my own desperate Google sessions.
I hope one of these is the winner for you! If you have any great ideas pretty please let me know.
Maintain a Consistent Feeding Schedule
One of the most important things to do when dealing with a picky eater is to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Dogs thrive on routine, and knowing when to expect their meals can make them more inclined to eat as they know if they don’t eat now they won’t get any more food until the next feeding time. Try to feed your dog at the same times each day.
Avoid Leaving Food Out
If your dog won’t eat it might be tempting to leave their food in their bowl in case they choose to eat it later on. While this is lovely and you obviously care about the welfare of your pup it is teaching them that food will always be available and they will be less likely to feel the need to eat when you actually feed them. If pup won’t eat, take the food away. This will encourage them to eat when food is offered rather than leave it for later.
Make it fun
Try a few things to make mealtime more fun. You could try spreading some kibble around their food area. This should engage their natural hunting instincts. On this same line, you could try using a snuffle mat or treat toy to pique their interest in their food.
We feed our pup Lyka now but before that, she was on kibble. She didn’t like kibble at first but we started giving it to her in place of treats during training etc and now she loves it. I guess she started associating it with rewards and fun so now when she’s not eating her proper food we know we can use the kibble as a back up. 🙂
Try hand feeding
A fussy eater might be more willing to take food from your hand. Try holding some of their food out to them in your hand. If they take it try again and again getting closer and closer to their bowl as you go.
Choose High-Quality Dog Food
Selecting the right dog food is crucial for encouraging your fussy eating dogs to enjoy mealtime.
Opt for high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Look for options that contain real meat as the primary ingredient and avoid fillers like corn, soy, or artificial additives. If they are going to be fussy about what they eat you need to make sure what they are eating is the best it can be.
Enhance Their Food with Tasty Toppings
Some dogs might be more inclined to eat when their food has a little extra flavour. You can try to entice your fussy eater by adding some tasty and healthy toppers to their meal. Consider mixing in a small portion of plain, cooked chicken or lean beef. You could even try a little bit of yogurt. There are also some great products out there on the market designed for meal topping. Just a little something extra to add to your dogs regular food. Check out Pet Circle for a great range of meal toppers.
Be Mindful of Portion Control
It’s essential to monitor your dog’s portion sizes to prevent overfeeding, as well as underfeeding. Fussy eaters may require smaller, more frequent meals rather than one large serving. Pay attention to the recommended serving sizes for the food you are feeding your pup. Using measuring cups will help you maintain accuracy and consistency in feeding.
Try Different Foods Gradually
Trying different foods is of course a good option. You will hopefully come across something your fussy pup loves and is happy to eat.
If you’re planning to switch your dog’s food it is generally recommended to do it gradually.
Sudden changes can sometimes lead to upset tummies and no one wants that…
Mix a small amount of the new food with their current food and gradually increase the ratio over a week or two. Patience is key when dealing with fussy eating dogs. Avoid giving in to their preferences for treats or whatever it is you might be eating for dinner. This can just reinforce their picky behaviour.
Speak With Your Vet
If you have tried a few things and still struggling to get your dog to eat their meals it could be worth chatting with your vet. They may have some suggestions and can help you determine the right portion size and food types for your dog based on their age, activity level, and weight.
Dealing with a fussy eater can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can help your dog develop healthier eating habits. By maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, selecting high-quality dog food, adding tasty toppers, practising portion control, and being patient during transitions, you can address your dog’s fussiness and ensure they receive the essential nutrition they need for a happy and healthy life. Remember, consulting with your veterinarian is crucial for personalized advice based on your dog’s unique needs.
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How to keep your pup entertained while you’re at work.
