What To Do If Your Dog Is a Picky Eater

In one of our older blog posts, we discussed what's better for your dog - dry or wet dog food. But what if your dog doesn't like any of those? Keep reading to find out what to do if your dog is a picky eater.

Why Your Dog Is a Picky Eater

First, we should explain when the dog is considered a picky eater. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs that don’t empty their food bowls within a certain amount of time, usually about 20 minutes, are more likely to be considered “picky eaters”. Another sign of picky eating? Pets that refuse to eat their dog food but are perfectly happy to accept human table scraps may also fall into that category of “picky eater”.

The causes of these eating habits can be various:

• genetics,
• environment,
• diet or
• health problems.

How To Make Your Picky Dog Eat His Food

No matter the cause, making your dog eat his food can be a "mission impossible". How can you manage that? Try this:

1. Remove your dog’s meal until tomorrow,
2. Swap over to a tastier food,
3. Mix in a food topper,
4. Exercise your pup,
5. Throw the food on the floor,
6. Turn feeding time into a game,
7. Make sure you are feeding the right amount,
8. Make your dog work for it,
9. Cut back the treats,
10. Warm the meal to enhance flavor,
11. Raise your senior dog’s bowl,
12. Go for the wet food.

It's important to know that not every dog is food-driven, especially the smaller breeds. For some, it just isn’t all that important. They don’t see food as the ultimate reward. They may want your attention or praise, and food is secondary. Pay attention to what motivates your dog. If it’s not treats or mealtime, don’t force it.

Source: pets.webmd.com

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