Many picky eating pups are actually dealing with physical or emotional issues. Is your hound adjusting to a new situation, such as a new home, baby or pet addition in the family?…
While some mutts will literally eat any crumb the instant that we drop it on the floor, others will turn up their nose unless enticed with the juiciest of incentives; both scenarios bring frustration, but what do you do about that picky-eating pup? Well, hopefully with a few tricks we can get those tongues drooling!
Before you label your pooch as picky, first ask yourself if this has always been an issue, or if you’re dealing with a recent development. Many picky eating pups are actually dealing with physical or emotional issues. Is your hound adjusting to a new situation, such as a new home, baby or pet addition in the family? Some dogs are sensitive to life changes causing both his world and food bowl to turn to disarray.
Is he dropping in weight, slowing down? Has his shiny coat lost its luster? If you suspect Fido is dealing with something physical, rather than a change in taste buds and metabolism, you will want to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet can check for digestive problems and other ailments, as well as offer dietary advice.
Once you’ve ruled out the emotional and physical impacts on your dog’s diet, it is time to deal with that picky pooch.
Keep it to the bowl
Feeding Fido from the table is tempting and easy… oh, those puppy dog eyes! But offering your furry friend a morsel from your plate just makes his food bowl look bland in comparison. Even if you place the food in his bowl from your plate, he is learning to associate your food (and your plate) as his food.
Schedule Feedings
Leaving food out makes it easier to turn away from it. After all, it will be there when your dog finally decides to eat it. But, if you feed your pup one to two times daily then you may notice how he drains the bowl in a more timely manner. Scheduling feedings can also make potty training easier; scheduled feedings typically lead to scheduled potty breaks.
Sprinkles!
Much like the effect of adding sprinkles to your ice cream, adding a little flavor and moisture to your dog’s dry kibble can really get his tail wagging. If you do want to incorporate healthy people food into your dog’s diet, try mixing it into his dry dog food… especially if he is choosing to fill up on the yummy, healthy people treats so that he turns away from the food bowl. Be careful not to overdo it as some canned dog foods are high in fat, but even a little sprinkle of something special will usually entice a picky eater.
Stay on track… or get back on track
It is never too late to adjust your dog’s diet, feeding schedule, table food rules, etc. Don’t give up; and don’t give in to those puppy dog eyes. Do what is best and healthiest for Fido. Bone appetit!
In her professional career she dedicates her time and efforts to the care of family pets. Susan Wright, DMV is a devoted veterinarian, a dog bark collar expert and a published author with a selection of books focused on dogs and their care. Susan and her staff extend their efforts by writing guest posts to be shared across the Web.
