How to Deal With a Fussy Dog

It’s undisputed amongst both humans and dogs that food is one of the greatest joys in life. Feeding times are often the most anticipated part of the day. But, what if your dog, despite being hungry, isn’t interested in the meal you’re offering? There are dogs who are selective with their food, only choosing to eat when the meal served matches their high standards.

What if your dog is a bit of a picky eater? How do you change that?

First Step, Get it Checked

If the change in appetite is sudden or unexpected, it’s super important that you book a trip to the vet right away. In fact, if there are any doubts when it comes to Fido, talk to the professionals.

While a change in diet could be something to do with Fido’s mental well-being, or just something temporary, it could also be a serious health issue that may need treatment. It’s better to be on the safe side, and a vet can give you effective advice that is tailored to your dog and its symptoms.

You may also read: Anxiety in Dogs: Symptoms, Signs and Treatments

Monitor What Goes in and What Goes Out

It’s important to get to the bare facts when it comes to your dog’s fussy eating. You need to look into what Fido is consuming. Are you giving a few too many treats? Too many treats can upset a stomach and cause weight gain; if he is not eating at mealtime, he may not be hungry. Equally, look at the portion sizes being given at mealtime; it may just be too much for Fidos tummy!

You may also want to check this out: Can Protein Levels Affect Your Dog’s Behaviour?

Does your pooch hoover the floor, or is someone in the family sneaking bites of cheese in return for those well-mastered puppy dog eyes? When our dogs eat human food and things that they have found themselves, it can cause health issues and lead to unwanted trips to the vet. It’s best to keep human food out of a dog’s diet and always sweep the decks to remove possible snack time targets.

If you are not sure if it is a hunger-based issue or something more internal, it’s time to keep an eye on the poop. Like humans, a change in diet can result in a change in bowel movements, and if there are concerning signs such as blood, mucus or never-ending diarrhoea – it’s time to get to the vet.

Asses the Environmental Situation

If you have more than one pet, it may be that at mealtime, your dog finds itself distracted or too on edge to eat. It may be worth feeding pets in different rooms or at slightly different times.

If the feeding area isn’t tidy, for example, a kitchen that still has meal leftovers on the side, it can mean that Fido’s thoughts are not on that slab of canned meat and more on the bread crusts on the counter.

More so, if Fido finds himself becoming bored of mealtime, it may be worth alternating meal flavours, so each day is not the same. Another option is also to use a special bowl that can turn mealtimes into a fun and brain-teasing game for any dog.

You may also try: 5 Reasons Broth is Healthy for Dogs

Set a Routine

Sometimes, humans don’t have the chance to eat at the same time every day. However, giving your dog a routine and feeding him at the exact time every day will allow him to know when he is hungry and needs to eat. If mealtimes are unpredictable, Fido can still digest the last meal, which may be why he is disinterested. You can try leaving his food out for half an hour each time before removing it, showing him that if he wants to eat, he has to do so when offered.

Consider the Diet

As mentioned, it may be that your dog is bored of the same old flavour that he is eating every day. Alternating between flavours of meat or with the vet’s help, finding a preferable food brand can help keep mealtimes interesting.

Just don’t forget to check the label: Understanding Pet Food Labels

You could also try mixing some dry food with the wet food to see if Fido prefers his food this way. If ready-made food isn’t sitting well, you could even make your own dog meals, but only do this after talking to a vet. Much like humans may not like certain tastes or textures, remember that dogs aren’t much different. Just remember that if you change your dog’s food, do it gradually to hurt their tum!

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