Is your dog refusing their usual tasty treats? Do they turn up their nose when you put down a bowl of their normal kibble? Having a picky eater for a pet can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are many things you can try to tempt even the fussiest of dogs to eat.

Assess Their Health

Before tackling a pup’s picky eating, ensure there are no underlying health concerns contributing to their diminished appetite. Certain illnesses and medications can lead to nausea or other digestive troubles that put your pup off their food. Additionally, senior dogs and puppies may naturally consume less because of age-related changes.

Schedule a visit with your vet to rule out any medical reasons for your dog’s picky eating behavior. Getting them checked over gives useful peace of mind that their fussy preferences are behavioral and not caused by a health problem.

Stick to a Strict Meal Schedule

One key trick with a picky pooch is to put them on a strict meal schedule rather than letting them graze all day. Take food away after a set time, say 30 minutes, even if they have hardly eaten anything.

This technique takes advantage of their natural survival instincts. Most dogs will start gulping down what they can, knowing it’ll soon disappear. Over time, they learn meals are served at strict times, or they go hungry.

Offer a Rotation of Dog Foods

While some dogs prefer one type of food long-term, others get bored and fussier over time. This often happens around 12 months as puppies transition to adulthood.

When your dog goes off a certain food, don’t despair. Simply switch flavors or even brands entirely. Buying small trial size bags lets you find which mixtures attract them before committing to that brand.

The experts at Nextrition recommend specially designed dry dog food for picky eaters. These use irresistible mixes of proteins and textures. As you offer new foods, keep a list of which get gobbled up. Rotate between 2 or 3 over time to keep your pup interested.

Try Food Puzzles and Dispensing Toys

In some cases, it is sheer boredom making your dog a fussy eater. Plain bowls don’t provide enough fun and mental stimulation.

Food puzzles introduce an intriguing physical challenge by hiding kibble inside dispensers. As your pup rolls, lifts, and pokes them, small amounts of food come tumbling out. It’s hugely rewarding and most dogs quickly become engrossed.

There are puzzle feeders in many shapes and difficulty settings to keep your pet challenged. Start simple and work up to multi-step dispensers or those requiring more logic.

You can also use food-release toys like Kongs. Spreading peanut butter or wet food inside keeps your dog happily occupied and licking as they access the filling. Anything involving work equals excitement at mealtime.

Be Patient and Consistent

Dealing with a picky eater tests every dog owner’s patience. But staying calm and consistent in your strategies is vital. Never offer extras like cheese or wet food until they finish dry food as this only teaches them to hold out for better things.

Stick to scheduled mealtimes and measuring proper daily portions based on weight and age. Remove uneaten wet or dry food after 30 minutes to reinforce set eating periods.

Conclusion

With persistence and creativity in varying flavors, puzzles, and environments, you can encourage your pup’s appetite. Offer praise when they eat eagerly to reinforce the behavior. Most importantly, don’t take it personally if they refuse meals. Focus on maintaining their health, not catering to pickiness. Stay positive, and you will both get through this phase.