Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? Here’s What to Do…

If your dog has always been a picky eater, you’ve probably had many battles. But if he has suddenly started turning his nose up at your offerings, there could be a few simple reasons. While you may think canines like variety, they are actually quite happy to eat the same thing for their whole lives.

If 24 hours has passed since Fido has refused his last meal, take him to the vet for a check. Sudden loss of appetite could mean he has an underlying illness. But, if he is healthy and happy, let’s take a look at what the problem could be.

Did You Suddenly Change His Dog Food Formula?

If you suddenly changed his dog food brand, your pup may not be liking the new offering. Maybe something in the new dog food is upsetting his stomach or it just tastes totally different. Try introducing the new food gradually;

• Mix a little of his old food in with the new food. Over the week you can slowly decrease his old food and add in more of his new food allowing him to get accustomed.
• If you’re changing from wet food to dry food, try mixing in a little warm water or again mix his old food in for a while.

Are You Feeding Him Table Scraps?

Dogs can be greedy and don’t know when to stop if food is being given to them. Scraps and treats will not only increase his chance of obesity; it can also lead to him refusing his main meal. Dogs have different nutritional needs to us and feeding him your leftovers may not give him all the nutrients he needs.

Stop the extra feeding bad habits and get him onto a set feeding schedule. Even if he begs with his big brown eyes, do not give in and give him extra treats. Getting feeding rules back into place, will make him realise food is only available at one fixed time.

Has There Been a Sudden Change to His Living Environment?

Dogs suffer from stress just like humans which can be caused by; moving house, someone leaving, new people moving in or maybe even some building going on. This can upset your pup’s routine and occasionally put him off his food.

• Try putting his feeding station in a quiet place, out of the way of lots of footfall
• Reassure your pup and give him lots of attention

Consider Health Supplements

If your dog is refusing food, he may not be getting his full daily count of vitamins and minerals. Speak to your vet about giving him a good health supplement. Especially as dogs age, supplements will have a huge benefit to their lives.