The Ultimate Guide for Hungry Pup: Try These Tricks to Get Them Eating

All dog owners know the struggle of trying to get their picky eaters to finish their meals. Some dogs are just naturally picky while others might be experiencing a loss of appetite due to certain health problems. Regardless of the reason, it’s important to provide your pup with the proper nutrition they need to stay healthy and strong. Here are some tips and tricks to get your hungry pup eating.

1. Change Up Their Food

One of the easiest solutions to a picky eater is changing the type of food you’re giving them. Some dogs get bored with the same type of food day after day, so try switching up their protein source or even the brand of food you’re giving them. You can also try different textures of food such as kibble, canned, or dehydrated. Just be sure to make the transition gradual to avoid any digestive upset.

2. Add Tasty Toppings

If your pup isn’t interested in their regular food, try adding some tasty toppings to entice them. This can be something as simple as a spoonful of wet food or broth, or even some plain cooked chicken or beef. Just be sure that any toppings you add are safe for your dog to eat and don’t contain any harmful ingredients such as onions or garlic.

3. Stick to a Feeding Schedule

Dogs thrive on routine and structure, so it’s important to stick to a regular feeding schedule. This not only helps with maintaining a healthy appetite, but can also help prevent digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Aim to feed your pup at the same times each day and avoid giving them any table scraps or treats outside of their regular meal times.

4. Make Mealtime Fun

Some dogs simply need a little excitement to get them interested in their food. Try using puzzle feeders or slow feeders to make mealtime more of a game. You can also scatter their kibble around the room or hide it in various spots for them to find. Just be sure to supervise your dog during mealtime to ensure they don’t accidentally ingest any foreign objects.

5. Exercise Regularly

A lack of exercise can lead to a lack of appetite in dogs. Aim to exercise your pup regularly to keep them both physically and mentally stimulated. This can be something as simple as a daily walk or game of fetch. Not only will regular exercise help boost their appetite, but it will also help keep them at a healthy weight.

8. Avoid Free Feeding

Free feeding, or leaving food out for your dog to graze on throughout the day, can make it difficult to monitor how much your pup is actually eating. This can lead to overeating or undereating, both of which can be harmful to their health. Stick to a regular feeding schedule and remove any uneaten food after 20-30 minutes to avoid any potential issues.

9. Address Dental Problems

Dental issues such as tooth decay or gum disease can cause pain and discomfort during mealtime, leading to a loss of appetite. Be sure to have your dog’s teeth checked regularly by a veterinarian and provide them with dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

10. Don’t Give Up

Finally, it’s important to remember that picky eating is often a temporary problem and shouldn’t cause you to give up on your pup’s health. Keep trying different tricks and methods to get your dog interested in their food, and be patient in the process. With a little persistence and creativity, you’ll be able to find the perfect solution to get your hungry pup eating.

Try these tricks to get your pup eating and don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about their appetite or health.