How Can I Make My Dog Eat Normal Dog Food?
Written and verified by the vet Eugenio Fernández Suárez
How can you make my dog eat dog food? That’s one of the problems that many owners of these fantastic pets face. Although dogs usually eat well and eat a lot, sometimes they can be very picky.
Why doesn’t my dog eat dog food?
This is the first question you should ask yourself when facing this problem with your pets. Even though sometimes it can be difficult to find out why your dog has the problem, one of the main reasons is due to change in diet, especially if it was abrupt.
Another reason why you can’t get your dogs to eat normal dog food might be the brand. Animals often reject poor quality food. However, this isn’t the primary cause, because while cheap food tends to be unhealthy, they are usually tasty due to added cheap, good tasting ingredients. Try not to skimp on your pet’s meals, and choose the best food for your dog.
Another reason might be because you are are giving them too much food. However, in such cases, dogs are prone to developing diseases like obesity Boredom is another reason why your dog won’t eat. So, in order to get him to eat, you should make it their meal more interesting through environmental enrichment. On the other hand, giving leftovers to dogs may encourage them to prefer these occasional meals over dog food.
Keep in mind that one of the reasons why dogs don’t eat dog food might be because they’re sick. Therefore, you should know when you should take your pet to the vet, because if they are experiencing a loss of appetite that’s not related to any changes in their diet, and the animal is having mood swings and other symptoms, then most likely your dog is sick.
How can I make my dog eat dog food?
In order to get your dog to eat dog food, you have to reintroduce it into his diet gradually. To do so, make sure you use good quality food.
The first thing to do is to get rid of the wet food, snacks, homemade recipes, or human food that you give your pet. If part of their diet is based on it, then mix dry food with homemade food like rice, and gradually reduce the percentage of rice.
You must calculate the amount of food that your dog needs and divide it into at least two portions, which you must give at specific times. Preferably, give them one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. You should remove the bowl within half an hour even if they don’t eat the food. Repeat the process the next day.
Tips to make your dog eat dog food
Probably the best advice out there is to mix the food with warm water — especially in winter — or with homemade chicken broth. It’s important for it to be homemade so that it doesn’t contain toxic ingredients like onions or salt.
Not giving leftovers or human food to your pet will not only improve their health and reduce any chances of intoxication, it will also encourage them to eat dog food. Likewise, another recommendation from professionals when it comes to making dogs eat normal dog food is to not give them too many treats.
In general, you should be strict with your pet’s diet. Dietary problems are the main cause of health problems in pets. Basing the diet on good quality food will ensure that your dog lives many years without any nutritional diseases.
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.