If you have a fussy dog who refuses to eat their food, it can be frustrating and concerning.

However, there are several tricks you can try to entice your picky pup to eat and enjoy their meals. Here are five tips to help your dog become a more enthusiastic eater.

Mix in some warm and wet dog food or broth.

 Sometimes, adding a little bit of wet food or broth to your dog’s dry kibble can make it more appealing. The added moisture and flavour can entice your picky pup to eat their meal. Just be sure to choose a wet food or broth that is appropriate for your dog’s dietary needs and doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients. You can also try mixing in some cooked, lean meat or vegetables for added nutrition and flavour.

Heating up dog food can make it more enticing for dogs to eat because it can enhance the aroma of the food, making it more appealing to their sense of smell. When food is heated, it releases more odour molecules, which can stimulate a dog's appetite and increase their interest in the food.

In addition, heating up dog food can also make it easier for dogs to digest. Warm food is easier on their digestive system than cold food, which can be harder to break down. This can make the food more palatable and enjoyable for the dog to eat. 

It's important to note that while heating up dog food can make it more enticing for dogs to eat, it's important to do so safely. Make sure the food is heated to an appropriate temperature and that it's not too hot before giving it to your dog to avoid any burns or injuries.

At Delivery Hound, we know that Man's Best Dog Food is highly palatable and that's why it comes with a money back guarantee, even for fussy eaters!  Man’s Best grain free recipes are great for all dog breeds including fussy dogs or dogs with allergies. The Adult All Breed range comes in three recipes Man’s Best Chicken, Man’s Best Lamb and Man’s Best Ocean Fish. The most cost effective way to purchase the range is by subscription. 

By taking out a subscription with Delivery Hound you are saving money  and making a huge change to the environment!

Our Refill & Replace subscription will save you time, save you money and save about 96 single-use plastic dog food bags from landfill. Delivery Hound will delivery your dog's food to your door when you need it and best of all without any single use plastic packaging!

Add some healthy toppings.

 Another trick to get your picky dog to eat their food is to add some healthy toppings. You can try adding some salmon bellies, turkey mince, or even a little bit of peanut butter on top of their kibble. Just be sure to choose toppings that are safe and healthy for your dog, and don’t add too much as it can lead to weight gain or digestive issues.

Experiment with different toppings to find what your dog likes best.

Change up the feeding schedule.

If your picky dog is used to eating at the same time every day, try changing up their feeding schedule. Some dogs may prefer to eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of one big meal. Others may prefer to eat at different times, such as in the morning instead of at night. Try some different feeding schedules to see what works best for your dog and encourages them to eat their food. Just be sure to stick to a consistent schedule once you find what works.

Avoid table scraps! Feeding your dog table scraps can lead to picky eating habits. Stick to a consistent diet and avoid giving your dog human food.

How Often Should I Feed My Dog Each Day?

The frequency of feeding your dog depends on several factors, such as their age, size, activity level, and overall health. In general, adult dogs should be fed twice a day, while puppies may require more frequent feedings.

It's important to follow the feeding guidelines on your dog's food packaging, and consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding schedule for your specific dog. Additionally, be mindful of your dog's weight and adjust their feeding schedule accordingly if they start to gain or lose weight. Providing fresh water throughout the day is also crucial for your dog's health and well-being.

Try a different variety of dog food.

Just like humans, dogs can have preferences when it comes to the taste and texture of their food. If your picky pup isn't interested in their current brand or flavor of food, try switching it up. Look for high-quality dog food brands that use real meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers like corn and wheat.

At Delivery Hound, our range of Man's Best Dog food is grain free, 100%  Aussie owned and made using local ingredients.

You can also try adding some wet food or a topper to their kibble to make it more enticing. Just be sure to gradually introduce any new food to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach. Always follow our transitioning feed guide to make this an easy process.

Always read the feeding guide, many well meaning dog owners are actually over feeding their dogs.

Make mealtime more fun and interactive for your dog.

One way to get your picky dog to eat their food is to make mealtime more fun and interactive. Try using puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to make your dog work for their food. This not only adds an element of fun to mealtime, but it also stimulates their brain and can help prevent boredom.

You can also try feeding your dog in different locations or using different bowls to keep things interesting. Just be sure to supervise your dog while they eat to ensure they don't accidentally ingest any non-food items.

Finally, exercise before mealtime. Take your dog for a walk or play with them before you feed them their dog food. This can stimulate their appetite and make them more likely to eat.

If your dog continues to be a fussy eater and you're concerned about their nutrition, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues and to get further advice on how to encourage your dog to eat.

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