Does your dog turn up their nose at dinner? If mealtime feels like a struggle, you’re not alone! Some dogs are naturally pickier than others, but with a few simple tweaks, you can make their food feel more appealing. Try these six easy tips to get your pup excited about eating again!
1. Warm It Up
A little warmth can make a big difference! Popping your dog’s food in the microwave for a few seconds brings out the aroma, making it more enticing. If you serve wet food, try warming it up slightly before offering it. For kibble, adding warm water can do the trick!
Why it works: Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell, and heating up food releases mouthwatering scents they can’t resist.
2. Switch Up the Texture
Imagine eating the same meal, with the same texture, every day… it would get boring! Mixing things up can make mealtime more exciting. Try adding a bit of warm water to dry kibble or mixing wet and dry food together.
Why it works: Different textures keep meals interesting and can make food easier to eat, especially for senior dogs or those with dental issues.
3. Add a Topper
A little extra flavor can go a long way! Sprinkling What’s Barking Food Toppers over your dog’s meal adds a burst of taste that even picky pups can’t resist. Our Toppers are made with real food, nutritious ingredients to enhance their meal while keeping it healthy.
Why it works: Just like we enjoy different seasonings on our meals, dogs appreciate a little variety in their bowl!
4. Stick to a Schedule
Feeding your dog at the same times each day helps build a routine (and an appetite!). If they know when to expect their meals, they’ll be more likely to eat when food is served.
Why it works: Consistency trains your dog’s body to anticipate food, making them more eager to eat when mealtime rolls around.
5. Take the Food Away
If your dog refuses to eat, don’t leave the food out all day. Instead, give them 15-20 minutes to eat, then remove the bowl. Offer it again later when they’re more likely to be hungry.
Why it works: Free-feeding (leaving food out all the time) can lead to picky eating habits. Setting time limits teaches your dog that mealtime isn’t optional or on their terms.
6. Check for Allergies
If your dog consistently refuses food, it might not be about taste; it could be an underlying issue. Food allergies or sensitivities can cause discomfort, making your pup reluctant to eat. If picky eating is persistent, consult your vet to rule out any allergies.
Why it works: Identifying and eliminating allergens can make mealtime more enjoyable and improve your dog’s overall health.
Bonus Tip: Turn Mealtime into Playtime!
Some dogs love a challenge! Using puzzle feeders or slow-feeder bowls adds a fun, interactive element to mealtime. These tools provide mental stimulation and can encourage even the most stubborn eaters to engage with their food.
Why it works: Engaging your dog’s natural foraging instincts makes eating more exciting and rewarding!
Make Mealtime Paw-some!
A little creativity goes a long way in getting picky eaters to enjoy their food. Try these tips and see what works best for your pup.
Want more helpful tips for happy, healthy dogs? Follow us @whatsbarking on Instagram and TikTok for more ways to make mealtime tail-waggingly good!