Barking Up The Wrong Tree

What To Do When Your Dog’s A Fussy Eater

If you’re having trouble getting your dog to eat, maybe he’s a picky eater. If he’s always eaten well in the past, get him checked by a vet first in case it’s something physical, or if there’s been a change in circumstance recently, like the death or absence of a family member or a house move allow him a few days to adjust.

However, if he is turning into a fussy eater, here is a method that has worked for dogs in the past:

Usually, picky eaters are created by their owners. Dogs are like humans in many respects, including they develop a taste for extras like canned food or gravy or treats, and may then turn their nose up at their usual food. Using this method, he’ll be eating normally again within two weeks. Do not give any extras or add gravy to the meals.

When you put the food down in a morning, leave it for around 15 – 20 minutes, then if it’s not being eaten, pick it up. I’ll say it again, don’t give any snacks or treats between meals. Some dogs are fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, and others are fed once a day, usually each morning. At his next meal time, repeat the same. NO dog will naturally allow himself to starve so he will start eating. It won’t hurt him if he misses a couple of meals so don’t worry.

Remember that you must be consistent. You are training your dog to eat when you want him to. Within two weeks, he’ll be eating normally again.