Imagine you came back from the supermarket all happy and excited for your dog as you got him the new fancy food. But he is not eating food even after trying so many times! you might wonder, “How to Get My Dog to Eat Dry Food?”
Let’s dive into the food world of your dog and understand this moody phenomenon of your furry friends. And how to make them eat food that is nutritious for them.
How to Get Your Dog to Eat Dry Food?
If it is not a major health issue then we can try a few tips which may solve your canine conundrum, Here are some of the tips:
1. Get the Right Kibble
Finding the right kibble is important. Choose a high-quality brand according to your dog’s size, age, and needs. The amount you feed your adult dog should be based on his or her size and energy output. Activity levels may vary dramatically between pets.
This may get your dog to like the food. When choosing a high-quality kibble, look for ones that fit your dog’s needs. If you want to feed your dog a vegan diet, research some of the best vegan dog food UK brands.
2. Moist Food
To encourage your dog to eat dry food try moistening it. Try adding warm water or chicken broth to make eating more interesting and full of aroma. This may add an extra taste that may make your dog like this. Adding water will hydrate your dog as well. Start with a small amount of water and adjust as per your dog’s preference.
3. Mix Foods
You can also mix wet and dry foods to make food more interesting and flavorful. Combine small portions of both foods. Choose high-quality brands to avoid any problems and provide them with the right nutrition.
“The moistness of wet food will make the transition more smooth and delicious. Try mixing some plain, boneless, skinless boiled chicken and rice with their kibble to encourage them to eat”, suggests Dr. Ellen Malmanger at PetMD.
4. Alternative Foods
You can also consider alternatives with similar tastes, flavors, and textures. You can add cooked lean meats, and vegetables for variety. Some also add low-salt chicken broth and other liquids. After adding this you may observe your dog’s response and then decide accordingly.
You may want to explore incorporating some raw foods into your dog’s diet. Check out a raw dog food guide for tips on preparing balanced raw meals.
5. Location
Just like us humans, dogs too can get affected by their environment. You may have recently moved to another city or new block, and this house is still unfamiliar to your dog.
This may be the reason for your dog to have no food cravings. You may make your dog feel comfortable and secure for him to start eating properly again.
6. Proper Food With Regular Exercise
If your dog has less movement in day time then it may also make him feel less hungry, so with the right nutrition try to provide necessary exercise as well.
Avoid giving excess treats or human foods. Implement a somewhat disciplined schedule to regulate their eating habits.
Physical activity will prevent many health issues like obesity and also make sure that they are hungry enough to eat what you will provide them.
Why Is My Dog Not Eating Dry Food?
There are numerous reasons for your to refuse dry food. One of them is health issues, If your dog used to eat everything but he stopped recently then there is a strong possibility that he is sick. There might be some Stomach issues or Dental problems that may cause him to not eat dry food[1].
Other than this, there may be complicated stomach issues like Intolerances[2] or Intestinal blockage caused by anything that obstructs the passage of food through the digestive tract. This may cause your dog to not eat food normally. In such a situation you should consult with a professional as he may figure out the cause and guide you.
If your dog’s environment changed recently then this may be a reason too. Provide your dog with safe and secure places to eat. If your dog is young then wait for some time and figure out foods appropriate for his age.
Your dog may just be a fussy or picky eater. Try to make his meals more interesting and fun. However, do not let this become a regular thing as this may turn into a bad habit.
According to Dr. Hohenhaus, “Dogs are pack animals. When you’re gone, their pack is not at home. They’re waiting for the pack to be there to eat”
FAQs
Why My Dog Stopped Eating Dry Food but Eat Wet Food?
Many dogs won’t eat if they’re not feeling well, especially if they’re suffering from intestinal or dental issues, so you should visit your veterinarian to make sure nothing’s wrong. But if your dog eats other kinds of food (like wet food or snacks) and refuses to touch his dry food, it may mean he’s a picky eater.
What Can I Add to Dog Food to Make Them Eat It?
Cottage Cheese. Cottage cheese makes a nice, semi-liquid “sauce” that can easily mix into dry kibble as an occasional treat. Canned Fish Liquid. Pineapple Juice. Ripe Tomato Juice. Low-Sodium Chicken Broth. Unsweetened Apple Sauce. Coconut Oil. Pumpkin Puree.
How to Make a Picky Dog Eat?
Set and stick to a mealtime schedule to the degree possible. Leave food out for no longer than 15 to 20 minutes. If your dog doesn’t eat anything, take the bowls away. Don’t give your pet any more food or treats until their next scheduled feeding time.
Can I Add Water to Dry Dog Food?
There are many benefits to adding water to your dog’s dry food like helping to prevent dehydration, increased digestibility, making it easier to chew, and helping with weight loss.
Can Dogs Drink Milk?
Milk is a safe treat in small quantities. A few tablespoons of cow’s milk or goat’s milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhoea, vomiting, and loose stools.
What Do I Mix With Dry Dog Food?
Eggs. Muscle meat (including the heart) and organ meats. Fish. Yoghurt and kefir. Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. Canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix). Cooked or pureed vegetables. Fruit.
Summary
So to answer your question how to get your dog to eat dry food? Then you may try some of these tips. Provide them with innovative and healthy diets in different ways.
Solve their health issues if any, by consulting with the vet. The vet can also provide you with a proper nutritious diet for your dog.
Taking some precautions and attending to their need will keep your dog healthy and happy! Providing the right amount of nutritious dry food is also important. Be sure to consult your vet on how much dry food to feed a dog according to their specific needs.
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