Strange behaviour before mealtimes

Maybe I’m going a bit off-topic... but what about those Kong-style toys where you hide food inside?

That’s very kind, thank you. A bit of luck really, as I’ve been through the same thing myself. At first, I thought I’d have to take them to the vet.

If she's doing it after she's already eaten, then that’s a different matter altogether. She might have had enough by then. Maybe try weighing her portions?

Personally, rather than taking the food away, I like to give the dog the chance to hide it. They remember where it is and will go back to it later if they need to (if your goal is to leave food out all day like some people do).

It keeps the dog occupied and lets them satisfy that instinct, so they’ll presumably feel better for it.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O37eQiUSA8s]

It’s simple, she just doesn't want to eat right now.

So, in all likelihood, she might not like that particular brand.

Or, she’s just not hungry at the moment.

If you put her dry food out at the usual time, she might have sneaked some food behind your back, especially being a Border Collie. They could crack a safe lol.

But that behaviour means she wants to cover her bowl with dirt. She’s scratching to bury it. If you put an empty plastic bag or a bit of anything in front of it, the dog would probably use it to cover her bowl.

Ideally, you should take the food away, as it’s frustrating for a dog to want to hide their food and not be able to. And try experimenting with different flavours or types if you’re worried she doesn't like her food.