How can I encourage my dog to eat more?

Hi njames, 

Your dog is clearly a fan of cheese! Why don't you turn the treats you give to him into small pieces of cheese, but this would be a treat, not his meal.

I'm not an expert when it comes to nutrition and I'm lucky because my dog Max would pretty much eat whatever he can find. Why don't you try changing his food? Maybe he doesn't like the taste of his kibbles anymore. 

Good luck!

Hi njames!

                   I have had similar issues with my dog Maggie, she is a food obsessed cocker spaniel X and knows exactly what she wants!! 
 

I would recommend that you don't grate cheese on his meal if he is being fussy as this will reinforce the notion that if he waits long enough, you will give in and he will get what he wants. This behaviour is quickly learned but can just as easily be 'forgotten' so to speak. For a healthier option you could grate carrot on top if he is a fan, my little girl loves carrot! It does have high sugar content so shouldn't be used in excess just as a healthy delicious snack!

You could also try mixing a few spoonfuls of wet food into his kibble to make it smellier. My general rule is the smellier the food, the more likely your dog will want to eat it. Have you tried 'tasting trays' with your dog? At most pet stores or supermarkets you can buy single servings of wet dog food in sachets, white fish, chicken, rice and an array of veggies which you can present to your pooch and see which he favours! This is a great way to figure out what your dog likes and subsequently can make tailored meals for your dog that you know he'll enjoy!

 Frustratingly some dogs do just have a fussy pallet and even though it will be extra work, you may find that he is better suited to a mix of say Brown rice, tuna and peas as opposed to a branded food. My only suggestion if you were to try this is to research what mixture of foods will provide a balanced diet for your dog!

If you do feed kibble I have also found a low sodium stock cube crumbled over with a small amount of warm water successful! 
 

You may also have seen or tried toys designed for feeding, such as a grooved 'licky' mat for you to spread food over, in which your dog is challenged to remove it all and manoeuvre across the mat. Another example are Kong tubes, toys and biscuit/kibbke releasers. These work using a central reserve with small openings for the kibble to fall out after your dog had rolled it around the floor. Turning dinner time into a game is a simple but effective way to encourage your dog to eat! 
 

I hope you find some of this useful and wish you luck!

Joe

Encouraging your dog to eat more can be a concern, but there are several strategies you can try to ensure your furry friend gets the nutrition they need. Here are some tips:

Check for Health Issues: Before making any changes, it's crucial to rule out any underlying health issues that might be affecting your dog's appetite. Consult your veterinarian for a thorough check-up.

Provide a Balanced Diet: Ensure your dog's food is nutritionally balanced and suitable for their age, size, and health condition. High-quality dog food with a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats is essential.

Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Establish a consistent feeding schedule and stick to it. This helps regulate their appetite and creates a sense of predictability.

Add Tasty Toppings: Spruce up your dog's meals with tasty and healthy toppers. You can add a small amount of broth, cooked meat, or vegetables to entice their taste buds.

Interactive Feeders: Use interactive feeders or puzzle toys that dispense food. This engages your dog mentally and physically, making mealtime more enjoyable.

Create a Positive Environment: Ensure the feeding area is calm and free from distractions. Dogs may be hesitant to eat if they feel anxious or if there are disruptions during mealtime.

Regular exercise and social interaction play a significant role in a dog's overall well-being. This can contribute to a healthy appetite and a happy, well-adjusted pup.

Remember, every dog is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the approach that works best for your four-legged friend. If you have persistent concerns about your dog's eating habits, consulting with your vet is always a wise choice.

Wishing you and your furry companion a happy and healthy journey together!