Is your dog fussy? Finicky? Downright Picky?
Since we want to ensure our dogs get the right nutrition, it can be very stressful when your dog is a fussy eater. There are a lot of reasons why your dog may not be interested in his kibble. It could be due to a health issue, his age if he is senior dog, or it could be that he has become picky.
If your dog is not eating his kibble, and you have already seen a veterinarian to ensure he is not sick, your dog might just be bored with his food, or he doesn't find his food exciting enough to eat.
Why is My Dog Picky?
Dogs in the wild are on a constant hunt for food and eat regardless of hunger, since they don't know where their next meal is coming from. However, our pet dogs know that not only do they receive multiple bowls of kibble a day but they can often score table food from their owners. A french fry here, a pizza crust there, dinner leftovers scooped into their bowl, and before you know it your dog now has a round belly and the vet tells you he is overweight.
Even worse, he may refuse to eat anything but people food. We've heard stories of people stopping at fast food joints just for food for their dog! "He won't eat anything but chicken nuggets" they say.
Common Recommendations for Picky Eaters
There are a number of recommendations for dogs that have become picky eaters, not due to a health condition.
- Avoid Table Scraps and People Food
- Feed on a regular schedule
- Make sure your dog gets enough exercise
- Use Food Toppers, such as Doggondiments.
Ways to use Doggondiments
Sprinkle:
Sprinkling Doggondiments on your dog's food can be an effective way to get your dog to take a second look at his kibble.
Gravy:
Making a gravy makes the scent and taste of doggondiments even stronger. Just add water to make a gravy. Make it as thick or watery as you like. If desired, heat it up for about 5-10 seconds in the microwave to give it a little warmth like people food.
Using a food topper will help entice your dog to eat his kibble and also help divert his begging away from people food, and due to the lower calorie content of Doggondiments, it may also help bring his weight back in line. You can still give them something exciting without jeopardizing their health. Win, Win.
We love to see our doggies wag their tails excitedly for food, now they can get excited about their kibble again -- and you can save the leftovers for tomorrow's lunch!