Why Some Dogs Are Fussy Eaters and How to Cope

Dogs are usually known for their love of food, but some can be surprisingly particular about their meal choices. Understanding why dogs become fussy eaters and how to address this behavior can help ensure they remain healthy and happy.

Reasons Behind Fussy Eating
 Natural Preferences: Just like humans, dogs have their own preferences and aversions when it comes to food.
 Health Issues: Sometimes, a dog’s fussiness can be a sign of underlying health problems such as dental issues, gastrointestinal problems, or food allergies. If your dog has been suffering for some time and you can't find answers then have a look at having a microbiome test done with Biome4Pets it blew my mind!!!. Regular veterinary check-ups can help too.

Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety and changes in the dog’s environment, such as moving houses, the introduction of a new pet, or of course if the owner is stressed can also affect their appetite. Spoilt Habits: If a dog is frequently given excess treats (my dogs say there's no such thing as excess treats ) or maybe there is a bowl of dry food down for them at all times they might start refusing their fresh food.

Tips to Encourage Healthy Eating Habits
-  Add Variety: Feed a variety of proteins and of course mix and match different brands too! You can mix their raw food with some Tribal, Coya freeze dried or Natures Menu Superfood Mighty Mixer or try a tasty Topper. You can also add a healthy topping like bone broth, an egg, Goat milk, frozen sprats or tinned sardines.
-  Change the Texture: Try blending the food for a smoother consistency or add something crunchy, like freeze-dried raw foods or raw meaty bones like a wing or two like we talked about last week!
-  Make Mealtimes Fun: Spread the food out on a platter, (I've put an option below that we have instore) or encourage your dog to sniff and explore their meal, turning eating into a positive experience.
-  Reduce Stress: Play with your dog, take them for a walk, hike, run or activity like agility, scent work obedience or give them one-on-one time before meals to help them relax and enjoy their food.
-  Transition Gradually: When introducing new proteins or foods, let your dog get used to them over a a week to avoid stomach upset.
-  Consider Fasting: Fasting your dog once a week can help reset their digestive system and improve their immune system. There are some great benefits even to fast one meal. However please consult with a vet first.
-  Check Portion Sizes: Overfeeding can lead to fussy behaviour if they're not hungry. Some dogs will have had their exercise reduced due to lack of light, wet miserable weather or training classes being cancelled. This means a reduction in food required too! Monitor meal sizes to ensure they’re just the right amount. We are always will to help you with this, just find out what your dog weighs and a rough body score!

Conclusion
While dealing with a fussy eater can be challenging, understanding the reasons behind this behaviour and taking proactive steps can make a big difference. With patience and care, you can ensure your dog gets the nutrition they need to thrive.