When it comes to mealtime, watching your dog turn their nose up at food can be frustrating, to say the least. If you’ve found yourself asking why your dog is such a picky eater, you’re not alone! Many pet owners face this challenge.

In this article, we’ll explore why dogs can be particular about their food and provide tips to make feeding your dog less stressful.

Behavior Examples of Dogs Being Picky about Their Food

Before we dive into the reasons behind your dog’s picky eating habits, it’s important to understand what this behavior looks like.

Here are some signs that your dog might be a picky eater:

• Turning away from food or refusing to eat
• Eating only certain types of food (such as only eating wet food)
• Taking longer than 20 minutes to finish meals
• Taking only small bites of their food
• Showing disinterest in treats

If you notice any of these behaviors with your dog, it’s possible they’re being picky with their food.

If you are concerned about your dog's eating habits or behaviors, it is always best to consult withyour veterinarian.

Why Dogs Become Picky Eaters

Most puppies eagerly eat anything you put in front of them, so why do some dogs become picky eaters over time? Let’s explore some possible reasons for this behavior.

Age

As dogs age, their appetite and eating habits can change. Senior dogs may be less active and therefore require fewer calories, leading to a decreased appetite. They may also experience changes in their sense of taste and smell that make food less appealing.

Boredom

When was the last time you changed your dog’s food? If they’ve been eating the same food for a long time, they may simply be bored and ready for something different.

Consider switching brands or flavors, but do so gradually to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach. You could also try selecting food with culinary-inspired flavors, like CESAR® WHOLESOME BOWLS™. These palate-pleasing recipes can tempt even the pickiest eaters!

Spoiled Appetite

How many treats or table scraps does your dog receive throughout the day? They may not be hungry for regular meals if they're constantly snacking.

Be mindful of any extra food your dog gets, and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.

New Home

If you’ve recently brought your puppy home or moved to a different house with your dog, it may take some time for them to adjust and feel comfortable in their new environment. During this transition period, they may have a decreased appetite.

Be patient with your dog and continue offering them their regular meals. As they become more familiar with their surroundings and settle into a new routine, their appetite should return to normal.

Attention

Dogs are smart and know how to get what they want. If your dog has learned that being picky gets them plenty of attention while you try to coax them into eating, they may continue this behavior.

It’s important not to give in and offer treats or table scraps to entice your dog to eat. Instead, provide their regular meals at scheduled times and offer plenty of praise and affection when they do eat.

What to Do When Your Dog’s a Picky Eater

Now that you know what could be causing your dog’s picky eating habits, the next step is to address the issue and find solutions that work for you and your pup.

Here are some tips to help get your dog back on track.

Consult Your Vet

Anytime you’re concerned about your dog’s behavior, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian. They can help rule out underlying issues and provide specific recommendations based on your dog’s needs.