Dogs refusing food can be worrying, but don’t panic! It’s normal for some dogs to go off their food for a day or two. You generally have 3-5 days before it’s time to seek professional advice. In the meantime, here are some quick and easy solutions:
Add Warm Water to Their Food 💧
Pour warm water over their food and let it sit for a few minutes. Ensure it cools to a safe temperature to avoid burns, but the warmth will release appetising aromas.
Mix in a Small Amount of Wet Food 🥫
Buy a single tin of something appealing, like Butcher’s, and mix a spoonful into their dry food. This should make the food more enticing, and one tin can last 5-7 days if used sparingly.
Try Hand Feeding ✋
Offer a small portion of food from your hand. Dogs sometimes need a bit of encouragement, and this personal touch can help.
Switch Feeding Times 🕒
Adjust the feeding schedule, as some dogs may prefer to eat later in the day when they’re more relaxed.
Create a Calm Feeding Environment 🌿
Remove distractions and feed your dog in a quiet spot. Stress can impact appetite, so make sure mealtime feels safe and comfortable.
Introduce a Little Bone Broth 🍲
Add a small amount of warm, unsalted bone broth to their food. It’s both nutritious and incredibly tempting to most dogs.
Reduce Treats and Snacks 🍪🚫
Avoid giving treats between meals, as this can reduce their hunger for proper meals.
Exercise Before Meals 🐾
A brisk walk or some playtime can stimulate their appetite. Make sure your dog has had time to cool down before eating.
Check Their Bowl 🥣
Some dogs dislike certain types of bowls, such as metal ones that reflect light. Try switching to a ceramic or plastic bowl to see if it makes a difference.
Keep Food Fresh 🌬️
Ensure their kibble is stored properly and hasn’t gone stale. Fresh food smells more appealing and is more likely to tempt them.
Transitioning to New Food 🌱
When switching your dog to a new food, it’s important to do it gradually, as some dogs can be quite picky and may refuse to eat the new food outright. This is completely normal and can be resolved with a careful transition.
Start Slowly
Begin by mixing a small amount of the new food with your dog’s current food. Start with 25% new food and 75% old food. Some dogs might be hesitant to eat the new food at first, but starting with a smaller proportion makes it less intimidating.
Gradually Increase the New Food
Over the next 5-7 days, gradually increase the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old food.
Be Patient and Consistent
It’s important not to give up too quickly. Some dogs need time to adjust to new flavours and textures. Be consistent with the amount of new food you're offering, and give your dog time to get used to it. If your dog refuses to eat the new food, try leaving it down for 10-15 minutes and then removing it. Don’t be tempted to offer a backup food option, as this may encourage them to be more picky.
Watch for Changes
Keep an eye on your dog’s appetite and energy levels during the transition. While it’s normal for some dogs to take a little longer to adjust, if your dog refuses the new food for an extended period or shows any signs of distress, consider reaching out to your vet for advice.
By transitioning your dog slowly and sticking with the plan, you’ll encourage them to accept their new food. This gradual approach ensures that your dog will adjust successfully without causing any stress or discomfort.
When to Contact a Vet 🩺
If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 3-5 days, is lethargic, or shows other worrying symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, or weight loss, seek professional advice immediately. If there’s no improvement after three days, consult your vet. Be the hero your dog thinks you are. 🦸♂️🐕