13 Tastiest & Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters in June 2023

“Dogs eat everything.” 

You may have heard of this before. It’s true that most dogs are naturally curious about stuff and will taste, chew on, or eat most things — even those that aren’t edible. And of course, you’ve got the voracious eaters who will inhale their food and be done in seconds. 

But not all dogs are like these because you also have the picky eaters. And these dogs definitely DON’T eat everything. In fact, feeding time can be quite difficult for pet owners who find their pups sniffing and tossing their heads at the meals they are served. 

When you’ve got a picky pooch, it’s hard not to worry that your pup is not getting all the nutrients he needs. How do you make sure that all of his needs are met and that he’s kept at a healthy weight? And if he’s got other medical conditions to think of, it’s even more difficult not to fret. 

OUR TOP 3 PICKS FOR DOG FOODS FOR PICKY EATERS

When it comes to dogs that are picky eaters, finding something that they enjoy and will actually eat can be quite a challenge, whilst still offering the right levels of nutrients and benefits.

That is why we have put together a list of the best tasting dog food for picky eaters, to help you find the perfect choice for your furry four-legged friend. With so many options around, it can be hard to know what’s best, so take a look below for a little help!

Overall Best Tasting Dog Food For Picky Eaters

What is the Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters?

1. Ollie Fresh Pet Food
2. Spot & Tango Fresh Pet Food
3. Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food
4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Formula
5. American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula
7. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Chicken & Veggies Recipe
8. Merrick Grain-Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe
9. Nature's Logic Canine Rabbit Feast
10. Go! Solutions SENSITIVITIES Shredded Turkey
11. Tiki Dog Wildz Duck Recipe
12. Stella & Chewy's Tantalizing Turkey Dinner Patties
13. Instinct Raw Boost Mixers Chicken Recipe

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Best Dog Food For Your Choosy Pupper

Ollie Fresh Pet Food (Lamb)

First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Butternut Squash, Lamb Liver, Kale, Rice

Guaranteed Analysis:

Ollie is a New York-based company set out to turn the pet food industry on its head by offering fresh, custom meals for dogs similar to meal-prep services like Maple and Sprig for humans.

Ollie dog food is made and hand-packed in the USA. It partners with a veterinary nutritionist to formulate its nutritionally-balanced recipes in accordance with AAFCO standards. Everything is carefully selected from reputable farms in the U.S and Australia. Each partner must go through an extensive certification process to become a supplier. 

According to pet owners who’ve subscribed to the brand’s meal plans, this fresh dog food recipe is a game-changer for picky eaters. Their dogs often eat this lamb food on their own with no prompting whatsoever. No food is wasted because every morsel is gone.

There is also a significant difference in energy levels and coat health. And because it is customized, the human-grade dog food is ideal for pups with sensitive stomachs and food allergies.

We chose this dog food as the best one for picky dogs out of all we’ve reviewed because fresh dog foods are the healthiest and most wholesome you can give your pup. Fussy eaters are naturally drawn to tasty dog foods and freshly prepared meals provide as much flavor as possible. 

Also, among fresh dog food services, Ollie’s provides the most affordable meals. It may be more expensive than buying prepacked kibble or canned food, but the marked difference in your dog’s health is worth the extra expense. 

Pros: 

• Meal is personalized to your pet
• Cooked in USDA-regulated kitchens
• Human-grade ingredients
• Limited ingredient dog food
• Suited for all life stages

Cons:

• More expensive than dry kibble

Other Top Dog Foods For Finicky Pups

Fresh Food

These are super healthy meals that are customized to your pup’s specific age, weight, breed, activity, and allergies. They’re often made in small batches to make them as fresh as possible when they get to you. And the moisture level for these is often around 70% and upwards.

1. Spot and Tango Fresh Turkey and Red Quinoa

Rating: 5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Red Quinoa, Spinach, Carrots, Peas

Guaranteed Analysis:

Spot & Tango is a company that reimagines dog food through personalized meal plans, real ingredients that do not contain anything artificial, and a quick delivery system straight to your doorstep.

Its fresh dog food recipes are made up 100% whole and recognizable ingredients that number 12 or less in each formulation. The ingredients are all sourced from local farms that have gone through a meticulous screening. There are no fillers, additives, or preservatives ever. 

According to dog owners who’ve ordered this specific human-grade dog food recipe, the fresh food makes it easy for them to give their picky eaters something real and wholesome. Mealtimes are often exciting times because dogs often gobble their food as soon as their bowls are filled.

Pups look healthier than ever on this diet. It also helps that the brand offers a money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with your purchase in any way, but hardly anyone uses it since dogs are thriving on the diet.

Pros:

• 100% Happy Pup guarantee (money back)
• Made in USDA-certified kitchens
• 12 main ingredients only
• Meals are delivered on a regular and flexible schedule
• Eco-friendly packaging

Cons:

• Priced higher than other brands offering fresh foods

2. Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food Delivery Pork Potluck

Rating: 5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Ground Pork, Russet Potatoes, Green Beans, Squash, Kale

Guaranteed Analysis:

Nom Nom provides customized and pre-portioned meals based on your dog’s unique dietary needs, so there’s no more guesswork about how much to feed. Among the company’s professional team are two in-house board-certified veterinary nutritionists (there are only 100 in the USA) who lead the way in making your dog’s food.

Every meal is cooked on low heat, to preserve nutrients, in a human-grade kitchen to human-grade standards. And all the meats are cooked separately from the veggies then mixed in batches to maximize digestibility. The delicious recipe is clean with no fillers or harmful chemicals to accommodate allergies and food sensitivities. 

According to dog owners of picky eaters, this recipe is a top-notch food that are beyond their highest expectations. Dogs who were previously lacking enthusiasm during mealtimes have been observed to lick their bowls clean when fed this pork diet. 

Tummy aches due to sensitive stomachs being irritated are now a thing of the past. Not only is the dog food good for getting fussy eaters to eat, it’s also excellent for their digestive health. 

Pros

• Meals are customized per your dog’s needs
• Exceeds AAFCO standards for all life stages
• Created in a human-grade kitchen at human-grade levels
• Formulated by in-house board certified veterinary nutritionists

Cons

• Pricier than kibble

Dry Dog Foods

Dry dog food looks like small biscuits in varying shapes and sizes. Though it’s called dry food, kibbles contain moisture of around 10%. In dry dog food, dough is extruded through small holes under pressure and it is cooked as it is pushed through.

Because of the cooking process, much of the moisture and some of the nutrients are lost so some brands opt to add vitamin and mineral supplements.

1. Taste of the Wild High Prairie

Rating: 4/5

First 5 Ingredients: Buffalo, Lamb Meal, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas

Guaranteed Analysis:

Taste of the Wild is a brand that is dedicated to crafting complete dog food recipes based on your pet’s natural diet. Every formula is protein-dense and the first ingredient is always real meat, fowl, or fish. 

The brand has two lines to accommodate the needs of all dogs: grain-free and grain-inclusive. This particular dog food formulation is grain-free and comes in a range of sizes. It’s an all-natural recipe that’s also gluten-free and contains novel proteins such as buffalo and bison, which are both great energy sources for your four-legged friend.

There are also peas and sweet potatoes, for highly digestible energy, as well as a range of other fruits and vegetables that are packed with natural antioxidants for perfect overall health.

To help with healthy digestion and prebiotic support, this Taste of the Wild dry dog food contains dried chicory root as well as prebiotics and species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics.

For many pet owners, this recipe is one that their picky eaters have eaten consistently. Many have said that High Prairie has helped clear their dog’s gastro issues or improved them by a lot. Poops are also more solid and consistent since being fed this diet. 

However, the calories are high at 422/cup. Please follow the recommended feeding guide carefully so your dog does not gain any weight he does not need.

Pros

• Novel proteins are included in the mix
• Perfect balance of omega fatty acids 
• Contains a trio of powerful superfoods
• No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
• Contains dried chicory root which offers healthy digestion and prebiotic support

Cons

• Not a low-calorie option

2. American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe

Rating: 4.5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Chickpeas

Guaranteed Analysis:

American Journey Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe is a good option for high-quality food at a lower price. It offers a range of benefits for your dog's overall health and well being, including deboned lamb which provides protein and amino acids, as well as assisting with leaner muscles… and a tasty meal!

The smell can be quite strong though, as well as being tricky for some senior dogs’ digestion, so it may not be suited to every canine. This dry food contains a range of fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, carrots, and dried kelp, which offer a huge range of benefits.

It is also full of omegas-3 and 6 fatty acids, including long-chain DHA from both salmon oil and flaxseed, which help coat and skin health, as well as healthy eye and brain development. There’s antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients, as well as vitamins, minerals… the list goes on!

According to reviewers, many dogs with food allergies are seen to be thriving on this dog food. Even picky eaters have been observed to inhale the food and are now looking forward to mealtimes. Based on how quickly dogs devour their meal, this recipe is seen as the best tasting dog food by many owners.

It’s also a bonus that aside from the quality ingredients, this American Journey formulation is on the affordable side. It also smells  fine, which a lot are thankful for.

Pros

• Contains chondroitin and glucosamine for mobility
• Fruits and vegetables for naturally-sourced nutrition
• Includes vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for immune health
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed
• No poultry by-product meals

Cons

• Some of the kibbles are clumped together

3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

Rating: 4.25/5

First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal

Guaranteed Analysis:

If you are looking for a dry dog food that focuses on holistic health, then the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is a great choice. Suitable for small, medium and large breeds and full of lots of benefits, this mix will have your picky eater loving mealtime again.

Since this is made for all life stages, it contains chondroitin and glucosamine to support developing bones and joints as well as aging ones. It also contains the brand’s proprietary LifeSource Bits, which are a precise blend of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Premium natural ingredients such as apples, spinach, blueberries, and pumpkins provide naturally-sourced nutrition. Chicken is the sole animal protein source, while chicken fat provides the concentrated form of energy your dog needs to get active. 

According to reviewers, most dogs, including the picky eaters, deem this recipe as the best tasting dog food for them. Even those that transitioned to the food ‘cold turkey’ quickly adapted because they loved the taste. 

Pros:

• Single animal protein source
• Contains digestible and nutrient-packed wholesome grains
• Designed for all ages and breed sizes
• Ingredients and price are decent
• The size of the kibbles aren’t too big nor too small

Cons:

• Some dogs don’t like the small bits (LifeSource Bits) in the kibble

4. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Chicken & Veggies Recipe

Rating: 4/5

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Grain Sorghum, Dried Peas

Guaranteed Analysis:

If animal rescue is something that means a lot to you, you will want to start buying Rachael Ray Nutrish’s Natural Chicken & vegetable Recipe. Not only is it a healthy and tasty option for your picky eater, but all proceeds from Nutrish sales also go to food, medical supplies and treatments for animals in need.

This food contains simple and natural ingredients, making it suitable for dogs in every stage of their life. The number 1 ingredient is USA farm-raised chicken, as well as a range of wholesome additions such as brown rice, beet pulp, peas, and carrots.

This mix is full of fiber and prebiotics, helping a healthy digestive system, as well as poultry fat for omega fatty acids, assisting with a shiny coat and healthy skin.

Based on what many reviewers say, their picky eaters — who are not much on plain food — will go and wolf this food down. Apparently, for most dogs on this diet, it’s a tasty dog food that deserves to be eaten and scarfed.

It’s also a great food for the price, some purchasers say, and it’s tolerated well. Dog poops are more solid compared to when they were fed another recipe, and gas is reduced by a lot.

Pros:

• Real chicken as the number one ingredient
• Contains added taurine, vitamins, and minerals
• Has fiber-filled brown rice
• No wheat gluten, fillers, or poultry by-product

Cons:

• Contains soy and corn
• The kibbles are a little too hard for some small dogs

5. Merrick Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe

First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Lamb Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Potatoes

Guaranteed Analysis:

If your picky eater also has allergies, then we recommend giving this Real Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe a try. This dry food blend is a poultry-free recipe that’s packed full of nutritious ingredients, such as real deboned beef, sweet potato, apples, and blueberries, which offer a great taste as well as health benefits.

The great tasting dog food is designed for a picky eater with its 65% protein and healthy fat formulation. The remaining 35% is divided into fiber, produce, vitamins, and minerals. 

60% of the total protein is derived from animal sources so that you know it’s filled with essential amino acids that plant-based proteins generally lack. 

The recipe also contains guaranteed levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for hip and joint function, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, and taurine for supporting cardiovascular health.

Many pet owners, whose dogs would rather starve than eat something they don’t deem suitable, say that this Merrick recipe got their dog eating — and eating a lot. It’s terrific for sensitive dogs who can’t stand poultry, and it’s the only one that has worked for their pups after trying a lot of other dog food brands.

It is reasonably priced, decently formulated, and works for many canines.

Pros:

• Made of 65% protein and fat
• Has guaranteed levels of chondroitin and glucosamine
• With beef liver for rich, naturally-sourced nutrients
• Contains probiotics
• High protein content

Cons:

• Kibble size is small

Wet Dog Foods

Wet dog foods are primarily made of animal protein and fat with maybe a few carbohydrates mixed in. These are cooked food but with generally more recognizable ingredients than dry kibble. Because of its high moisture, fat, and protein content, wet food products are more palatable and easily digested by pups.

1. Nature's Logic Canine Rabbit Feast

Rating: 4.75/5

First 5 Ingredients: Rabbit, Water Sufficient for Processing, Pork Liver, Dried Egg Product, Montmorillonite Clay

Guaranteed Analysis:

Nature’s Logic supplies natural goodness for dogs through whole foods that are highly palatable and nutrient-dense. Picky eaters will love how the brand makes use of not only muscle meat but also organ meat in each delectable recipe. 

This particular meaty wet food recipe makes use of a novel protein, rabbit, which makes it ideal for sensitive canines. Although rabbit is supported by pork liver in terms of protein, remember that pork can also be regarded as novel because it’s not as used as much as other kinds of meat.

The food is low in carbohydrates, rich in protein, and does not contain gluten or grain. For fiber, it relies on pumpkin to keep your dog’s waste movement solid and regular.

Nature’s Logic Rabbit Feast is heavily praised by pet owners for its simple and limited ingredient formulation. Pets who’ve suffered from allergy issues for years have stopped being itchy and had their skin issues resolved with this diet.

Picky eaters get excited whenever this food is brought out. It makes for a great topper too if you want your pup to eat his regular kibble. The only downside to it that reviewers mention is its dry texture.

Pros:

• Made with 90% animal ingredients
• Uses eggshell calcium and animal plasma
• All-natural whole food that includes organ meat and produce
• Free from chemically synthesized vitamins
• Free of common allergens

Cons:

• Very dry pate formula

2. Go! Solutions SENSITIVITIES Limited Ingredient Shredded Turkey

Rating: 4.5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Tapioca, Pork Plasma, Cranberries

Guaranteed Analysis:

Picky dogs with allergies? No problem with Go! Solutions Sensitivities line. All the dog foods in this line use a single animal protein source to accommodate pups with allergy issues. Meat is always first and there are only a few ingredients in the whole formulation.

There are no common allergens included, like grains, gluten, wheat, corn, animal by-product, growth hormones, or artificial preservatives. 

This recipe is chock full of the good stuff. It uses cage-free turkey as its only animal protein source. The fat it utilizes is salmon oil, known for being a rich provider of omega fatty acids. There’s pumpkin to aid in your dog’s digestion and cranberries for his immune system.

For picky eaters who often get upset tummies, this wet food formulation helps them eat and stay healthy. The fussy pups are observed by their owners to really like the food, particularly the chunks of meat that they can chew on.

Pros:

• Limited ingredient diet
• Single animal protein source
• Contains pork plasma which is full of essential vitamins and minerals
• Cage-free turkey as the main ingredient

Cons:

• Needs a resealable packaging

3. Tiki Dog Wildz Duck Recipe with Chicken Liver

Rating: 4.5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Duck, Water Sufficient for Processing, Chicken Liver, Chickpea Flour, Dried Yeast

Guaranteed Analysis:

Tiki is a New Zealand company that makes dog foods using purposeful ingredients. Each of the ingredients in its dry and canned food formulas are carefully selected so that pups get only real food and nothing artificial.

The brand designs its products around these key points: sustained energy, strong immune system, and healthy skin and coat. This particular recipe is under the Wildz line, which is focused on producing ethically-sourced and clean foods that are made of more than 90% animal protein.

Cage-free duck is the leading animal protein source here, and it makes up 91% of the food. Chicken liver provides protein support but also supplies a lot of naturally-sourced vitamins and minerals as well as a high percentage of fat.

If we go by customer reviewers, many say that this recipe is the best dog food for picky eaters. Dogs, big and small, are said to come running whenever they hear a can being opened. The pooches will also devour their food immediately, leaving nothing behind on their bowls, not even a speck.

Owners also recommend it for its clean and high-quality ingredients. Because of the high fat and protein content, it will allow you to put meat on your thin pups quickly. However, care must be taken so that your dog doesn’t gain any more weight than he should.

Pros:

• Made of 91% animal protein on a dry matter basis
• Cage-free duck is the main ingredient
• non-GMO
• High protein

Cons:

• A little high on calories

Raw Food

Raw food is one of the newest ways dog owners are feeding their pups. And also one of the healthiest. Because raw food does not go through a cooking process, the ingredients contain all the nutrients they started out with. 

It can be homemade or bought prepared. Commercial raw dog foods are usually safer because these have been subjected to a strict processing (air-drying, freeze-drying, etc.) where harmful pathogens are eliminated. 

1. Stella & Chewy's Tantalizing Turkey Dinner Patties

Rating: 4.75/5

First 5 Ingredients: Turkey With Ground Bone, Turkey Liver, Turkey Gizzard, Pumpkin Seed, Organic Cranberries

Guaranteed Analysis:

Stella & Chewy is online pet retailer Chewy.com’s own premium brand for pets. It’s focused on giving dogs a premium meal based on the nutrition of raw and a whole-prey diet. The brand’s philosophy is based on the belief that dogs will thrive on the same diet that they eat in the wild.

The formulations crafted by Stella & Chewy use sustainably-sourced ingredients and a single protein source. Bones and organ meats are also utilized, aside from muscle meat. 

This turkey recipe uses ethically-sourced ingredients like cage-free turkey. The turkey here is the only source of animal protein, which is ideal if your pup is sensitive to other types of animal meat. Turkey organs like liver and gizzard supply fat for more energy, while turkey bones provide a rich source of calcium and phosphorus.

Like most raw food products, there are no fillers, artificial colorings, or preservatives included. 

Pros:

• Made with 95% meat
• Contains cage-free turkey, organs, and bone
• 100% certified produce
• Made without hormones or antibiotics
• Limited ingredient diet

Cons:

• Patties are often crumbly

2. Instinct Variety Raw Boost Mixers Chicken Recipe

Rating: 4.5/5

First 5 Ingredients: Chicken (including Ground Chicken Bone), Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Chicken Heart, Carrots

Guaranteed Analysis:

Instinct is a brand of pet foods that believes in the power of raw nutrition. Raw is packed with proteins, provides whole food nutrition, and is minimally processed so that your pup gets only the purest form of food. 

Instinct builds its products around raw food to harness all of its benefits, like increased vitality, improved coat and skin, better digestion, smaller poop, and relief from sensitivities. 

This recipe is not a complete meal but rather a mixer that you add to your finicky pup’s regular diet. It’s the perfect dog food for picky eaters because it adds taste and variety to any meal. The protein-rich make up of the formulation will also appeal to the instinctual cravings of canines for meat.

The dog food topper is full of beneficial ingredients, from cage-free chicken and chicken liver to carrots, apples, blueberries and butternut squash for overall health and well being. There is also dried chicory root, for prebiotic support and healthy digestion, as well as many other raw whole foods to satisfy your furry friend's appetite.

Dog parents say they highly recommend this food for picky eaters. Their stubborn pups who are difficult to feed are now excited for mealtimes to come. Crumbled or just mixed in, their dogs would dive right into their bowls for this dog food topper formulation. 

Another good thing about the mixer is that it can be used as a training treat too. Pups eagerly follow instructions just to get a taste of the kibble.

Pros:

• Contains up to 28 ounces of real meat
• No artificial colors or preservatives
• Made with wholefood ingredients
• No corn, wheat, peas or soy
• Contains non-GMO fruits and vegetables

Cons:

• Expensive to use daily

What Should You Look For In Dog Food To Entice Your Picky Eater?

It can be frustrating when you’ve laid out what you think is tasty and healthy dog food and your pup won’t even so much as go near his bowl.

But here are some steps you can take to ensure that the dog food you select is at least more enticing and palatable to your pup than what you might have picked out otherwise. 

1. Meat first ingredient. Although dogs are omnivores and not carnivores, meat makes any dog food more palatable so a recipe that’s high in animal protein will stimulate your dog’s appetite more than one that’s based on carbs. 

It’s not enough that you choose a recipe that lists meat as a first ingredient. Check the other ingredients that follow. Some brands try to hide the fact that their formulations are lacking in animal protein by listing a meat product as the first  but following it up with different kinds of carbohydrates next. 

If there are lots of carbs, veggies, or fruits in the first five ingredients, check how much animal protein was used by the dog food brand. Some will usually announce it in the label as, “Made up of 75% animal protein,” or something like that. This means that even if there’s only a single animal product in the ingredients list, it makes up a big volume in the recipe. 

2. Animal fat. Dogs are hardwired to detect animal fat in their food. If your pet is a high-energy canine, it’s totally fine to go with a dog food that contains a high fat content. Fat gives dog food a more delicious taste, plus it gives your pooch a concentrated form of energy. 

It can take the form of chicken fat, or fish oil in the ingredients list. Some recipes use plant-based oils as fat sources instead but these don’t make the food more tempting for picky dogs. 

3. Wet dog food over dry. There are plenty of dry dog foods that are high on meat and flavor, but wet food is usually more palatable to dogs because it has less carb ingredients and more protein and fat. 

If you do need to choose a dry dog food to feed (because let’s face it, kibble is more convenient), make sure it’s protein-dense to entice your picky pooch to scarf down. You can also add a little broth to the dog food to make it more palatable or put mixers or toppers on top.  

4. Make sure it’s healthy. Sugar and artificial flavorings may whet your dog’s appetite, but they’re not healthy for your dog’s digestive health or his overall health for that matter. Too much sugar can cause the same problems in your dog as it does to people — obesity, tooth problems, and diabetes. 

Artificial flavorings, meanwhile, can exacerbate allergies or be carcinogenic. High-quality dog foods do not need these flavors because they are naturally palatable. It’s only when brands cut corners and introduce fillers into food that artificial flavors become necessary.

And steer away from artificial preservatives or colorings too. Colors do not attract dogs to food. They’re there to attract you.

5. Pick a protein your pup likes. Most dogs have food preferences, and it’s best if you can accommodate those. If he likes seafood over poultry, then it would be in both of your best interests to select a fish-based food.

Reasons Why Your Dog May Not Be Eating

There are a few reasons why your dog may not be eating, including:

Feeding circumstances: A change in feeding circumstances is a common reason as to why your dog may not be eating or finishing his regular dog food. This could be a range of things, such as a change in environment, feeding at a height that causes discomfort or feeding in circumstances where your dog feels uncomfortable e.g. in the presence of an aggressive dog.

It is best to think about when your dog stopped eating and if any changes happened around that time – if they did, try and return feeding time to ‘normal' and see if this changes anything.

Hormonal Issues: Unspayed females are more at risk of hormonal-related anorexia, although it can also occur in neutered males and spayed females. This type of picky condition usually ebbs and flows over time.

Drug Reaction: If your four-legged friend is on any medication, this can cause them to be put off their food. It does not have to be a drug that they have just commenced taking – it could be something they have been taking for a considerable period. Either way, seek professional help for further assistance.

Teeth/Gums: If your furry friend is suffering from tooth problems or gum disease, this may be the reason why they are not eating. Both can be quite painful and cause a lot of discomfort, meaning they may be put off their food. If you think this may be the cause, take your dog to see a veterinarian and they will be able to advise a solution.

Medical Attention: Another reason may be medical – if your dog is suffering from nausea or they are in pain, they may not be interested in their food. If this is the case, it is best to go to your veterinarian as soon as possible and they can assist.

Picky Eater: Some dogs are just naturally fussy eaters! It may sound funny, but some dogs are picky eaters and will continue to be for their entire lives. If this is the case, it is best to find something they like and continue with it for as long as possible.

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Create Better Eating Habits in Your Dog

There are some ways you can help your pup develop better eating habits and, hopefully, lessen their pickiness.

1. No table scraps. Don’t dole out scraps from your table to your pooch. This might cause him to eschew his dog food in favor of human food, which is much saltier. Not to mention human food has lots of extra ingredients in it, like spices and herbs, that are not suitable for dogs to eat.

2. Stick to a schedule. Consistency is key for your canine. Feed puppies as recommended by your vet and adult dogs around once or twice daily. If you can, try to make it around the same time you always give your pup a bowl. 

Try not to leave out food for more than a short period of time so that your pup will know to eat everything when his bowl is filled.

3. Keep your food separate. Never feed your dog directly from your plate. He should associate his food with his bowl. Otherwise, this will reinforce a begging behavior and your dog will think that he can eat his food and his owner’s too.

4. Praise him. Lavish praise on your pooch when he finishes his food. Or scratch him behind the ears and pet him. Reward does not have to mean treats. Reserve those for training time, but if you really have to, only do it occasionally and not all the time.

FAQs

How Can I Make My Dog Food More Appetizing?

There are a few different ways in which you can make dog food more appetizing:

• Try mixing wet and dry food
• Sprinkle a collection of herbs over the food
• Mix in some chopped vegetables with dry food for added flavor

How Do I Get My Picky Dog To Eat Dry Food?

If you have a picky dog that just won’t eat dry food, try a few of these options:

• Add yogurt and mix in with the dry food
• Add liquids such as warm water or gravy to dry food, and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving
• Add solid mix-ins to the dry food, such as eggs

How Long Will A Picky Dog Go Without Eating?

If you are worried about how long your picky dog has gone without eating, these are some rough guidelines to follow:

• A healthy dog can go around 2 days without eating
• A dog can fast for up to 7 days (but this is not recommended)
• If your puppy has not eaten in 24 hours, seek veterinarian assistance as soon as possible

If you are unsure, make a trip to your vet and explain the circumstances. They will be able to assist further!

Why is my dog not eating his food anymore?

There is a range of reasons as to why your dog may not be eating their food anymore:

• Drug reaction
• Teeth issues and/or gum disease
• Changes in the environment
• Feeding at a height that is not suitable and causes discomfort
• Feeding in situations that they are not comfortable in eg. in the presence of an aggressive dog
• Medical attention may be needed, such as pain and/or nausea
• Some dogs are just picky!

If you are worried in any way, again speak to a professional and they can provide some further guidance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although having a dog that is a picky eater can be quite tricky there are heaps of options available on the market for tasty choices.

Whether you are after a fresh meal delivered to your door from Nom Nom, a more budget-friendly option such as American Journey Dry Dog Food, or a common and popular food such as Taste of the Wild High Dry Dog Food, you can find something to suit almost every need.

The health and happiness of your furry friend are super important, as they are a part of your family, so you want to ensure you feed them food they will enjoy!