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If your dog is a picky eater, it can be tough to know how to make a meal more appealing. Dogs will refuse to eat kibble, walk away from new flavors, or pick at the food and never finish a meal. It’s frustrating! Fortunately, there are high-quality dog foods specifically designed to entice even the pickiest of pups.
Best-Tasting Dry Dog Food
So, what makes dry dog food tasty? When it comes to tempting a picky eater, the key is to find a kibble that appeals to their sense of taste, smell, and texture. Dogs are carnivorous by nature, so they tend to find food with high-quality, animal-based protein most appealing. When reading labels, look for:
Real meat first. Look for dry food that lists real meat as the first ingredient. Dogs are more likely to eat kibble that contains familiar, meaty flavors compared to those with more plant-based protein sources.
Enticing ingredients. Dogs find foods with natural meat broths or hydrolyzed organ meats especially enticing. These ingredients can make kibble smell more appetizing and add an extra layer of richness to the flavor.
Various proteins. Try switching up the main protein used. Boredom can occur after a time on a specific diet, so try changing from chicken to beef or from lamb to rabbit to offer a new flavor profile for your pup.
Look for a different texture. The surface or feel of the kibble plays a big role in the sensory experience of eating for dogs and can impact their enjoyment of a food. Kibble that is too hard or dry may be off-putting, especially for small or senior dogs. Small dogs may have a difficult time breaking the kibble and seniors may experience jaw or tooth pain. Some brands offer kibble with a softer bite or an extra layer of coating, which can help to soften the kibble and make it more enjoyable to eat.
What to Add to Dry Food for Picky Eaters
If none of these tactics work, there are still things you can try to encourage your picky dog to eat. Adding a spoonful of wet food, meal topper, scrambled egg, or broth can help make mealtime more appealing. The smell and moisture of these products help persuade picky eaters to finish up their meal.
You can try warming up your dog’s kibble with some warm water or broth. Heat and moisture help volatize the scent particles, giving the meal a stronger smell.
Lastly, try to stick to a routine. Some dogs are more likely to eat if they are on a consistent schedule. Avoid leaving food out all day, and be sure to stick to regular mealtimes.
Winning Over the Canine Picky Eater
Feeding a picky eater is a challenge, but the right high-quality, palatable kibble can make all the difference. Choose a dry dog food that uses real animal protein, animal fat, palatability boosters, like natural flavors, and has a satisfying texture (check WDJ’s approved dry dog food database).
It is always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian if your dog’s pickiness continues to rule out a health problem causing a lack of appetite or if you have concerns about their nutrition. With the right food, you can help your dog enjoy meals again and ensure your dog gets the nutrition needed to stay happy, healthy, and energized.