Most dogs wag their tails wildly and rush to their feeding bowls when it’s mealtime. If you don’t get this reaction from your pet and he simply sniffs his food, ignores it or only eats a little then it might be a matter of concern. There are plenty of reasons why dogs lose their appetite. It could be as simple as a toothache or it could be because of pickiness or behavioral issues. Whatever the cause is, it is important to make sure that your pet eats and gets enough nutrients to avoid further problems.
Here are 5 tips and tricks to help improve your dog’s appetite:
Schedule a visit to the vet
Whether your dog’s lack of appetite has just started or has been going on for a while now, your safest bet is to consult an expert. Your veterinarian can help you figure out the cause of the problem which will help you find a solution easier. He can easily identify any physical reasons that may be causing your pet’s disinterest in food. Have your furry friend weighed so that you’ll have an idea what healthy weight to aim for.
Switch brands of dog food
One reason why dogs lose appetite is because their current food doesn’t appeal to them anymore. Try switching to another brand of high quality dog food. Do it gradually to prevent stomach upset. Observe if your pet’s appetite improves after the switch. But don’t switch brands too much – dogs generally eat better when they’re familiar with the food and their diet doesn’t require too much variety according to the Pet Palace website.
Give less treats
Even dogs with little appetite love their treats! Refrain from giving treats to your pup in between meals – he’s likely to learn that even if he doesn’t finish the food on his bowl, he will still get attention from you and get rewarded. Offer the treats when his eating has improved.
Exercise
A dog exposed to regular physical activity is more likely to get hungry and eat. Exercise will help stimulate your pet’s appetite. Try making it a habit to have your daily walk right before mealtime so that he can associate them with each other and see them as positive activities.
Lessen the distractions
Dogs get easily distracted that’s why it’s important to make sure that your canine’s eating spot is quiet and has minimal distractions so that he can concentrate on eating and finishing his food.
Follow these tips and tricks to help improve your dog’s appetite and make sure that he’s healthier and happier than ever!
Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mary_L._James/1386029