Dogs can be choosy with their food, just like humans. And while a change in appetite could signal that something is wrong, it might also be a sign that it's time to switch up their diet.
Gloucestershire pet food expert, Cotswold RAW, which produces nutritious raw food for dogs and cats, shares its top tips for owners with picky pooches, alongside advice on switching them to a raw food diet.
Why won't my dog eat?
There are a number of reasons why your dog may not want to eat; it could be a sign of sickness, stress or pain. But sometimes, they just might not like the food you've given them!
If your dog suddenly goes off their food and you notice a change in their appetite, it's a good idea to contact your vet to check there are no underlying health conditions.
Is your dog a fussy eater?
Picky dogs may refuse to eat their daily meals but will happily accept treats or show an interest in what you're cooking for your own dinner.
Consider changing their food to something that offers more flavour and sustenance than commercial dog food; raw food offers a great alternative, with Cotswold RAW's range designed to replicate a dog’s natural diet, packed with all the nutrients they need and no nasty additives.
Switching your fussy dog to a raw food diet
Most dogs will wolf down their fresh, tasty raw food straight away, but some may take longer to adapt to their new diet, particularly if they've never been fed fresh meat before.
Lightly heating the food can spark their curiosity, as new smells are released. Raw food contains minced bone so it should never be cooked, but you can warm it up by sealing it in a freezer bag and letting it sit in hot water for a couple of minutes before serving or by simply mixing in some warm water.
You can also use their favourite treats as toppers to entice them to try their new food. Start by placing them on top then once they're comfortable, mixing them in with the raw food.
Dogs are clever creatures and may have learned that they'll get more attention — and new, exciting food offered to them — if they can hold out for long enough. Be patient and they'll soon learn to accept the meal they've been given.
Keeping their diet varied and exciting can help with their appetite in the long term, too. Cotswold RAW offers different proteins, from chicken and turkey to beef and lamb, as well as different formats of raw food, with its core 80/20 range available in both chunky mince and easy-to-serve sausage consistencies.
Visit cotswoldraw.com/shop-online-menu to browse full range and find out more.
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