Why Your Dog Might Be Ignoring Their Food (And How to Fix It)
Hey, Palace Squad!
Let’s talk about something that can seriously stress a pet parent out: your dog staring at their food bowl… and walking away. Like, hello?! You just gave them the good stuff, so what gives?
Whether your pup has turned into a full-blown food critic or they’re just going through a weird phase, I’ve got your back. I’ve seen it with Lacy (our Chief Taste Tester), and I know how frustrating it can be when your dog suddenly decides their food is a hard pass.
So let’s break down a few common reasons dogs start skipping meals and what you can do to get them excited about food again (spoiler: treats can totally help).
1. Your Dog Might Be Bored (Yes, Really)
Imagine eating the same thing every single day. Morning and night. Forever. Not exactly inspiring, right? Dogs love variety just like we do. If your pup’s been eating the same kibble for months, they might be over it.
Fix it: Try rotating in healthy toppers! You can crumble a Turkey Popper or sprinkle some Pure Power Topper on top of their food to mix things up. Not only does this add flavor and texture, it gives them a little treat they look forward to, without needing to change their entire diet.
2. They’re Holding Out for the Good Stuff
Dogs are smart. If they’ve gotten used to getting extras like cheese, chicken, or treats at random, there’s a good chance they’re skipping their meal because they’re hoping for that instead. Basically, you’ve got a tiny manipulative genius on your hands.
Fix it: Stick to a feeding routine, and keep treats like Cheeze Pleeze as rewards for after meals or training sessions, not bribes. You want them to eat because they’re hungry, not because they’re betting on a better offer.
3. They Don’t Feel 100%
If your dog usually eats like they haven’t been fed in 40 years and suddenly they’re not interested, it might be more than pickiness. Dental pain, upset stomach, or other health issues can make eating uncomfortable.
Fix it: Always rule out medical issues first. A vet visit can help you figure out if something’s going on under the surface. Once you know they’re in the clear, it’s easier to troubleshoot the picky behavior.
4. Their Environment Feels Off
Dogs are sensitive to what’s going on around them. If there’s been a change like a new pet, a recent move, or even a noisy renovation, they might be too anxious or distracted to eat like normal.
Fix it: Try feeding your dog in a quiet, calm area where they feel safe. You can even turn mealtime into a game by using a puzzle feeder or hiding food around the house (yes, this is a thing and it works!).
5. You’re Overfeeding with Treats (Oops)
Been a little generous in the snack department? It happens! If your pup’s getting full off treats during the day, they might not be that hungry at dinner.
Fix it: Space out treats throughout the day, and use single-ingredient options like Lamb Munchies or Turkey Tenders. They’re packed with protein, so your dog still gets something nutritious, but you can control the portions more easily.
Bonus Fix: Make Mealtime Feel Special Again
Sometimes all your dog needs is a little excitement to bring their appetite back. Create a mealtime routine that includes praise, engagement, or even a “dinner countdown” (trust me, your dog will catch on). You can also give them a “starter” bite, just a single Turkey Bite before the bowl goes down, to build some excitement.
Here’s the Truth:
Most of the time, picky eating is a phase. With a few small tweaks, your dog will be back to licking the bowl clean in no time. But the biggest takeaway? You don’t need to overhaul their entire diet, you just need to make it fun again.
That’s why I created treats that are more than just snacks, they’re tools. Whether you’re adding Sunnyside Sprinkles over dinner, using a Quack Snack to reset their mealtime focus, or treating them post-walk with a Gone Bananas biscuit, Ava’s Pet Palace treats are made to support your pet’s health and your daily routine.
Let’s get those bowls back to empty. You’ve got this, and so does your pup. 🩷