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Bowlsome Dog MealsBowlsome Dog Meals
Fussy Eaters: How to Help Your Dog Love Mealtime Again

Fussy Eaters: How to Help Your Dog Love Mealtime Again

Dealing with a dog that turns their nose up at dinnertime can be frustrating. But you’re not alone—fussy eating is a common issue among dogs. Understanding the causes behind it can help you manage and improve your pet’s eating habits.

From breed tendencies to behavioural factors, picky eating is often a solvable problem when you provide the right balance of nutrition, routine, and flavour.

At Bowlsome, we’ve created meals designed to appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Our freshly cooked recipes, made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, are packed with natural flavours and tailored to meet your dog’s nutritional needs. Whether it’s our Bowlsome Bowls for dogs who prefer variety or Bowlsome Bics for a convenient dry option, our range can help turn mealtime into a highlight of your dog’s day.

Here’s why dogs become fussy eaters—and how you can help them love their food again.


🐕 Why Do Dogs Become Fussy Eaters?

🐾 Breed Tendencies

Certain breeds are naturally more selective when it comes to food. Small breeds like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians are often pickier compared to larger breeds. Their smaller size means they have less energy demand, making them more likely to nibble rather than eat full meals (National Research Council, 2006).

🍗 Previous Feeding Habits

Dogs that are used to being fed table scraps or a variety of foods can become selective, holding out for something tastier. Frequent treat-giving can also teach dogs to prefer those over their regular meals, leading to fussy eating behaviours.

🩺 Health Issues

Sometimes fussiness is a sign of an underlying health issue. Dental problems, gastrointestinal discomfort, or other medical conditions can make eating unpleasant. Research shows that dental disease is a common cause of reduced appetite in dogs (Hennet, 2002). If your dog suddenly becomes fussy without prior history, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian.

🍖 Texture and Taste Preferences

Just like humans, dogs can develop preferences for certain textures or flavours. Some may prefer wet food over dry kibble or be drawn to diets with fresh, minimally processed ingredients. Studies suggest that palatability, including smell and texture, plays a significant role in a dog’s food preferences (Houpt et al., 2010).

🌍 Environment and Routine

Disruptions to a dog’s feeding environment or routine can impact their willingness to eat. For example, noisy or chaotic surroundings during mealtime can cause distractions or stress, making a dog less likely to eat. Similarly, irregular feeding times can create confusion and reduce appetite.

🧠 Behavioural Factors

Some dogs learn that refusing food gets them attention, reinforcing picky eating. Stress and anxiety can also contribute, as research indicates that stressed dogs are less likely to eat until they feel safe (Case, 2014).

🍬 Overfeeding

Dogs that are given too many treats or excessively large portions may not feel hungry at mealtime. What appears to be fussiness could simply be a lack of appetite because they’ve already had enough calories.


🦴 Strategies for Dealing with Fussy Eating

⏰ Establish a Feeding Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so set consistent mealtime schedules. Put the food bowl down for 15–20 minutes, and if your dog doesn’t eat, remove it and try again later. Regular schedules help create a sense of structure around meals. For a routine-friendly option, try Bowlsome Bowls, which come in easy-to-serve pouches and require no refrigeration.

🍖 Limit Treats

Cut back on treats throughout the day so your dog is more motivated to eat their main meals. Treats should only make up about 10% of their daily calorie intake (National Research Council, 2006). Opt for Bowlsome Bobs, a healthy, freeze-dried treat that doesn’t disrupt their appetite for regular meals.

✨ Enhance Meal Appeal

To make food more enticing, try mixing wet food with dry kibble or adding a small amount of low-sodium broth. Our Bowlsome Bics, made from high-quality Australian chicken and ancient grains, pairs perfectly with our slow-cooked Bowlsome Bowls to create an irresistible meal for picky eaters.

🚫 Avoid Table Scraps

Feeding dogs human food can encourage them to expect tastier options than their regular meals. Stick to a nutritionally balanced diet designed for dogs, like Bowlsome’s range of complete and balanced meals, to meet their dietary needs without the temptation of table scraps.

🌱 Transition Gradually

If you’re switching foods, make the change gradually over 7–10 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Start by mixing small amounts of the new food with the old, increasing the proportion of new food over time. Find out more about transitioning your dog to a new food here.

🎉 Positive Reinforcement

Encourage good eating habits by praising your dog when they eat their food. Avoid coaxing or hand-feeding, as this can reinforce fussy behaviour. Using Bowlsome’s high-quality meals as their primary food ensures that praise is paired with a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

💡 Talk to Your Vet

If your dog’s picky eating persists, consult a veterinarian. They can rule out medical issues and recommend diets tailored to your dog’s specific needs.


🐾 A Better Bowl for Fussy Eaters

At Bowlsome, we understand the challenges of feeding a fussy dog. That’s why our meals are crafted with fresh, human-grade ingredients and a variety of flavours and textures to appeal to even the most selective eaters. Whether it’s the convenience of Bowlsome Bowls, the crunch of Bowlsome Bics, or the versatility of Bowlsome Bobs, we have a solution for every dog—and every mealtime challenge.

By choosing high-quality, balanced meals like Bowlsome, you can address common causes of picky eating while ensuring your dog gets the nutrition they need for a happy, healthy life.


📚 References

  • Case, L. (2014). The Dog: Its Behavior, Nutrition, and Health. Wiley-Blackwell.
  • Hennet, P. (2002). Periodontal disease and its effect on general health in dogs and cats. The Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice.
  • Houpt, K.A., Essick, L.A., & Shaffer, D. (2010). Palatability of foods and its effect on the feeding behavior of dogs. Journal of Veterinary Behavior.
  • National Research Council (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. The National Academies Press.
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