How to Get an Anorexic Dog to Eat
Most dogs are chow hounds, literally! It's a rare moment when an owner is begging her dog to eat enough food. Most dogs would eat until they passed out. Yet, there are some dogs that do not like to eat. That's where we can help you. Turn to the expert at getting picky dogs to eat safely and eat enough.
Instructions
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Make a really big deal of preparing your dogs food. You should talk, sing and make yum yum noises, and give off a feeling of excitement as you are preparing the meal. Have a snack for yourself handy and take a small bite of it every now and then in full view of your dog, so they see you are enjoying your food. This can leave them hoping for a bite of their own.
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Find an additive or additives that are safe for your dog, but which they love to eat. Plain yogurt mixed in the dog food can be a big food motivator, as can cottage cheese. These types of dogs are not usually overweight, so don't skimp on calories. You should buy full calorie yogurt and 4% cottage cheese. If you boil hot dogs, or sausage, save the water you have boiled it in and add a little to the dog food as gravy.
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Be willing to experiment with feeding your dog in the place he is most comfortable. If that means he is most comfortable in his bed, then feed him in his bed. If he seems to like to eat in the kitchen, or the living room, or under a table, try there. You can encourage a dog to eat in a regular place by feeding one of their two meals a day in the same place, but for the other meal, bring it to your dog. We all like to be served now and then!
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Figure out if your dog likes to be watched or to be left alone. If you hover, try backing away for a few meals to see if that helps. If you usually set the food down and do something else, try staying near your dog and quietly praise his efforts.
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Make sure he is getting enough water! Dogs that don't like to eat may not like to drink, either.
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Tips & Warnings
Take extra notice of changes in your dog's eating habits. It can signal something else is going on with him.
Bring your dog to the veterinarian if he is losing weight, losing hair or becoming listless.
- Photo Credit Suzanne Danforth
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Comments
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I have an anorexic dog. I can get him to eat raw meat every once in a while, He really could care less about food. I throw away his uneaten food every day. Have tried him on every thing you would think a dog would love. Sometimes I force him to taste it, and then he will eat a few bites and walk away. Any sugestions?
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I'm afraid my dog is sick:(
