Fussy eater of a Staffy

[ll49]

Try a raw diet, we feed it often here at Rain as we are sponsored by Natural Instinct - we have tons of Staffies and they usually love it, there are local independent shops that sell it too.

 

She won't go anywhere near the stuff, and I can't say I blame her.

[ccit]

A dog's interest in food is piqued by aroma; this is probably why dogs are enthusiastic about home cooked food. Suitable toppers might help e.g. fish, sardines, maybe a little cooked, warm minced beef.

From Grass to Grass-Fed Steak… What Can Dogs Really Taste? may be helpful.

 

Alternatively, wet food is sometimes useful for fussy eaters. There are increasing numbers of good quality wet foods coming onto the market and they are usually high in fat and protein so the dog with a poorer appetite can get it's nourishment with a smaller amount. If you want some suggestions, go to the Dog Food Directory and select wet food under the filters section. Also move the rating slider to 4-5 stars and it will bring up the better products in the results. Some, e.g. Naturediet can be warmed. Not sure, but Forthglade might be another wet food that can be warmed.

 

Some fussy dogs find cold pressed food acceptable. The quantity required is small because it is dense/heavy. It can be softened with warm (never boiling water) to the consistency of your choice.

 

General management you probably know about but here are a few suggestions:

No treats.

Weigh the food so that you know exactly how much he is having and be realistic about quantity - some dogs simply don't require large portions.

Take food up after 15 minutes.

Feed small, frequent meals (3/4 per day).

Place the food in a quiet, private place and leave the dog alone to eat.

Don't swap and change food.

Consider warming the food to release the aroma.

Try not to be anxious about the issue because it can transmit to the dog.

To improve the flora in the gut it might be worth trying a canine specific pre/probiotic e.g. Bionic Biotic.

Check the dog's teeth and gums to make sure there is nothing that might be preventing him from enjoying food.

Edited August 7, 2017 by ccit

[bassett one]

mine used to love boiled liver never known a dog not like that,and a Turkish delight and lived to 17