what can i feed my dog to make her eat

Dog wont eat kibble: A vet's guide to feeding a fussy canine

What should you do if your dog wont eat kibble? It may not sound like the biggest problem in the world because there are other ways to feed your pooch. But, since most commercial dog foods come in this form, it can be more convenient for you to encourage them to enjoy it. In many cases, its simply about finding a brand that they will enjoy.

After all, the best dry dog food for one dog may not be preferred by another in the same way that there will be various brands of the same foodstuffs that you would like to eat over others. In the case of kibble, it can come down to a variation in biscuit size, shape, and texture, as well as flavor. But what if youve tried them all and your dog still wont eat kibble? Our expert, veterinarian Dr. Rebecca MacMillan is here to help.

Why won't my dog eat kibble?

Your dog may not be eating his kibble because hes developed an underlying health complaint, or maybe its because he is a bit fussy and doesnt like the dry food youve offered. So first of all, you should try to work out which it is.

Underlying health issues

If your dog has been eating kibble without fuss then suddenly stops, something is putting them off. What that could be is often a process of elimination there are 11 things to check when your dog is not eating, according to a trained vet, for example. Many different health complaints could cause your dog to lose his appetite, including:

• Dental issues
• Stomach upsets
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Infections
• Liver disease
• Cancer

Behavioral problems, like stress and anxiety in dogs, can also cause your dog to go off his food. Common examples include new people in the household, fireworks or a recent house move.

Your vet will start by examining your dog and may suggest further tests depending on their findings. Blood samples are often the next step and can be useful to look for causes of inappetence.

Fussy eater

Some dogs are just fussy eaters! This tends to be more common in small breeds like Shih Tzus or Yorkshire Terriers.

Many owners become worried that their pet has skipped a meal or two, and then start to supplement with treats like cooked chicken or bits of cheese. This is a slippery slope! Feeding him other foods will curb his appetite and he could develop a preference for this over more boring kibble, which will lead to an unbalanced diet.

Similarly, if your dog has always had one particular brand of food and then this is suddenly changed to another variety, he could turn his nose up because it isnt his usual type.

Poor quality diet

Make sure you are feeding your dog a good quality diet that is appropriate for his size and life stage (e.g. puppy, adult or senior).

Some poorer quality diets may rely on cereals to bulk out their food and contain low amounts of meat or meat derivatives which could affect palatability. Have a look at our best dry dog food guide for inspiration.

Issues with kibble size or shape

Small dogs and puppies will require small-sized kibble and will struggle with large biscuits. Plus, if the kibble is too large for your dog, then it could be a choking hazard, especially in brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs.

As well as size, there can be variation in the shape of the kibble (meaty cubes, round biscuits, flat discs etc) so your dog may have a preference for one of these over another.

What kibble should I feed my dog?

Make sure you select the best dog food for your dogs size and life stage. And if you are changing dog food make sure you gradually transition, mixing the new diet with the old over several days first.

Why has my dog stopped eating kibble but eats treats?

Your dog might be feeling poorly and can only be tempted into eating if its something really tasty, like the best dog treats. Other dogs just hold out for the good stuff! If you feed them lots of treats, it will curb their appetite for their main meal and lead to a nutritionally unbalanced diet.

How to tell if your dog doesn't like their food

If your dog seems reluctant to eat, picks at it or eats his meal slowly, then he may not like his food. Most dogs will eat quickly and keenly when their bowl is placed in front of them. So, if your dog is otherwise well and happy to eat other things, then he may not like the type of food that youve chosen for him.

Is it bad if my dog won't eat kibble?

You might be wondering Is canned food or kibble best for my dog?. Whilst neither is right or wrong, there are some definite advantages to feeding dry food over wet.

Dry food tends to be more cost-effective, easier to store and more accurate to measure out, especially for large breed dogs. There is also much more choice compared to tinned foods.

Many people mistakenly think that dry food will be better for their pets teeth than wet, but this isnt usually the case. Unless your diet contains a seal of approval from theVeterinary Oral Health Council, any advantage over wet food is minimal.

To find out more about wet vs dry food check out our 'is dry dog food best?'guide.

How to encourage a dog to eat kibble

If your dog doesnt like his kibble then you could try the following:

• Get them checked out by a vet, to ensure there is no jaw or dental pain
• Try swapping brands to an alternative good quality dog food, perhaps with a different kibble size or shape
• Try moistening the kibbles. Soaking them in a bit of warm water before feeding can help give them a softer, meatier texture which some dogs may prefer
• Make sure you give fresh biscuits each day and keep your dogs food in an airtight container to stop it from going stale, which could make it unappetising
• Always provide plenty of fresh water, as dogs are thirstier on dry food diets

If your dog wont eat his dry kibble, then make sure there are no underlying health reasons for this with your vet. Ultimately though, its ok if your dog wants to stick to wet food, as long as its appropriate for his life stage and he is maintaining a healthy body weight.

Can Dogs Eat Chicken? (7 Things You Should Know & Avoid)

Are you worried about your furry companions diet? Wondering if that leftover chicken could be a treat for your beloved dog? Youre not alone. Many pet owners share the same concern, searching for answers about whats safe and healthy for their canine friends.

The quest for the right information about whether dogs can eat chicken reflects your genuine care for your pets well-being. Youre seeking clarity, and Im here to provide just that.

As a seasoned veterinary professional with extensive experience in the realm of pet nutrition and veterinary medicine, Ive encountered numerous queries similar to yours. Dogs are cherished members of our families, and understanding whats suitable for their diet is crucial.

The question of whether dogs can safely consume chicken isnt uncommon. Through years of practice and continual education, Ive gained comprehensive knowledge about canine dietary habits, which enables me to address your concerns with confidence.

In this article, Ill delve into the intricate details surrounding the consumption of chicken by dogs. Whether youre seeking advice for a specific breed or dealing with potential allergies, my goal is to provide trustworthy insights.

If youre seeking reliable information that offers guidance on feeding chicken to your furry companion, youre in the right place. Keep reading to discover comprehensive answers to your inquiries and ensure the best care for your beloved canine companion.

Dogs can eat chicken. Chicken contains essential nutrients beneficial for muscle development, skin health, and overall vitality. However, potential risks like allergies, bone hazards, and bacterial contamination warrant careful consideration when incorporating chicken into a dogs diet.

Nutritional Value of Chicken for Dogs

Understanding the nutritional aspects of chicken in your dogs diet is pivotal for responsible pet ownership. In this section, I will unravel the nutritional benefits and complexities associated with incorporating chicken into your canine companions meals.

Protein Content and Its Significance in a Dogs Diet

Protein is a fundamental building block for a dogs body, aiding in the development and maintenance of muscles, tissues, and organs. Chicken boasts a notable protein content, providing the essential amino acids necessary for a dogs overall health.

This high-quality protein source from chicken helps in maintaining a strong and healthy musculature, contributing significantly to your dogs vitality and well-being.

Essential Nutrients Present in Chicken

When considering the nutritional value of chicken for dogs, its essential to highlight the array of vital nutrients it offers. Chicken is rich in:

• Vitamins: Including B vitamins (B3, B6, B12), essential for energy metabolism and overall cellular health.
• Minerals: Such as phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and potassium, are crucial for bone health, immune function, and electrolyte balance.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Providing benefits for skin and coat health, joint mobility, and potential anti-inflammatory effects.

Comparing Different Parts of Chicken and Their Nutritional Impact

This table offers a comparative analysis of different chicken parts commonly fed to dogs, highlighting variations in protein, fat content, and additional nutrients.

Understanding these distinctions aids in making informed choices regarding the types of chicken parts suitable for your dogs specific dietary requirements.

Benefits of Feeding Chicken to Dogs

Feeding chicken to your dogs can yield numerous advantages, contributing significantly to their overall health and well-being. In this section, well delve into the various benefits associated with incorporating chicken into your dogs diet and how it can positively impact their health.

1. Improved Muscle Development and Maintenance: Chicken, a rich source of high-quality protein, supports the development and maintenance of strong muscles in dogs. Adequate protein intake aids in healthy growth and sustenance of muscle mass, which are essential for physical strength and agility.
2. Healthy Skin and Coat: The presence of omega-3 fatty acids in chicken contributes to promoting healthy skin and a lustrous coat in dogs. These essential fatty acids play a vital role in reducing inflammation, alleviating dry skin issues, and enhancing the overall appearance and texture of the coat.
3. Enhanced Overall Health and Vitality: The nutritional composition of chicken, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, supports various bodily functions in dogs. This holistic nourishment aids in boosting their immune system, improving energy levels, and fostering overall vitality.
4. Diverse Nutrient Profile: Chicken offers a diverse array of nutrients beneficial for a dogs health. It contains essential vitamins like B6 and B12, crucial for metabolism and cellular health, along with minerals like phosphorus and selenium, supporting bone health and immune function.
5. Palatability and Variety in Diet: Dogs often enjoy the taste of chicken, making it a palatable and enticing addition to their meals. Adding variety to their diet with chicken can encourage adequate food intake and can be particularly useful for picky eaters.

Understanding these benefits sheds light on the positive impact of including chicken in your dogs diet. These advantages encompass various aspects of your dogs health, from muscle development to coat condition, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of incorporating chicken into their meals.

Risks and Concerns Associated with Feeding Chicken to Dogs

Being aware of potential risks and concerns is crucial when considering chicken as part of your dogs diet. In this section, I will highlight the various risks and concerns associated with feeding chickens to dogs, providing essential information for responsible pet ownership.

1. Allergens and Sensitivities: Some dogs may exhibit allergic reactions or sensitivities to chicken proteins. Allergies could manifest in symptoms such as skin itching, digestive issues, or even more severe reactions like vomiting and diarrhea. Identifying and addressing any allergic reactions promptly is crucial.
2. Bone Hazards: Chicken bones can pose risks of splintering and causing choking hazards for dogs. Cooked bones, especially, become brittle and can break easily, potentially causing injuries to the dogs mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
3. Preparation and Cooking Methods: Seasonings, spices, or additives used in the preparation of chicken for human consumption might be harmful to dogs. Additionally, cooking methods involving excessive oils, fats, or seasoning can lead to digestive issues or pancreatitis in dogs.
4. Bacterial Contamination: Raw chicken carries the risk of bacterial contamination such as salmonella or E. coli, which can pose health risks to both dogs and their owners. Ensuring proper handling, storage, and cooking of chicken is crucial in preventing bacterial infections.
5. Unbalanced Diet: Over-reliance on chicken as the primary or sole component of a dogs diet can lead to nutritional imbalances. Dogs require a diverse range of nutrients, and a diet solely based on chicken might lack essential elements, leading to deficiencies.

Understanding the risks associated with feeding chickens to dogs is pivotal for pet owners.

By being aware of these concerns, you can take the necessary precautions and make informed choices to safeguard your dogs health while incorporating chicken into their diet in a safe and responsible manner.

Health Considerations and Precautions when Feeding Chicken to Dogs

Ensuring your dogs health and well-being involves being mindful of various health considerations and taking necessary precautions when incorporating chicken into their diet.

In this section, I will share with you the importance of understanding health-related factors and implementing appropriate measures to safeguard your dogs health.

Dogs, like humans, can develop allergies or sensitivities to specific food components, including chicken proteins. Some dogs may exhibit adverse reactions such as skin irritation, itching, gastrointestinal upset, or even severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Monitoring for any signs of allergic reactions upon introducing chicken into their diet is crucial for timely identification and appropriate management.

Health Conditions that May Affect a Dogs Ability to Consume Chicken

Several health conditions might influence a dogs tolerance or ability to consume chicken. These conditions include:

• Pancreatitis: Dogs with a history of pancreatitis might struggle to digest fatty foods like chicken.
• Renal Issues: Dogs with kidney problems may require a specialized diet, and excessive protein intake, such as that found in chicken, might exacerbate their condition.
• Food Sensitivities: Some dogs might have sensitivities or intolerances to specific components in chicken, contributing to digestive issues or allergic reactions.

Portion Control and Moderation in Feeding Chicken to Dogs

Ensuring appropriate portion control and moderation when feeding chicken to dogs is vital. While chicken can offer nutritional benefits, excessive intake can lead to dietary imbalances or potential health issues.

Following portion recommendations based on your dogs size, age, and activity level is essential to maintaining a balanced diet and preventing overconsumption of chicken.

Understanding these health considerations and taking necessary precautions regarding allergies, specific health conditions, and portion control is essential for responsible pet ownership. By being proactive and mindful of these factors, you can optimize your dogs health while safely incorporating chicken into their dietary regimen.

Safe Ways to Feed Chicken to Dogs

Ensuring safe methods for feeding chicken to dogs is paramount to preventing potential hazards and ensuring their well-being. In this section, I will focus on safe cooking techniques, precautions, and recommended serving guidelines when incorporating chicken into a dogs diet.

Cooking Methods That Are Safe for Dogs

Several safe cooking methods for preparing chicken for dogs include the following:

• Boiling or Steaming: These methods help retain nutrients without adding extra fats or oils that might be detrimental to a dogs health.
• Baking or Grilling: Cooking chicken without seasoning or excessive oils ensures it remains safe for canine consumption.
• Avoiding Fried or Seasoned Preparations: Fried or heavily seasoned chicken can pose health risks due to added fats, spices, or coating ingredients that might be unsuitable for dogs.

Adopting these safe cooking methods helps retain the nutritional value of chicken while ensuring its safe and digestible for dogs.

Removing Bones and Skin for Safer Consumption

Before offering chicken to your dog, its crucial to remove bones and skin. Bone fragments can pose choking hazards or cause internal injuries, while skin often contains excess fats and seasonings, which may lead to digestive issues or pancreatitis.

Offering boneless, skinless chicken in appropriate portions ensures safer consumption for dogs.

Recommended Serving Sizes and Frequency

Determining appropriate serving sizes and frequency of feeding chicken to dogs depends on various factors, including:

• Dogs Size: Larger dogs may require larger portions, while smaller breeds need smaller servings.
• Health and Activity Level: Dogs with higher activity levels might require more frequent or larger portions compared to less active ones.
• Balanced Diet: Chicken should complement a balanced diet, so portion sizes should account for other nutrients in the dogs overall diet.

Providing recommended serving sizes and frequency while considering the dogs size, health, and balanced nutrition is crucial for incorporating chicken safely into their diet.

By adhering to safe cooking methods, removing bones and skin, and determining appropriate serving sizes and frequencies, pet owners can ensure that chicken is safely integrated into a dogs diet, promoting their well-being and health.

Introducing Chicken into a Dogs Diet

Introducing chicken into your dogs diet requires a strategic approach to ensure a smooth transition, monitor for adverse reactions, and seek professional guidance when necessary. This section emphasizes the careful process of incorporating chicken into a dogs dietary routine.

How to Transition a Dog to a Chicken-Inclusive Diet

Transitioning a dog to a chicken-inclusive diet involves a gradual approach:

• Slow Integration: Begin by introducing small portions of cooked, plain chicken alongside their regular diet.
• Incremental Increase: Gradually increase the proportion of chicken while decreasing the quantity of the previous diet over a span of several days.
• Observation: Monitor the dog for any signs of digestive issues, allergies, or adverse reactions during this transition period.

This gradual transition helps the dogs digestive system acclimate to the new food without causing abrupt changes.

Monitoring for Any Adverse Reactions

During and after the transition period, closely observe the dog for any adverse reactions or changes in behavior, including:

• Digestive Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency
• Allergic Reactions: Skin itching, redness, rashes, or other signs of allergy
• Unusual Behavior: Lethargy, restlessness, or any other abnormal behavior patterns

Promptly identifying and addressing any adverse reactions is essential to ensuring the dogs well-being.

Consulting a Veterinarian Before Altering a Dogs Diet

Before making significant alterations to a dogs diet, including the introduction of chicken or any other dietary changes, consulting a veterinarian is highly recommended.

Veterinarians can provide tailored advice based on the dogs specific health conditions, dietary requirements, and potential sensitivities or allergies.

Seeking professional guidance ensures that dietary changes are made safely and in the best interest of the dogs health and nutritional needs.

Careful and gradual introduction of chicken, vigilant monitoring for adverse reactions, and seeking professional advice from a veterinarian are crucial steps in ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining a dogs health during dietary changes.

Alternatives to Chicken for Dogs

Exploring alternative protein sources and emphasizing dietary diversity play a crucial role in ensuring optimal health and catering to your dogs nutritional needs. In this section, I will focus on various protein options and highlight the significance of a diverse diet for dogs.

Other Protein Sources Suitable for Dogs

Apart from chicken, several alternative protein sources suitable for dogs include:

• Turkey: Similar to chicken but with a different taste, providing a protein-rich alternative.
• Beef: A commonly used protein source, rich in essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
• Fish: Offers omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for skin, coat, and joint health.
• Lamb: Provides high-quality protein and can be a novel protein for dogs with food sensitivities.

Diversifying protein sources ensures a wide spectrum of nutrients in a dogs diet, promoting overall health.

Diversity in a Dogs Diet for Optimal Health

Incorporating a variety of protein sources, alongside carbohydrates, vegetables, and fruits, fosters a well-balanced and diverse diet for dogs. This diversity ensures access to a broader range of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals essential for their health.

A diverse diet not only meets a dogs nutritional requirements but also adds enjoyment to their meals, potentially reducing the risk of food sensitivities.

Exploring Different Protein Options Based on a Dogs Needs

Tailoring a dogs diet to their specific needs involves considering factors such as:

• Age: Puppies, adults, and senior dogs may have varying dietary requirements.
• Health Conditions: Certain health conditions may benefit from specific protein sources or dietary modifications.
• Taste Preferences: Observing a dogs preferences can help in selecting suitable protein options.

Understanding a dogs individual needs aids in selecting the most appropriate protein sources to ensure a well-rounded and tailored diet for their overall health and well-being.

Offering various protein sources, embracing dietary diversity, and customizing the diet based on a dogs requirements contribute significantly to their overall health and nutritional balance. This approach ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable diet that caters to a dogs individual needs.

Final Thoughts on Can Dogs Eat Chicken?

In this comprehensive exploration of whether dogs can eat chicken, weve covered various aspects of incorporating chicken into a dogs diet, highlighting its benefits, risks, and essential considerations.

Lets summarize the key takeaways and emphasize the significance of responsible feeding practices and professional guidance for a dogs dietary needs.

Feeding chicken to dogs can offer numerous benefits, such as being a rich source of high-quality protein, essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, and supporting muscle development and coat health.

However, its crucial to be mindful of potential risks, including allergens, bone hazards, and dietary imbalances. Understanding these aspects helps in making informed decisions regarding a dogs diet.

Cautious feeding practices play a pivotal role in ensuring a dogs safety and well-being when incorporating chicken or any other dietary changes.

This includes using safe cooking methods, removing bones and skin, practicing portion control, and monitoring for adverse reactions. Prioritizing caution in feeding practices minimizes potential risks and promotes a balanced and healthy diet for dogs.

Seeking professional guidance from a veterinarian is invaluable when altering a dogs diet, including introducing chicken or exploring alternative protein sources. Vets can offer tailored advice based on a dogs individual needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements.

Their expertise ensures that dietary changes are made safely and are aligned with a dogs optimal health.

In conclusion, while chicken can be a valuable addition to a dogs diet, responsible feeding practices and expert guidance are paramount. Understanding the benefits, risks, and precautions associated with feeding chicken to dogs empowers pet owners to make informed choices that prioritize their furry companions health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions on Feeding Chicken to Dogs

Can dogs eat cooked chicken?

Yes, dogs can safely consume plain, cooked chicken without seasoning or additives. It provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients beneficial for their health.

Is raw chicken safe for dogs to eat?

Feeding raw chicken to dogs carries the risk of bacterial contamination, such as salmonella or E. coli, which can be harmful to both dogs and humans. Its generally recommended to avoid feeding dogs raw chicken due to these health risks.

Should I feed my dog chicken bones?

No, its unsafe to feed dogs cooked chicken bones, as they can splinter, causing choking hazards or internal injuries. Always remove bones before giving chicken to your dog.

Can dogs have chicken skin?

While some dogs may enjoy chicken skin, it is high in fat and can lead to digestive issues or pancreatitis. Its best to avoid feeding chicken skin to dogs to prevent potential health problems.

What are the signs of a chicken allergy in dogs?

Signs of a chicken allergy in dogs may include itching, skin irritation, redness, digestive problems like vomiting or diarrhea, or more severe reactions such as swelling. If you suspect an allergy, consult a veterinarian for proper evaluation and guidance.

What Kind of Chicken Can Dogs Eat?

You can binge on what kind of chicken dogs can eat from the list of articles you find below:

• Can Dogs Eat Rotisserie Chicken?
• Can Dogs Eat Teriyaki Chicken