If your dog has a little-to-no food drive, then there may be a problem.
Being a “picky eater” or having a low food drive could be a sign of an illness or poor nutrition, so make sure that you visit a vet first.
If your dog has been seen by a vet and illnesses have been ruled out, the next cause could be a lack of exercise, nervous energy or even boredom.
Boredom?
Yes. Boredom.
Dogs can get bored with their food but it is often a behavior that we have unintentionally created.
Dogs that are “free-fed” where the food is left out all day or their bowl is always full, often become bored. As humans we notice this and change their food. We give them special treats, cook them chicken until the dog decides that is boring too. Which then as humans, we respond with finding something new and more exciting. The dog begins to recognize this pattern and will repeat it when he sees fit.
But not to worry. All of that can be changed! Add enrichment to your dog’s day by using his meals as rewards in training! A dog that doesn’t have to work for his food is a bored dog. A dog that feels he has no control over how or when he receives food can loose motivation to eat as well.
But a dog who has to use his mind and think on how to earn that food is mentally satisfied, leaving him feeling proud and confident, slowly attaching the emotional feeling to the food itself. Before you know it, the dog is craving to work for food, any food, even low value kibble, because he has a positive association to it. It makes him feel good!
You may have to start with something of high value and a hungry dog at first; remember up to this point he has been getting delicious food for free. So using a higher value reward will help motivate your dog to do what you’re asking. It’s also important that you are fair in your expectations and the dog can be successful enough to earn the food.
The act of being rewarded consistently will make your dog feel positive emotions. Eventually you will be able to lower the value of that reward all the way until you are able to use his meals.
So give it a try! Be patient and know that it will take time to see a change.
The quality of these dog treats is second to none. I feel so good knowing I’m feeding my dog 100% grass fed beef! He deserves only the best and Patriot Pup delivers!
