How to Make Mealtime Exciting for Your Dog

When it comes to most dogs, mealtime is the best part of the day. But some pups can be pretty picky and get bored rather easily with the same old dry kibble. If your dog turns up their nose at their bowl, or else only nibbles at their food, it may be time to get creative and make meals more appealing. A bored or picky eater can lead to weight loss and other health issues.

Add Some Tasty Toppers

One easy way to entice your dog is to add some tasty toppers or mix-ins to their regular dry dog food. You can use small amounts of fresh pet-safe human foods like lean meats, scrambled eggs, low-fat cheese, or fresh dog-friendly fruits and veggies. Go easy on fatty or seasoned options. Even a tablespoon or two of wet canned food can pique interest. But don’t overdo the extras to avoid weight gain.

Food for Picky Dogs

If your pup remains uninterested in their regular kibble, you may need to switch to a different formula or brand. Many pet food companies, like Nextrition, for example, offer specialized “tender and crunchy” dry dog food for picky eaters. These contain a mix of crunchy kibble along with tender morsels or shreds that add flavor, aroma, and texture variety.

Stuff a Food Puzzle Toy

Another great option is to feed part or all your dog’s meal stuffed inside a food puzzle toy. These interactive toys, made of rigid plastic or rubber with mazes, chambers or openings that dispense pieces of kibble, allow your dog to nudge and move them around. Foraging for treats engages their natural hunting instincts for a fun challenge at chowtime.

Make Your Own Pupsicles

On hot days, refreshing “pupsicles” can turn a boring meal into a tasty frozen treat. Simply pack low-sodium broth, water, or plain yogurt into cupcake tins with some of your dog’s kibble or lean meat, seal with a lid or foil, then freeze. Unmold and let your pup lick away for some cooling hydration while eating.

Prepare a Doggy Stir-Fry

For a delicious and nutrient-dense meal, try sautéing your dog’s kibble together with fresh lean meat or seafood, dog-safe vegetables like carrots and green beans, and a little broth or water. Let the stir-fry cool before serving for a healthy, aromatic, moisture-rich preparation.

Vary the Menu

Dogs can get just as bored eating the same food day after day as we do. Consider varying your dog’s diet by occasionally substituting a topper, mixer, or different flavor of kibble at each meal. If you feed wet food, try alternating brands or recipes along with their normal dry dog food. A varied diet can provide nutritional balance while keeping them interested.

Have a Puppy Picnic

Set aside one meal a week for an indoor “puppy picnic” on a towel or blanket. Hand-feed bits of kibble and healthy treats on the picnic spot to help create positive associations around mealtime through bonding and playtime. You can also make mealtimes fun by using puzzle toys or hand-feeding new recipes in a relaxed picnic setting.

Conclusion

With some creativity and doggy delights, you can turn a boring, mundane mealtime into an event your fur baby looks forward to every day. A well-fed, well-nourished pup will have a healthy appetite and stay trim and energetic. Making mealtime exciting not only ensures your dog is getting proper nutrition, but it also strengthens the bond between you through positive associations with food. Putting in a little extra effort at chowtime shows your pup how much you care and value their happiness.