Overcoming Dog Picky Eating: Causes & Solutions
Indeed, raising a pet is much like nurturing a child, as it involves navigating through a myriad of situations. When you first decide to bring a pet dog into your home, one of the most crucial lessons to learn is how to manage their picky eating habits.
Parents with children are well aware that dealing with a picky eater can be quite challenging, and the same can be said for our furry companions. So, how do we tackle this issue? To avoid your dog's pickiness, it's essential to train them to develop a consistent eating routine, and this training should ideally start from a young age. While many believe that letting dogs gnaw on bones can help with their dental health and serve as a fun toy, pet owners should be cautious.
Chicken bones, in particular, are not suitable for dogs. These bones are hollow and lack the rigidity found in pork or beef bones. When dogs chew on them, they can break into sharp, jagged pieces. These fragments can be like a sharp knife, potentially causing serious harm to a dog's gastrointestinal tract, leading to internal bleeding, diarrhea, blood in stool, vomiting, and in severe cases, even requiring surgery to remove the trapped debris.
Many women who own pet dogs tend to opt for small breeds, often showering their pets with treats to express their love. However, it's more beneficial to focus on giving your dog ample love and attention rather than an abundance of snacks.
Some pet owners wonder: Are dog treats a necessity?
There's no onesizefitsall answer. Some veterinarians believe that if a dog's diet is already rich in nutrients, additional treats may not be necessary. Others argue that treats can foster a closer bond between pet owners and their dogs, enhancing their communication and emotional connection.
After consulting with experts in the field, here are some suggestions for choosing treats:
When selecting treats, the price tag should be secondary. Focus on the ingredients and appearance of the treat. Avoid those with excessive dyes and preservatives. When offering treats, be mindful of portion control to prevent your dog from becoming dependent on them.
Use treats as rewards for good behavior, reinforcing positive actions and aiding in training. Never use treats as a substitute for regular meals when your dog is picky about eating. To foster good dining habits, control your dog's mealtime by setting a specific feeding schedule. If they don't finish their food within the allotted time, remove the bowl and feed them again at the next scheduled meal. This approach can help establish a regular eating routine for your pet.
