Do Dogs Get Tired of Eating the Same Food Every Day?

Do Dogs Get Tired of Eating the Same Food Every Day?

Can you imagine if you had to eat the same food every time you sat down at the table for a meal? As it turns out, what sounds unbearable to us may be perfectly acceptable to most canines. Research has proven that when it comes to dogs and their appetites, they appreciate consistency in their food. To put this into perspective, the AKC reminds us that as humans, we have 9,000 taste buds, while dogs only have around 1700. 

If Your Dog No Longer Wants Their Food

Let’s say that your dog always loved their food, and one day they began turning up their nose at it. What gives? Here is what you should do if this happens. 

1. Check to make sure that your dog’s food has not expired. If it has, go ahead and get rid of it.
2. Have your dog checked by its veterinarian to rule out any underlying physical or behavioral problems. 
3. Figure out if your dog is bored with his food or with life overall. Make sure your canine is getting enough exercise and mental stimulation. Try a food puzzle. 
4. If it appears that your dog really is just tired of its food, perhaps you might try feeding a fresh food diet. The new smells, tastes, and textures may do wonders to stimulate your dog’s senses and rev up its appetite. 

Changing Your Dog’s Diet

Before you make any major changes in your dog’s diet, it is important to consult your veterinarian first. This is because your dog may develop gastrointestinal upset if you make too drastic of a change. 

Adding fresh ingredients to your dog’s kibble may be enough to excite them to eat it again. For instance, adding carrots or green beans gives their food new interest and texture. One spoonful of unspiced, unsweetened canned pumpkin provides healthy antioxidants and gastrointestinal support. 

You may decide to go with a completely fresh diet for your dog. Fresh food for dogs leaves out artificial preservatives, fillers and preservatives. Fresh food may taste better to your dog and the ingredients may be more varied and interesting. It may contain a protein base of chicken, beef or lamb. Sweet potatoes, squash, chickpeas, blueberries, carrots and cranberries are other common ingredients often found in fresh dog foods. 

Should I Change My Dog’s Food?

Just because your dog may be content eating the same food all its life, that doesn’t mean that is the best plan. Their life stage, overall activity level and health should all be taken into account. Here are six signs that it may be time to change your dog’s food.

1. Your dog’s coat is dull and flaky: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids will help to combat this problem. 
2. Your dog seems weak or lethargic: A visit to the vet to rule out illness and a diet high in antioxidants should help to remedy the situation.
3. You have a senior dog: A dog is considered to be senior around 5-7 years old. Look for pet food designed specifically for senior dogs. 
4. Your dog is big around the middle: When obesity is a problem, a special, calorie-restricted diet is required.
5. Your dog is having GI upset: The wrong dog food or low-quality food may be causing your dog’s stomach upset. 
6. Your dog is itchy: Food allergies can cause your dog to start scratching. Your vet may recommend a low-allergen diet. 

Takeaway

Your dog may not grow tired of the taste of its food, but it is always a good idea to evaluate if the food is doing an optimal job for his or her body, and make a change if necessary.