Stimulate Your Dog's Appetite With This Simple Pre-Meal Routine

Getting a dog to eat at regular times has multiple benefits. Not only does it give an owner a chance to bond with their dog, but it also allows them to monitor their diet and ensure their dog is fed the proper amount for their weight. If a dog cuts down on food intake, it may also be a sign of various underlying health issues, which is why spotting changes early can help ensure problems don't become severe. A pre-meal routine is crucial for dogs but can be challenging for some — especially if you have a picky eater.

Stimulating a dog's appetite before a meal can be straightforward. Taking your dog for a long walk or other outdoor activities and enticing them by adding additional ingredients to their meal is an ideal way to excite them to chomp down. 'A tired dog is a happy dog,' and a picky pup is likelier to eat when content and worn out after a long walk, hike, or run. 

Exercise remains one of the most essential steps to building an appetite, and it can be easily tailored to your pet's needs. Walking is ideal for any dog, allowing them time to explore through scents and offering low-impact exercise. Breeds with high exercise needs, like a border collie, can join their owner in a jog for mutually beneficial, fast-paced exercise or accompany them on a long hike. Swimming can be great for senior dogs as it is easy on their joints. Moving with your pet in any way is the ideal way to bond with them and help them crave their next meal.

Once you've walked your dog, you can add in an enticing snack to encourage them to chow down more. If you're adding a treat made from people foods, avoiding poisonous or unhealthy ones is essential. Sticking with a vet-approved homemade dog food is ideal for crafting a perfect topper and ensuring the perfect balance of proteins, fibers, carbohydrates, and fats. Those looking for more easy options can consider pre-packaged food enhancers like Wellness Bowl Boosters Simply Shreds Wet Dog Food Topper or Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Raw Chewy's Chicken Meal Mixers. Alternatively, adding water or broth — at a 1:1 ratio — can make a dog more invested in their kibble. If you use broth, avoid salt, use dog-tailored products like Brutus Broth for Dogs, or make your own. 

There are other considerations for prepping meals. Spoiled food may not be so appetizing for a dog, even if you've walked them beforehand to get their appetite going. While kibbles are shelf stable, once open, they can spoil and lose their nutritional value after six to eight weeks; wet food can spoil within two to three days. Curbing the giving of treats before a dog's planned meal time will also help ensure they don't ruin their appetite. The right mix for a pet can be a case of trial and error, but finding the tastiest topper and including regular exercise can help get a picky pup excited for their meal.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.