US Vet: “…2024‘s Best Tasting Dog Food for Picky Eaters”

When your dog is a picky eater, she is constantly not finishing her meals or not eating at all. That can be frustrating both for you and your doggie.

You’re worried about your pup’s weight & health while trying to figure out the reason behind it. As for your pup, she’s probably hungry or less energetic because she didn’t consume her daily calorie intake. 

In most cases, Tasty dog food can solve the problem immediately. Unless it’s a behavioral problem or a health concern, tasty dog food can restore your pup’s love for food and bring her lost energy back.

I used my 12 years of Veterinary experience to review over 100 dog food products to find the best tasting dog food for picky eaters.

After evaluating over 100 dog food recipes, I found that “American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food” has the best overall combination of taste, nutrients, and quality sources. 

But I understand that no two pups are alike, and your doggie might have a different life stage or have different needs, such as a sensitive stomach or an active lifestyle. That’s why I prepared a shortlist of the best tasting dog food for picky eaters that address these common conditions.

Before you pick the best tasting dog food for Fido, it’s always important to consider whether it’s the right thing to do. That’s why I explained what causes picky eating to eliminate a health concern and added tips and tricks you can try first to make your dog eat her meal.   

After you decide that tasty dog food for picky eaters is right for your doggie, you can check out these 10 best tasting dog foods that I shortlisted for you. 

If my shortlist doesn’t cover your doggie’s needs for some reason, I prepared a quick checklist that would assist you in finding the best tasting dog food for picky eaters for her. I wrote the checklist in plain & simple English so that you can follow it easily.

Finally, I answered popular questions patients have asked me regarding picky eating.

Always remember that the recommendations in this review are not intended to replace a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant adjustments to your furbaby’s diet.

Let’s get started.

Understanding Dogs That Are Picky Eaters & How To Feed Them

Not all dogs gobble up their food with gusto. Frustratingly, some pups are hard to please. They’ll sniff at the food you carefully chose or prepared and turn away. What are the possible causes of picky eating, when is selective dining an issue, and what can you do about it? Read on to find out.

12 Reasons Your Dog Is a Picky Eater

There are many different reasons that dogs practice selective eating. Some are related to their personality and behavioral problems, while others may indicate health problems. We chose to briefly name the reasons because picky eating is a condition that can mostly be solved with the right knowledge and treatment.

• The food reminds them of a bad experience – My brother got sick on mushrooms when he was a kid, and he can’t tolerate anything with that ingredient to this day. Dogs can be the same. If your pup had an upset stomach or got sick recently, they may link the food they ate to the illness. Try something different.
• They’re anxious about something – Like their human owners, some dogs will lose their appetite when they feel anxious or nervous. If they avoid eating because there’s a thunderstorm or fireworks, they’ll probably bounce back. On the other hand, if your pooch has separation anxiety or is nervous about a recent change in routine, you may need to provide extra encouragement and spend more time with him to help him over the hump.
• They don’t like the taste – If you recently changed formulas, and your pup is less enthusiastic about eating, he may not like the flavor. It’s also possible that the product is upsetting his stomach. Don’t make a sudden change to something else. Talk to your veterinarian first. Then, if it’s warranted, make a gradual change to a new food.
• They had too many treats – When we go overboard on treats to encourage desired behaviors, our dogs can get too full to eat their food. Treats can also interfere with your pal’s appetite if you use tasty tidbits to get your dog to eat. They may get the message that they’ll get a goodie if they refuse to eat their dinner.
• They’re bored – Would you want to eat the same thing meal after meal? Some dogs find dinner bland. In this case, you can mix in a special treat like some canned food or a commercial sauce as a topper. For some pups, all it takes is adding some warm water to moisten the kibble.
• Their schedule got disrupted – Just like children, some canines thrive on routine. If you missed dinnertime, they may just wait for the next round. You can also use this tendency to encourage eating. Offer their food at the same daily times and for a set period like 20 minutes. When time’s up remove it and wait until the next meal. Your pal will soon learn the routine.
• They may need a safer place – Dogs like to feel safe and secure when they eat. If your pup is uncomfortable, it can affect his appetite. Provide a consistent feeding area that’s out of the way.
• Their appetite is changing as they age – Older dogs may start eating less because they’re less active and they don’t need as many calories to keep them full.
• They have an allergy or sensitivity to ingredients in the food – There may be one or more ingredients in the formula that’s upsetting Fido’s stomach. 
• There’s an underlying health condition – Sometimes dogs will refuse to eat because of an underlying issue. If your pup is experiencing digestive upset or another health problem, he may suddenly stop eating. When sudden or prolonged inappetence occurs, contact your veterinarian for a consultation and work up to get to the root of the problem.
• They’re just picky eaters – Some dogs and breeds are genetically wired to be picky eaters. These pups may pick at their food or “graze” throughout the day. If the behavior is consistent and not a sudden change, don’t sweat it.
• They’re not hungry – Some pups will browse their food rather than eating everything at once. If your pooch doesn’t seem interested, don’t force it. Dogs can skip a meal from time to time as long as they’re maintaining a healthy weight.

When Your Dog’s Picky Eating Becomes a Health Concern 

With all these reasons that dogs may be picky about mealtime, how can you know when there’s a reason for concern? If any of the following apply, you should contact your veterinarian asap:

• It’s a young puppy – If you have a puppy under 6 months old that stops eating for more than 12-24 hours, call your vet. These little canines don’t have the energy or fat reserves to go without food for very long.
• It’s a sudden change – Normally, voracious eaters that suddenly stop chowing may need medical attention. If your dog suddenly refuses to eat for more than a day or so, there’s cause for concern. This is doubly true if the change in appetite is accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.
• Your dog is diabetic – Diabetic dogs can not go without food for very long, especially if you’re giving them insulin. You don’t want to trigger a dangerous drop in blood sugar.
• Your dog seems hungry but won’t eat his kibble – If your dog is acting like he wants to eat, but he won’t touch the crunchy bits, he may have a gum or tooth problem. Set up an appointment for a dental exam with your veterinarian.

Seduce Your Dog To Eat Her Meal: 4 Winning Ingredients for Picky Eaters

Trying to find food that a picky eater will find appealing can be frustrating. After all, at this moment its seems like your dog is never going to complete her meal. The secret stands with picking the right ingredients, with an odor your dog likes.

• High-Quality Animal Protein – As carnivores, dogs love meat in their diet. Therefore, products that incorporate lean beef, poultry, or fish in their formulas will appeal more than plant-based proteins or animal byproducts.
• Healthy Fats – Fat can add flavor to the food and is a good energy source for your pooch. Healthy fats come from animal fats, canola oil, fish oil, and flaxseed. 
• Veggies and Greens – Besides adding valuable nutrients like antioxidants and vitamins, these ingredients enhance the flavor so that pups will find the product more appealing.
• Unsalted Broth, Gravy, or Stew – A delectable topper like broth or gravy can prime the pump for your pooch to start eating his dinner. Make sure it’s unsalted or low sodium.

Tips and Tricks You Can Try to Get Your Picky Dog to Eat His Food

After making sure with your vet that a health concern is off the table, you’re now halfway to make your dog eat properly. We’ve gathered several tricks that approved working to encourage picky eaters to complete their meal and even asking for more. Try some of the ideas below to see if they work for your doggie.

• Cut out table scraps. They may be more appealing than your pup’s kibble.
• Establish a consistent feeding time. Some dogs do better on a schedule.
• Give your pup a window of time to eat. Such as 15-20 minutes, then remove any uneaten food. Then, wait until the next mealtime to feed a fresh portion. Your pup will catch on, and missing part of a meal won’t hurt him.
• Make mealtime fun. Use a puzzle toy or have your furbaby perform a trick for his food. Praise and dinner can be his reward.
• Mix in a topper or healthy snacks. Adding tasty chopped fruits and vegetables, wet food, low sodium broth, or low sodium gravy can get the digestive juices flowing.
• Try a different dog food. Your dog may be bored, have a food sensitivity, or not like one or more ingredients in the formula. Remember to make the transition gradually so that you don’t upset Fido’s tummy.
• Scatter the kibble on the floor. Letting your pup eat from the floor triggers his foraging instinct and may encourage better eating.  With some breeds, you can add fun by hiding pieces and letting your pup hunt. However, this may not work as well in multi-dog households as it could lead to resource guarding.
• Walk your dog. Physical activity can help to stimulate the appetite. Go for a walk or play with your pooch before mealtime. It’s best to take a 15-30 minute break after exercise before feeding to prevent stomach upset.
• Check your portion size. If your pup consistently has trouble finishing his meals, you may be overfeeding him or giving too many between-meal treats. This is particularly common with toy and miniature breeds because their stomachs are tiny. 
• Pull a bait and switch. Some dogs won’t be able to resist eating their food if they think you like it. Try taking a few pieces of kibble out of the bin or bag and pretending to munch them down as if you’re eating popcorn or potato chips. Repeat a few times then feed your pup and see what they do.
• Warm his food. Some things taste better and have a stronger aroma when warm. You can gently microwave wet formulas or add a little hot water to kibble.
• Switch to wet food. If your furbaby doesn’t like the dry stuff, you may need to switch to a matching canned product. Wet food often tastes better than kibble, and it could make a difference.
• Try a raised feeding bowl. Particularly if you have a large-breed senior dog, bending over to eat from the ground could be uncomfortable. Instead, try using an elevated dish that properly matches your pup’s height to make dinner time more pleasant.
• Provide a safe place to eat. Most dogs won’t eat if they’re not feeling secure. So provide a feeding area that’s secluded and free from distractions.
• Mix things up. Your dog may be bored with the same food every day. Some owners have found rotating between two or three formulas keeps their pups more interested. This practice goes against conventional wisdom, so discuss the idea with your veterinarian before trying it.
• Check the food. Even kibble can spoil over time. That’s why you want to seal the food in an airtight container to help keep it fresh. If you think Fido’s food is stale, see if he’ll eat from a fresh bag of the same product. 
• Try a bowl that’s designed for the breed. Flat-nosed dogs may need a special design for eating. Traditional dog dishes are too deep and don’t allow them to scoop their food.

Canned Food: The Easiest (But Not The Most Affordable) Solution For Picky Eaters

When it comes to the easiest solution for picky eaters available is, of course, the canned food. 

Both Dry and Wet food can have equal nutritional value if they use quality ingredients and ensure a balanced blend. Kibble tends to be more economical and can help to clean tartar and food debris from the teeth. But it can have a bland flavor.

Wet food has more moisture and can help to prevent dehydration. It’s easier for older dogs and dogs with dental problems to gobble up. 

When it comes to picky eaters, canned products tend to have more flavor and a stronger aroma. The downside is that these products are usually more expensive, can’t be left outside for hours, and can be particularly limiting with large breed dogs.

If you have a picky eater, canned food may be a viable solution. For small dogs, you may be able to justify feeding all wet food. When it comes to larger breeds, mixing in a little canned product as a tasty topper may be all it takes to encourage better eating.

Provide all the Nutrients with Best Tasting Dog Food For Picky Eaters

When picking a tasty dog food for picky eaters, you need to ensure that your dog will receive all the required nutrients. As your pup might be a picky eater, you should be picky while choosing the right formulation for her.

Not very long ago, there were only a few recipes available. But now, you can choose from gluten or grain-free options, various protein sources, and many different brands. How do you know which food is the right fit for your dog?

Let’s look at some things to look for when selecting tasty dog food for picky eaters:

• Protein is the First Ingredient – As carnivores, dogs need and crave quality protein. Any formulation that you seek should have animal-based protein such as beef, chicken, salmon, or turkey as the first ingredient.
• Complete and Balanced – You don’t want your pooch to eat just anything. When you’re looking for quality food, make sure it offers complete and balanced nutrition. Check the package for a statement that the formula meets AAFCO nutritional guidelines.
• Life-Stage Appropriate – The food should be suited to your dog’s age and stage. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults, and seniors may also have other nutrient needs.
• Individual Dietary Needs – In addition to having different nutritional needs at different life stages, pups can have individual nutrient requirements. Consult with your veterinarian about unique breed needs or special dietary requirements for different health conditions.
• Look for Products Manufactured in a Country With Rigorous Safety Protocols – Some imported products are made without oversight or attention to safety standards. To ensure that your dog’s food is a quality formula, look for food manufactured in nations that follow strict safety protocols and good manufacturing practices such as Canada, the United States, and Great Britain.
• Don’t Use Foods That Contain Unidentified Meat Meals or Byproducts – If you see a generic meat meal or a meat byproduct on the ingredient list, keep looking. These materials may contain other parts of the animal such as the hide or hooves. If your pooch has a food allergy or sensitivity, you may also be feeding an allergen without knowing.
• Purchase Foods That Include the Supplements Your Dog Needs – There are several helpful supplements for different health needs. For Example
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin help to support joint function in older dogs. 
  • Taurine may be helpful if you feed a grain-free product. 
  • Omega fatty acids can help when your dog has skin allergies.
• Avoid Foods With Artificial Additives – It’s best to avoid artificial ingredients of any kind. Some chemical additives may be linked to cancer. Foods with natural ingredients and preservatives also tend to be more palatable.

Our 2024 Review For 10 Best Tasting Dog Food For Picky Eaters

We reviewed over 100 products by following the abovementioned process and classified the best for your doggie’s everyday essential nutrient needs. 

We considered each pick’s life stage and common health issues and ensured it has the best nutrient sources.

American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes
• Key feature: Grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 32% crude protein; 14% crude fat; 5% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 390 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: grain-free dry dog food
• Life Stage: All life stages
• Best for: Best overall
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages including the growth of large size dogs

This product features three animal-based protein sources at the top of the ingredient list. With a protein-rich diet, your pup has the amino acids he needs for strong lean muscles and the flavor his inner wolf craves. There are healthy fats to enhance the taste and provide essential fatty acids that include DHA and the Omegas. 

Fruits and garden veggies tempt the palate and provide antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Supplementation ensures complete and balanced nutrition for your pooch.

The grain-free formula has no artificial ingredients or fillers. It includes taurine to support heart function. Many pet parents share that their dogs love the flavor of this product. 

Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy Grain-Free Salmon Recipe Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chickpea Flour, Canola Oil
• Key feature: Grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 30% crude protein; 18% crude fat; 5.5% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 438 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: limited-ingredient dry dog food
• Life Stage: All life stages
• Best for: Puppies
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages including the growth of large size dogs

Starting with deboned salmon and salmon meal, this protein-rich formula is designed to appeal to your canine’s taste buds. The diet is also high in healthy fat which provides essential fatty acids for energy and to support the brain, coat, and skin.

Sweet potatoes provide antioxidants, vitamins, and carbohydrates to the food. Herbs and vitamin C enhance the flavor of this product and preserve it without harmful chemicals. 

This product is a complete and balanced food that meets the nutritional requirements of your puppy. All the ingredients are natural. The product is available with different protein options

Dog owners report that their pups love the food and it’s gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
• Key feature: whole-grain recipe
• Guaranteed Analysis: 27% crude protein; 15% crude fat; 3.5% crude fiber; 11% moisture
• Caloric Content: 381 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: dry dog food
• Life Stage: Senior
• Best for: Seniors
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Made with real chicken and whole grains, this kibble is made to delight the taste buds. Animal protein provides your pooch with the essential amino acids he needs to maintain lean muscle mass as he ages. Healthy fats from natural sources omega fatty acids to support the skin and coat.

The food contains no artificial ingredients or fillers. Delicious whole grains, fruits, and vegetables combine to provide rich sources of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. The formula includes prebiotic fiber and probiotic micoroganisms to soothe and support the gut.

Chicken and turkey meals provide natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. This natural formulation is easy to digest and has a lower fat content to accommodate a senior dog’s waning energy needs. Some owners report that their picky eaters gobble this food up.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Peas, Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch
• Key feature: Grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 34% crude protein; 15% crude fat; 6% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 409 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: grain-free dry dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Adults
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Starting with chicken and chicken meal as the top two ingredients, this protein-rich formula provides amino acids for lean muscle mass along with the meaty flavor your canine craves. Healthy fats including the Omegas enhance the taste of this food and add essential nutrients for healthy skin, coat, brain, and more.

Delicious fruits and garden vegetables help to please the palate and offer needed antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The formula includes prebiotic fiber and probiotic microorganisms to boost digestion.

There are no artificial ingredients or fillers in the product. It contains natural preservatives and is free of corn, wheat, soy, and poultry by-products. This formula is also available as a canned product. Owners say their dogs like the flavor.

Crave High Protein White Fish & Salmon Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: White Fish, Chicken Meal, Lentils, Split Peas, Chicken Fat
• Key feature: High protein
• Guaranteed Analysis: 34% crude protein; 17% crude fat; 3.5% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 422 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: premium dry dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Active Dogs
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance

Rich in animal protein, this formula from Crave starts with white fish and chicken meal as the first two ingredients. With added pork meal, fish meal, and salmon meal, the product has all the essential amino acids your pup needs to maintain and repair healthy lean muscles.

Lentils and peas provide digestible carbohydrates to fuel your active pup’s lifestyle. The formula also includes healthy sources of fats for essential amino acids and flavor enhancement.

There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives in this food, and it’s free from corn, soy, wheat, and fillers. Owners say their dogs love to eat this formula.

Solid Gold Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Chickpeas, Lentils, Peas
• Key feature: grain and gluten-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 26% crude protein; 15% crude fat; 4% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 388 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: grain-free dry dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Sensitive stomach
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance

Starting with delectable animal protein from salmon and ocean fish meal, this food from Solid Gold has essential amino acids and flavor appeal for your pooch. With no chicken protein, corn, wheat, or soy, it’s designed for pups with food sensitivities.

Healthy omega and essential fatty acids from fish and chicken fat provide key nutrients for immunity and normal body functions. The fat content also enhances the flavor to make this food more appealing to your picky eater.

Digestible fruits and vegetables are included to go easy on the stomach. The product includes prebiotic fiber and probiotics to soothe the gut and support digestion. Owners of picky eaters and dogs with sensitive stomachs say their dogs love the food, and it’s easy on digestion.

Purina Beyond Simply Beef & Egg Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Beef, Chicken Meal, Whole Barley, Canola Meal, Pea Starch
• Key feature: grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 27% crude protein; 16% crude fat; 5% crude fiber; 12% moisture
• Caloric Content: 445 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: grain-free dry dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Grain-free
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance

Beef and chicken meal top the ingredient list to make this high-protein food extra tasty. Canola and sunflower oils provide healthy sources of essential fatty acids and enhance the flavor. 

With simple ingredients that include yummy eggs and peas, this product is made to appeal to picky eaters. There’s no corn, soy, wheat, or fillers in the food, and it has all-natural ingredients.

Probiotic microorganisms and digestible ingredients help to support the gut. There are added minerals and vitamins to ensure a balanced nutritional blend. This product line also has canned food that complements the formula. Customers say their dogs like the food.

Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas
• Key feature: grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 25% crude protein; 15% crude fat; 3% crude fiber; 10% moisture
• Caloric Content: 360 kcal/cup
• Type of Product: grain-free dry dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Weight Loss
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Featuring real salmon and ocean fish meal for a taste that dogs crave, this food is packed with protein for healthy muscles. Healthy fats include omegas and essential fatty acids to boost flavor and support immunity and body functions.

Delicious whole foods including sweet potatoes, blueberries, and raspberries provide antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients. Vitamin and mineral supplements are included for balanced nutrition.

With digestible ingredients and probiotic microorganisms, this food is made to be easy for your pooch to eat. It has healthy fiber and is moderate in fat to help with weight maintenance. Most customers report that their pups love the flavor.

Wellness Ninety-Five Percent Chicken Grain-Free Canned Dog Food Topper

• First 5 ingredients: Chicken, Water Sufficient For Processing, Natural Flavor, Cassia Gum, Carrageenan
• Key feature: 95% chicken
• Guaranteed Analysis: 8% crude protein; 6% crude fat; 1% crude fiber; 78% moisture
• Caloric Content: 521 kcal/can
• Type of Product: wet food topper
• Life Stage: All life stages
• Best for: Food topper
• AAFCO Statement: none- this food is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding

Made with 95% chicken, this canned dog food is made to add as a delectable topper. Use the tasty formula to enhance your pup’s eating experience. 

There are no by-products, wheat, soy, or corn in this product. This is available in other protein options.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Beef & Chicken Grill Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

• First 5 ingredients: Beef, Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Potatoes
• Key feature: grain-free
• Guaranteed Analysis: 10% crude protein; 9% crude fat; 1.5% crude fiber; 78% moisture
• Caloric Content: 523 kcal/can
• Type of Product: wet dog food
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Canned
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Packed with the protein that dogs love, this food includes beef, chicken, and chicken liver in the top five ingredients. The formula provides essential amino acids for strong muscles. It also includes flaxseed for healthy sources of omega fatty acids and prebiotic fiber.

Tasty chicken broth enhances the flavor of the product and adds moisture. There are no artificial ingredients or fillers in this food, and it’s free of corn, wheat, and soy. 

Vitamin and mineral supplements ensure the food has complete and balanced nutrition. Serve this to your furbabies as a topper or the main course. Pet parents say their dogs love the taste of this product.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know my dog is a picky eater?

Dogs are often considered to be picky eaters if they don’t eat all of their food in about 20 minutes or so. If you have a pup that eats a few bites then walks away, he may be a picky eater.

What makes a dog a picky eater?

There are many reasons for picky eating. Please see “12 reasons your dog is a picky eater” above.

Will a picky dog starve?

Dogs won’t normally starve themselves. However, if your pup refuses to eat for more than 1-2 days, call your veterinarian. There may be something more going on.

Why won’t my dog eat his food anymore?

There can be several reasons for a dog to stop eating its food. Here are a few top reasons:

• Boredom 
• Spoiled food
• Sore teeth or gums
• Reaction to a new drug or surgery
• Stress from a change in routine or environment
• Illness

Should you force-feed a dog?

Force-feeding is a last resort method for dogs that refuse to eat for more than a few days. If your pup won’t eat anything, talk to your veterinarian about the best way to encourage him.

When should I worry about my dog not eating?

You should be concerned about your dog not eating if:

• Your pup has other signs such as vomiting or diarrhea
• Your pal refuses food for more than a few days
• Your furbaby is a puppy under 6 months old
• Your pooch has a disease like diabetes 

What do you feed a dog that is not eating?

Some tasty mix-ins that may help encourage eating include sodium-free broth or gravy, chopped fresh vegetables, and canned dog food. You can also try feeding quality wet food.

Can I feed my dog human food instead of dog food?

Feeding table scraps and human food will not help to encourage your picky eater. Additionally, human food is not designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs. 

Can dogs survive on just meat?

While dogs require a high-protein diet, they need additional nutrients that an all-meat diet will not provide.

How Long Can a Dog Go Without Eating?

Most dogs can go three to five days without eating, but it’s hard on their systems. You should contact your veterinarian after one to two days of inappetence.

What can I add to dry dog food to make my dog eat?

Some ideas to encourage your pal to eat his kibble include:

• Hot or warm water 
• Low sodium broth or gravy
• Wet dog food as a topper
• Chopped vegetables
• yogurt

Is raw dog food tastier?

Raw dog food tends to be juicer and has a chewy texture. Many dogs will find raw food tastier.

What food is irresistible to dogs?

While each dog is different, most pups find chicken or some other animal protein to be irresistible.

Is it OK to put chicken broth on dry dog food?

As long as you are using a low-sodium product, chicken broth is OK to put on dry food.

The Final Woof

After evaluating over 100 products on the market and comparing them to our criteria and key considerations for Best Tasting Dog Food for Picky Eaters, we recommend American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food as the Best overall pick.

It can be tricky to satisfy the palate of a picky eater. But if you start with real animal protein and healthy whole foods, you’re on the right track. 

This formula features 32% protein from real salmon and chicken meal. In addition, it has healthy whole food ingredients and fats to enhance the flavor and provide complete and balanced nutrition.

With no artificial additives, wheat, corn, or soy, this product is free of ingredients that could upset the stomach.