Getting an Old Dog to Eat: Tips and Techniques

Introduction

As our beloved pups age, they may start to lose their appetite. This can be due to a variety of health issues, from dental problems to digestive issues. It’s important to talk to your vet if you notice your pup is not eating as much as usual, so that you can determine the underlying cause. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to try to get your old dog to eat.

But first, what exactly is considered an “old dog?” Generally, any dog over the age of seven is considered to be an “old dog.” Of course, this varies depending on the breed and size of the dog. Smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds, so a seven-year-old Chihuahua is considered to be an elderly pup, while a seven-year-old Great Dane is still considered middle-aged.

Techniques to Get an Old Dog to Eat

If you have an older pup who isn’t eating much or has lost his appetite, there are some techniques you can use to try to get him to eat. Here are some tips to help encourage your pup to eat:

Hand-Feed Small, Soft Pieces of Food

One way to get your pup to eat is to hand-feed him small, soft pieces of food. This can be easier for them to chew and swallow if they are having trouble with their teeth. You can also try giving him warm, wet food, which can be easier to swallow. If he still won’t eat, try mixing in some canned food with the dry food to make it more appealing.

Offer a Variety of Different Foods

It’s important to offer your pup a variety of different foods. Not only does this help keep him interested in eating, but it can also provide him with the nutrients he needs. Try offering him different types of proteins, such as chicken, beef, fish, and eggs. You can also add in some vegetables and fruits for added nutrition.

Keep Meal Times Consistent

One way to help your pup stay interested in eating is to keep meal times consistent. This will help him know when it’s time to eat and can help him feel more comfortable at meal times. Make sure to feed him at the same time each day and remove any uneaten food after 15 minutes.

Heat Up the Food Slightly

Sometimes, heating up the food slightly can make it more appealing to your pup. Try microwaving the food for a few seconds before serving it to him. This can help make the food smell better and can make it easier to chew if he’s having trouble with his teeth.

Add Chicken Broth or Gravy

Adding some chicken broth or gravy to your pup’s food can make it more appealing. The added flavor can help entice him to eat and can also make it easier to swallow if he’s having trouble with his teeth. You can buy pre-made broth or gravy, or you can make your own.

Give Treats as Rewards

Giving your pup treats as rewards for eating can help encourage him to eat. Start off by offering him small pieces of food and then reward him with a treat if he eats it. This can help make meal times more fun and can help him stay interested in eating.

Conclusion

If your pup is an older dog and isn’t eating much, there are some techniques you can use to try to get him to eat. Try hand-feeding him small, soft pieces of food, offering him a variety of different foods, keeping meal times consistent, heating up the food slightly, adding chicken broth or gravy, and giving treats as rewards. With some patience and persistence, you can help your pup find his appetite again.