Dachshund Food Trouble: How To Prevent Dachshunds From Being Picky Eaters

Few things test a dog parent’s patience like a Dachshund turning up their nose at their food. These little sausages with legs are known for their big personalities, and that extends to their eating habits. But don’t worry—you’re not doomed to a life of untouched kibble and mealtime standoffs. With a little creativity and some clever tricks, you can turn your picky pup into a mealtime enthusiast.

Step 1: Decode the Snub

Before pulling out all the stops, figure out what’s behind your Dachshund’s refusal to eat. Are they just a little particular, or could something deeper be at play? Stress or illness can dampen a dog’s appetite, so if your pup seems off, a trip to the vet is step one. Rule out anything medical, and you’re left with a classic case of pickiness.

Step 2: Mix It Up

Eating the same bowl of food every day? Boring. Dachshunds are smart, and they crave variety just like we do. Consider rotating proteins or adding a splash of something fresh to their bowl. Even the most opinionated eater might perk up at the sight (and smell) of something new.

Step 3: Ban the Buffet

Free-feeding—leaving food out all day—can turn mealtime into a snooze-fest. Instead, give your Dachshund a set time to eat. Put the food down for 15–20 minutes and then whisk it away. Skipping a meal or two might seem harsh, but it teaches them that food doesn’t wait forever.

Step 4: Boost the Flavor

Sometimes, a little extra aroma is all it takes. Try mixing in a dollop of plain canned pumpkin (not the pie filling!) or a spoonful of wet food to make their meal more tempting. If you want to kick it up a notch, warm their kibble in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to release those meaty scents they can’t resist.

Step 5: Make Eating Fun

Turn dinner into a game. Hide bits of kibble around the house or stuff it into their favorite puzzle toy. Foraging taps into their instincts and makes eating a rewarding activity. It’s food and playtime rolled into one.

Step 6: Go Homemade

For the truly stubborn Dachshund, whipping up a homemade meal might be the golden ticket. Think lean proteins like chicken or turkey, paired with cooked veggies and a bit of brown rice. Keep it simple—skip the spices and extra fats that could upset their stomach.

Step 7: Test and Learn

What works for one Dachshund might flop with another. The key is patience and a bit of experimentation. Rotate through different approaches until you find the magic combination that gets their tail wagging at dinnertime.

The Bottom Line

Feeding a picky Dachshund doesn’t have to be a daily drama. With a few adjustments and a little persistence, you can turn mealtime into something they actually look forward to. And when you finally see them gobbling up their food with gusto? That’s a win worth celebrating.