Few things are as frustrating as a picky eater – especially when that picky eater is your Dachshund. You want your furry friend to be healthy and happy, but when they turn their nose up at their food it can be difficult to know what to do. If your Dachshund is a picky eater, never fear! There are a few simple tips and tricks you can use to help them enjoy their meals.
The first step is to figure out what kind of eater your dog is. Some dogs are simply finicky – they like what they like and that’s that. Others may be experiencing a loss of appetite due to stress or illness. If your dog falls into the latter category, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues.
Once you’ve ruled out any medical causes, it’s time to take a look at what you’re feeding your dog. Is he getting enough variety in his diet? Dachshunds can eat a variety of foods, and they can get bored with the same old food day after day, just like we can.
Once you’ve determined that your dog is simply a picky eater, it’s time to take action. The first thing you’ll want to do is avoid free-feeding. This means putting their food down for a set period of time and then removing it, even if they haven’t eaten all of it. This will help them learn that they need to eat when the food is available, or risk going hungry.
You can also try adding some wet food or canned pumpkin (not pie filling – just plain pumpkin) to their dry food. This will make the food more appealing and aromatic, encouraging them to eat. Some dogs also do well with their food being warmed slightly – put the dry food in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 10–15 seconds before serving.
If your dog is still resistant, you may need to get creative with their meals. Try hiding small pieces of kibble around the house or in their favourite toy – they’ll have to work for their food but it will get them eating! You can also try making homemade meals using healthy ingredients like lean protein, vegetables, and brown rice. Just be sure not to add too many extras as this can upset your dog’s stomach.
Of course, every dog is different so what works for one may not work for another. The best way to find out what works for your picky eater is to experiment until you find something they love. With a little patience and perseverance, you’ll have your Dachshund eating in no time!