Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it can be worrying when your little furball refuses to eat. If you find yourself asking, “How do I get my puppy to eat?” you’re not alone. Puppies can be picky, distracted, or just adjusting to their new home. This guide will help you understand why your puppy might not be eating and share practical tips to encourage healthy eating habits.
Why Is My Puppy Not Eating?
Puppies can skip meals for many reasons. Sometimes they’re just too busy playing or exploring to stop and eat. Other times, they might not like the food you’re offering or could be feeling unwell. If your puppy hasn’t eaten for more than half a day or shows other signs like lethargy or vomiting, a vet visit is a good idea.
But most of the time, a little patience and some smart tricks can get your puppy back on track.
Tips to Get Your Puppy to Eat
1. Try Changing Their Food
Puppies have preferences just like people. Offer a variety of puppy foods-dry kibble, canned food, different brands, and protein sources-to see what they like best. You can also moisten dry food with water or low-sodium broth and warm it slightly to bring out the aroma, making it more tempting.
If you switch foods, do it gradually by mixing a little new food with the old to avoid upsetting their stomach.
2. Change the Bowl
Sometimes the issue is the bowl, not the food. Some puppies dislike noisy metal bowls or find it hard to reach food in deep dishes. Try a silicone or ceramic bowl with low sides. If your puppy eats too fast and then feels sick, a slow feeder bowl or puzzle feeder can help by making them work a bit for their food.
Turning mealtime into a game with puzzle toys or snuffle mats can also make eating more fun and engaging.
3. Use Cues and Positive Reinforcement
Make mealtime a special event by using a verbal cue like “Time to eat!” and praising your puppy before and after they eat. This helps them associate eating with positive experiences and can build a routine.
Hand-feeding can also stimulate interest, but be sure to transition back to bowl feeding to avoid dependency.
4. Manage Feeding Times
Avoid free-feeding (leaving food out all day), which can make puppies less hungry at meal times. Instead, offer food for a limited time-about two minutes-and then take it away if they don’t eat. Try again an hour later with fresh food. This helps puppies learn a feeding schedule and encourages them to eat when food is available.
5. Make Food More Appealing
If your puppy is still reluctant, try mixing in some canned food or a bit of plain boiled hamburger with rice. Heating food slightly can release enticing smells. Some puppies even respond well to baby food (like chicken-flavored) as a temporary treat to spark their appetite.
6. Avoid Giving Too Many Treats or Human Food
Snacking between meals or feeding from your plate can make your puppy less interested in their own food. Limit treats to training rewards and keep human food off limits to encourage better eating habits.
What If My Puppy Eats Too Fast?
If your puppy is a “gobbler” who inhales food too quickly, it can cause choking or digestive upset. Slow feeder bowls, puzzle feeders, and food-dispensing toys are excellent tools to slow down eating and make mealtime safer and more engaging.
When to See a Vet
If your puppy refuses to eat for more than 12 hours, shows signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy), or if you have a very young or small breed puppy, consult your veterinarian promptly. Puppies need proper nutrition to grow and stay healthy, so don’t delay seeking professional advice if you’re concerned.
Getting your puppy to eat can take some trial and error, but with patience, consistency, and a few smart strategies, you’ll help your new best friend develop healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.
Need more tips on puppy care? Just ask!