How Can I Get My Dog To Eat Dry Food?

If you’ve been wondering how to get your dog to eat dry food, you’re not alone. While some dogs readily embrace the change, others might be a bit more hesitant. If your dog is refusing to eat dry food or is simply not fond of it, there are a few simple tricks and strategies that can help encourage them to make the switch.

In this article, we’ll walk you through why your dog might be turning up their nose at dry food, and share some helpful tips for making the transition easier. You can read more about the pros and cons of wet vs. dry food in our guide. Or learn more about Forthglade nutritious dry dog food

Why Is My Dog Refusing Dry Food?

There are several reasons why your dog might be refusing dry food, and understanding the root cause can help you take the right steps to solve the problem. Some common reasons dogs may avoid dry food include:

• Taste and Texture Preferences: Some dogs simply prefer the texture or taste of wet food over dry kibble. Wet food tends to be more aromatic and moist, which might be more appealing to dogs with sensitive tastebud's.
• Health Issues: Dental problems, mouth pain, or digestive issues can make it difficult for dogs to chew or digest dry food. If your dog suddenly refuses dry food, it’s worth consulting your vet to rule out any underlying health conditions.
• Lack of Familiarity:  If your dog has been eating wet food for a long time, the change to dry food can be overwhelming.
• Boredom with Food: Some dogs just get bored with their food. If you’ve been feeding the same dry kibble for a while, your dog may simply be looking for a change

If you’re dealing with a dog that refuses food altogether, or if you’re looking for additional guidance, check out our guide to why your dog might not be eating.

How To Transition Your Dog From Wet To Dry Food

Transitioning your dog from wet food to dry food is a gradual process that requires patience and a little creativity. The key is to make the dry food more appealing and familiar, without forcing your dog into an abrupt change. Here are some strategies that may help ease the transition:

Introduce Dry Food Slowly

"When transitioning your dog onto a new diet, it is particularly important to do this gradually and to avoid any sudden changes. This allows your dog’s digestive system to adapt with the switch and remain in balance. As a minimum, allow 5 full days to gradually reduce their current diet whilst simultaneously increasing their new food with each meal. For dogs with sensitive tummies, go even slower and transition over 1-2 weeks" Dr James Greenwood

Try Adding It To Wet Dog Food First

If your dog is still hesitant, try mixing dry food with a small amount of wet food. This method can make the dry kibble more enticing by adding moisture and flavour, which is familiar to your dog. You can try this with one of our complementary wet dog food ranges. Shop Just here

Try Adding Your Dry Dog Food To Hot Water

Another great trick is to add a little warm water to your dog’s dry kibble. The heat helps release the aromas and makes the kibble smell more enticing, which can encourage your dog to eat. Simply pour a small amount of warm water over the dry food, let it soak in for a few minutes, and then serve. The added moisture can also make the kibble softer and easier to chew, which might appeal to dogs with sensitive teeth or those who are more accustomed to wet food.

Try Heating Your Dry Dog Food Up In The Microwave

If your dog remains uninterested in their dry food, you can try microwaving it for a few seconds. Heating the food up can enhance its smell, making it more appetizing. Just be sure not to overheat the food, as this can cause it to lose its nutrients or even burn. A few seconds should be enough to give it that warm, inviting aroma.
Some dogs love the warmth of their food, especially on colder days, so this might be an easy fix to get your dog excited about dry kibble.

Takeaway

Transitioning your dog from wet food to dry food doesn’t have to be a difficult process. With patience and the right approach, most dogs can make the switch successfully. Here’s a quick recap of the tips to help you along the way:

• Introduce dry food slowly by mixing it with wet food.
• Add dry food to wet food to make it more appealing.
• Use warm water to enhance the aroma and soften the kibble.
• Microwave dry food for a few seconds to warm it up and make it smell more appetizing.
  

Remember, it’s important to be patient and consistent. Every dog is different, and it may take some time for your pet to adjust to the new food. If you’re concerned about your dog’s reluctance to eat or if they’re showing signs of illness, don’t hesitate to consult your vet.

When you’re ready to try a high-quality dry food option, check out Forthglade’s range of dry dog food, including options for all dog breeds and dietary needs. For a great start, consider trying our cold-pressed dry food or lightly baked dry food.

Shop our dry dog food and give your dog the best nutrition they deserve.