You're filled with enthusiasm and empowerment because you possess the knowledge about commercial dog food. You've conducted thorough research, understanding its advantages and what to anticipate. You're well-prepared and excited to transition your dog to a real food diet, anticipating improved health and happiness, a transformation into the epitome of canine well-being—a true primal pooch.
However, the reality may not always match your expectations. You might find yourself perplexed as your dog shows little interest in the fantastic raw meal before them. They may sniff it briefly, give you a quizzical look, and walk away. What should you do in this situation?
Let's face it; you're pretty excited about this decision to switch your dog to a raw diet. The common saying, "picky eaters aren't born, they're created," applies here. Some dogs devour anything, while others exhibit pickiness. Most dogs become selective eaters due to established habits, often because their owners allow them to be.
There are essentially two approaches:
1. Patience.
2. A bit of disguise.
The problem might be that your dog doesn't recognize this new food. They've been consuming commercial, processed pet food for their entire life, which looks and smells vastly different from the fresh raw meal. Or, it might seem like they've suddenly become disinterested.
Did you know that kibble is coated with fat and other substances to make it more appealing to dogs? Raw food, on the other hand, has a milder odor compared to kibble. Initially, your dog may not recognize it as food.
So, how should you handle this?
First and foremost, don't be discouraged; this is a common experience for new raw feeders. After placing the raw meal in front of your dog, give them about 15 minutes to figure it out. If they haven't eaten it by then, calmly pick it up and put it away. Offer it again at the next meal. If your dog continues to refuse, repeat this process until they decide to eat it. Rest assured, your dog will not starve themselves. When they become hungry enough, they will eat. The longest refusal to eat that I've heard of is around ten days, although this is an extreme case and unlikely for most dogs. I'm not suggesting you withhold food from your dog for that long.
During this process, it's crucial to be patient and maintain a sense of authority. You are the pack leader, and you decide when and what your dog eats. Avoid making a fuss if your dog doesn't eat. Don't coax them into eating; it's they who are choosing not to eat.
Whatever you do, resist the temptation to provide alternative food in the meantime, such as training treats, table scraps, rawhide, or other dog chews or treats. Offering alternatives will prolong the process and may lead to your dog dictating the terms. In this game of wills, it's often the dog owner who caves first. Remember, you're not depriving your dog, and picky eaters may choose not to eat for 1-3 days on average.
The only exceptions to this tough love approach are dogs with serious preexisting health conditions and specific breeds susceptible to low blood sugar. These dogs should not go without food for more than 24 hours. If in doubt, consult your holistic veterinarian to determine a safe duration to withhold food.
Above all, ensure you have a strong support system. Lean on other raw feeders for advice and guidance. If you're unsure where to find them, there are online forums, groups, and Facebook communities you can join.
If you're still having trouble or want to explore other options, here are some tricks to entice your dog to eat:
- Sprinkle a little parmesan cheese on top.
- Add low-sodium chicken or beef broth.
- Incorporate bone broth.
- Lightly sear the meat (only if it's boneless) - gradually reduce the searing over time.
- Sprinkle a small amount of garlic salt on top (use sparingly and consider individual preferences).
Ultimately, remember that you're in control of your dog's health, making decisions that benefit their well-being. While dogs no longer make instinctual decisions as wild animals do, it's your responsibility to provide them with healthy food. If you've tried these tips and still encounter challenges, don't hesitate to seek assistance.
Share this article if you found it helpful, allowing other new raw feeders to benefit from this advice and any additional tips or tricks you've discovered along the way. Above all, stay patient and hang in there!
