Hormonal changes, such as females in heat, could also be a reason for why your dog is eating less. For example, cramping and mood swings can cause a decrease in appetite. However, eating less during a few weeks twice per year is not something to be concerned about. [2] X Research source
Pawing at the mouth, as well as refusing to eat are signs that your dog might have a toothache or an infection in its mouth.
Mixing ¾ of the old food with ¼ of the new food the first week. Mixing ½ of the old food with ½ of the new food the second week. Mixing ¼ of the old food with ¾ of the new food the third week. Mixing 1/8 of the old food with 7/8 of the new food the fourth week. Feeding it 100% new food the fifth week and on.
For example, if your Chihuahua weighs 15 pounds and has a healthy Body Condition Score (BCS), it will need to consume 525 to 600 calories per day. If a cup of dry dog food contains 200 calories, then you will need to feed it 1. 25 to 1. 5 cups of dog food twice a day. This would need to be adjusted if your Chihuahua is overweight or underweight.
Instead, choose a high-quality commercial brand that is a little more expensive. These brands are less likely to have fillers, such as by products, and preservatives. They are more likely to have ingredients that promote health, such as chicken, fish, eggs, vegetables, and fruits.
Organs: kidney, liver, and brain organs. Lean meats: hamburger, white breast chicken, and fish. Vegetables: potatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, spinach, and zucchini. Fruits: blueberries, raspberries, and apples (make sure to remove the core). Carbohydrates: white or brown rice, and pasta.
Stale food is also unappealing. If your dog is not finishing its meal, decrease the amount of food you put out. [9] X Research source
To make your dog’s food more appetizing, pour warm broth over your dog’s dry food before serving. You can also mix in some wet food with the dry food, as well. Always re-heat any homemade meals before serving them to your dog.
Keep a treat jar in your kitchen so you can monitor you many treats are given per week. Give treats only as specific behavioral rewards.
Putting down the proper amount of food at a regular time each day. For example, 8 a. m. and 7 p. m. Setting out your dog’s food for 30 minutes. If your dog does not eat it, take it away. Setting out the food again for the next mealtime. Whether it has been eaten or not, take it away after 30 minutes. Not giving in. Your dog is not starving. If it is hungry, it will eat.
Place your dog’s bowl in a quiet corner in the kitchen or the laundry room. Also, feed your dog during times that are quiet and calm, like early in the morning or after dinner.
