🐶 Why Is My Dog a Picky Eater?

If your dog turns up their nose at mealtime, eats only when coaxed, or seems to live on treats instead of meals—you’re not alone. “Picky eating” is one of the most common concerns dog guardians share with us. But here’s the truth: picky eating isn’t always about being spoiled or stubborn.

In many cases, it’s your dog’s way of communicating that something else is going on.

Recently, we sat down with Dr. Josie Beug, DVM (Holistic Veterinarian) and Jamie Engerdahl (Canine Behaviour Consultant) for a live event exploring picky eating from both a medical and behavioural perspective. Their insights may change the way you see your dog’s mealtime challenges.

🐾 Common Reasons Dogs Become Picky Eaters

1. Health Concerns
   Dental disease, digestive upset, or underlying health issues can affect appetite. Sometimes picky eating is the first warning sign.

2. Emotional Connection
   Dogs are deeply sensitive to their guardians’ emotions. Anxiety, stress, or even tension around the food bowl can influence their desire to eat.

3. Feeding Environment
   Bowl placement, surfaces, and even the presence of other pets can affect a dog’s comfort level with eating.

4. Taste & Texture Preferences
   Just like us, dogs have food preferences. Some may crave variety, while others thrive on consistency.

🧠 Behaviour or Symptom?

One of the key takeaways from our event was learning to ask: Is this simply a feeding behaviour, or is it a symptom of something more?

A dog who skips a meal occasionally may just be expressing a preference. However, if food refusal is consistent, it’s essential to consider the entire picture—health, environment, and emotional well-being.

🌱 Holistic & Practical Solutions

Create a calm mealtime environment

Explore different feeding platforms or raised bowls

Rule out medical issues with your veterinarian

Support digestive and emotional health with the right nutrition, supplements, or calming strategies

🎥 Watch the Full Conversation

Our event, “Picky Eaters: Understanding & Supporting Fussy Dogs,” is now available to watch on replay.

👉 Click here to watch the recording on YouTube

You’ll hear directly from Dr. Josie Beug, DVM and Canine Behaviour Consultant Jamie Engerdahl as they share practical strategies and heart-centered wisdom for supporting your dog.

💛 Final Thoughts

Living with a picky eater can be frustrating and worrying, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. With the right understanding and tools, you can turn mealtime into a positive, nourishing experience for both you and your dog.

If you have a dog who struggles at mealtime, this conversation is a must-watch.

👉 Watch the replay now