Any dog owner is aware that feeding your dog can at times be a fight, mainly when your four, legged friend decides not to eat. Although a few dogs may be eager to eat, some can become extremely selective. If you have ever thought why certain dogs are fussy with their food, then I must tell you that you are in good company. Here, we will dive into those dog breeds which are considered picky eaters and give you some advice on dog food for picky eaters.

Why Are Some Dogs Picky Eaters?

It is quite necessary to know the reasons why some dogs can be picky eaters before we talk about different breeds. There can be a variety of reasons for this such as:

Health issues: Dogs with digestive disorders, inflamed gums, or food allergies may be unwilling to eat.

Food preferences: Just like human beings, dogs also have their taste preferences. A few dogs may not like the flavor or the texture of a certain food.

Spoiled habits: Some dogs may have become picky as they might have had the opportunity to skip their meals or get table scraps for a long time.

Breed characteristics: Some breeds, due to their gene or instinct, are more likely to become selective with their food.

What are the dog breeds that are most likely to be picky eaters? 

1. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are characters with their sophisticated tastes, which sometimes include their food intake as well. These dogs may choose top, notch, gourmet food rather than the regular kibble. As a result of their tiny stature, Shih Tzus can become extremely picky, and thus they may refuse food that is not to their liking.

Tip: By providing different flavors and textures, as well as gradually introducing wet food, your dog will look forward to mealtime.

2. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are yet another breed that may become selective with their food. Although they are small, they have large characters, and they will not hesitate to show their disapproval of certain foods. This can be mainly due to their sensitive stomachs, which may not be able to tolerate certain ingredients.

Tip: To get the dog to eat better, you can offer smaller meals more often and provide a mixture of wet and dry food.

3. Dachshund

Dachshund are characterized as creatures of stubborn nature, and this trait may even apply to their alimentary habits. Such dogs might choose not to eat at all if the food does not look or smell nice enough to them. On top of that, Dachshunds have a delicate digestive system, which might be the reason why they pick their food very selectively.

Tip: Do not lose your patience and keep trying various foods until you find the one that suits your Dachshund the best. Also, the incorporation of some premium treats can be of a great assistance.

4. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are tiny dogs that have great characters, and in most cases, they are very particular when it comes to feeding. In a case where it is the flavor or the texture that they are talking about, they are always the ones who choose selectively to eat. Since they are small in size, they may become more vulnerable to health conditions that can lower their appetite, for instance, dental problems.

Tip: Presenting soft food or heating the meals a little can be the ways through which your Chihuahua will want to eat more often.

5. Pomeranian

One Pomeranians, adorable with their fluffy coats and charming personality, can sometimes be quite particular about their food. Pomeranians are generally picky, and as a result, they may reject a meal that is not up to their standard. This might be a consequence of their stubborn nature and a need for different types of food in their meals.

Tip: You may want to feed your Pomeranian premium, healthy food with different flavors to make them stay interested in eating.

6. Maltese

Maltese dogs are usually picky eaters, especially when it comes to dry kibble. Their tiny mouths and developed tastes make them extremely selective of the textures and flavors that they like. Besides that, they can become quite sensitive to any changes in their diet, which may cause them to lose their appetite.

Tip: The best way to keep your Maltese dog fit and glad is by providing a balanced diet consisting of both wet and dry food, and also, by not making abrupt changes in their diet.

7. Shiba Inu

One of the characteristics of Shiba Inus is that they are independent and occasionally stubborn, and this applies to their diet as well. These dogs might decide to leave their food if it does not live up to their standards. Because of their obstinate nature, it is sometimes difficult to get them to eat regularly.

Tip: Make sure that you are always feeding your dog at the same time, and consider using a good quality, protein, rich food to satisfy your Shiba Inu.

8. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs, being lovable and easy, going by nature, are a bit of a mystery when it comes to choosing their food. As a result of their brachycephalic condition (short snouts), they may find it hard to chew certain foods, and thus become more selective in what they eat.

Tip: Provide small, easily digestible portions that your French Bulldog can chew and enjoy without any trouble.

Conclusion: Helping Your Picky Eater Enjoy Their Food

Picky eating might be a characteristic of certain dog breeds, but you still have to be patient and understanding. Remember that your dog's refusal to eat might be due to medical problems, food preferences, or simply the nature of their breed. If you first notice that your dog's appetite and behavior are changing noticeably, then you should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible to make sure that your dog is not sick.

To make your dog willing to eat, you can give him a combination of wet and dry food, try different flavors and textures, and make a feeding routine that will be consistent. In the end, with some time and creativity, you will be able to take the picky eater out of your dog!