Effective Strategies to Encourage a Bernese Mountain Dog Picky Eater

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their loyal and affectionate nature, but some of these gentle giants can be picky eaters, which can be a concern for their owners. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore effective food toppers and strategies to create a comfortable eating environment for your Bernese Mountain Dog, helping them develop a healthy appetite.

Effective Food Toppers to Encourage Eating

Bernese Mountain Dogs can sometimes be finicky when it comes to their meals, but there are several food toppers you can try to make their food more appealing and stimulate their appetite.

Plain, Low-Fat Yogurt

Adding a spoonful of plain, low-fat yogurt to your Bernese Mountain Dog’s food can be a great way to make their meals more enticing. Yogurt is a healthy source of protein and probiotics, which can aid in digestion and overall gut health.

Chicken Broth

Mixing a small amount of chicken broth with your Bernese Mountain Dog’s food can add flavor and moisture, making the meal more palatable. Be sure to use a low-sodium or unsalted broth to avoid any potential health issues.

Butter, Fish Oil, or Shredded Cheese

Incorporating a small amount of butter, fish oil, or shredded cheese into your Bernese Mountain Dog’s food can make it more flavorful and appealing. However, it’s important to use these toppers in moderation to avoid any digestive issues or weight gain.

Creating a Comfortable Eating Environment

Establishing a comfortable and consistent eating environment can also play a significant role in encouraging your Bernese Mountain Dog to eat.

Serve and Wait

Implement the “serve and wait” approach, where you place your Bernese Mountain Dog’s food in front of them and wait for 15 minutes. If they don’t eat, remove the food until the next scheduled meal time. This can help your dog learn to eat when food is presented, rather than grazing throughout the day.

Consistency

Maintaining a consistent feeding schedule and routine can help your Bernese Mountain Dog feel more secure and develop a healthy appetite. Stick to the same feeding times and locations to create a predictable environment.

Minimize Distractions

Choose a quiet, distraction-free area for your Bernese Mountain Dog to eat. Avoid placing their food near high-traffic areas or areas with loud noises, as these can be overwhelming and discourage them from eating.

Rotate Foods

If your Bernese Mountain Dog becomes bored with their regular food, try rotating to different flavors or brands to keep their meals interesting. This can help prevent them from becoming disinterested in their meals.

Additional Tips

While the strategies mentioned above can be effective in encouraging your Bernese Mountain Dog to eat, there are a few additional tips to consider:

1. Consult a Veterinarian: If your Bernese Mountain Dog’s pickiness persists, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues that may be contributing to their lack of appetite.

2. Avoid Overindulgence: Refrain from overindulging your Bernese Mountain Dog with treats or table scraps, as this can create unhealthy eating habits and reinforce their pickiness.

By implementing these effective strategies, you can help create a comfortable and appealing eating environment for your Bernese Mountain Dog, encouraging them to enjoy their meals and maintain a healthy appetite.

References:
– Pet Forums. (2023). 8 month old bernese mountain pup. Retrieved from https://www.petforums.co.uk/threads/8-month-old-bernese-mountain-pup.554359/
– JustAnswer. (2021). Expert Answers on Bernese Mountain Dog Health Concerns. Retrieved from https://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/gwmp5-15-month-old-bernese-mountain-dog-isn-t-eating-food.html
– Reddit. (2023). Trouble with Eating. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/bernesemountaindogs/comments/135s5j5/trouble_with_eating/
– Rover.com. (n.d.). The 9 Best Dog Foods for Bernese Mountain Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.rover.com/blog/best-dog-foods-for-bernese-mountain-dogs/
– JustAnswer. (2014). My Bernese mountain dog is a very picky eater on a put for the past. Retrieved from https://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/8mdxm-bernese-mountain-dog-picky-eater-good-day.html