Does it seem like your pup is always begging for food? No matter how much or how often you fill their bowl, your dog always scavenges the house for something to eat. Increasing the amount your dog eats doesn’t always fix the issue; it could actually raise the risk of canine obesity. Learn the best ways to keep a ravenous dog full to keep your pooch happy and healthy!
Inspect Kibble Ingredients
While kibble is the easiest feeding option, many dry foods don’t have the nutrients dogs need to stay healthy. Review the ingredients in your pup’s food—meat should be one of the first ingredients. If you see bi-products or fillers first, this could explain your dog’s excessive hunger. Those ingredients don’t have many nutrients, so your dog receives less nourishment when eating.
If the kibble you feed your pooch is low in nutrients, search out different brands or types of food. Remember, if you stick with kibble, meat (chicken, beef, salmon, etc.) should be one of the first ingredients. Alternatively, you could feed your pup dehydrated food that lists meat first; all you have to do is mix in water or bone broth.
Choose Healthy Treats
Rather than feed your dog a biscuit or two during the day, try protein-packed treats. Swap out the box of Milk Bones for a bone broth popsicle or canine-friendly meat chew. There are many benefits of adding bone broth to your dog’s diet aside from the protein. This tasty fluid is also rich in essential vitamins, including A, B3, potassium, and amino acids.
Increase Your Dog’s Fiber Intake
Increasing your furry friend’s fiber intake is another healthy way to keep a ravenous dog full for longer periods. You can add fiber to your pooch’s diet by introducing some of the following foods:
Broccoli
Canned pumpkin
Apples
Carrots
When adding unfamiliar food to your pup’s diet, remember to do so slowly. Suddenly swapping out a kibble or giving your dog too much of a new food can lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Rule Out External Causes
Dogs have different caloric requirements at various life stages, which can impact their hunger levels. A puppy is more likely to desire additional food than a senior because their body experiences rapid changes as they grow.
Likewise, dogs that receive high amounts of rigorous exercise burn more energy, leaving them hungrier than a lazy pooch. Take this into account when assessing why your pup may seem famished, especially if the behavior is abnormal for your dog.
Talk to the Vet
A veterinarian can assess your pup for conditions such as hyperthyroidism, parasites, cancer, or other diagnosable illnesses that cause an abnormal appetite. Some diseases or parasitic infections can leave your dog hungry despite eating normally. If this is the case, the vet will go through the ideal treatment plan to keep your furry friend healthy.
Knowing the cause of your dog’s constant desire for food helps you fix the issue. Discuss any behavioral changes at the appointment. By working with your vet, you can develop the ideal diet plan so your pup feels full between meals.
Emma is a writer and editor passionate about providing accessible, accurate information. Her work is dedicated to helping people of all ages, interests, and professions with useful, relevant content.
