Here is our review of the best dog foods for picky eaters.
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Having a picky eater is a huge challenge. We all want to see our furry canine friends healthy and happy. This pushes us to look for ways to boost their health and happiness. A proper diet is one of them. We research and look for the best foods that suit our dogs’ needs. Getting the right formula delights us and we can’t wait to see the happy reaction on our dog’s faces. But our happiness is cut short by our dog’s refusal even to take a bite.
Hope is not lost as this article gives the best formulas to tempt the pickiest eater and force it to lick its bowl clean. Dog foods for picky eaters meet picky dogs’ health and nutritional needs and delight their taste buds, making them beg for more. We give you the properties of the best formulas for your finicky eater.
Knowing what to look for is an excellent start to a satisfying and happy life with your dog. It also saves you time and ensures you do not fall into false marketing gimmicks. The right formula also limits the probability of allergies, obesity, and digestive problems for a long and blissful life.
Nutritional Needs for Picky Eaters?
Although picky eaters are hard to please, foods with unique characteristics can do the trick. The following are the attributes of the best dog foods for picky eaters:
- Meat is great for picky eaters. Dogs have a wild nature that is always aroused by the smell or sight of meat. Their ancestors depended on meat as their main food before domestication. Look for foods with real meat as the number one ingredient. Although meat meals have a rich concentration of proteins, they have less moisture and are therefore hard making them less appealing to selective feeders.
- Fat is excellent since it adds flavor to the food. A rich flavor delights your fussy eater’s taste buds forcing them to clear the bowl. A healthy dose of animal fat turns picky eaters into the best feeders you can ever have. But you should not overindulge them as too much fat is a recipe for obesity and pancreatitis. These conditions can be fatal.
- Tasty fruits and vegetables also help picky eaters. Fresh fruits and vegetables are attractive to dogs and finicky eaters love them. Moreover, fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost immunity and overall well-being. They are also fiber-rich for smooth digestion, healthy weight, and a happy gut. Some healthy fruits and vegetables include broccoli, spinach, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and pumpkins
- Real, not artificial flavors are great for picky eaters. Meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives are not appealing to picky eaters. Real beef is preferable to artificially enhanced meat by-products.
- High-quality and easily digestible ingredients minimize the risks of tummy sensitivities. Dogs with sensitive tummies tend towards being fussy with food. Feed-grade ingredients are not the best for picky dogs.
If you are serving your dog food with these properties and it is still picky, there could be an underlying medical condition causing the inappetence.
What are the common medical problems that cause poor appetite?
Diet may not be the right solution for picky eating habits resulting from health problems. Such issues call for a visit to the vet. Here are the primary health factors that lead to poor appetite:
- Hormonal changes mainly affect unaltered female dogs. However, altered females and males are also at risk. This is temporary and it goes away with time.
- Digestive problems range from mild to moderate. When your dog’s digestive system is unhealthy, they tend to lose appetite. It is best to consult the vet to know whether your dog is allergic or sensitive to an ingredient in its food.
- Dental problems also contribute to poor eating habits. Nobody, including dogs, wants to eat with a painful tooth. A toothache may be preventing your dog from enjoying its food. Serving dry foods and providing dental chews help remove plaque and tartar build-up.
Which dog breeds are picky eaters?
Any dog can become a picky eater. However, some breeds are known for their fussy habits. Here are the top 10 breeds that are most likely to be fussy with their foods:
- French Bulldogs
- Dachshunds
- Poodles
- Cavalier King Charles
- GreyHound
- Boston Terrier
- Maltese
- Pug
- Pekingese
- West Highland White Terrier
Knowing which dog breeds are picky helps you select the right formula for your dog. Your dog need not always be a picky eater. You can minimize or eliminate its picky behavior before it becomes a norm. Here are some of the ways to mitigate fussy eating:
- Feed your dog at the same time each day. Being consistent creates a routine for your dog.
- Do not give your dog treats frequently. They will get used to the treats and lack the appetite for their food. Limiting treats to training tools only is great.
- Reward your dog when it clears its bowl. This motivates them to consume more the next day.
- Make the food more appealing by adding water or chicken broth. Wet food is tasty compared to dry formulas.
- Limit access to human foods including table scraps.
- If the picky habit persists, consult the vet to rule out any health problem.
What are the 5 leading brands for the best dog foods for picky eaters?
The cut-throat competition in the pet food industry has made it difficult to distinguish between honest brands and those labeled for marketing only. Here are the top 5 brands you can trust for the best dog foods for picky eaters:
- Blue Buffalo
- Rachel Ray
- Wellness
- Nulo
- Stella & Chewy’s
Each brand is unique and hence has a unique price. The prices vary depending on the type of ingredients and the formulation process. High-quality dog foods are pricey. Freeze-dried formulas are also more expensive compared to regular diets.
The average price for the 8 dry products is $59.62 with the cheapest formula being $39.98 and the most expensive being $99.99. The weights for the dry formulas range from 23-33 lbs. The raw and canned recipe prices are $2.39 and $3.53 per oz respectively.
Other factors including your dog’s breed and life stage are vital when selecting the right food for picky eaters. Large breeds have unique nutritional needs and will not thrive in formulas made for small dogs. Additionally, puppies need more fats, calories, and proteins than adults or seniors. Here is a list of the top dog foods for picky eaters:
- Best Overall: Blue Buffalo — Wilderness Chicken Grain-Free – $69.98 per 30-lb bag ($2.71-lb).
- Best Price-Effective: Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Food – $39.98 per 28-lb bag ($1.43-lb).
- Best Canned Dog Food: Wellness 95% Chicken Grain-Free Canned Wet Dog Food – $46.56 per 13.2-oz case of 12 ($3.53-lb).
- Best for Sensitive Stomach: Nulo Limited Ingredient Dry Food – $85.99 per 24-lb bag ($3.58-lb).
- Best Raw Dog Food: Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers Raw Dog Food – $42.99 per 18-oz can ($2.39-oz).
Blue Buffalo — Wilderness Chicken Grain-Free
Give your dog the best nutrition at an affordable price. Get the best of both worlds with Blue Buffalo – Wilderness from the Blue Buffalo Company, Ltd. This recipe has been on the market since July 20th, 2011. This meal uses real chicken as the number one ingredient. Real meat is appealing to dogs. It mimics wild dog food, thus tempting even the pickiest eater.
It is not only tasty but it also offers complete and balanced nutrition for your fido. Calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine are great for your dog’s muscle, bone, and joint health. The high levels of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids ensure your pup’s coat and skin stay bright and healthy.
The optimal amounts of antioxidants prevent oxidative damage and boost immunity to ensure your picky dog is not exposed to infections. Infections also contribute to fussiness. Healthy carbs including peas and sweet potatoes support smooth digestion and provide energy for physical activity.
This diet is crafted with natural ingredients and is devoid of fillers, grains, chicken by-product meals, or artificial preservatives. This minimizes the risk of allergies and sensitivities which promote picky eating.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Peas, Tapioca Starch.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calories: 409 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the number one ingredient for high-quality proteins to build lean muscles.
- Price: $69.98 per 30-lb bag ($2.71-lb).
Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Food
Make your picky eater’s dog’s taste buds dance with ecstasy with this super-tasty formula by J.M Smucker Co. the initial manufacturing date is September 20th, 2013. This diet uses high-quality ingredients for a rich flavor that tempts even the pickiest eater. Price and quality are directly related. However, Rachel Ray Nutrish Premium Formula is pocket-friendly. You get the best with as little as $39.98 for a 28-lb bag.
This meal features chicken and chicken meal as the top two ingredients. The ingredients provide proteins for strong and healthy muscles. In addition, real chicken is tasty for your picky eater. Calcium and phosphorus promote bone and muscle health, while zinc, vitamin E, and ascorbic acid blend to protect your dog against infections. Sick dogs lose appetite and may end up becoming picky.
This meal further boosts digestion and provides sufficient energy with ingredients like brown rice and peas. It is also free from fillers, poultry by-product meals, gluten, or artificial additives for minimal risks of sensitivities. Sensitivities or digestive problems contribute to poor appetite. This meal, however, includes fewer fruits and vegetables.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Soybean Meal, Grain Sorghum, Dried Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calories: 340 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Linoleic and linolenic acids promote coat and skin wellness.
- Price: $39.98 per 28-lb bag ($1.43-lb).
Wellness 95% Chicken Grain-Free Canned Wet Dog Food
Give your dog complete wellness with this canned recipe from Wellness. Its initial production date is August 19th, 2004. Your picky eater will enjoy it until the last bite as this formula is cooked in the can to lock in taste and freshness. It is best for selective feeders as it uses a single protein source to limit the probability of tummy sensitivities. The single protein source( chicken) also delights dogs’ taste buds.
It is devoid of wheat, soy, corn, or artificial preservatives. The meal uses the best ingredients and is formulated by veterinarians, animal lovers, and nutritionists for maximum health and nutritional benefits.
The high water content is great for smooth digestion, removing wastes from the body, and ensuring your dog stays hydrated throughout the day. Wet food is richly-flavored compared to dry formulas and this diet fits the bill. It is tasty and will force your finicky furry baby to beg for more. You can serve as a treat, topper, or mix with other dog food. It is great as a supplemental formula.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Water Sufficient for Processing, Natural Flavor, Cassia Gum, Carrageenan.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 8% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 1% Max.
- Calories: 521 kcal/can.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: This formula is intended for supplemental or intermittent feeding only.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the leading ingredient for premium proteins to boost energy and muscle power.
- Price: $46.56 per 13.2-oz, case of 12 ($3.53-lb).
Nulo Limited Ingredient Dry Food
Sensitivities trigger fussy eating habits. This formula from Nulo Pet food, Inc uses a single protein source to limit the risks of sensitivities. It is also highly digestible. The fat value of 18% improves palatability to leave your picky eater begging for more. The protein value of 30% is perfect for a muscular look while the high-calorie content ensures your dog stays active throughout the day.
Dogs with sensitivities or allergies thrive on this formula as it has no peas, chicken, tapioca, pea protein, corn, wheat, or artificial additives. The meal is also low in carbs for minimal risks of obesity. Salmon, salmon oil, and canola oil are excellent sources of omegas for smooth skin and brilliant coats.
This formula boosts immunity with optimal levels of vitamin E and ascorbic acid. DHA is important for brain health while calcium and phosphorus strengthen your dog’s cartilage health. This meal does not include fresh fruits and veggies, but the flavor is top-notch.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Chickpeas, Chickpea Flour, Canola Oil.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.
- Calories: 438 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s size, age, and activity levels.
- Key Benefit: The leading ingredient (salmon) is an excellent source of proteins and easily digestible to minimize sensitivities.
- Price: $85.99 per 24-lb bag ($3.58-lb).
Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers Raw Dog Food
If your dog has a more discernible palate or is tired of its regular foods, this is the right formula to purchase. This recipe from Stella & Chewy’s, LLC has an initial production date of April 25th, 2008. The real raw nutrition combined with the high-fat content makes this the best selection for picky eaters.
Chicken with ground bone also appeals to your dog’s instincts and picky eaters will not resist. Organic fruits and vegetables including spinach, broccoli, and cranberries also add to the flavor. The lack of artificial additives, grains, gluten, or fillers makes it the best choice for minimizing allergies and sensitivities.
The safety is also enhanced as this meal is prepared in the United States with ingredients from trustworthy suppliers. Probiotics boost digestive and gut health. A raw formula is essential for strong teeth, improved immunity, dental health, and healthy skin. All these benefits in one pack; so why not go for it? You may serve it as a standalone meal or a topper. Adding this formula to other dog foods improves palatability thus tempting your fussy eater.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken with Ground Bone, Chicken Liver, Chicken Gizzard, Pumpkin Seed, Organic Cranberries.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 48% min, Crude Fat 28% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calories: 50 kcal/ ¼ cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s size.
- Key Benefit: Real chicken is the key ingredient for amino acids to repair tissues and build bones.
- Price: $42.99 per 18-oz can ($2.39-oz).
Orijen Dry Food
Champion Pet foods never disappoint. Their premium recipes are perfect for picky eaters. Orijen Original formula has an initial production date of March 15th, 2019. Featuring chicken as the leading ingredient, this high-protein formula includes 85% animal proteins thus mimicking your dog’s original wild foods. The high meat content tantalizes your picky eater’s taste buds making them wagtails with excitement.
The top five ingredients are always raw or fresh for your picky eater’s delight. It is freeze-dried raw for a burst of flavor to tempt your selective pup. Using nutrient-rich and succulent parts of prey further adds to the flavor. The country of origin is critical. This formula is crafted in the United States and is safe for your dog.
DHA and EPA support cognitive wellness and mobility while omega 3 and 6 fatty acids ensure the skin and coat stay healthy. Calcium, glucosamine, chondroitin, and phosphorus complement the premium proteins to boost bone, joint, and muscle health. Serve according to your dog’s activity levels. Highly active pups need more cups since they have a fast metabolism.
The meal has no gluten, grain, or fillers; hence, it is best for picky eaters as it limits the risks of sensitive tummies and allergies that contribute to poor eating habits. You can give your dog a dry formula or a slightly moistened one. Sealing the bag tightly retains freshness for longer shelf life.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, Whole Mackerel, Chicken Liver, Turkey Giblets.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 38% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calories: 473 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s activity levels.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the number one ingredient for lean muscle mass.
- Price: $99.99 per 25-lb bag ($3.99-lb).
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Food
This highly palatable formula from Wellness is an excellent option for your finicky dog. Real meat is at the top of the ingredients list to tempt your picky eater. It also includes healthy veggies and fruits like broccoli, carrots, blueberries, and apples to appeal to your dog’s palate.
Crafted without any fillers or meat by-products, this recipe reduces the probability of sensitivities and allergies. Besides the taste, this formula is great for your dog’s bones and joints. The high levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, and phosphorus work together for improved mobility and minimal risk of joint inflammation.
Beta-carotene, omegas, and vitamin E boost vision, coat, skin, and immune well-being. Consuming this recipe further boosts cardiac wellness with taurine. The high-calorie content promotes your dog’s stamina. The meal has no controversial ingredients, and it is crafted in the US where food quality and safety standards are adhered to.
- First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Peas, Turkey Meal, Dried Ground Potatoes, Chicken Meal.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 34% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calories: 417 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: Deboned turkey and turkey meals are the leading ingredients for high-quality proteins to boost muscle power and ideal body weight.
- Price: $74.99 per 26-lb bag ($2.88-lb).
American Journey Active Life Formula Salmon, Brown Rice & Vegetables Recipe Dry Food
This formula by Chewy provides optimal nutrition with high-quality ingredients. This formula suits selective feeders with real deboned salmon as the number one ingredient. It uses antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables for taste and improves immunity.
The protein content of 25% keeps your dog energetic with the low-calorie content supporting a healthy weight. Fiber-dense grains including brown rice support digestion for minimal risks of sensitivities and digestive problems. The meal is also devoid of wheat, corn, or soy, further lowering the probability of tummy issues.
The optimal combination of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids supports your dog’s coat and skin robustness while taurine is great for a well-functioning heart. The high calcium and phosphorus levels complement the protein content to support bone and muscle power. Yucca schidigera is perfect for digestion and reduced stool odor. This ingredient, however, is at the bottom of the list; hence, its content is low.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Rice Bran.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calories: 345 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s body condition, age, weight, and sex.
- Key Benefit: Optimal levels of DHA for cognitive wellness, improved concentration, and easier trainability.
- Price: $49.99 per 28-lb bag ($1.79-lb).
Fromm Family Foods 727520 Gold Nutritionals Adult 33 Lb Dry Food
Satisfy your dog’s wild cravings with Fromm Gold Nutritionals. Chicken, chicken meal, and broth are great for picky eaters. Chicken broth and real chicken improve taste making this formula from Fromm Family Foods irresistible to finicky eaters. The initial manufacturing date is May 13th, 2005.
Oat groats and pearled barley are complex carbs for fiber to keep your dog full for longer, minimizing the probability of unhealthy weight gain. Salmon oil and flaxseed provide fatty acids to moisturize the skin and brighten the coat. At the same time, carrots and sweet potatoes are responsible for the vision and digestive health with high amounts of fiber and beta-carotene.
The specific blend of probiotics supports gut and digestive wellness. Cheese and fresh fruits and veggies, including carrots, also add flavor. Serve according to your dog’s weight and breed. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding leads to various health issues since the body does not get sufficient immunity.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Chicken Broth, Oat Groats, Pearled Barley.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 23% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 5.5% Max.
- Calories: 377 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: Large breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with breed and weight.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the top ingredient to fuel your dog’s muscles and bones.
- Price: $56.06 per 33-lb bag ($1.69-lb).
Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Food
Rachel Ray Nutrish Dish offers complete nutrition for your dog. Real chicken is the first ingredient to attract picky eaters and boost muscle wellness. This meal has been on the market since January 12th, 2016. Adding real slow-roasted chicken pieces, peas, apples, and carrots improves flavor resulting in a rich taste that even the pickiest eater will not resist.
Linoleic and Alpha-linolenic acids blend to give your dog a brilliant coat and lustrous skin. Vitamin A also boosts skin health and promotes vision. High calcium and phosphorus levels promote bone health, while zinc and vitamin E boost immunity.
It is free from artificial additives, soy, corn, wheat, or gluten. However, this meal includes grains and may not be the right choice for dogs with grain allergies. The serving suggestions depend on your dog’s weight. For example, dogs weighing 3-12 pounds need a daily intake of ½ to 1 ¼ cups. The heavier your dog is, the more cups are needed. Introduce Rachel Ray gradually to give your dog’s digestive system time to adjust to the new meal. A 5-10 day transition period is best.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Dried Peas, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calories: 364 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Powerful antioxidants boost immunity and protect dogs against oxidative damage.
- Price: $47.78 per 23-lb bag ($2.08-lb).
What facts should you know about dog food for picky eaters?
Picky eaters are hard to please. They, therefore, need a formula that is too tempting to resist. Real meat, high-fat content, and fresh fruits and veggies improve flavor. Here are other important facts about the best foods for picky eater dogs:
- Changing your dog’s diet abruptly leads to tummy problems, allergies, or sensitivities. This is because your dog’s system is unused to the new food. Gradually transitioning your dog to new foods gives the digestive system time to adjust. It is best to start with 25% of the new food and then increase to 50% during the first week. During the second week, increase the amounts to 75% and then 100%.
- Mixed feeding is best for picky eaters. Wet food is more palatable than dry formulas. However, the taste and flavor come with a higher price. This is because wet or canned formulas use high-quality fresh or raw ingredients. To get the taste and save money, mix wet and dry foods. In addition, you can add other toppings, including real fruits and veggies, water, or pieces of meat to the dry food. Chicken broth also improves taste. But chicken broth should not be a frequent additive as it is not a healthy alternative in large amounts.
- Monitoring your dog’s eating habits helps you determine their favorite flavor. You may also notice their aversion to certain ingredients. This is important as it guides you when selecting the right food. You can avoid foods with flavors or ingredients that do not go well with your dog.
What are the best dog foods for different picky eater dog breeds?
Best Dog Foods for picky Eater French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are among the pickiest eaters. They need lots of convincing to eat their food. If your Frenchie is not sick and they are refusing to eat, you can try these formulas:
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Small Breed Chicken & Rice Dry Food starts with real chicken for high-quality proteins and improved flavor to attract picky eaters. The fat content of 17% also adds flavor.
- The Farmer’s Dog uses human-grade fresh and raw ingredients for mouth-watering formulas. The Turkey formula includes turkey and fresh fruits and veggies like parsnip, carrot, and broccoli.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eater Huskies
Siberian Huskies are picky eaters and easily get bored with their foods. Here are the foods to serve your finicky Husky:
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dry Food is a great option for picky Huskies. It features real water buffalo as the leading ingredients for muscle power and ideal weight. The fat content of 18% boosts flavor.
- Ollie Fresh Dog Food is crafted with human-grade raw or fresh ingredients. The raw taste of their beef formula will tempt your dog’s wild instincts.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eater Labrador
Labs are generally good feeders. They are rarely picky. However, exposing them to lots of treats or table scraps can encourage picky eating habits.
- Nutro Ultra Dry Food features real chicken as the top ingredient for flavor and strong muscles. This formula is high in animal-based protein. It also includes whole grains for fiber to support digestion and healthy weight.
- Gather Free Acres Organic Chicken Dry Food is another great option. The starting ingredient is real chicken to massage your picky eater’s taste buds.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eater Dachshund
It can be challenging to predict your Dachshund’s eating habits. One minute they are clearing their plates, the next they are refusing to take even a single bite. Their pickiness mainly stems from getting bored with their food.
- Open Farm Harvest Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Formula is the best option for your picky eater’s dachshund. Real chicken is the first ingredient, followed by fresh fruits and veggies, including organic carrots, blueberries, and spinach for a rich taste. Freeze-drying retains flavor.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eater Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are among the pickiest dog breeds. Below are the foods that will tempt your picky eater Shih Tzu:
- Ollie Fresh Dog Foods are crafted with human-grade ingredients. The turkey formula features turkey thigh, turkey liver, and turkey heart. This combination will leave your finicky eater with no option but to lick the plate clean.
- Health Extension Chicken & Brown Rice Little Bites Dry Food has a fat value of 18%, and real chicken is the first ingredient to excite your picky dog.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eater Yorkies
Yorkies are known for their fussiness with food. Various factors, including their small stomach, contribute to their picky habit.
- Merrick Lil Plates Small Breed Grain-Free Beef Stew Wet Food includes beef, beef broth, venison broth, and beef liver as the key ingredients for a rich taste. The optimal amounts of omegas, chondroitin, and glucosamine promote skin and joint health.
- Orijen Regional Red Grain-Free Dry Food is crafted with 85% animal ingredients including real beef, wild boar, goat, and lamb. Real meat is irresistible to your finicky Yorkie.
Best Dog Food for Picky Eater German Shepherds
German shepherds are not picky dogs. Avoid giving them frequent treats or table scraps as it encourages fussiness.
- Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Large Breed Dry Food is best for your picky eater German Shepherd as it features real cage-free chicken as the key ingredient. Chicken is highly digestible and tasty. Superfoods including carrots, blueberries, and oranges also boost flavor.
- Instinct Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Cuts & Gravy Real Lamb Wet Food Topper is made with a single protein and vegetable source ( Lamb and Peas). It uses fewer ingredients for a rich taste. It has no ingredients that are likely to cause tummy issues.
What are the best dog foods for picky eaters according to dog sizes?
Best Dog Foods for Small-Sized Picky Eater Dogs
- Taste of the Wild Small Breed Appalachian Valley Dry Food suits small finicky dogs with a blend of real venison and high-quality fruits, including blueberries and raspberries.
- Halo Small Breed Grain-Free Wet food has a high moisture content which boosts palatability. Real turkey, turkey broth, and liver also attract picky eaters.
Best Dog Foods for Medium-Sized Picky Eaters
- Acana Grain-Free Free-Run Poultry Dry Food suits picky eaters and medium dogs. The leading ingredients are raw chicken and turkey. Your picky dog won’t resist the taste of real meat. Fresh fruits like pumpkin and apples complement real meat for more flavor. Freeze-drying gives this meal a mouth-watering taste that every dog will love.
What are the best dog foods for large picky eater dogs?
- Wellness Core Large Breed Grain-Free Chicken & Turkey Dry Food is irresistible to your large picky eater as it features real chicken, turkey, apples, kale, carrots, broccoli, and parsley which blend to give it a perfect flavor. Chondroitin, calcium, glucosamine, and phosphorus support bones, muscles, and joints, while beta-carotene promotes proper eyesight.
What are the best dog foods for picky eaters with different ingredients?
Best dog foods with Pumpkin for Picky Eaters Dogs
Pumpkin is a proper ingredient rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals to soothe your dog’s stomach, boost immunity, and support muscle power. Here’s an excellent tasty recipe that includes pumpkin in its ingredient list:
- The Honest Kitchen Turkey & Pumpkin Stews Wet Dog Food Topper is a limited ingredient formula featuring real turkey, turkey broth, pumpkin, butternut, and apples for a rich taste.
Best Chicken-Free Dog Foods for Picky Eaters Dogs
Chicken-free formulas are great for dogs with chicken intolerance. Common alternatives to chicken include turkey, duck, and beef.
- Nature’s Variety with Real Rabbit Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Raw Coated Dry Food features a real rabbit as the main protein source. Rabbit is a proper ingredient that fuels the muscles. This meal is freeze-dried raw for a burst of flavor that delights picky dogs.
What are the other dog foods for different health conditions similar to picky eating?
Common health conditions in dogs include itchy skin, sensitive tummies, pancreatitis, and allergies. A proper diet minimizes the risks of such problems and the negative impact it would have on your dog.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eaters Dogs with Itchy Skin
Itchy skin is a common problem that worries most pet parents. This problem can result from consuming a specific food that does not suit your dog’s system. Itching resulting from consuming a certain food is a symptom of an allergic reaction. Foods with fewer ingredients and those rich in omegas and vitamin A are best for itchy skin.
- Blue Buffalo Skin & Stomach Care Basics Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Dry Food: This limits skin problems risks. This is because it contains fewer ingredients and is devoid of common allergens, including chicken, wheat, and corn. Real turkey, fresh veggies, and fresh fruits make this formula tasty.
Best Dog Food for Picky Eaters Dogs with Pancreatitis
The pancreas plays a vital role in your dog’s system. It is responsible for the digestion and absorption of fats and nutrients. Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas.
- Solid Gold Low-Fat, Low-Calorie Fit & Fabulous with Fresh Alaskan Pollock Dry Food is great for picky dogs with pancreatitis. The low-fat and fresh pollock makes a perfect blend ensuring the pancreas is not overworked, and your dog’s taste buds are satisfied.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eaters Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Tummy sensitivities may result from consuming foods that do not augur well with your dog’s digestive system. Switching to a limited ingredient formula helps with sensitivities. Picky dogs with sensitive tummies need an allergen-free and tasty formula.
- Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Gut Health with Real Chicken & Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Food. This is an excellent option for sensitive picky eaters as it is crafted with prebiotics and probiotics to boost healthy bacteria in the stomach. Freeze-dried raw chicken pieces give it a heavenly taste.
Best Dog Foods for Picky Eaters Dogs with Allergies
You can resolve allergies caused by specific foods or ingredients by switching to another formula without the specific allergen. For picky dogs with allergies, a delicious formula is best.
- Zignature Grain-Free Turkey Limited Ingredient Diet Canned Dog Food is not only tasty but also uses fewer ingredients and has no fillers. These two features suit picky eaters with allergies.
Sum It Up
Having a picky eater should not be stressful. There are plenty of ways to outwit your finicky dog. A proper diet is the main solution to minimize pickiness. Knowing the attributes of the best formula for picky eaters is the starting point.
You can start the journey with our best overall Blue Buffalo — Wilderness Chicken Grain-Free and move on to the other formulas, including our cheapest yet richly flavored Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Dry Food. Going for these formulas would keep you and your dog happy. Consult the vet before introducing new foods to your dog’s diet.