My new dog won't eat her food, only human food. How can I help?

Question

My first day fostering a scottie maltese mix and she wont eat her dog food at all. I mixed dry and wet food that came with her. I was told that she always snubbs dog food and will dig everywhere to find people food. How can I help her to eat what is offered without creating any more bad habits? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 8 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

Great question! It sounds like Chickie is being picky, and you are going to have to get tough on her. Put her food down in the morning for 15-20 minutes, then pick it up after that time even if she hasn't eaten. Then do not give her any more food until her next meal time. This is very important. No treats or human food, and prevent any access to human food. At her dinner time, put the food down for 15-20 minutes, then take it away after this time and no more food until the next morning. She will get hungry enough to eat, and it will teach her that she has to eat when her food is offered to her.

My new dog won't eat her food, only human food. How can I help?

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