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My puppy only eats wet food. How do I get him to eat dry kibble?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 9 days old | 10.2 lbs

I want to give my puppy regular dog food and he won't eat it no more I don't know what to do. He only wants to eat wet food only, what sure I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 14th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sometimes dogs hold out on eating waiting for something better. Limit treats and people food as snack. Offer the dry food in a quiet environment and give him an hour to eat it (if that is logistical) then pick it up. Don't offer any food until the next meal time. Healthy dogs don't choose to starve and he should eventually eat. I wouldn't let it go past 3 days. If at day 3 he still won't eat, try adding water and mixing it up. If that doesn't work just add a tablespoon of canned food with water to the dry food and mix it up. Try not to give in. Some little breed dogs prefer canned dog food. It wouldn't be the worst option, it is better than human table food. If he starts getting lethargic or develops any signs of illness (vomiting or diarrhea) then he should be seen by your Vet. I hope this helps and good luck!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sometimes dogs hold out on eating waiting for something better. Limit treats and people food as snack. Offer the dry food in a quiet environment and give him an hour to eat it (if that is logistical) then pick it up. Don't offer any food until the next meal time. Healthy dogs don't choose to starve and he should eventually eat. I wouldn't let it go past 3 days. If at day 3 he still won't eat, try adding water and mixing it up. If that doesn't work just add a tablespoon of canned food with water to the dry food and mix it up. Try not to give in. Some little breed dogs prefer canned dog food. It wouldn't be the worst option, it is better than human table food. If he starts getting lethargic or develops any signs of illness (vomiting or diarrhea) then he should be seen by your Vet. I hope this helps and good luck!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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