My dog refuses dog food and only eats human food. What should I do?

Question

I have a 2yr old Jack Russell Terrier/Chihuahua (female). I got her when she was 5 mos old. She will not eat dog food (wet or dry). The people I got her from only fed her people food so I'm having to feed her tuna, hot dogs, Bologna, Ham, etc. Is there any vitamins, etc I can give her to equal out what she needs ? She's healthly, very lively, spayed and up to date on her shots. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 15 lbs

Bette Isacoff · Accepted Answer

Please stop feeding Princess people food right away! It is not a balanced diet for a dog, and supplements are not the answer. Buy a good-quality dry dog food. Put some in her bowl at mealtime, put it on the floor, and walk away. Leave it there for 15 minutes (if she is eating, leave it until she finishes, but when she walks away, take the bowl away, too) Do not leave it for her to finish later. This part is very important: do not give her anything else to eat--people food, dog snacks, etc. If she will not eat, do not try to coax her or make a fuss in any way. Give her nothing until her next scheduled dinnertime. Repeat the process above. You will probably find that she refuses the dog food and holds out for the stuff she's used to. She needs to learn that there will be no more, and that she must eat dog food. Remember that you are not "starving" her--you are providing food for her. It is her choice not to eat it. This is a battle of wills. You must hold out even if she cries or begs for people food. She has not been getting a balanced diet or one that is nutritionally sufficient. Keep in mind that she can't be too hungry if she is refusing the dog food. When she is hungry enough, she will eat. Your problem will be solved if you stick to these recommendations. Good luck!

My dog refuses dog food and only eats human food. What should I do?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?

Share