My dog is a picky eater and only wants treats. What should I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | 15.432 lbs
Hey !! I have female shih tzu (1year ) , she doesn’t eat her food properly , when I give her dey food /wet food she just smell it and went , and rather then eating her good she eat treats /meat sticks , like what shall I do to make her eat food ????? Even she doesn’t eat in her bowl and I have to feed her with my hands !!! Any suggestions
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 17th, 2018
It sounds like she's trained you to give her the good stuff :) I'd first start with a vet visit to rule out a medical cause (Anxiety, intestinal parasites, an issue with her liver processing nutrients called a liver shunt). If everything is normal, then slowly start weaning her off the treats and on to food. It's ok for her to go a day or two without eating a normal amount while you're transitioning her.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 25th, 2019
Hello, some dogs do seem to develop adversions to some foods. Often, if you limit the treats, they will come back to the food in a couple of days. Will she eat the canned? You might also try a soft moist food or one of the refrigerated brands like Bil Jac or FreshPet. If she continues to refuse all food, you will need to see your vet to try & get an answer as to why she refuses to eat. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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