One of the most common issues some owners have with their dogs is their fussy eating. It can be really frustrating seeing them turn their nose up at their filled bowl especially when you have tried so hard to find something they will like. However this cycle of switching foods can make things worse as the dog learns to wait until you give them something they want...more often than not unhealthy or nutritionally incomplete human food.

So what should you do?

Firstly it is really important to make sure there are no medical reasons for their lack of appetite. One of the first signs of ill health is poor appetite so always get a vet check up if you are concerned.

Dogs are not born fussy!

Dogs as a species are naturally scavengers and will usually eat any time they are presented with an opportunity. When a dog starts to refuse a particular food it is usually because they have learned from a previous experience. 'If I leave the plain dry food my human will give me yummy cooked chicken!' The owner then keeps switching foods which might be appealing for a few days or weeks but then the dog gets bored of it and the whole process starts again.

How do you deal with picky dogs then?

Do a little research into what foods are best for your dog. Most dog foods on the market are actually very poor quality especially those in supermarkets. Decide on what you can afford and find the brand and variety that will suit your lifestyle and your dog. With dog food you get what you pay for so go for the best you can afford and remember that large bags work out far cheaper than several smaller bags. You can opt for dry complete food, wet meaty foods, raw foods or homecooked. All have their pro's and cons and all have good varieties and bad varieties. A mixture of all these foods is great for non fussy dogs however for a fusspot you need to stick to one type and only feed that food no matter what.

Dogs are best fed twice per day (younger puppies require more meals). Pop your chosen food in your dogs dish and place it on the floor. Leave it down for ten minutes and regardless of whether they have eaten any remove it. Place it back down at the next meal time. Wet food should be covered between meals if untouched but dry food will be fine for a few days.

Do not feed any treats, scraps or tit bits in between meals! Stick to same routine for meal times and make sure everyone in the family sticks to the same rules.

Most dogs will usually decide to eat within a day or two. If you get to the end of day three and they haven't touched a single piece of food then you may need to consider whether they simply really dislike what you are offering. This can often be the case with dry foods, its a bit like eating plain cereal for every meal. If you dog is still bright, alert and has plenty energy consider stretching to a fourth day. As long as they are fit and healthy and drinking water this is not going to harm them.

If there is still no signs of eating then also consider if there is some sort of behaviour issue surrounding food. Have they had a bad experience with their food or food bowl? Did a sudden noise in the kitchen scare them previously? Have they been punished for guarding?

If in doubt about your dogs mental or physical health then do not hesistate to contact your vet or a qualified behaviourist for further advice. Most dogs dog give in within a day or two once they realise nothing better is coming along. Try not to panic about them starving, no healthy dog will do this but they will pick up on your stress! The odd special meal is okay but they must be happy with their normal diet. Its also worth remembering that some dogs are just not big eaters. As long as they are active, healthy and a good weight for their breed/build then don't worry too much.