Best Food for Finicky Dogs: Top Picks for Picky Eaters

Feeding a finicky dog can be a frustrating experience, especially when it comes to finding the right food that they will actually eat. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best food for your picky pup. In this article, we’ll explore the world of dog food and highlight the best options for finicky eaters.

When it comes to dog food, there are a variety of options available. Some dogs do best on a raw food diet, while others thrive on kibble. Wet food can be a great option for dogs who need extra hydration, while freeze-dried or dehydrated food can be a convenient choice for pet owners on the go. However, when it comes to finicky eaters, some types of food may be more appealing than others.

The key to finding the best food for a finicky dog is to look for high-quality ingredients and flavors that your dog enjoys. It’s also important to pay attention to the texture of the food, as some dogs may prefer soft or crunchy options. When choosing a food for your dog, consider their age, breed, and any health concerns they may have.

In order to help you find the best food for your finicky dog, we’ve researched and tested a variety of options on the market. From high-quality kibble to delicious wet food, we’ve identified the products that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Best Food for Finicky Dogs

As dog owners, we understand the struggle of finding the perfect food for our furry friends who are picky eaters. It can be frustrating to invest in expensive food only for them to turn their noses up at it. That’s why we’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best food for finicky dogs. These options have been tried and tested, and are sure to satisfy even the most discerning canine palates.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food for small breed dogs who are picky eaters. This dog food is made with high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest and promote healthy skin and coat.

Pros

• The small kibble size is perfect for small breed dogs with tiny mouths.
• The ingredients are easy to digest, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The antioxidant blend promotes lifelong immune support in toy and miniature dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands.
• The packaging may not be as durable as other brands.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food for our picky Chihuahua and were impressed with the results. The small kibble size was perfect for her tiny mouth, and she had no issues digesting the food. We noticed an improvement in her coat and overall health after just a few weeks of feeding her this dog food.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of the food. However, we found that mixing in a small amount of wet food helped entice our dog to eat the kibble. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult Dog Food for small breed dogs who are picky eaters. The high-quality ingredients and antioxidant blend promote lifelong immune support and healthy skin and coat.

Purina Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack, IncrediBites With Real Beef, Chicken or Salmon

If you’re looking for a wet dog food variety pack that is specifically made for small breed dogs, Purina Beneful IncrediBites Adult Wet Dog Food Variety Pack is an excellent option.

Pros

• Made with real beef, chicken, or salmon and real vegetables that you can see.
• High protein dog food helps support strong muscles and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
• Small, tender bites are perfect for small mouths, and a flavorful gravy adds the finishing touch to this small adult dog food.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of certain flavors.
• The cans are small, so it may not be cost-effective for larger dogs.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging and shipping.

We recently tried the Purina Beneful IncrediBites Adult Wet Dog Food Variety Pack for our small breed dog, and we were pleasantly surprised by how much she loved it. The chunks of meat are small and easy for her to chew, and the savory sauce adds a delicious flavor that keeps her coming back for more. We appreciate that this wet dog food is made with real ingredients and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of certain flavors. Our dog loved the beef and chicken flavors but wasn’t as fond of the salmon. Additionally, the cans are small, so it may not be the most cost-effective option for larger dogs. Some customers have also reported issues with the packaging and shipping, but we didn’t experience any problems with our order.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Purina Beneful IncrediBites Adult Wet Dog Food Variety Pack for small breed dogs. It’s a convenient and tasty way to provide your furry friend with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious meal topper for your furry friend, Pawstruck’s Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is definitely worth a try.

Pros

• Adds extra flavor and nutrition to your pup’s meals
• Made with all-natural and grain-free ingredients
• Vet-approved for your peace of mind

Cons

• Packaging may vary
• Some dogs may find the texture too hard to eat
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried this meal topper for our picky eater, and we were pleasantly surprised by how much he loved it. The chicken flavor was a hit with him, and we loved that it added some extra nutrition to his meals. Plus, the fact that it’s vet-approved gave us peace of mind that we were giving him a quality product.

One thing to note is that the packaging may vary, but the quality of the product remains the same. Additionally, we found that the texture was a bit hard for our dog to eat on its own, but when we mixed it in with his kibble, he had no problem enjoying it.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck’s Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters to anyone looking for a tasty and nutritious meal topper for their furry friend.

Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-protein dog food that can help your pup pack on some muscle, Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Designed for healthy weight gain and rapid muscle growth
• Infused with chicken fat, dried plain beet pulp, and whitefish meal for a balanced diet
• Suitable for all dog breeds and ages

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog foods on the market
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We recently tried this dog food with our own finicky dog, and we were impressed with the results. Within just a few weeks, we noticed that our pup was looking more muscular and had more energy during playtime.

One of the things we like about this dog food is that it’s designed specifically for healthy weight gain and muscle growth. With 30% more protein and 20% more fat than traditional dog foods, it’s a great choice for active breeds that need plenty of energy for daily activities.

In addition to being high in protein, this dog food is also infused with chicken fat, dried plain beet pulp, and whitefish meal. These ingredients provide essential fats, fiber, and omega fatty acids that are important for overall health and vitality.

Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s suitable for all dog breeds and ages. Whether you have a playful puppy or an active adult dog, Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food can provide comprehensive nutrition to support their needs.

Overall, we would definitely recommend this dog food to anyone looking for a high-protein option that can help their dog pack on some muscle. While it may be more expensive than some other options, we think the results are worth it.

Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious meal topper for your finicky dog, Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters is a great choice.

Pros

• Adds extra flavor and nutrition to your dog’s meals
• Made with all-natural and grain-free ingredients
• Vet-approved and perfect for picky eaters

Cons

• Packaging may vary
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit expensive compared to other meal toppers

We’ve been using Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog, who used to be a picky eater, now finishes his meals with gusto. The beef meal topper and mixer is packed with real beef, vitamins, and minerals, giving our furry friend a nutritious boost.

What we love about this product is that it’s made with all-natural and grain-free ingredients, so we know we’re giving our dog the best possible meal. The dog food toppers are carefully made in USDA-certified facilities, and contain no harmful additives. Plus, they’re approved by a vet, so we can trust that we’re giving our pup the best possible meal, endorsed by professionals.

Our dog is a picky eater, but he loves the taste of Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters. The added salmon oil and vitamins provide hip and joint support, making it perfect for all sizes, breeds, and ages of dogs. We use it as a meal mixer or as a dog topper for dry food, and it makes our dog’s meals more exciting.

The only downside is that the packaging may vary, so you might receive a different bag design. Also, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce it gradually. Finally, it’s a bit expensive compared to other meal toppers, but we think it’s worth the investment.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality meal topper for your finicky dog, we highly recommend Pawstruck Vet Recommended Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters. It’s versatile, delicious, and made with love by pet parents for pet parents.

Whole Life Pet Recover. Bland Diet for Dogs – Vomiting, Stomach Distress or Diarrhea Relief. Ready in Minutes – Just Add Water Chicken -amp; Rice

If your dog is experiencing digestive issues, Whole Life Pet Recover is a great option to help them feel better quickly.

Pros

• Made with only two ingredients – chicken breast and white rice
• Ready in just 5 minutes with no cooking required
• Human-grade and made to human edible standards

Cons

• Only available in one flavor (chicken and rice)
• Some customers have reported finding bugs in the product
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried Whole Life Pet Recover for our dog who was experiencing some stomach distress. We were impressed with how easy it was to prepare – simply measure out a serving, add boiling water, and cover for 5 minutes. The chicken smelled fresh and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste.

One thing we appreciated about this product is that it is made with only two ingredients – chicken breast and white rice. This makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions. We also liked that it is human-grade and made to human edible standards, giving us peace of mind about the quality of the product.

However, we did notice that Whole Life Pet Recover is only available in one flavor (chicken and rice) which may not be ideal for dogs who are picky eaters. Additionally, some customers have reported finding bugs in the product which can be concerning. Finally, while this product worked well for our dog, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

Overall, we would recommend Whole Life Pet Recover to anyone looking for a quick and easy option to help their dog feel better during bouts of diarrhea or vomiting.

Nature Gnaws USA Turkey Tendons for Dogs

If you’re looking for a high-quality, natural chew treat for your dog, Nature Gnaws USA Turkey Tendons are an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made in the USA with limited ingredients
• High in protein, grain-free, and promotes dental health
• Suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes

Cons

• Some tendons may be thinner than others
• Relatively expensive compared to other dog treats
• May not last very long for aggressive chewers

We recently tried out the Nature Gnaws USA Turkey Tendons for our finicky dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog is usually very picky about his treats, but he absolutely loved these tendons. They are made with limited ingredients and are high in protein, making them a healthy and nutritious option for your furry friend.

One of the best things about these tendons is that they are grain-free and promote dental health. Our dog tends to have dental issues, so we were happy to find a treat that could help clean his teeth and improve his overall oral health.

While the tendons may be a bit expensive compared to other dog treats, we believe the quality and nutritional value make them worth the price. However, it’s worth noting that some tendons may be thinner than others, so they may not last very long for aggressive chewers.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature Gnaws USA Turkey Tendons for any dog owner looking for a natural, high-quality chew treat for their furry friend.

Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles

If you are looking for an all-natural and tasty treat for your finicky dog, Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles could be a great option.

Pros

• Made from 100% Beef Liver, no additives or preservatives
• Ideal for dog treats and training aids
• All-natural and healthy for your furry friend

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• The sprinkles can be a bit messy
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We have been using Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles for a while now, and our dog absolutely loves them. The sprinkles are made from 100% beef liver, and there are no additives or preservatives, making them a healthy treat option for your furry friend.

These sprinkles are ideal for training and can be used as a treat or a training aid. The all-natural ingredients make them a great alternative to processed treats that can be harmful to your dog’s health.

While our dog loves the taste of these sprinkles, we have heard from other dog owners that some dogs may not enjoy the taste. Additionally, the sprinkles can be a bit messy, so it’s important to use them in moderation.

Overall, if you are looking for an all-natural and healthy treat option for your finicky dog, Crumps’ Naturals Beef Liver Sprinkles could be a great choice.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 5-lb Trial Size Bag Chicken -amp; Brown Rice 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural dog food option that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Antioxidant-rich Lifesource Bits
• No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

• Formula adjustments may be made from time to time
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Packaging may vary

We recently tried this dog food with our finicky small breed dog, and overall, we were pleased with the results. The real chicken as the first ingredient was a big plus, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste. We also appreciated that the formula contains antioxidant-rich Lifesource Bits to support immune system health.

However, we did notice that the packaging varied from what was shown online, and we had to get used to the new kibble size. Additionally, we learned that formula adjustments may be made from time to time, which could potentially impact our dog’s reaction to the food.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food for those looking for a natural option for their small breed dog. Just be aware of the potential for formula adjustments and packaging variations.

Instinct Healthy Cravings Grain Free Recipe Variety Pack Natural Wet Dog Food Topper by Nature’s Variety, 3 Ounce (Pack of 12) Beef,Lamb,Chicken 2.25 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a natural, grain-free dog food topper, then the Instinct Healthy Cravings Variety Pack is worth considering.

Pros

• Adds variety and flavor to your dog’s diet
• Made with real meat and without artificial colors or preservatives
• Convenient, easy-to-serve pouches

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• More expensive than some other dog food toppers
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We recently tried the Instinct Healthy Cravings Variety Pack with our finicky dog, and we were pleasantly surprised by how much she enjoyed it. The pouches are easy to open and serve, and the variety pack gives you different options to keep your dog interested.

The real meat in savory gravy adds flavor and moisture to dry food, and the pouches are a convenient alternative to canned dog food. We also appreciate that the ingredients are natural and free from grains, potato, corn, wheat, soy, and carrageenan.

However, it’s important to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities. Additionally, the cost is higher than some other dog food toppers on the market.

Overall, we recommend giving the Instinct Healthy Cravings Variety Pack a try if you’re looking to add some variety and flavor to your dog’s diet.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best food for your finicky dog, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when selecting a dog food:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at is the ingredients list. Make sure that the food contains high-quality, whole food ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, or artificial preservatives, as these can cause digestive issues and other health problems.

Nutritional Value

Check the nutritional value of the food to ensure that it provides a balanced diet for your dog. Look for foods that contain a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. This will help ensure that your dog gets all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

Special Dietary Needs

If your dog has any special dietary needs, such as allergies or sensitivities, be sure to choose a food that is designed to meet those needs. There are many specialized dog foods available that are designed to address specific health issues, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your dog.

Brand Reputation

Finally, consider the reputation of the brand. Look for brands that have a good track record of producing high-quality, nutritious dog food. Read reviews and ask other dog owners for their recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best food for your finicky dog that will provide them with the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended homemade meals for picky dogs?

We recommend trying homemade meals that include high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, and beef. You can also add vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans to provide additional nutrients. Mixing in some healthy fats like fish oil or coconut oil can also make the meal more enticing to your picky eater.

What remedies are effective for dogs that are picky eaters?

One effective remedy for picky eaters is to establish a consistent feeding schedule. This can help regulate their appetite and make them more willing to eat during meal times. You can also try adding a small amount of warm water or low-sodium broth to their food to enhance the aroma and flavor.

Which dog foods are best for finicky eaters with sensitive stomachs?

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we recommend looking for dog foods that are made with limited and easily digestible ingredients. Brands like Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin offer options specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

What are the most palatable dry dog food options for discerning canines?

Some of the most palatable dry dog food options for picky eaters include brands like Orijen, Acana, and Taste of the Wild. These brands offer high-quality protein sources and limited ingredient options that are both nutritious and delicious.

How should one cater to breeds known to be selective with their food?

Breeds known to be selective with their food may require some extra patience and creativity. It’s important to establish a consistent feeding schedule and offer a variety of high-quality protein sources and healthy fats. You can also try adding some wet food to their dry food to make it more appealing.

What are the highest-rated wet dog foods for dogs with particular tastes?

Some of the highest-rated wet dog food options for picky eaters include brands like Merrick, Wellness, and Blue Buffalo. These brands offer a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to entice even the most discerning canines.