What To Do When Your Dog Won’t Eat Kibble

There’s nothing more frustrating than watching your dog stare at a full bowl of food like you just served them a plate of homework. You bought the good stuff, you measured it out, and yet — nothing. Just a dramatic sigh and a look that says, You expect me to eat this?

At A Pup Above, we’ve been there. Some dogs will literally eat anything (socks, rocks, that mystery thing on the sidewalk), and others turn into five-star food critics when it comes to kibble. If your pup is suddenly acting like their food is beneath them, don’t panic — it doesn’t always mean something is wrong. But it does mean you might need to shake things up.

So, what’s the deal? Why do some dogs snub their kibble, and more importantly — what can you do about it? Let’s get into it.

Why Do Some Dogs Refuse To Eat Kibble?

Some dogs inhale their food like they’re training for a competitive eating contest. Others? They take one look at their kibble and act like you’ve personally offended them. So, what gives?

The truth is that dogs stop eating kibble for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes, it’s as simple as boredom — imagine eating the same dry, crunchy meal every single day. Other times, it’s because they’ve figured out they can hold out for something better (like that juicy bite of chicken you “accidentally” dropped last night).

Then there’s texture and smell. Kibble doesn’t exactly have the same appeal as fresh, slow-cooked food. 

Some dogs just prefer meals with real ingredients they can actually smell and taste — because let’s be real, if you had the choice between a dry cracker and a home-cooked meal, you’d probably choose the one that didn’t taste like cardboard, too. Of course, some cases go beyond picky eating. 

Things like dental pain, digestion issues, or underlying health problems can also cause food avoidance. If your dog’s kibble strike comes with weight loss, vomiting, or other signs that something’s off, it’s worth checking in with a vet. But if your pup is otherwise happy and healthy? They might just be over kibble — and honestly, we get it.

How To Get Picky Dogs To Eat Kibble With Toppers

If your dog is turning their nose up at kibble, sometimes all they need is a little extra motivation. That’s where toppers come in. Adding something flavorful and nutrient-dense to their food can make a boring bowl of kibble way more exciting — without having to completely change their diet.

One of the easiest and healthiest ways to upgrade kibble is with fresh, high-protein toppers. Think gently cooked meats, bone broth, or nutrient-rich options like our slow-cooked sous-vide meals. These aren’t just tasty — they also add extra moisture, making dry kibble easier to chew and digest.

Another great option? Bone broth. It’s packed with amino acids, supports joint health, and adds a meaty aroma that can entice even the pickiest eater. Just make sure you’re using a dog-safe version without added salt, garlic, or onions. 

And for dogs that need a little extra crunch? Freeze-dried raw toppers can do the trick. These small, protein-packed bites bring extra texture and flavor without being too overpowering.

Kibble vs. Fresh Dog Food: Should I Make the Switch?

If your dog treats kibble like a last resort, you’ve probably wondered — should I just switch to fresh food? The short answer: it depends on what you want for your pup’s diet.

Kibble is convenient and shelf-stable, but it’s also highly processed and often loses a lot of nutrients during production. On the other hand, fresh dog food is made with whole, recognizable ingredients and retains more natural vitamins, minerals, and protein.

A lot of dog parents make the switch because fresh food is more palatable, easier to digest, and free from unnecessary fillers. If your dog is constantly ignoring their kibble or you’re looking for a way to boost their nutrition, switching (or even mixing in fresh food) can be a game-changer.

That said, you don’t have to ditch kibble completely. Some dog parents find that a half-and-half approach — mixing fresh food with kibble — gives their pup the best of both worlds: the crunch of dry food with the added flavor and nutrients of real, slow-cooked meals.

If your pup is already giving kibble the cold shoulder, it might be their way of telling you they’re ready for an upgrade. And truthfully? We can’t blame them.

When To Take Your Dog to the Vet for Not Eating

A picky eater is one thing. A dog refusing food altogether? That’s a different story. If your pup skips a meal here and there but still acts normal, they’re probably just holding out for something better (nice try, buddy). But if they suddenly stop eating completely or seem off in other ways, it’s time to pay attention.

Signs that a vet visit is in order include rapid weight loss, low energy, vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of pain when trying to eat. Dental issues, digestive problems, and underlying health conditions can all make eating uncomfortable, and your dog might avoid food because of it. Even stress and anxiety — like a recent move or change in routine — can mess with their appetite.

If your dog hasn’t eaten in more than 24 hours, or if they’re showing other concerning symptoms, don’t wait it out — call the vet. There’s a big difference between being picky and not eating because something’s wrong, and when in doubt, it’s always better to get it checked out.

How Can You Get a Picky Dog To Eat Their Food?

So, you took your pup to the vet, ruled out any health issues, and now you’re left with the truth — your dog is just a picky eater. You’ve tried toppers, but they’re still giving you the I’d rather starve than eat this look. 

Frustrating? Absolutely. But before you start auditioning new foods every week, there are a few other tricks that can help turn mealtime from a struggle into something they actually look forward to. 

Here’s what to try:

Stick to a Feeding Schedule

Free feeding (leaving food out all day) can turn dogs into grazers, making them pickier over time. Instead, try set meal times — put the food down for 20 minutes, and if they don’t eat, take it away until the next mealtime. This teaches them that food won’t always be available, making them more likely to eat when it is.

Limit Treats and Table Scraps

If your dog knows they can hold out for something better, they will. If they’re snubbing their kibble but have no problem accepting a bite of your sandwich, it’s time to cut back on handouts. Stick to mealtime-only eating so they learn that their actual food is what’s available.

Try a Different Protein

Some dogs just don’t like certain flavors. If they’ve been eating the same protein source forever, they might be over it. Try switching to a different recipe to see if a new taste sparks their appetite.

Pro Tip: Not sure which flavor your pup will love? Try mixing things up with our Build Your Bundle option. You can mix and match recipes like Texas Beef Stew or Porky’s Luau to keep mealtime exciting.

Get Moving Before Meals

Dogs are more likely to eat after exercise. A short walk, a game of fetch, or even some light training before mealtime can help trigger their appetite. Plus, burning off energy means they’ll be more focused on food when it’s time to eat.

Be Patient, but Stay Consistent

If your dog has learned that refusing food gets them something better, it might take a little time to break the habit. Stick to a routine, avoid giving in to begging, and keep meals simple and structured. Once they realize kibble isn’t optional, they’ll come around.

A Final Word

So, what should you do if your dog won’t eat kibble? If they’re healthy but still turning up their nose, it might be time to shake things up. Adding fresh food, switching up proteins, or mixing in a little extra flavor can make all the difference.

At A Pup Above, we believe mealtime should be something dogs actually look forward to. If your pup is over kibble, trying real, slow-cooked food could be the fix. Because let’s be honest — if we wouldn’t want to eat the same dry meal every day, why would they?

Sources:

My Dog Won't Eat: Feeding Picky Eaters | VCA Animal Hospitals

Bone Broth for Dogs: A Superfood With Many Benefits | AKC

Fresh vs Raw Dog Food vs Kibble: Which Diet Is Best For Your Dog? | American Kennel Club

Dental disease in dogs | PDSA