Picky eater tips with nutritionist Eva
Do you have a picky eater? Here's how to switch to Forever Food
Many dog owners recognize this: you put down a new bag of food, and your dog sniffs at it, turns around, and walks away. Especially when switching to something new (no matter how good it is), it can take some getting used to. That's why we collaborated with Eva, a behavioral biologist and integral nutritional therapist for dogs, on a step-by-step plan specifically for picky eaters.
The good news? Picky eating is almost always learned behavior. And that means it can also be unlearned.
Step 1: Transition - gradually switch
Don't change everything overnight. Give your dog time to get used to the new taste and texture of Forever Food.
- Day 1–3: ¼ Forever Food, ¾ previous food
- Day 4–5: ½ Forever Food, ½ previous food
- Day 6–7: ¾ Forever Food, ¼ previous food
- After that: full Forever Food 🎉
If your dog still refuses to eat, use the removal technique: put the bowl down, wait 15 minutes, and pick it up if your dog doesn't eat. Offer the same bowl again 15 minutes later. If they still don't eat, cover the bowl, put it in the fridge, and offer exactly this food again 12 hours later. Repeat this for a maximum of three days.
It sounds strict, but it works. And the golden rule: no snacks or leftovers in between meals. Otherwise, your dog learns that refusing is rewarded.
Step 2: Environment - make mealtime enjoyable
Dogs are more sensitive than we sometimes think. A slippery floor, a draft, or even a metal tag rattling against the bowl can be enough to distract or make a dog uncomfortable.
Take the time once to properly set up the eating spot: quiet, warm, familiar. Your dog will benefit from it their entire life.
Step 3: Routine - fixed times, more appetite
Just like humans, your dog has an internal clock. If you always feed at the same time, their body learns to get hungry at that time.
Our tip: feed after walking. Exercise releases happy and hunger hormones, and plays into your dog's instinct: first hunt, then eat. This way, they also associate eating with something enjoyable!
Step 4: Variety - prevent boredom
The same thing every day can also get boring for dogs. That's why Forever Food comes in three flavors. This way, you can vary it up, and if your dog gets tired of one flavor, you can exchange unopened bags for another for free.
Want to make mealtime even more appealing? Add a topper like wild-caught sardine oil or homemade bone broth. Choose the most natural products possible, without unnecessary additives.
With this step-by-step plan, you'll help your dog transition to food that truly makes a difference. If you have any questions along the way, or want to know which flavor best suits your dog, don't hesitate to contact us; we're happy to help 🩵
