How to Give a Picky Dog New Treats

How to Give a Picky Dog New Treats

We all know one: the dog that sniffs, stares, and then walks away from what you thought was a tasty new treat.  If your dog is picky about what they eat or just doesn't like change, it can take time and some smart tricks to get them to try new snacks.

 Some dogs are just picky by nature.  Some people may have had bad experiences in the past, have sensitive stomachs, or just have very specific tastes.  But that doesn't mean they can't learn to love something new, especially if it's good for them, natural, and made just for them.

We'll give you some useful, dog-friendly tips in this blog to help your picky dog get used to new treats without getting stressed out, angry, or wasting the biscuits you made with love.

 1. Find out why your dog might be picky.

 Not every dog has an endless appetite.  Some dogs are naturally cautious, especially if they are older, rescue dogs, or have had stomach problems in the past.  Knowing why someone is being picky can help you be kind and patient when you deal with them.

Some common reasons are:

• Some dogs don't like the way things feel, while others love the way they crunch.
• Scent sensitivity: Strong or strange smells can be too much to handle.
• Anxiety about food, especially for rescues or dogs that don't have enough food
• Some people like their food a little warm or at room temperature.
• Digestive sensitivity: Dogs that have had upset stomachs before may be hesitant.

 If you know what your dog likes and how they act, you're more likely to find a treat they'll love.

 2. Begin with something small and familiar

 It can be bad to jump right into something new.  Start by making it easy for them:

•  Giving a small piece first—no pressure, just curiosity
• Putting the treat next to their regular food or a treat they already like
• It's a good sign if they sniff and explore, or even lick.

This helps them link the new smell or feel to something safe and fun.

 3. Make Treat Time Fun Time

 Make it so that trying something new feels like a reward, not a test.  Try:

•  Giving out new treats during a game or walk
• Using it as a reward for following simple commands
•  Giving it to them when they're already happy

 Dogs can sense how we feel, so if you're calm and excited, they'll be more likely to try something new.

 4. Make it more appealing with warmth and smell

 A little trick to get even the pickiest sniffers to pay attention:

 If it's safe, warm the treat up for 5 to 10 seconds in the microwave to let out its natural smells.

•  To make the oils work and soften the surface, rub it between your fingers.
•  Lightly crush it over their food so they get used to the smell.
•  The better it smells, the more likely your dog is to at least try it.

 5. Try out different shapes and textures

 They might not dislike the taste; it could be the size, shape, or crunch.

 Advice:

•  Cut biscuits into smaller pieces to make them easier to chew.
• Try chews that are softer or mix crunchy and soft textures.
• Put crumbled treats on top of meals.

 We at Snappy Snacks have seen dogs go crazy for a recipe they used to ignore when it was made in a different shape or size.

 6. Don't include it

 Some dogs need time to get used to things.  Try:

•  Putting a biscuit on a mat or next to their bed
• Putting it next to their toys or bowl of water
• No pressure, just let them come up to it when they're ready.

 This gives them a safe chance to look at the treat at their own speed.

 7. Don't Push It

 If you try to trick or force your dog to eat something, it could make them associate it with bad things for a long time.
 Instead:

•  Stay calm and light-hearted
•  Give it once or twice a day without any stress.
•  Praise any kind of interaction, like sniffing, licking, or nibbling.
• Over time, positive reinforcement will make people more curious.

 Last Thought

 A dog that is picky isn't broken; they just have their own tastes.  Even the pickiest dogs can learn to like something new with love, creativity, and a little time.

 When you give them a treat that is good for their stomach, full of natural goodness, and made with a wag in mind, you're giving them more than just a snack.  You're trusting them.

So, follow the tips above and keep trying — with a little patience, your dog may soon discover their new favourite biscuit. At Snappy Snacks, we’ve noticed that our Ginger Wag biscuits are often a hit with even the fussiest eaters, making them a great choice to start with.

 Eventually, happy snacking

 Karen ,Trevor and Boa

Snappy Snacks