My Dog ​​has Too Much Appetite

When your four-legged friend devours everything he sees and doesn’t stop asking for food, it’s not a normal situation. The reasons behind an exaggerated appetite can be different, from the most banal to the most serious. Here are a few.

Possible causes of excessive appetite

Author of the photo: Fernando Dall’Acqua

Among the main reasons why a dog may be excessively hungry, we find:

• A diet that does not meet its nutritional needs.
• Presence of internal parasites.
• Illnesses.
• Little physical activity.
• Imitation of his master’s bad habits.
• Stressful situations

In any case, a visit to the vet is a must to identify any problem and prevent future complications brought about by ingesting too much food.

The right diet for your dog

A proper diet must meet the dog’s nutritional needs based on:

• Age
• Dimensions
• Weight
• Physical activity performed

A specialist can show you the best way to feed your dog at each stage of his life, whether you have chosen to feed him industrial or home-cooked food.

It is certain that if the dog does not receive an adequate ration for its characteristics, it will remain a little hungry and will ask you for more food. For example, if your dog burns a lot of energy by playing and running, he will need to eat more than indicated on the food package, which is only a general guideline.

More exercise and less snacking between meals

On the other hand, if the dog does not get enough physical activity, he will surely replace the lack of exercise and play with food. It is a short step from here to obesity. Keep in mind that according to data published by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, the excess weight of the owner is also passed on to his pets.

So, if you have sedentary habits, try not to pass them on to your four-legged friend. On the contrary, take advantage of the opportunity to walk and play a little outdoors with him. It will benefit the health of both of you.

If you are also among those people who nibble between meals and who always like to have something to chew on, remember that your dog will want to imitate you and will not stop claiming his share of “loot” when he sees you doing it.

Tricks to quench your dog’s hunger

The ideal would be for the dog to eat the right amount of food, divided by the number of times indicated by the veterinarian, avoiding snacks. Therefore:

• Keep it away from the kitchen when preparing food.
• Do not allow them to ask for food  when the family is seated at the table.
• Rather than pampering him with snacks at any time of day, offer him a distracting toy or play with him for a while.

When excess appetite occurs suddenly

Sometimes, the causes of an excessive appetite are linked to certain health conditions, especially if the dog becomes voracious overnight.

Your dog may suffer from intestinal parasites, or from:

• Hormonal problems
• Diabetes
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Kidney problems

Other causes that can trigger hunger in your dog

In some cases, if the dog suddenly has too much appetite, there may be a change in the family environment. The arrival of a child or a new pet often causes jealousy and triggers some reactions in the animal, such as the desire to destroy objects, pee everywhere or … swallow everything that comes within reach.

These behavioral disorders can be corrected with patience and love. Also in this case, the vet will be able to advise you on a good strategy to adopt.