What is the best way to feed a dog that won't eat its own food but will eat human food?

If your dog is refusing to eat its own food but is willing to consume human food, it's important to address this behavior and establish a healthy and balanced diet for your dog. Here are some steps you can take to encourage your dog to eat its own food:

1. Consult a Veterinarian: Before making any changes to your dog's diet, it's important to consult with a veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues that may be causing the loss of appetite and provide guidance on the best course of action.
2. Evaluate the Dog Food: Take a closer look at the dog food you're offering. Ensure that it is nutritionally balanced, appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and size, and free from any ingredients that may be causing allergies or digestive discomfort. Consider switching to a high-quality, palatable dog food that meets your dog's nutritional needs.
3. Establish a Feeding Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, so establish a regular feeding schedule. Offer meals at the same times each day and remove any uneaten food after a reasonable period (usually around 15-20 minutes) to avoid leaving food out for extended periods.
4. Remove Access to Human Food: Prevent access to human food during meal times. Avoid feeding your dog directly from the table or giving it table scraps, as this can reinforce the behavior of rejecting its own food in favor of human food. Ensure that all family members and visitors are aware of the importance of not feeding the dog from their plates.
5. Create a Positive Feeding Environment: Make mealtime a positive and calm experience for your dog. Create a quiet and comfortable feeding area, away from distractions. Consider using puzzle feeders or food-dispensing toys to make mealtime more engaging and mentally stimulating for your dog.
6. Gradual Transition: If you want to transition your dog back to its own food, do it gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new dog food with the human food your dog prefers, gradually increasing the proportion of dog food and decreasing the human food over several days. This helps your dog adjust to the new food gradually.
7. Seek Professional Help: If your dog continues to refuse its own food despite your efforts, it may be beneficial to seek the guidance of a professional dog trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide personalised advice and strategies to address the issue.