Fostering Canine Connection: Revolutionizing Mealtime Moments with Your Pup
To establish a strong bond with your pup, consider these savvy tips. First, minimize the use of the food bowl. I understand if raw food complicates this, but for dry kibble (which I don't recommend – check the blog post on the importance of water), ditch the bowl entirely.
Most dogs love their meals and eagerly anticipate you placing the food in their bowl. However, a bowl doesn't foster the connection we seek. Instead, ditch the bowl, dole out the pup's food throughout the day, and become the source of their nourishment. By doing so, you become central in their quest for a satisfying meal.
Preparing for dry kibble:
Portion the day's ration in the bowl, ensuring it's inaccessible to the pup.
Add planned treats, but be mindful of excessive intake to maintain a lean physique.
Opt for natural, additive-free treats like freeze-dried or raw meat.
Utilize a treat pouch for easy access, dividing the morning portion and topping up in the afternoon.
Kick start the day with a food hunt, scattering pieces on the lawn or indoors for breakfast.
Preparing homemade raw food:
Use two bowls – one for solid pieces, another for liquids or gruel.
For items like chicken bones, separate meat and bones with scissors and give them separate.
Blend vegetables into a paste for a lickable, tubed treat.
Keep the solid food bowl nearby, out of reach of the pup.
Build value in what matters to you! Elevate your worth by rewarding the pup during crucial moments:
Eye contact
Settling on their bed
Maintaining four paws on the floor while you cook
Silence when someone knocks
Calmness during lifting
Ease with harness/collar application
Sitting down
Responding calmly to external noises
Offering a toy
Remaining still during brushing
Lying down while children play
Experiment with treat delivery:
Roll a treat on the ground for the pup to chase.
Toss it in the air for them to catch.
Use treat-dispensing toys for added engagement.
Assignment:
Attempt to apply the concept of playful meals to your dog, even if it's a picky eater. Experiment and discover what truly excites your dog during mealtime. Dare to try new techniques beyond the ones mentioned. Since every dog is unique, explore three different ways to offer treats and observe your dog's preferences. Be open to experimentation to strengthen the bond with your furry friend!
/Mirabelle Wesden
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