Pandering to his every need is not a good thing
As your puppy grows, so will his need to assert himself. Puppies often choose mealtimes as a battle ground. But giving in to him is a mistake. You need to make sure he knows that you won't respond to his every demand. You'll also need to get him to accept you and the rest of the family getting on with life around him. For example, puppies can become very territorial and possessive over their food bowl and will make a fuss if approached while eating. This behaviour can become quite difficult and anti-social, so you must put a stop to it. It's not too difficult to achieve, it just takes patience. Follow the steps below and your pup should develop perfect table manners.
Less is more
Put a small amount of, food in your puppy's bowl and move away. When he finishes it, return to the bowl and put in a little more. This will help him to eagerly anticipate your approach.
Keep him happy
You'll know he's happy when his tail starts wagging as you get nearer, but now you'll need to get him used to you approaching while he is eating.
Tasty Tips
All together now
Now you're ready to put his whole meal down all at once. Stand, or sit near him and add a special treat to his bowl as he eats. Speak to him softly and stroke him as you drop the reward into his bowl. Repeat this once every few meals until your puppy is totally at ease.
The extra mile
Your puppy needs to learn that people around him, particularly small children, can be unpredictable. But he needs to accept that this behavior is not threatening. You can help him do this by imitating a child's behavior: try stepping quickly towards his bowl - then drop in a treat. Gently bump into him, while he's eating, or roll toys nearby - anything to cause a distraction, but drop a treat in the bowl to reward him for continuing to eat calmly. Do this every so often, but not at every meal. If your puppy freezes mid mouthful, growls or glares at you, stop and try again another time. If this continues, it's best to seek advice from an animal trainer. Click here for more information on Training.
Related products
Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Braised Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Related articles
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Special Diet Needs for Large & Giant-Breed Puppies
Large and giant breed puppies have different nutritional needs than other dogs. Learn how to provide the special care they need to grow up big and strong.
How Fatty Acids Can be Healthy for Your Dog
Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.