No matter their age or dental health needs, senior or picky eater dogs need their food softened for optimal digestion. But be careful in choosing a method suitable to their dietary requirements or health condition requirements.
If they need to decrease their weight, for instance, using warm water would add extra calories; other solutions include broth or milk as viable solutions.
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Warm Water
Addition of water is one of the easiest and simplest ways to soften dog food, providing aid for dogs who have difficulty chewing their food – particularly older animals with worn or missing teeth, as well as new puppies who may still be getting used to dry kibble. It may also assist those dogs that struggle with transitioning between dry kibble and wet food diets.
Warm water can soften kibble without diminishing its nutritional value, making it more appealing to picky eaters and providing relief for dogs with sensitive or fragile teeth. This method can also work well when treating dogs suffering from dental disease or with fragile dental health issues.
Another way to soften dry kibble is to add broth, milk or canned food as these options will not only make the kibble easier for your pet to chew but can also add flavor. Furthermore, some items can even benefit their health like bone broth or milk; however these should only be given in small doses to avoid increasing calories and calcium consumption by your pup.
Canned Food
Canned food can add some additional flavor and moisture to your dog’s kibble, adding flavor while making it more easily edible for them. But use it sparingly as sudden diet changes can cause upset stomachs in some animals.
Best Way To Feed Canned FoodWhen it comes to feeding canned food, mixing it with dry kibble and warm water is often best as this allows the flavors of both foods to blend while also softening up kibble. You could also try using broth or milk as additional ways of softening up kibble.
This method can also help older dogs who are having difficulty chewing due to teeth that have started degrading, creating a smooth paste they can eat easily. Ideally, time this process with their regular feeding schedule so the food will always be ready when they gobble it up!
Milk
Milk added to dry dog food can make it more enticing for some dogs and add an additional dimension of flavor, making it an excellent solution for older pups who may have difficulty with chewing due to dental problems.
Low-sodium beef or chicken broth is another great way to soften your pet’s food, providing essential vitamins and nutrients to make kibble more appetizing for them. Just remember to add small amounts at first until reaching their preferred consistency.
Keep moistened kibble in the refrigerator for at least an hour or two prior to feeding it to your pet, otherwise its quality may deteriorate and form bacteria which could make him or her ill.
Warm Rug
Use of a warm rug to soften dog food is an inexpensive and safe way to make dry food or treats more appealing for your dog. Not only will the warm rug soften it further, it also adds aroma that encourages them to consume their meals or treats more readily.
As it can take several hours for food to absorb moisture, it is recommended to moisten it several hours prior to mealtime so it has time to cool off before you serve it.
Softening your dog’s kibble involves many possible methods, but when choosing one it is essential to consider their overall health needs. If they are on a restricted diet that cannot accommodate additional calories then adding warm water may suffice, while for additional nutrition you could try mixing in homemade chicken broth or bone broth into their food.
