Introduction
Every puppy parent faces mealtime struggles at some point. Maybe your pup refuses to eat, gobbles food too fast, or shows signs of allergies. Don’t worry — most feeding problems are common and have simple solutions.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top puppy feeding problems and how to fix them, so you can keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
If you’re still setting up a routine, check out our Puppy Feeding Schedule by Age for a step-by-step meal plan.
Problem 1: Puppy Refuses to Eat
Possible causes:
Stress from new environment.
Change of food too quickly.
Teething discomfort.
Solutions:
Stick to consistent meal times.
Mix a small amount of wet food with kibble.
Keep mealtime calm and distraction-free.
Problem 2: Puppy Eats Too Fast
Risks:
Choking, vomiting, bloating.
Long-term risk of digestive issues.
Solutions:
Use a slow-feeder bowl.
Break meals into smaller portions.
Hand-feed small amounts during training.
Problem 3: Overfeeding & Weight Gain
Risks:
Puppy obesity → joint problems, diabetes.
Solutions:
Stick to portion guidelines on puppy food bag.
Limit treats to max 10% of daily calories.
Add playtime and exercise to daily routine.
👉 Related: See Healthy Puppy Treats for Training to learn how to reward without overfeeding.
Problem 4: Food Allergies or Sensitivities
Symptoms:
Itchy skin, constant scratching.
Vomiting or diarrhea.
Ear infections.
Solutions:
Try limited-ingredient puppy food.
Eliminate common allergens (beef, chicken, dairy, wheat).
Always consult your vet for diagnosis.
Problem 5: Begging at the Table
Why it happens:
Puppies quickly learn begging = food reward.
Solutions:
Never feed table scraps (reinforces begging).
Teach “sit” or “stay” with treats at their bowl.
Feed puppy before family mealtimes.
Quick Recap: Puppy Feeding Problems & Fixes
1. Refusing food → calm environment, mix wet/dry food.
2. Eating too fast → slow feeder bowls.
3. Overfeeding → portion control + exercise.
4. Allergies → limited-ingredient diet + vet check.
5. Begging → train and avoid table scraps.
Conclusion
Puppy feeding problems can feel frustrating, but with the right approach, most are easy to solve. Stick to consistent schedules, choose healthy food, and always watch for changes in behavior or health. When in doubt, your vet is your best partner in keeping your puppy well-fed and thriving.
Next, revisit our Best Puppy Food by Age and Breed to make sure your pup’s meals match their growth stage.
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