French bulldogs are dogs that are full of personality they have different traits that are not easy to understand by the new owners. One such behavior you may notice is that most of the time your dog insists on being hand-fed. For some owners, this behavior is very endearing, especially if your dog eats from the bowl. In this blog, we will look at different reasons why your pup likes to eat from your hand what it could mean for their well-being, and what to do if it becomes problematic.
Understanding the Origins of Hand-Feeding Behavior
Bonding and Affection
French bulldogs have a lot of attachment to their owners. They love companionship and like to be close to their owners. For some owners hand feeding is a way to bond with their dog, it is the way for one-to-one interaction that will make their relationship more closer. When you are feeding your dog with your hand you are giving them undivided attention which your dog always wants. With time if this behavior continues your Frenchie will develop a preference for such type of meal.
Anxiety and Insecurity
Anxiety is another way that your dog wants to be fed. French bulldogs can also experience insecurity and stress. Moving to a new house is stressful, similarly change in schedule can also be stressful, or even a new pet coming to home is hard for your pup. In such times your pup will find comfort in hand feeding and they will feel very secure.
Learned Behavior
French bulldogs are very smart they learn with time which behavior gets them what they want. If your Frenchie is not eating and only eats by hand feeding then they have learned that this way they will get more attention and get close to you. With time it will turn into a habit, and they always want to be hand-fed because they enjoy it.
Health Issues
Sometimes your Frenchie wanting to be hand-fed is linked to a health issue like a dental problem. It can be hard for them to eat from the bowl especially if it is hard kibble. Other problems like gastrointestinal issues and joint issues also create a problem for your Frenchie to eat on their own. If you feel that your pup stops eating suddenly and only eats when hand-fed then it’s important to look for any medical issue and consult a vet. If your Frenchie has a problem eating with their head down because it puts pressure on their neck and head then getting an elevated ceramic bowl is the best solution.
This bowl is perfectly angled according to the needs of your Frenchie and it reduces the pressure on the neck, and joints and also decreases the chance of bloating. Moreover, the bowl is dishwasher-safe and very easy to clean.
Picky Eating Habits
French bulldogs can also be picky eaters and if they have decided that they will not eat from the bowl, whatever you have put in it then they will not eat. Sometimes they do this to see what else they can get to eat, perhaps something they like the most or a treat.
Should You Be Concerned About This Behavior of French Bulldogs?
While there is no harm in hand feeding there are some factors that help you assess whether it’s problematic or not. Here are some things to consider:
Is Your Frenchie Eating Enough?
The important thing to keep in mind is whether your pup is getting proper food to meet his needs or not. If our Frenchie is eating only when hand-fed and not eating otherwise then they will eat less and it can result in malnutrition and weight loss. This is concerning because it is an indication of underlying health issues.
Is the Behavior Inconvenient?
Hand feeding means you have to spend a great amount of time feeding them, especially if they want every meal to be hand-fed. It can also be inconvenient because you are not available all the time. If they are not eating otherwise then this behavior is concerning and you have to find ways to encourage your pup to eat on his own.
Strategies to Encourage Independent Eating
If you feel that hand feeding is not ideal for your pup then some strategies can help your Frenchie to eat on his own.
Gradual Transition
If your pup is used to hand-fed, then transitioning them back to eating from a bowl should be done gradually. Start by placing the bowl close to your hand and offer them a few bites from your hand and then from the bowl. When you feel that they have started eating from a bowl reduce the amount you hand-feed and let them eat on their own.
Create a Calm Eating Environment
Make sure Frenchie is eating in an area where there is no distraction. Loud noise can make them anxious and a calm environment encourages independent eating.
Use Positive Reinforcement
Every time your pup eats from the bowl praise them and give them a treat from the bowl. This way they will associate something positive with the bowl. Use this approach consistently.
Experiment with Different Foods
If your Frenchie is a picky eater then you can experiment with different foods to see what your pup likes. You will find that if they have their favorite thing in the bowl they might find it appealing and start eating from it. However, do not change their diet too often because it will lead to digestive issues.
Establish a Routine
French bulldogs like routine and establishing a mealtime routine can help reduce anxiety and encourage regular eating. Feed your pup at the same time every day and if they don’t eat never leave the food for a long time. A predictable routine can make your pup less reliant on hand feeding independently.
Conclusion
It is very common for French bulldogs to develop a preference for eating from a bowl so, it is important to understand the reason behind it. When you know the reason then gradually encourage independent eating and give them a calming and positive mealtime environment. Always remember that if this behavior continues to persist and you are concerned about the health of your furry friend then consult a vet.
