Dog is always hungry: why you should raise an alarm

Dog owners often face the following problem: their pet asks for food, even if it has just been fed. This may seem strange because dogs usually eat 2-3 times a day. Pet.MD writes about it.

Why can a dog be constantly hungry?

There are several reasons for this behavior:

Psychological problems:

• Anxiety: If a dog is experiencing anxiety, he may try to calm down with food.
• Stress: Overeating can be a reaction to stress caused by changes in your dog's life, such as moving, getting a new pet, or having a baby.
• Boredom: Dogs that lack stimulation may eat out of boredom.

Poor nutrition:

• Poor quality food: If your dog's food doesn't contain enough nutrients, he may feel hungry, even after eating.
• Improper feeding regimen: If you feed your dog too often or in too large portions, he may become addicted to it and ask for food constantly.
• Snacks: If you give your dog a lot of treats in between meals, it can make him feel hungry all the time.

Medical problems:

• Parasites: Certain parasites, such as heartworms, can cause your dog to eat more but lose weight.

• Infections: Some infections, such as bladder infections, can also lead to increased appetite.
• Hormonal disorders: Certain hormonal disorders, such as diabetes, can cause your dog to eat more but lose weight.
• Digestive problems: Certain digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, can cause your dog to eat more but lose weight.

Aging:

As dogs age, they may eat more to maintain their weight.

Greed:

Some dogs are just greedy and eat everything they are given, regardless of whether they are full.

What to do if your dog is constantly hungry?

If you notice that your dog is constantly asking for food, it's important to first rule out any medical problems. To do this, you need to see a veterinarian.

If the vet does not find any health problems, try changing your dog's diet and behavior:

• Feed your dog high-quality food that contains enough nutrients.

• Follow the correct feeding schedule.
• Do not give your dog treats between meals.
• Provide your dog with enough exercise and stimulation.
• Contact a training specialist if your dog eats out of boredom or anxiety.

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