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Best Foods for a Picky Lab
What kind of DISH are you using? I used glass/Correl. My dog particularly liked Blue Buffalo. Make sure their food and water bowls get cleaned often. Remember, their smell is better than ours. If YOU wouldn’t eat out of that dish, your beloved pet shouldn’t either.
Author: Mary Jo M.
Likes: 1
Raised my labs on GO! Never has had a recall, and they love it. Currently, Lamb with ancient grains, as my veterinarian said, we have done a great disservice to dogs by removing grain from dog food. Dogs are dying earlier than they used to, and have more cancers and heart disease since grains were removed from dog foods.
Author: Beverley S.
Likes: 2
I’ve never had a fussy lab, but switching foods all the time will eventually lead to digestive issues. We feed ours 4Strong Paws chicken/Salmon formula. The company locally sourced its meat proteins as much as possible. They make the food in small batches. So the month you order it in is the month it is made in. No sitting in a warehouse waiting to go to a big box store in their store room, waiting to go out on the floor to be bought by consumers.
Author: Cathy Verkuil P.
Likes: 1
Our lab will eat anything and everything, even if it’s not edible. But we feed Purina ProPlan large breed. Also, give him raw green beans, carrots, bananas, berries, and apples for treats.
Author: Lezlie M.
Likes: 2
Victor kibble with raw green beans, a bit of chicken, and a handful of blueberries. Your pup will love it and super healthy. Good luck!
Author: Jim O.
Likes: 0
I love Diamond Naturals. Pricy, but they love it.
Author: Mark D.
Likes: 0
Gentle giant. Could try a bit of quality canned food mixed with it. I do that for my Trigger every morning
Author: Brenda J E.
Likes: 0
Ours is too! Could go days without eating….What we did is add different liquids to her kibble, ie: beef broth, veggie broth, gravy from leftovers, and finally a spoonful of veggie oil for her coat once a day!
Author: Caroline R.
Likes: 0
Honest Kitchen is what we use. It’s not a kibble. It’s freeze-dried, add water, and go! They have all sorts of flavours. Our love it!
Author: Jennifer P.
Likes: 0
My three labs are raw fed. Meat, fish, veg, fruit, eggs, pulses, oats, etc. My eldest wasn’t picky, but he never seemed to enjoy his food as much as the other two. He now clears his bowl super quickly xx
Author: Katie W.
Likes: 0
I feed my lab Pyrenees boiled chicken. Sometimes with rice and peas. So far, she’s been pretty healthy. She is 7 years old. She’s a little bit on the heavy side, the vet says. I was feeding her twice A-day and I’ve cut her down to once a day, but she also gets bites of what I’m eating. I have to say she’s pretty spoiled
Author: Vickie C.
Likes: 0
Definitely try Fromm. Our vet suggested it, and we never went back. My brother-in-law was spending tons of money on skin problems. It took care of that as well, plus the dogs and the food. Also, we purchase Fromm snacks. They never turn them down.
Author: Rosanna Ruocco S.
Likes: 0
To change up the game, don’t throw broth out from veggies or meats. Put that over their existing food. Maybe add in leftover veggies. My Lab mix loves this, especially broccoli bits and broth. He will smack for 15 minutes after he eats
Author: Mary Beth B.
Likes: 1
Royal Canin Labrador dry food was what mine liked to eat. He was fussy, too. Funny how people say they’ve never heard of a fussy lab. My lab wouldn’t even eat meat off a bone. He wouldn’t touch fruit or veg and wasn’t fond of fish. Loved meat (not on the bone), cheese, bread. God, he loved bread.
Author: Allie S.
Likes: 0
Try Earthborn Holistic – you can swap flavors. We rotate them with each bad (Coastsl Catch, meadow, plains, ocean fusion, etc). Every bag is a new flavor
Author: Kimberly M.
Likes: 0
My Lab did too. Her stomach was always upset. Started her on Hills sensitive stomach and coat, added some pumpkin ( 1 Tbs. ) and broth. Feed three times a day. About a 1/2 cup.
Author: Barb G.
Likes: 0
I use only PURINA ONE LAMB AND RICE. Hannah loves it. It’s the only food I’ve ever fed my dogs. I know it’s not designer dog food, but its quality is exceptional, and her black coat is so shiny that people stop and admire her wherever she goes
Author: Susan Paulette C.
Likes: 1
Bil-Jac Picky Eaters Large Breed. And a handful of cooked lean ground round.
Author: Lea S.
Likes: 1
We have had a lot of Labradors. We have fed all of them, Iams dry, using the bag according to their age.
Author: Suzanne Smith S.
Likes: 0
My lab was like, when I first got him. I had to add stuff, like veg, goat’s milk, broth, he was a recuse. He didn’t like the food that came with I switched him to Victor’s food
Author: Joan Teresa P.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About Foods for Picky Labradors
1. Why is my Labrador a picky eater?
Labradors can become picky due to boredom with the same food, learned habits from table scraps, or changes in routine. In some cases, it may also be related to digestive sensitivity or environment.
2. What is the best food for a picky Labrador?
The best food is one your dog enjoys while still providing balanced nutrition. Many owners find success with high-quality kibble combined with wet food or fresh toppers.
3. Can adding toppers help my Lab eat?
Yes, adding toppers like broth, vegetables, pumpkin, or small amounts of cooked meat can make meals more appealing and encourage picky eaters to finish their food.
4. Should I rotate my Labrador’s food flavors?
Occasional flavor rotation can help prevent boredom, but it’s important to switch gradually to avoid digestive upset.
5. Can broth or warm water improve my dog’s appetite?
Yes, adding warm water or low-sodium broth can enhance the smell and texture of food, making it more enticing for picky dogs.
6. Is raw feeding a good option for picky Labradors?
Some picky Labradors respond well to raw diets due to their taste and variety, but it’s important to ensure the diet is balanced and vet-approved.
7. Should I mix wet and dry dog food?
Mixing wet and dry food can improve flavor and texture, which may help encourage your Labrador to eat more consistently.
8. How do I stop my Labrador from being picky?
Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, limit treats, and avoid offering multiple food options. Over time, your dog will learn to eat what is provided.
9. How long can a Labrador go without eating?
A healthy dog may skip a meal or two, but if your Labrador refuses food for more than 24–48 hours, you should consult your veterinarian.
10. Should I avoid giving table scraps?
Yes, feeding table scraps can encourage picky behavior by teaching your dog to wait for more appealing human food.
11. When should I see a vet about my Lab’s eating habits?
If your dog shows signs of weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, or ongoing refusal to eat, it’s important to seek veterinary advice to rule out underlying health issues.
The Best Feeding Approach for a Picky Labrador
Feeding a picky Labrador can be frustrating, but the right approach can make a big difference. Sticking to a high-quality base diet, adding simple toppers, and maintaining a consistent routine can help encourage better eating habits. Since every Lab has unique preferences, it may take some trial and adjustment to find what works best. With patience and guidance from your veterinarian, you can help your Labrador enjoy mealtime while staying healthy, active, and well-nourished.
Toledo, United States.