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Do Dogs Like Kibble? 3 Surprising Answers (Updated 2023)

Do Dogs Like Kibble

Day in and day out…

No matter what time it is…

The menu’s always the same for your dog.

And it’s nothing but their classic kibbles. 

You might be wondering: 

“Isn’t that tiring? 

Or does Fido like their dog food that much?

I’ll serve you the answers while it’s hot.

Continue reading to find out:

  • 3 surprising answers about dogs and kibble.
  • Truth whether Fidos prefer kibbles or wet food.
  • Real reasons why dogs don’t eat their kibbles (#1 is alarming.)
  • And that’s only the beginning…

Do dogs like kibble?

Dogs do like kibble. Most canines enjoy their dog food due to its potent scent. That’s because dogs have a strong sense of smell. However, canines only have 1,700 taste buds. As a result, dogs care more about the scent of kibbles than the taste. That’s why canines like their dog food.


Do dogs prefer kibble or wet food?


Dogs prefer wet food over kibbles. 

But the reason goes beyond just the taste. 

You see, as explained by vets… 

These 2 types of dog food have their pros and cons. 

So first, let me tell you why most Fidos prefer wet food. 

3 reasons why dogs prefer wet food 

Starting with the basics… 

#1: Most pups like wet food due to its texture

Since the meal is juicier, it’s closer to the same feeling as eating meat. 

And as we all know, dogs are carnivores. 

That’s why munching on wet food is more pleasing for Fidos. 

Moreover, it’s also easier to chew for dogs. With that, pups with oral issues can enjoy wet food more than dry meals.

Not to mention, canned food is pricier than kibbles.

Thanks to that…

Most dogs can only eat wet food occasionally 

And as a result, experts conclude:

Wet food is like treats for pups. That’s why your furry pal’s more eager to eat canned meals.

I mean, if you rarely dine at your favorite restaurant…

You’d also get excited to go there again next time, right?

Well, that’s the same thing many dogs might feel.

#2: Canned meals are more aromatic than dry kibbles 

Unlike dry kibbles, most wet food has a stronger smell. 

Now, remember what I said at the beginning of the article? 

Your furry friends care more about the scent. Not the taste. 

After all, dogs only have 1,700 taste buds. Meanwhile, you have 9,000. 

See that huge gap? 

Thanks to that, most Fidos don’t worry a lot about the flavors. Instead, they just care about the texture. And most importantly, the scent. 

Not to mention… 

#3: Wet food can also keep your dog feeling full

That’s due to the water inside Fido’s canned meals. Plus, it also keeps your dog hydrated. 

So if your furry friend rarely drinks water… 

Canned meals are good for your pup’s health. 

After all, dehydration could lead to issues in dogs like: 

  • UTI.
  • Kidney diseases.

That aside…

This makes wet food good for certain Fidos. And I’m talking about the pups that seem obsessed with eating.

Plus, it’s also good to limit your dog’s wet food intake. 

After all, too much of something can be unhealthy. 

You see, canned food also has its risks. Such as:

  • High in fat.
  • Pancreatitis.
  • Gum diseases.
  • Affect some dogs’ bloodstreams.

And this is why Fidos shouldn’t eat too much wet food.

But let’s not forget about kibbles. 

Benefits of dry dog food

First of all, kibbles are easier to manage. 

Not only are they clean, but they’re also simple to serve. 

Plus, some Fidos love eating every few hours. And in animal terms, that’s called grazing. 

So if your pooch seems to only care about food… 

Kibbles can help keep their appetite in check. 

Now, that’s something wet food can’t do. After all, canned food spoils easily. That means you can’t leave it on Fido’s bowl for more than 4 hours. 

Even if you store the leftover, it can only last for 3 days in your fridge. 

And that might even put your dog at risk of eating spoiled food.

Not to mention…

Kibbles also come in many shapes or sizes too

That said, some pups might have a preference for that. 

What I mean is, there are dogs who like small kibbles. And there are Fidos who like the big ones.

Thanks to this variety…

Your furry friend can enjoy munching on their food. 

Lastly, kibbles are flexible. You can even use them to train your dog too.

And you know what’s more fun?

You could use kibbles with toys as well. Or even auto feeders.

With this, you can make eating amusing for your pup.

Now, all these reasons make kibbles good for your pooch.


Why don’t dogs eat their kibble?


Dogs don’t eat their kibbles for reasons like:

  • Illnesses.
  • Depression.
  • Your dog wants other snacks. 

And to help you understand your dog…

I’ll explain each reason in detail below:

#1: Depression 

Dogs Don't Eat Their Kibble Due To Depression

Mental health is important. Not just to humans, but to dogs too. 

You see, these joyful Fidos can be depressed as well. 

And 1 of its main symptoms is: not eating their food. 

But of course, you can’t just jump to conclusions. 

So in case you have doubts…

Here are more signs of depression in dogs:

Warning: Depression can be fatal in the long run. So if you suspect this in your pup, take them to the vet ASAP. 

“But what causes depression in dogs in the first place?” 

Good thing you asked. After all, that’s 1 way to prevent the issue. 

So, as per AKC… 

Here are 9 common things that might affect your pup: 

  • Stress.
  • Anxiety.
  • Trauma.
  • Boredom.
  • Constant pain.
  • Losing a loved one.
  • Lack of socialization.
  • Sudden lifestyle changes.
  • Meeting new family members.

Note: Every dog is different. Thus, not all of them might have the same triggers.

Worried about Fido’s mental health? 

You can learn some tips from this helpful video:

Read next: Why Is My Dog Avoiding Me All Of A Sudden? 11 Real Reasons 

#2: Your dog might feel sick 

Many dogs love eating. 

So the moment they stop munching on their kibbles… 

That’s the time you might have to worry. 

Why so? 

Well, your furry friend could be sick. 

And I’m talking about physical injuries. Or diseases that your eyes can’t see.

Now, since there are many possible illnesses… 

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what your pup might have. 

But I won’t leave you empty-handed. 

So if you think your pooch might be sick… 

You can look out for other signs of discomfort, such as:

Note: These 13 symptoms align with many illnesses. To ensure your dog’s condition, you should talk to Fido’s vet.

You might also like: Do dogs pant when they are in pain? 13 Causes of Panting  

#3: Fido wants some human food 

Sometimes, your furry pal might just want other meals.

Specifically, they crave your food.

And this could happen if you often share Fido some of your snacks. 

I mean, if you tasted the best treat ever…

You wouldn’t want to go back to the old food you always had, right? 

Now, that might be the case for some dogs. 

And that’s why consistency is a must for Fidos. 

So if you’re going to give them kibbles…

Ensure that you always stick to that. 

Otherwise, you might break your furry pal’s feeding habits.