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Old 08-20-2008, 07:44 AM   #8
Hansch99
Senior Yorkie Talker
 
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Join Date: May 2008
Location: Milwaukee
Posts: 159
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We've struggled with this, so I know how hard it can be. I'd do some research, find a good kibble, and give that to your dog exclusively (with a transition period).

There are two reasons why I'd exclusively give your dog one kind of food: one is behavioral, the other is nutritional. In my experience, Yorkies are very opportunistic and will exploit every opportunity they are given. I know Yorkies are picky eaters and sometimes it *seems* like they'd rather starve than eat food they don't like. However, all but the worst cases will eventually eat the food you lay down for them when they realize that is all that's available. This is just one of many examples where it's good to set the tone for what is acceptable behavior for your dog and not cave in.

From a nutritional point of view, if you stray too far from giving your dog good kibble (i.e., supplementing with homecooking or nutrical), you may be doing more harm than good even if the dog is eating a lot. Kibble is engineered to provide a precise and optimum balance of nutrients. Too much protein, for instance, can be tough on the liver, which is why adult dog foods cut out the proteing when dogs are out of their growing stage. Giving your dog kibble exclusively may mean that it eats less in the short term, but in the long run, your dog will likely get used to it, will eat what it needs, and will have a balanced diet.

If you're more stubborn than your dog, ultimately your dog will be better for it.
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