Guide

How to Get a Picky Dog to Eat: Using Treats as a Food Topper

Belcher · October 28, 2026
In shortFor picky eaters, a pinch of crumbled, aromatic treat sprinkled over food works well as a topper. Keep it small, though — as toppers grow, dogs can come to depend on them, so start little and taper off.

Using a topper in 3 steps

  1. Crumble liver or lung treats by hand.
  2. Sprinkle a pinch over the food for aroma.
  3. Once your dog eats well, reduce the amount over a few days.

Also check

  • Feed at set times and remove the bowl after 15–20 minutes
  • Cut back on between-meal treats so your dog is hungry at mealtime
  • A sudden refusal to eat may be a dental or digestive issue — see your vet

Belcher treats that work as toppers

Aromatic horse liver and yak liver, and easy-crumbling lamb lung. With one ingredient each, you always know exactly what you are adding to the bowl.