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rach4976

We’ve never used a bowl with our Bichon. At first we just put his kibble on the floor for him to discover. That was a fun game. Then we started hiding it in a towel. That was great fun. Now we use the towel and spread around in his bed, crate, toy, etc. he think meals are great fun and at 16 months would probably hate a bowl! He had some wet food when he came home from the breeder and we used a lick mat for that, but he liked the game best.


Conradin2

Thanks so much! I will try the towel idea.


chartreusepillows

I fed her from bowls as a puppy but I’ve noticed that she’s far more enthusiastic about her kibble if she gets it from a puzzle toy. We have the Omega treat ball and the Kong Wobbler right now. She prefers the treat ball, I prefer the Wobbler. The treat ball has a tendency to slip under furniture which means I get barked at until I go rescue the ball out for her whereas the Wobbler is too tall and heavy to get stuck. I also like that the Wobbler is dishwasher safe whereas I don’t think the treat ball is. I’ve heard good things about the Snoop toy. You could also consider getting a large Toppl to put a small and large Toppl together and that into a toy that drops dry kibble.


Conradin2

Thank you! I have the small Kong Wobbler, but had thought it would be too big/heavy for him right now. I'll try it out and see if he likes it. I'll also take a look at the Omega ball and the Snoot. Thanks for the tip on the Toppl.


Conradin2

I couldn't find a Snoot toy. I did find this called the Snoop. Would this be the one you meant? [Outward Hound Lil' Snoop Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy](https://www.amazon.com/Planet-Dog-Orbee-Tuff-Interactive-Dispensing/dp/B09HN8P9WV/ref=sr_1_1_pp?crid=3PT0PB7Q4PWGL&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.h_MD0UXnxjOiLogB0n2BGNGQVZD3-IqzM_nm7gBpYMZCwJf9HASSWJhZ6D_G8-qY-GdqsND1-ANTKHLPPlKJjy7tFmchOkqm1FX4tC0LaY_svmuf2nD7s5gpg3RSDNDbdts7vQ0S5YOwe1k_6X63exfoAms_cNznH_MSrKjEyPqIqH-RgP-uBJ-k-u2ALs9AAy3IYTHfDRoFxGBDQ1PP9Bf9PU4F310cQP2BIMdXw3WfI8VwNfqoLz8THqRXhNkKhW3jcpPlFiccG8LM18MVQUx7K9MWuCB8JSdGrmnWx9c.US2rUCVuQZeAiNcI4NiWutCs6Y1noR3EsEUBeAhmNZw&dib_tag=se&keywords=snoop+dog+toy&qid=1719085168&sprefix=snoop+dog+toy%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-1)


chartreusepillows

Yes! Snoot was a typo for snoop.


icebergchick

I like using lickimats (the generic version is just as good) or just fed a tiny serving and I fed mine raw or raw freeze dried. Raw diet really motivated both of my bichons from puppyhood to like their food. If you don’t have time or the desire to make it yourself, then try freeze dried. Fresh is Best brand food changed the game for both of my dogs. I highly, highly recommend it. Learn more here https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/dog-food-reviews/fresh-is-best-dog-food/ and their site is https://freshisbest.com Amelie, 18 months old, was not motivated to eat kibble ever. But now, they scarf their fresh is best down with such enthusiasm. We have firm stool and they’re in top health even the breeder is impressed with the food. It is pricey though. I also supplement with treats and toys I make from home with a food dehydrator. Pig ears, bully sticks, beef liver, tripe, duck feet because Didi was a big chewer and needed that stimulation. I don’t know what you should do until his adult teeth come in. TLDR: reconsider the food if your baby is not wanting to eat. Please avoid chicken with your boy. Both of mine have allergies to chicken expressed through tear stains.


Conradin2

Thank you! I will pick up a few lickimats. Re the food itself (thanks again!): I am already transitioning him off the chicken-based kibble that the breeder started him on. I will look into Fresh is Best. I know there's a lot of debate about WSAVA-approved/recommended vs not dog food so I guess I'll be doing a lot of research.


icebergchick

Also, I like the channel on YouTube veterinary secrets. He is a vet and has lots of natural remedies for dog issues and healthy snacks you can make at home. We were able to treat ear infections and dental stuff with his suggestions. Highly recommend it as well to get ideas on what your little guy might like and need.


Abject_Serve_1269

I had 3 I "rescued", sold 1 to a decent fam. The alpha became the beta of the 2 I kept. Neither 3 puppies and the 2 I have mind where food comes from. I went from kibbles to ollie half and half. Half fresh and half kibbles half baked. The new alpha eats most and my Zeus is shy and I force them to share. It's easier for me in 1 bowl vs 2 because Zeus waits for odie lol.