The Top 4 Reasons Your Dog is Always Hungry

Does your dog devour their food the second the bowl hits the floor? Do they then beg for scraps at the table,

scavenge for snacks

in the trash, or cruise for crumbs under the couch?You might wonder what?s making your dog so hungry. Are you feeding them enough? Are they sick? Do they simply have a big appetite?Let?s take a look at some reasons why Rover might seem so ravenous.

1. A Dog's Biological Appetite

Dogs

started out as scavengers, and some canine behaviorists suggest that dogs continue to act as if they have limited access to their most vital resource -- food. Therefore, dogs seize any opportunity to eat food because it might not be there the next time they need it.Another theory suggests that if your dog was rescued off the streets or from a situation in which they didn?t have regular access to food, they may more easily remember what it feels like to go hungry and thus may be more likely to scavenge.

2. Giving Your Dog Attention + Rewards

You know that if you slip your dog a piece of chicken from your dinner plate, they're only going to be more inclined to beg for another morsel; yet sometimes it can be hard to resist feeding that friendly, furry face! Many dogs beg for food because they know it works, and that they?ll instantly get attention and a reward. So even if your dog isn?t actually hungry, they might still beg because it?s a fun and tasty game.

3. Improper Feeding In Dogs

In some cases it may be true that your dog isn?t getting enough to eat. The type of food

that your dog eats and the portion size will depend on a number of factors, including your dog?s size, age, and activity level. Ask your veterinarian to recommend an appropriate food and portion size for your unique pup.

4. Dog Medical Issues

There are certain medical conditions that can contribute to an increased appetite, including

diabetes, Cushing?s disease

, and

pancreatic disorders. Some dogs may also develop an increased appetite in old age

or as a?result of a

medication

they are taking. If you notice that your dog is hungrier than usual or is exhibiting other

unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian

.

Does your dog have a big appetite? Leave a comment and tell us about it, and consider signing up for PetPlus, a benefit program for pet owners that provides member-only access to medications at wholesale prices, plus discounts on food, supplies, vet visits, boarding, and more.