Most dog won’t take pills with their owners as they sit on the couch, but some dogs get so excited that they end up shaking if they see a pill or even hear the rattle of a pill bottle.
If you have a dog like this and they won’t take pills, how do you make sure they are healthy? You can try the tips below to make giving pills less stressful for both the dog and owner.
Use Food as a Distraction
When your dog won’t take pills, using food as a distraction may be one option. Start off by wrapping the pill in something tasty and appetizing, like cheese or peanut butter.
If that doesn’t work, you can try sneaking the pill inside a treat or holding the treat in one hand and the pill in the other. When your dog focuses on the treat, quickly place the pill in the back of their mouth.
Make sure to praise them, and reward them with additional treats, for taking the pill. If you have multiple pills for your dog, consider inserting them into a larger treat, such as a hot dog, to make them easier to administer.
Finally, if your dog showing signs of stress or anxiety associated to taking the pills, speak to your vet or an animal behaviorist for tips on how to make it a less stressful experience.
Hide Pills Inside Treats
It’s important to find treats that your dog will actually enjoy, as this will increase the chances of them taking the pill. Before giving the treat, insert the pet medicine into the centre of the treat, making sure the pill is completely covered.
Make sure to give your dog the treat immediately after they have taken their pill, as it will help reinforce that the pill is a reward. It is important to ensure that the dog’s entire dose is swallowed, as bits of the pill could still affect them.
If your dog is having difficulty swallowing the treat, you can break it into pieces to make it easier. Additionally, you can also give the pill with a little bit of food and/or water to make it easier to take.
Adjust Your Delivery Technique
One common delivery technique is to mix the pill with a treat. Start by holding a treat in the one hand. Open your dog’s mouth and place the pill as far back on their tongue as possible. Then, close their mouth and reward them with the treat.
If your dog won’t open their mouth, wrap your hand around their muzzle, jiggle it ever so slightly and then hold firmly. When their mouth opens, place the pill. Some dogs may simply refuse pills no matter the technique.
If that’s the case, you could try crushing the pill and mixing it into your dog’s food. Remember to take care that your pup eats all the food so the entire dose is consumed.
Look Into Professional Assistance
If your dog is refusing to take their medication, you should look into professional assistance. This could come in the form of a veterinarian, dog behaviorist, or pharmacist.
Your vet can help determine the best way to give your puppy the medication and can provide safe supplements as an alternative. A dog behaviorist may be able to provide techniques for getting your dog to take pills or capsules, such as using treats or coating the pill with food.
A pharmacist or local compounding pharmacy can advise you on the best form of the medication so that it is easier for your pup to swallow, such as liquid or chewable tablets. All of these professionals can help ensure that your dog is getting the medication he or she needs to stay healthy.
Enhance the Flavor of Medications
If your dog won’t take pills, there are a few things you can do to make the medication more appetizing. To enhance the flavor of medications, you can mix the pill in with a wet food or a yummy treat.
If your dog is particularly picky, try adding a tiny bit of peanut butter or cream cheese to the mixture. It’s also important to remain calm and patient with the process, as your pet can easily be spooked or distracted if you rush them.
Additionally, try to give the pill at mealtime, so that your pup can associate the experience with getting a treat or meal. Your veterinarian may also be able to provide flavor enhanced medications for your pup, or they can recommend other tricks you can use to get your dog to take their pills.
Maintaining a Positive Attitude
Maintaining a positive attitude is essential in these moments. It is best to be calm, understanding, and patient with your pup. Reward them with positive reinforcement for any progress they make, like licking the pill or attempting to swallow it.
To encourage them to take the pill, you can hide it in a piece of cheese or peanut butter. You can also try disguising a pill in pill pockets or other treats. If none of these tactics work, it may be time to contact your veterinarian to discuss other options.
Do not get frustrated or resort to force, as this can damage your relationship with your dog. Staying positive and working with your pup is best way to the get results.
Learn What to Do if Dog Won’t Take Pills
Overall, giving medications to dogs can be tricky, but you can make it easier by breaking down dog pills into smaller pieces or crushing them into powder, hiding them in food or treats, or using pill pockets. With patience, persistence, and some creativity, you can help your pup get the medications they need. For more tips on how to learn why Dog Won’t Take Pills, speak to your veterinarian.