In high heat, dogs often become fussier and may eat up to 15% less than they do in cooler seasons. Just like us, overheated pups can grow irritable or lethargic—heavy panting, restlessness, and shorter attention spans are all signs they’re trying to cool off.

Here are 5 tips from canine nutrition experts to beat the summer fussiness:

Tip 1: Adjust Feeding Times to Match Their Comfort

During hotter months, your dog’s appetite follows their natural rhythms. Midday meals often coincide with peak heat, which suppresses appetite.

Instead:

Angela

“In warm weather, dogs naturally seek out comfort over food. As a nutritionist, I always remind pet parents: don’t force it — adjust the environment first. Cool, quiet, shaded spaces can make all the difference in whether your dog feels ready to eat.”

Tip 2: Prioritise Hydration — It Impacts More Than You Think

Water plays a critical role in digestion, energy, and even food appeal. If your dog is slightly dehydrated (which happens quickly in warm weather), their appetite will naturally drop.

Here is what I recommend:

• Add a second water bowl in a cooler spot
• Include chilled bone broth
• Use a pet-safe fountain to keep water moving and fresh

Tip 3: Offer Smaller Portions More Often

Heat slows digestion. A large meal can feel heavy and off-putting — especially for senior dogs, brachycephalic breeds (like bulldogs), or those with sensitive stomachs.

Instead of two full meals, break it into:

• 3–4 mini meals spaced throughout the day
• Half-portion in the morning, half in the evening
• Optional light snacks like cooled cucumber slices or other fruit between meal times

Tip 4: Make Mealtimes More Engaging With a Slow Feeder Bowl

Summer fussiness isn’t always about their food — sometimes it’s boredom, lack of stimulation or lethargy.

That’s where feeding tools can make a surprising difference.

Discover NutriPaw Slow Feeder

The NutriPaw Slow Feeder Bowl turns a 30-second chow-down into a 5-minute challenge.

Not only does it slow eating and improve digestion, but it adds enrichment — a critical part of overall wellbeing.

• Perfect extra stimulation for fussy eats.
• Reduces bloating, gagging, and vomiting.
• Turns meals into enrichment time.

Shop for the New NutriPaw Slow Feeder Today

Angela

“Dogs eat up to 10x slower with a slow feeder — improving drive for food, reducing bloating, boosting digestion, and making meals more enriching.”

Tip 5: Use Meal Toppers to Boost Taste & Nutrition

If your dog’s appetite dips during the heat, every bite counts.

That’s where functional toppers come in — not just for flavour, but for meaningful health benefits.

Meal toppers provide:

• Sensory appeal (smell and texture)
• Digestive and immune support
• A break from routine without changing their base food

Nutritionist Approved, NutriPaw Toppers

Probiotic powders can help maintain a healthy gut, support digestion, and even boost nutrient absorption — which becomes even more important when dogs eat less or more sporadically.

Dental powders, when used consistently, bind to plaque and help break it down — supporting gum health and fresh breath, even when brushing isn’t possible.

Probiotics Powder

Tasty and packed with clinically proven ingredients, our Probiotics Powder is a simple, effective way to support your dog’s gut health, immune system, and overall wellness — one sprinkle at a time.

Dental Powder

Our Dental Powder makes fresher breath and cleaner teeth effortless — with natural, vet-approved ingredients that support oral health from the inside out.

Loved by 100,000+ Pets

Vet-Approved!

“I was skeptical, but even my vet commented on how much cleaner my Labrador’s teeth looked at our last visit. We’re sticking with this.”

Total Relief

“Ever since I started using the Probiotics Powder, my dog’s digestion has been so much more regular — and no more grass munching! Total relief.”

They love it!

“Noticed firmer stools and less paw licking within a few weeks. Super easy to sprinkle on food and he actually enjoys it!”

Game-changer

“Her breath used to be unbearable. Two weeks into the Dental Powder — totally different dog!”

Written by Angela, Canine Nutritionist