Game-changing toppers for fussy dogs – plus when you won't need them

Struggling with a dog who turns their nose up at dinner? Sometimes all it takes is the right finishing touch to transform a rejected meal into an irresistible feast. Our natural toppers are specifically designed to entice even the pickiest eaters – but here's the best part: you might not need them forever.

1 September 2025·Dog Advice

Our food is approved & verified by our in-house veterinarian, canine nutritionist and behaviourist.

Why toppers work for fussy eaters

The right topper doesn't just add taste – it awakens your dog's natural food instincts. Rich aromas, enhanced moisture, and authentic tastes can be the bridge between food refusal and enthusiastic eating.

But toppers work best as part of a fresh food approach, not as a band-aid for poor-quality meals.

Our fussy dog heroes

Chicken Bone Broth

Our mouth-watering British Chicken Bone Broth is gently simmered from locally sourced chicken bones and enhanced with filtered water and apple cider vinegar. This wholesome broth transforms any meal into a warming, aromatic experience that few dogs can resist. The gentle cooking process extracts maximum nutrients while creating an irresistible scent that draws even reluctant eaters to their bowl.

Why fussy dogs love it:

Rich, meaty aroma that awakens appetite

Boosts hydration and entices reluctant eaters

Immune-boosting nutrients support overall health

Perfect for: Dogs who need extra encouragement at mealtimes or additional hydration.

Ingredients: Chicken bones (60%), filtered water, apple cider vinegar

Pack size: 250ml

Feeding guide: 35ml (2 tbsp) per 10kg body weight

Lamb Bone Broth

Made from grass-fed British lamb bones, this nutrient-rich broth offers a different taste profile for dogs who prefer red meat. Slowly simmered to extract maximum collagen and minerals, it's particularly beneficial for dogs needing joint support alongside appetite stimulation.

Why fussy dogs love it:

Distinctive lamb taste appeals to different taste preferences

Supports digestion for sensitive stomachs

High in collagen for joint health

Perfect for: Dogs who prefer the taste of red meat or need digestive support.

Composition: Grass Fed British Lamb Bones, Filtered Water, Apple Cider Vinegar

Pack size: 250ml

Venison Bone Broth

Our tasty British Venison Bone Broth offers something truly special for discerning dogs. Wild venison provides a unique, gamey taste that many dogs find irresistible – perfect for those who've grown bored with common proteins.

Why fussy dogs love it:

Novel protein source for dogs tired of chicken and beef

Wild, natural taste

Excellent for dogs with common protein sensitivities

Perfect for: Dogs needing variety or those with chicken/beef sensitivities.

Composition: Wild British Venison Bones, Filtered Water, Apple Cider Vinegar

Pack size: 250ml

The GOAT (Goat's Milk Topper)

Our 100% natural goat's milk topper offers a creamy, luxurious addition that most dogs find absolutely irresistible. Beyond its appeal to fussy eaters, goat's milk provides digestive support and joint health benefits.

Why fussy dogs love it:

Creamy texture adds richness to any meal

Naturally easier to digest than cow's milk

Provides extra hydration and joint support

Perfect for: Dogs who love creamy textures or need digestive support.

Pack size: 250g

The fresh food truth: you might not need toppers forever

Here's what many dog owners discover: when you switch to genuinely fresh, high-quality food, toppers often become optional rather than essential.

Why fresh food reduces topper dependency

Natural appeal: Fresh ingredients already smell and taste irresistible to most dogs

Proper nutrition: Well-nourished dogs naturally have healthier appetites

Variety built-in: Rotating fresh recipes prevents boredom without additional products

Better digestion: Comfortable dogs are eager eaters

When to use toppers with fresh food

Even with fresh meals, toppers can be valuable for:

Transition periods: Helping nervous dogs accept new foods

Special occasions: Making birthdays or training extra special

Health support: Adding specific nutrients during recovery

Pure enjoyment: Because every dog deserves a treat

The goal: food they love naturally

The ultimate success story? A dog who eagerly anticipates their fresh meals without any encouragement. Many of our customers find that after transitioning to fresh food, their previously fussy dogs become enthusiastic eaters who no longer need toppers to clean their bowls.

Using toppers effectively

Start small

Begin with just a drizzle of bone broth or small amount of goat's milk. You want to enhance, not overwhelm the base meal.

Rotate broths

Keep things interesting by alternating between different broths. This prevents your dog from becoming dependent on just one variety.

Gradual reduction

As your dog becomes more comfortable with their fresh food, slowly reduce topper amounts. Many dogs naturally transition to enjoying meals without additions.

The bottom line

Toppers can be game-changers for fussy dogs, providing the sensory appeal that transforms rejected meals into anticipated feasts. Our bone broths and goat's milk offer natural, nutritious ways to entice reluctant eaters.

But remember: the best topper is genuinely appealing base food. When you combine our natural toppers with fresh, high-quality meals, you're setting your dog up for a lifetime of healthy, enthusiastic eating.

Ready to end mealtime battles? Start with fresh food and let our toppers provide that extra spark of excitement your fussy dog needs.

All our toppers are made in the UK with locally sourced ingredients, free from artificial additives and preservatives. Store our broths in the freezer for up to 12 months, use within 7 days once defrosted.

Looking for personalised guidance on transitioning your picky eater to fresh food? Our vet and nutritionist can help create a tailored approach for your dog's specific needs.

Get in touch with our team at feedme@differentdog.com to book a time to chat about your dog’s specific needs.

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