Introduction

If you have more than one dog at home, you may have noticed that one of them refuses to eat until the other one is done. This behavior can be concerning, especially if your dog is losing weight or not getting the necessary nutrients. However, there are several reasons why your dog may be exhibiting this behavior. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons and how to address them.

Instinctual Behavior

Dogs are pack animals, and they have inherited a set of behaviors that allow them to survive and thrive in a group. One of these behaviors is to eat together as a pack. In the wild, dogs would compete for resources, and the weaker ones would only eat when the stronger ones were done. This behavior is still present in domesticated dogs, and it can be observed in multi-dog households.

Dominance Hierarchy

Dogs establish a dominance hierarchy within their pack, and this hierarchy determines who gets access to resources such as food, water, and toys. If one of your dogs is higher in the hierarchy, the lower-ranking dog may wait for them to finish eating before approaching the bowl. This behavior is a sign of respect and submission towards the higher-ranking dog.

Pack Mentality

Dogs have a strong sense of pack mentality, and they feel more secure when they are with their pack. Eating together is a bonding experience that reinforces the pack’s social structure and strengthens the bond between the dogs. If one of your dogs refuses to eat until the other one is done, it may be a sign that they feel safer and more comfortable eating together.

Resource Guarding

Resource guarding is a behavior where a dog becomes possessive of their food or toys and may growl, snap or bite if anyone tries to take them away. If one of your dogs is a resource guarder, they may wait for the other dog to finish eating before approaching the bowl to avoid any conflict. Resource guarding can be a serious issue that requires professional help, especially if it leads to aggression.

Separation Anxiety

Dogs with separation anxiety may become anxious or stressed when they are separated from their pack members. If one of your dogs has separation anxiety, they may wait for the other dog to finish eating before leaving their side. Separation anxiety can be a challenging condition to manage, and it may require a combination of training, medication, and environmental changes.

Health Issues

If your dog is refusing to eat, it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. Dogs with dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, or infections may experience pain or discomfort while eating, leading them to avoid food. If you suspect that your dog’s refusal to eat is related to a health issue, it’s essential to take them to the vet for a check-up.

Feeding Schedule

If you free-feed your dogs, meaning you leave their bowls out all day, they may not have a structured feeding schedule. Dogs thrive on routine, so it’s essential to establish a feeding schedule that works for your household. If one of your dogs is waiting for the other one to eat, it may be a sign that they are not hungry or that they prefer to eat at a different time.

Feeding Environment

Dogs are sensitive to their environment, and they may avoid eating if they feel uncomfortable or stressed. If your dogs eat in a high-traffic area, with lots of noise and distractions, they may feel uneasy and avoid eating. Consider creating a quiet and calm space for your dogs to eat, away from any distractions or stressors.

Training and Conditioning

If your dog has learned that they only get food when the other dog is done, they may continue to exhibit this behavior even if there is no underlying reason. You can train your dog to eat on their own by gradually separating them from the other dog during mealtime. Start by feeding them in different rooms and gradually decrease the distance between them.

Possessive Behavior

If your dog is possessive of their food bowl, they may become anxious if another dog approaches it. You can address this behavior by teaching your dog to share their bowl and rewarding them for calm and accepting behavior. It’s essential to monitor your dogs during mealtime and intervene if any possessive behavior occurs.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why your dog may be waiting for the other dog to finish eating. Understanding the underlying cause can help you address the behavior and ensure that both dogs are getting the necessary nutrients. If you’re concerned about your dog’s eating habits, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your dogs establish a healthy and peaceful feeding routine.