We’ve all been there. You’re sitting down to a warm, home-cooked meal, and just as you’re about to dig in, you catch sight of your beautiful pup looking at you with longing eyes.
So you think, why should humans be the only ones who get to enjoy a warm meal? Why can’t I feed my bestie a warm meal too?
But as a responsible dog owner, you’ve got to ask whether it’s the right thing to do. Can dogs eat warm food? And do dogs like their food warm or cold? ‘
Let’s take a closer look at the question of warm vs. cold food for dogs, and see how a simple temperature change can make a big difference in your pet’s mealtime.
Do Dogs Prefer Warm Food?
Dogs have a keen sense of smell, which is a major factor in how they perceive their food. Warm food enhances the release of aromatic compounds, making it more appealing to dogs. The American Kennel Club says (and veterinary research has shown!) that when food is heated, the stronger smell can stimulate your dog’s appetite and increase interest in their food.
This can be particularly beneficial for picky eaters or dogs with reduced appetite due to illness or aging.
The Digestive Benefits of Warm Food
So, do dogs like warm food? The answer appears to be yes. But are there other health benefits?
Well, warm food is not just more appealing; it can also be easier to digest. Warming/cooking food can help break down fats and proteins more efficiently, reducing the workload for our pups’ GI tracts.
Can Dogs Eat Warm Food Safely?
Yes, dogs can safely eat warm food. However, it’s very important to make sure the food isn’t too hot, or it could burn your precious pooch. That’s why Artie has been specifically designed to heat your dog's meals to the perfect temperature between 95o and 105o F or what we call Prey TemperatureTM. The food should be just warm enough to enhance the smell and make the food more palatable, without being so hot as to risk a burn.
Do Dogs Like Cold Food?
While many dogs enjoy warm meals, some may not mind eating their food cold. However, straight-from-the-fridge meals can be less appealing to many pets.
Put it this way, would you prefer to eat leftover pasta cold from the fridge, or would you rather enjoy it freshly made? I suppose it depends on how hungry you are, but we all know freshly cooked pasta tastes better ;)
Potential Downsides of Feeding Your Dog Cold Food
Serving food straight from the refrigerator can have some drawbacks. Cold food sits in the stomach longer than warm food and might cause discomfort for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The lower temperature can also affect the flavor and aroma of the food, making it less appetizing. For dogs with dental issues, cold food may irritate or hurt sensitive teeth and thus may be more challenging to chew.
Balancing Temperature for Optimal Mealtime
The best approach is to find a balance that works for your dog. Some dogs may prefer their food warm, while others might not mind it cold or room temperature. You know your pet best, and you’ll want to watch for your pet’s preferences and adjust accordingly. For those who prefer warm meals, Artie can make the process simple, safe, and efficient. The steam-based hydration method also locks in the nutrients while evenly heating the food. While microwaves are often used in human foods, we all know that the heat is often unevenly distributed resulting in both hot AND cold pockets.
How Artie Ensures the Perfect Meal Temperature
Artie’s innovative approach to pet meals makes it easy to serve meals at the perfect temperature. The Artie appliance uses a precise combination of steam and hot water to lightly heat your pet’s meal, unlocking delicious flavors and aromas while ensuring your pet gets a complete and balanced diet.
This process ensures the food is not too hot, making it safe and appealing for your dog. Using Artie, your dog can have meals served at the ideal temperature in just three minutes.
Take our food quiz to find the perfect match for your pup!
