Golden Retriever Eathing Habits

Question
My golden retriever, Roscoe, will not eat. We got him new dog food, we tried soft food. He just won't eat. All he will eat is treats. We think there may be a possibility of a tooth problem. Is there anything else you can think of that might be wrong with him?

Answer
Alexia
Visit the vet to be sure there are no health (or tooth) issues causing his problems. However I think you have a spoiled dog to be honest. You're going to have to use the all  or nothing approach to get him to eat. Put his regular dog food down in a bowl early morning and leave it down for no longer than twenty minutes, if he eats fine, if not fine. Repeat in the evening. IGNORE him during this time, don't sweet talk, beg, pet, or try to cajole him into eating,. He will NOT starve, yes you're going to feel guilty and like you're being mean but all you're really doing is undoing a bad habit. Just like children dogs would prefer to eat junk or treats 24/7 and as intelligent creatures they learn quickly that if they refuse anything but the BEST that's all they'll get. NO treats no in between snacks. It may actually take a few days but your dog will eat. No table food from now on, no gravy or enticements added to his regular food. Just kibble. Before you know it you'll have your boy eating again :)
Cindi