Medicating our furry friends can often be challenging, especially when they are adept at detecting pills hidden in their food. My dog Georgie knows when there are pills he doesn’t want in his bowl, eating around them or accidentally eating them and spitting them out.
It got me wondering: What can I hide my dog pills in? I’ll share how to disguise pills for dogs safely. This includes walking you through my personal trials and insights into finding the best foods to hide dog pills in to help you make the medicating journey more enjoyable for you and your furry friend.
Why Dogs Hate Taking Pills (Even If They’ll Eat Trash Without Hesitation)
Can your dog sniff out a pill like a truffle pig and spit it across the room? Here’s why our pups are so good at avoiding meds.
Here’s the nasty truth: most pills taste awful. They’re bitter, chalky, and have zero resemblance to anything your dog would typically choose to eat. Unlike us, dogs don’t get that this weird-tasting thing is supposed to help them feel better. Instead, to your pup, it’s like you’re trying to sneak poison into their mouth, and yes, this is the same dog who once happily swallowed a sock and half a burrito off the sidewalk.
But it’s not just about taste. Dogs are wired to trust their noses and have an incredibly powerful sense of smell. If something doesn’t smell like food, it raises alarms. Pills often have no scent, or worse, an unfamiliar one, instantly putting them on your dog’s “nope” list. Combine that with an odd texture and a suspicious delivery method (why are you being so sneaky, human?), and it’s no wonder they treat pill time like betrayal.
The Pill Struggle is Real: Why Hiding Pills Matters
Whether your dog is undergoing a short-term treatment, requires long-term medication, or is taking their monthly preventive flea and heartworm pills, administering meds to dogs can be a daunting task. Dogs have a strong sense of smell and taste, so many (including mine) have an uncanny ability to detect medications, even when cleverly concealed in their favorite treats. Finding creative ways to administer pills can make the process smoother for both you and your canine companion.
What Vets Really Want You to Know About Giving Your Dog a Pill
Dr. Hannah Godfrey, BVetMed MRCVS, a small animal veterinarian in Wales, shared with me the best way to give a dog a pill.
“It’s not a good idea to alert your dog that something is happening before you have everything ready. Once you start to act oddly, following them around or looking at them anxiously, they’ll soon catch on to the fact that something is up. Instead, act as calmly and normally as possible as you get the people, the medication, and anything else you need ready,” Dr. Godfrey explains.
“The room where you decide to give the tablet to your dog is more important than you think,” adds Dr. Godfrey. “You want enough space and minimal clutter so that you or your dog are unlikely to trip on a cable, bump your head on the TV stand, or otherwise injure yourself. However, choosing a big open space like the garden might not be the best idea either, unless you fancy a run-around! Choose a tidy room with just enough space and maneuver your dog into a corner so they’re less likely to run off.”
“Giving a dog a pill isn’t easy. In fact, there have been times as a vet when I have struggled and required the help of my colleagues,” says Dr. Godfrey. Below, she shares safe steps to give your dog a pill.
From The Vet: 6 Steps To Give Your Dog A Pill
- Hold the pill in one hand while placing your other hand over your dog’s muzzle, with your thumb and middle finger gently pressing on either side of their mouth.
- Use the index finger of the hand holding the pill to help push your dog’s lower jaw down, opening their mouth.
- Place the tablet as far back in their mouth as possible – ideally behind the base of their tongue.
- Immediately close their mouth and hold their muzzle so their nose points directly upward.
- As they swallow, you’ll notice their tongue pokes out a little.
Open their mouth to check that the pill is gone. - A syringe of water or other means of squirting a small amount of water into their mouth should help encourage them to swallow. When they swallow the water, they’ll also swallow the pill.
Dr. Godfrey explains more about giving dogs medicine in this detailed guide. Additionally, veterinarian Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, explains in more detail other ways to get your dog to take pills if you don’t want to hide them in food. Remember that you do not want to add too much fat or sugar to your pup’s diet, so consider that when determining the best foods to hide dog pills in.
How to Outsmart Your Dog (With Kindness)
There are a few traditional ways you can trick your dog into taking their meds using food. But my dog is often too smart and knows better, detecting and spitting out the pill before it’s swallowed. So we resorted to food. Having tried these methods, I can share what works for our dog (and what doesn’t).
One popular and convenient option is the use of commercial pill pockets. These are specifically designed to encase medication and resemble a treat while masking the pill’s scent and taste. While often effective, some dogs can become suspicious of these over time.
For a more personalized touch, consider making homemade pill pockets. Just mix together three ingredients: rolled oats, water, and peanut butter. Stir the batter until it’s a dough-like consistency (you might need to grind the oats in a food processor or blender first) and roll into balls. Use the end of a wooden spoon to create an opening, and keep the homemade pill pockets refrigerated so they don’t dry out.
Best Foods to Hide Dog Pills In (That They’ll Actually Eat)
What can I hide my dog pills in? There are several safe foods you can use. Given his dietary restrictions, we tried all the ones we could! Let’s see how each went.
1. Tender Chicken – A Classic for a Reason
For many owners, chicken is one of the best foods to hide dog pills in. The aroma and taste of chicken can often mask the scent and flavor of the pill, making it more likely that your dog will willingly consume it. Here are some steps to effectively hide pills in chicken.
Use lean cuts of meat to minimize fat content. Always avoid excessive oils and seasoning, as some spices can be harmful to dogs. While you may be tempted to use deli meats, these are high in sodium, and processed foods are not a very healthy option for pets, even in moderation.
For larger pills, you can create a small pocket in the chicken by making a slit with a knife. Insert the pill into the pocket. For smaller pills, you can wrap a small piece of chicken around the pill, ensuring that it is fully covered. Some dogs prefer warm or room-temperature chicken, so consider the temperature preferences of your furry friend.
Despite his love for chicken, Georgie follows a no-meat diet due to allergies. However, before we discovered this about him, chicken would have been our go-to. If your dog has food allergies, you may want to learn more about limited-ingredient dog foods, which can be a game changer.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High Palatability: Most dogs love the taste and smell of meat, making it popular. | Cooking Time: Requires some time for preparation. |
| Nutrient-Rich: Provides protein, essential amino acids, and other nutrients. | Caloric Content: Moderation is key to avoiding excessive calorie intake. |
| Customization: This can be easily cut into pieces for hiding pills. | Potential allergies: If your dog is sensitive to meat, this will not be a good fit. |
2. Cheese, Please!
What dog is not a sucker for cheese? Just wrap the pill in a small piece of cheese and watch your dog devour it without suspicion. Here are some tips when it comes to cheese.
Use mild, low-fat, or reduced-fat varieties, and select cheeses that are soft and easy to mold. This makes it simpler to wrap the pill in the cheese without leaving any trace. Some safe options include mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, or cream cheese. Avoid cheeses that are heavily seasoned or contain additives.
Cut the cheese into small, manageable pieces that are easy for your dog to consume. Ensure the size is appropriate for your dog’s breed and size. Wrap the pill in a small piece of cheese or encase it within a larger portion. Cover the pill completely, if possible, masking the scent and taste.
Monitor your dog’s response to ensure no digestive issues.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong Smell and Taste: Many dogs find the strong aroma and flavor of cheese irresistible. | Caloric Content: Cheese is high in fat and calories, so it should be used sparingly, especially for dogs on restricted diets. |
| Versatility: Various types of cheese can be used, allowing for experimentation with different flavors. | Potential Lactose Sensitivity: Dogs with lactose intolerance may experience digestive issues. |
| Ease of Use: Cheese can be easily molded around pills. |
3. Meatballs of Love
Crafting small meatballs with the pill hidden in the center is another effective method. Ensure the meatball is of a size that your dog can comfortably swallow. Use lean meats like chicken, turkey, or beef to minimize fat content. Similar to chicken, avoid using any seasonings and sauces, especially those containing onions, garlic, or other ingredients that can be toxic to dogs.
Ensure that the meatballs are cooked thoroughly to eliminate the risk of bacterial contamination. If preparing meatballs at home, avoid frying them. Baked or boiled meatballs are preferable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High Appeal: Dogs often love meat-based treats, making them an attractive way to hide pills. | Texture Issues: Some meat treats may crumble easily, revealing the hidden pill. |
| Nutrient Content: Quality meat treats can contribute to a dog’s protein intake. | Caloric Considerations: Like cheese, meat treats may be high in calories and should be given in moderation. |
| Possible Sensitivity: Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain meats. Introduce meatballs slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions. |
4. Peanut Butter Power
Hiding pills in peanut butter is a popular and effective method for administering medication to most dogs. In fact, when I asked my colleagues here at Canine Journal about the best foods to hide dog pills in, peanut butter was a top choice for most. The sticky texture and irresistible taste of peanut butter often make it an excellent choice. Peanut butter also offers versatility in the many ways you can trick your pup.
Use plain, unsalted, and unsweetened peanut butter. Avoid varieties that contain xylitol, as it can be toxic to dogs. Use an appropriate amount of peanut butter to cover the pill completely, but too much might make it challenging for your dog to swallow.
There are several ways to use peanut butter with pills. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on a plate or your fingers. Place the pill in the center and cover it with more peanut butter, creating a “pill pocket.” Or mix the crushed pill with a small amount of soft dog food and then coat the mixture with peanut butter. This can help mask the pill further.
If your dog enjoys licking peanut butter off a spoon or from a dog-safe toy, spread the peanut butter on the spoon or inside the toy, then insert the pill. Place the peanut butter-covered pill inside a dog-friendly chew toy. This adds an element of play and can distract your dog while they consume the medication. Alternatively, you can wrap the pill in a small amount of bread or a soft treat and then cover it with peanut butter.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stickiness: Peanut butter’s sticky texture makes it effective for concealing pills. | Allergies: Some dogs may have allergies to peanuts. |
| Nutritional Value: It provides a source of healthy fats and protein. | Xylitol Concerns: Avoid peanut butter containing xylitol, as it can be toxic to dogs. |
| Calorie Dense: Adjust your dog’s regular meals to accommodate the additional calories and avoid overfeeding. |
5. Bananas for the Win
The sweet flavor of the banana can help mask the taste of the medication. Use ripe bananas that are soft and easy to mash. Peel and slice the banana into small, manageable pieces. Smaller pieces make it easier to conceal the pill. Use a knife to make a small incision or create a pocket in the banana. Then, insert the pill into the pocket and gently close it to feed.
You can also crush the pill into a fine powder and mix it thoroughly with mashed banana. This ensures the medication is evenly distributed, reducing the chance of detection. You can also freeze small banana treats with the pill hidden inside (check with the vet to make sure the medication can be frozen first). Dogs may enjoy the cool, refreshing taste while getting their medication.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Natural Sweetness: Appeals to dogs with a sweet tooth. | Moderation: High in natural sugars, so feed in moderation. |
| Potassium: Contains potassium, which is beneficial for heart health. | Fiber Content: Excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset. |
| Easily Digestible: Gentle on the digestive system. |
6. Canned Tuna – Smelly But Effective
Opt for canned tuna in water rather than oil to avoid excess fats, preventing potential digestive upset. Drain excess water to avoid a mess. Use a fork to flake the tuna into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to hide the pill and ensures even distribution. Form small balls or patties with the tuna and insert the pill into the center. Ensure the pill is completely covered.
You might also try combining the flaked tuna with plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds a creamy texture and helps hide the pill. Before introducing tuna, ensure that your dog doesn’t have any allergies to fish.
If your dog is accustomed to pill pockets, consider placing the pill inside a pill pocket and then wrapping it in a small amount of tuna fish.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong Smell: The strong aroma can mask the scent of medication. | Mercury Content: Limit the frequency due to potential mercury exposure. |
| High Protein: Rich in protein, making it a nutritionally valuable choice. | Sodium Content: Choose tuna in water to avoid excessive sodium intake. |
| Convenience: Readily available in most households. |
Extra Tips to Make Pill Time a Breeze
Keep in mind that the best foods to hide dog pills in may differ from dog to dog. If you tried all these and are still having trouble, sometimes the most effective option is also the easiest – hide their pills in your dog’s favorite foods to camouflage the medication. Learn more about safe human foods dogs can eat before you start using different snacks to hide pills in.
Having a finicky eater at home myself, I experimented with various methods to administer pills to my dog over the years. He requires daily medication as well as a multivitamin. Here are some things I’ve learned.
- Whatever method you use, try to maintain consistency in the way you present the pills to create a positive association for your dog. You can also use the food as a treat without the pill occasionally to prevent your dog from becoming suspicious.
- Offer the food-covered medication to dogs with enthusiasm and a positive tone. Dogs often pick up on their owner’s energy, so a cheerful demeanor can make the experience more enjoyable. Conceal the pill in the food discreetly. Dogs may be wary if they detect something unusual, so make it appear like a regular treat.
- Before adding new treats or foods to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has underlying health conditions, consult with your veterinarian to ensure it’s safe and appropriate. Always supervise your dog when introducing new treats to monitor for any signs of choking or difficulty swallowing. Also, watch for any stomach upset over the next 24 hours in case of digestive issues.
Do you have a dog that makes taking medication a circus? I’d love to hear about the foods and pill-hiding tricks that work for you in the comments. You can also head over to our forums to chat with other dog owners and dog care experts about all things dog-related.
Finding What Works for Your Dog
Creativity and adaptability are key in the quest to medicate our picky canine companions. Try different foods, noting your dog’s preferences and dietary needs. The ultimate goal is to turn the medication routine into a positive experience for your furry friend, strengthening the bond between you and ensuring their health and well-being. Remember, each dog is unique, so finding the perfect hiding method may require some patience. If you have any trouble getting your pup to take medications, consult your vet before your pup misses too many doses. In the end, the joy of seeing your dog happy and healthy makes the effort worthwhile.
Why Trust Canine Journal
Sadie has more than two decades of dog care and ownership experience, specializing in the care and companionship of her beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Over the years, she’s spent hours of extensive training, collaborating with multiple certified trainers across various settings, from in-home sessions to virtual private lessons to training academies and online courses. She uses positive reinforcement training to build a strong bond with her dogs, emphasizing encouragement and rewards for good behavior. Sadie’s dog suffers from food allergies, and her dogs have had a number of pet illnesses and issues, including anal gland problems, kennel cough, poisoning, cancer, heart murmurs, dental extractions, and more. She works with a dedicated team to provide Canine Journal readers with the most accurate and up-to-date information to help them care for their pups.
