Why Does My Dog Nudge Her Food Bowl With Her Nose. I think it is instinct, to protect the food. If his owner notices the activity and responds by giving him attention or food in his bowl, this makes it much easier for him to repeat the rewarding behavior over and over again.

The most likely reason why your dog rubs its nose on the floor before eating is that it wants to bury the food and stash it for later…. Appetite changes can signify a handful of medical ailments in canines, from kidney disease to heartworm and cancer. My dog is pushing around her food, her food dish, or anything in the area.