From the fluffy mind of Gracie Ann Gurley, proud golden retriever and seer of all things dogs. This week she explores why dogs are always hungry.

I see it every day at home. Norman and Ellie are crazy about food. Me, not so much.

Here’s our meal routine. We all eat together. Then when we’re done, Ellie scrambles, with tongue at the ready, to my bowl and then Norman’s looking for one last crumb. A chance. Just in case.

Daddy talks about leaving food out for Ellie all the time just to see how much she would eat. I think he’s joking.

Some humans say it’s because we used to be wild and had to hunt for food. I don’t know about that.

But I know I’ve learned things, like the sound of the sandwich bag full of baked chicken opening. Or daddy’s hand in treat jar. Those things stick with me.

Is it hunger? Maybe not. Maybe it’s just the hope that something good is about to happen.

But don’t just take my word word for it. My daddy has thoughts too…

Daddy’s Take: Do dogs ever get full?

The real answer is dogs often aren’t always hungry. What looks like hunger is often something else: biology, instinct, routine, habit, or even strategy.

Here’s what’s really going on with dogs that act hungry when they’re really not:

🐺 Evolution: The feast-or-famine legacy. Dogs evolved from wolves who lived in feast-or-famine cycles. When food was available, they ate as much as possible not knowing when the next chance would come. That instinct hasn’t gone away.

🧬 Genetics: Some dogs really are wired differently. Labrador retrievers, for example, often carry a mutation in the POMC gene. Dogs with this gene variation literally don’t get the “I’m full” signal. That’s why labs (like Gracie’s big bubba Norman) always seem to be on a mission to find food.

👃 The Smell Factor: A dog’s nose is up to 100,000 times more sensitive than a human’s. Even a faint whiff of something tasty can activate food-seeking behaviors, even if your dog just ate. That smell connects with memories. And that’s when the stare begins.

🧠 Learned Behavior (a.k.a., we taught them): Dogs are incredible pattern-learners. If begging at the table leads to a crust, that behavior gets locked in. That moment of weakness teaches your dog that persistence pays off.

⚠️ Why It Matters: The Real Risks of Overfeeding. More than 50% of dogs in the U.S. are overweight according to a study from Purdue University. And the health consequences are serious:

• Shortened lifespan (by up to 2.5 years)
• Increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
• Reduced quality of life and less energy for the things dogs love.

The hard truth: Love isn’t giving more. It’s giving better. Healthy routines, proper portions, and fewer table scraps help your dog live longer—and feel better doing it.

Daddy’s tips to survive feeding time

Here’s what your dog needs from you:

• Stick to scheduled meals and portion sizes. Even when they dramatically collapse on the tile floor.
• Use non-food rewards sometimes. Try belly rubs, praise, or even a new squeaky toy.
• Treats are treats, not currency. Give them with purpose, not because you feel guilty.
• Lots of human foods are good for your dog. Gracie, Norman and Ellie get bananas, blueberries, eggs, beans, carrots, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, peas and chicken… every day.

Less is more!.

Final thoughts from the fluffy one

Now you know the truth. I’m not always hungry. Sometimes I’m bored. Or curious. Or just plain sneaky.

But sometimes… I really am hungry. So pay attention. Know the difference. And love me like you mean it… with structure, consistency, and just enough treats to keep life sweet.

And remember, every healthy choice you make means I get to be your sidekick a little longer. That’s the good stuff.

—Gracie

Meet Gracie Ann Gurley

Hi, I’m Gracie. I’m a golden retriever. I live with my momma and daddy, my big bubba Norman (he’s a Lab), niece Ellie (she’s a golden), and Sally (she’s a cool rescue cat).

When I’m not supervising photo shoots or testing sticks for structural integrity, I write about the big stuff: grief, joy, change, hope… and snacks. I want mommas and daddies to know what life feels like from our side of the leash.

We may not say much, but we notice everything.

If something I share helps a pet live a little longer, feel a little safer, or get a few extra belly rubs, then I’ve done my job.

Also, I believe in naps, smells and taking pictures with your best friend before time sneaks away.

And,,, how about my awesome cowlick!!