Why Is Your Dog Not Eating – Common Reasons and Solutions

It can be very upsetting when your dog won’t eat. Dogs and puppies are typically hungry, active bundles of joy, and a dog without their appetite is like pie without ice cream: it’s just wrong. Whether you’ve had your dog for years or just adopted them, you’ll want to understand why they won’t eat.

Determining the cause is the best way to start a treatment plan. First, keep in mind how you’re personally viewing your dog’s appetite. Is your dog not eating as much as the product or veterinary guidelines, or is he not eating at all? A dog can be perfectly healthy and only eat 60% of the amount of dog food as listed on the packaging, because just like us, dogs have different appetites and preferences.

The problematic part is that a lack of appetite can indicate illness. If you believe there’s something wrong with your dog, you should take them to your local veterinarian immediately. Changes in your dog’s eating habits, especially a refusal to eat, are signs of an underlying issue.

Veterinarians recommend that your dog eat at least two meals a day, twelve hours apart. But if your pup joins in on the family’s eating schedule that’s also a great option as it’s easier to remember to feed them at these appropriate times. What’s most important is noting your dog’s eating patterns, how much they eat, and when they eat, so that you can notice if there’s an issue with their appetite.

Quick Action Guide: If your dog is refusing to eat and is vomiting, having diarrhea, or showing other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian within 8-12 hours.

Potential Reasons Why My Dog Is Not Eating

Why is my dog not eating food? Here are some potential issues that might be causing your dog’s appetite change, including what to watch out for and signs of illness and disease. As always, contacting your veterinarian when you’re worried about your dog’s health is important.

It’s important to be aware of your dog’s general health and the timeframes of their eating habits. If your dog hasn’t eaten food for 24-48 hours, you should consider taking them in to see the veterinarian. A dog’s normal temperature is between 101° and 102.5° Fahrenheit, and you can routinely take their temperature as an indicator of their health.

Illness

The presence of an illness, or other medical issues, could be why your dog isn’t eating. Several medical conditions can decrease your dog’s food consumption, leading to anorexia (complete loss of appetite) or hyporexia (decreased appetite).

You should know your dog’s patterns well enough to notice behavioral changes. Signs of illness can include:

• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Sudden Weight Loss
• Diarrhea
• Changes in Drinking Patterns
• Trouble Walking or Climbing
• Bad Breath
• Respiratory Problems
• Abnormal Vocalizations

Illness can be the reason why your pup isn’t eating. Some medical causes of why your dog won’t eat can include:

• Gastrointestinal disease – Upset stomach, dietary indiscretion, stomach ulcers, constipation, or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Obstructions – Anything blocking the gastrointestinal tract, including foreign matter or a small toy.
• Dog vomiting – If your pet is throwing up, there could be a deeper issue.
• Systemic illness – Kidney failure, organ dysfunction, diabetes, liver disease, pancreatitis.
• Dental diseases – Dental issues can cause immense pain for a dog.
• Cancer – Masses growing in the gastrointestinal tract, mouth, or throat, can affect a dog’s appetite.
• Arthritis – Any sort of physical ailment can affect your dog’s behaviors, making it tougher for them to eat or reach their food bowl.
• Diarrhea – Diarrhea in dogs is caused by many things, and sickness might be preventing them from eating.
• Medications – There are many side-effects to medications that can decrease your dog’s appetite, which is why it’s important to always discuss pet medications with your veterinarian

Dental Disease

Dental disease and related oral issues can prevent your pup from eating. Mouth issues can be extremely painful, preventing your dog from eating with enthusiasm. You must schedule an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian so that they can examine the pup’s teeth. Your dog might not be eating because of dental pain when chewing, biting, or swallowing.

Signs of common canine oral or dental issues can include:

• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Excessive drooling
• Refusal to chew hard food
• Facial sensitivity
• Sneezing or swelling of the face
• Bleeding from the gums or mouth

Your local veterinarian can give your dog X-rays and regular teeth cleanings that will prevent the build-up of bacteria and stop widespread infections before they begin.

You can also take preventive measures to care for your dog’s teeth:

• Brush your dog’s teeth regularly, with daily brushings or even a few times a week.
• Take your dog to the vet; the AAHA recommends annual dental exams for all adult dogs, as vets can identify any dental or oral issues early and give them thorough teeth cleaning.
• Use veterinarian-approved dental products such as dental chews, toys, and prescription foods. Avoid using any human products on your dog.
• Keep your dog from biting or chewing on things around the home. You may need to babyproof your home to ensure they don’t chew or swallow foreign objects.

Stress or depression

Dogs are emotional creatures, just like us. They can feel stress and the effects of depression, and may exhibit familiar symptoms such as lethargy and loss of appetite. If your dog is not eating food, it could be caused by an emotional issue.

Common changes in a dog’s life can cause depression, such as:

• Changing locations
• The loss of an important human
• Missing a canine companion
• Reduced mental stimulation
• Changes in a major schedule
• A new human or pet in the home

If your dog is in pain they might refuse to eat. Your local veterinarian can give you insight into your dog’s behavior.

 Problems With Your Dog’s Food

Dogs routinely eat the same food day in and day out with little issue. If your dog is suddenly disinterested in their kibble, it might be a sign that there’s something wrong with the food itself.

If your dog is not eating food, there might be something wrong with the food itself. Check the food’s expiration date, storage, and flavor. Look through the ingredients and see if the manufacturer has made any unlisted changes. When your dog’s food changes, it can be dramatic for them. When you change your dog’s diet it needs to be done gradually over days to avoid upset stomach and decreased appetite.

Ensure that your dog isn’t being fed by other members of your home, and that your pup isn’t getting too many treats throughout the day. Treats and human food can interfere with your dog’s diet and cause disruptions during mealtime.

Monitor Water and Food Intake

If you believe that your dog isn’t eating, it’s important to monitor their intake of nutrients. Continue measuring their food during feeding time as normal, whether by weight or using a measuring cup, and then frequently check their feeding bowls over a period of hours. It’s also important to make sure they’re drinking enough fresh water—if your dog is not drinking water or eating food, you need to contact your veterinarian right away.

Age

Dogs of different ages have different caloric requirements. For instance, a healthy senior dog requires fewer calories than young, exuberant pups, and you might notice a decrease in appetite as your pup ages.  When you train your puppy, they can become fairly excitable, which might decrease their appetite.

Age itself isn’t the reason your dog is anorexic. When a significant change occurs in your senior dog’s appetite, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.

There are a few ways to support your senior dog’s eating habits, including:

• Providing them with a raised food bowl.
• Putting a nonslip mat around their food and water bowls.
• Offering your senior dog softer foods.
• Feeding them consistently and reinforcing schedules to prevent cognitive decline.

 

Unfamiliar Environments

Moving, traveling, or unfamiliar environments can cause a decrease in your dog’s appetite. Your dog might not be eating because of the stress of traveling, or the overwhelming interest in new and unfamiliar surroundings. Animals can also get motion sickness, while others become withdrawn or nervous when introduced to new places.

Recent Vaccination

Veterinarians have made vaccinations available for many serious and contagious dog diseases. While vaccinations save the lives of millions of pets, they have adverse effects. Side effects are minor and brief, but can include a loss of appetite.

If you have questions about vaccine side effects you can read up on the AAHA’s Postvaccination adverse events and reactions, or talk through your concerns with your trusted local veterinarian.

Pickiness or Behavior Issues

Dogs can be picky just like people. Refusal to eat might be caused by feeding them in environments that make them uncomfortable, such as around another dog. Their food bowl could also be an issue—depending on the size of your dog, they might need an elevated food bowl so that eating doesn’t hurt their neck and shoulders.

Decreased appetite can be caused by illness, and it’s important to investigate all possibilities before making an assumption. Taking your dog in to see your local veterinarian can help rule out possibilities and get to the root of the problem.

Medication

New medications can rob your dog of their appetite. One side effect may be a loss of hunger, but it typically fades within a few days. Some dogs can benefit from a richer diet of chicken and rice, but you should always check in with their veterinarian first to see what is safe for them to eat.

Veterinary prescriptions such as antibiotics, pain meds, and health medicine can reduce appetite as a normal side effect. If their hunger strike lasts longer than a day or two, contact your veterinarian for urgent care.

Food Quality

If your dog suddenly stops eating the brand of food you’ve been buying for years, there are a few things to double-check.

Have the ingredients changed? Dog food is created by companies with their own interests—if the company you purchase dog food from has suddenly altered the ingredients to make the food cheaper, your dog may turn their nose up at the change.

If your dog refuses a new pack of food, there could be something off with the food itself. Dry kibble can grow invisible mold, something might be wrong with the flavor, or the general quality of the food could be less than it used to be.

It’s important to try switching brands, looking for a new variety, or double-checking the ingredients for additives that weren’t there before.

Owner Absence

Dogs are behavioral creatures, meaning that they are affected by your presence, or the loss of it. Some dogs won’t touch their food if you’re out, but will begin eating when they hear you coming through the back door. As pack animals, they feel more comfortable eating when their owner is around. If it’s a safety or anxiety issue, you should feed your dog before you leave on an errand, giving them 15 minutes or so to finish before you go for the day.

What to Do When Your Dog Won’t Eat

First of all, you need to contact your dog’s veterinarian if your dog won’t eat. They might be able to get to the bottom of the problem faster, plus they have the knowledge of what to look for, and what your dog’s eating problem signifies.

Your dog’s loss of appetite may be caused by illness, a change in location or patterns, pickiness, discomfort, anxiety, etc.

If illness is the cause, your dog’s veterinarian can recommend a prescription diet that meets their nutritional needs while they address the underlying illness. These diets may not be particularly tasty, and your dog may be used to treats or people food. If your dog is ill, don’t withhold food in an attempt to force them to eat their prescribed diet. Speak with your veterinarian about alternatives, as they may need to prescribe appetite stimulants, recommend a liquid diet, or insert a feeding tube in extreme cases.

If their dietary change is caused by behavioral issues, such as pickiness or anxiety, your veterinarian may recommend a few things to encourage their appetite.

When your dog won’t eat, your vet may recommend:

• A decrease in treats.
• Regular feeding schedules.
• Making mealtime fun.
• Mealtime rewards.
• Exercise before mealtime.
• Changing their feeding situation.
• Trying different kinds of food.

It may take some trial and error to reach a solution. Always check food freshness, reduce environmental stress, offer quiet feeding environments, and reward your dog for good behavior.

What to Feed a Dog That Won’t Eat

• Try offering your dog smaller amounts of food.
• Warm the food gently to body temperature.
• Entice them with aromas that make food more appealing.
• Add appealing toppers.
• Switch to a richer diet.
• Stir their food thoroughly.
• Add tasty probiotics to their food.
• Contact your vet if you’re concerned, or if your dog isn’t eating.

These are generally practical tips, but avoid “tricks” such as feeding them table scraps or forcing them to eat. Moderation is essential, and it’s always a good idea to check in with your dog’s veterinarian.

How to Encourage Your Dog to Eat?

Your veterinarian can help you determine the best course of action if your dog refuses to eat. Every dog, and situation, is unique—it’s important to not become overly frustrated, because your dog needs your help.

If your dog’s loss of appetite is caused by illness, the veterinarian will prescribe a specific diet to help meet your dog’s nutritional needs. The underlying disease will need to be addressed, and in some cases, these special diets are not tasty or fun. Don’t force your dog to eat the prescribed food. Talk with your veterinarian about alternatives, because in more extreme cases the vet might prescribe medications that stimulate appetite. If your dog continues to refuse eating, they might need a liquid diet or feeding tube.

Pickiness, discomfort, and other outlying issues might be causing a behavior problem that prevents them from eating. This isn’t a medical condition, and there are things you can do to help encourage your pet to eat.

Help your dog’s diet and appetite by:

• Giving them less treats.
• Feeding them on a regular schedule.
• Making mealtime fun.
• Adding rewards to mealtime.
• Take your dog on a walk before mealtime.
• Change their environment or feeding situation.
• Try different kinds of food, such as canned/dry.
• Add warm water to their kibble to make it more appetizing.

Tips for Enticing Your Dog to Eat

Pet parents looking for practical solutions to handle their dog’s appetite loss need safe, veterinary-approved strategies. Persistent appetite loss is a significant issue that requires a veterinary exam, and there is no better place to take your pet than Paoli Vetcare. In case of emergency, contact your veterinarian right away.

Try Rotating Through Several Alternative Dog Foods

Experimenting with different flavors, textures, and protein sources can make mealtime feel more satisfying and adventurous. Gradual transitions help avoid stomach upsets, and this method also allows pet owners to not their dog’s likes and dislikes.

Add a Tasty Topper or Mix to Their Food

Mixing small amounts of plain boiled chicken, low-sodium broth, or vet-approved toppers can make mealtime more appealing. Don’t overdo it with the human food, and when it comes to toppers, there are many vet-approved options that your dog might find tasty.

Warm Up the Food

Gently heating your dog’s food releases natural aromas and can make meals more enticing. Warming food can make it feel “fresher” and encourages reluctant dogs to eat.

Go for a Walk Before Meals

Light exercise stimulates appetite. Consider turning mealtime into a routine of its own, following a short walk or playtime for more energetic dogs.

Feed at Consistent Times

Feeding at the same time daily helps regulate your dog’s appetite and prevents picky behaviors. Creating a calm, predictable environment reduces their anxiety and associates mealtime with relaxation.

When Should I Worry About My Dog Not Eating?

Vomiting, swelling of the mouth, and other side effects of not eating are worrisome and warrant a call to the veterinarian. Persistent changes to your dog’s appetite may necessitate medical attention.

Even if you don’t notice additional systems, it’s critical to seek out veterinary medical attention. Your dog should never miss more than two meals, and dutiful owners will prioritize their dog’s health and seek medical advice from veterinary professionals such as Paoli Vetcare.

Note: All advice given here is informational and is not medical advice. Only a veterinarian can give you an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, and you should make an appointment ASAP if you’re worried about your pet’s condition.

Treatment and Supportive Care for Your Dog

Your dog’s veterinarian may recommend diagnostics to find out why they are not eating, including:

• Fecal tests.
• Bloodwork and urinalysis.
• X-rays or Ultrasound.
• Infectious disease tests.
• Biopsies.

Treatment for a dog’s appetite should include examining underlying causes and providing supportive care. Loss of appetite may be caused by any number of things, and can only be cured if the root cause is found, such as chronic illness or dental health issues.

Medications, dental care, fluid therapy, and prescription diets may be answers to the problem, and your dog needs supportive care at home, including hydration, comfort measures, and gradual dietary changes.

Dog appetite treatments may include:

• Medications
• Antacids
• Appetite Stimulants
• Fluid therapy
• Special diets

After a proper diagnosis, your dog’s veterinarian can develop a treatment plan. Your dog might need dewormer, joint supplements, or pet-safe pain medications. Supportive care is an important part of your dog’s recovery—they may not be eating because of nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, or chronic pain.

Your vet may recommend extra measures, such as making food more palatable or hand-feeding your pet to reduce their anxiety and give them extra attention. Vet services may be important during this stage, if your dog continues not to eat.

When to Seek Help if Your Dog Isn’t Interested in Food

Is your dog not eating? Signs of appetite loss are generally serious, unless your dog ignores their food for a day or two and resumes eating without any concerning signs. It’s important to watch for vomiting, diarrhea, sudden weight loss, dehydration or excessive thirst, constipation, or unusual stool.

Seek veterinary advice if your dog doesn’t eat for 24 hours, or if they have a pattern of not eating, paired with lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Early intervention can prevent health complications and may provide your veterinarian an easier time with diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dogs go through phases of not eating?

Minor, short-term appetite changes may happen due to stress, weather, or routine shifts. Did you get a new job and different hours? Did you recently move? Changes in your dog’s life can cause enough anxiety to unbalance them, creating temporary eating deficits.

Why is your dog not eating food but acting normal otherwise?

Dogs can sometimes be picky or bored with their food. Dental pain or other underlying health issues can be factors—it’s important to monitor your dog’s eating habits and schedule a checkup at Paoli Vetcare.

How long is it OK for a dog not to eat?

While dogs may disrupt their own eating schedules, if they don’t eat for 24 hours or more, it can be concerning. Your dog’s age is also a factor here, as prolonged fasting can lead to more serious health risks.

Should I force-feed my dog if they won’t eat?

Force-feeding at home is generally unsafe and stressful for dogs. Pet owners should always seek veterinary guidance, where appetite stimulants or medical intervention can be safely provided.

Schedule a Visit With Paoli Vetcare Today

We’ve set the standard of vet care on the Philadelphia Main Line for over 60 years. AAHA-accredited vet practices like Paoli Vetcare are at the heart of better care for pets and their people. We hold ourselves to a higher standard (up to 900 higher standards, in fact). Pets are our passion, and keeping them healthy is our number-one priority. We strive to deliver excellent care for pets—because pets deserve nothing less.

Contact Paoli Vetcare today to experience our compassionate care, trusted reputation, and convenient location. Schedule a New Client Exam with us and start your dog on the right path for life.

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