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It can be concerning when your dog is not eating. While some dogs are naturally picky, for others, a dog not eating food can be a sign that something is wrong.
As a veterinarian, I can tell you that this is a common and nonspecific clinical sign, meaning it can be caused by many different things, ranging from mild and easily treatable to severe.
If your dog refuses to eat for more than one or two meals, your next step should be to have them evaluated by a veterinarian.
Most of the time, a dog’s lack of interest in eating is just a passing phase, not a reason for concern. However, changes in your dog’s eating patterns for more than one to two days may indicate an issue with their health.
Let’s explore some of the common reasons why your dog might not be eating.
1. Illness or Disease
If your pup isn’t feeling well, it can certainly impact their desire to eat. Certain illnesses and health conditions can cause decreased or lack of appetite. That’s why it’s important to rule out some of the more serious causes with a veterinarian.
Some examples are:
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A GI Tract Obstruction - symptoms are chronic vomiting of food and water and pain (always treated as a medical emergency).
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GI disease
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Cancer
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Certain Infections
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Dental Disease
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Systemic diseases (such as kidney, liver, heart, endocrine disease, etc.)
2. Pain
Often, when a dog is not eating, it is a sign that they may be physically uncomfortable or in pain. This includes dental pain in dogs, too.
Look for other signs that your dog may be in pain, and check in with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
3. Stress
If your pup has experienced changes in the family or home environment, this can impact their appetite. Examples of lifestyle changes that could lead to your dog’s refusal to eat are:
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A change in routine
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A new baby or pet in the family
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The loss of a pet
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Staying with a pet sitter or boarding facility
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Changes in the family structure
Does My Dog Have Anxiety?
1. Does your dog bark a lot when you’re not at home?
2. Is your dog panting a lot more than usual?
3. Is your dog destructive when left alone (chewing, digging, or shredding)?
4. Is your dog having accidents inside the house more than usual?
5. Is your dog drooling more than usual?
6. Is your dog shedding or losing hair in patches more than usual?
7. Does your dog seem like they are on high alert (can’t relax, overly watchful, or pacing)?
8. Is your dog demonstrating repetitive behaviors (spinning, digging, biting their paws or tail)?
9. Has your dog experienced sleep changes recently (sleeping a lot more or less than usual)?
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Does My Dog Have Anxiety?
1. Does your dog bark a lot when you’re not at home?
2. Is your dog panting a lot more than usual?
3. Is your dog destructive when left alone (chewing, digging, or shredding)?
4. Is your dog having accidents inside the house more than usual?
5. Is your dog drooling more than usual?
6. Is your dog shedding or losing hair in patches more than usual?
7. Does your dog seem like they are on high alert (can’t relax, overly watchful, or pacing)?
8. Is your dog demonstrating repetitive behaviors (spinning, digging, biting their paws or tail)?
9. Has your dog experienced sleep changes recently (sleeping a lot more or less than usual)?
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4. Medications
It is common for a dog to stop eating temporarily when starting a new medication. Other medications may impact appetite as a side effect. Ask your veterinarian if this is possible when your pet is prescribed a new medication.
5. Vaccinations
If your puppy or adult dog has been recently vaccinated, reduced appetite is a common side effect of some vaccinations. Your pup’s appetite should return to normal within a day or two.
6. Issues With the Food Itself
If your dog food is spoiled or stale, it may be less appealing to your pup. Some dogs are picky eaters and may boycott a new food they don’t like or food they’ve become bored with.
Try to entice your dog with a food topper or mix in wet food to see if this is the likely problem.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If your dog skips a meal or two and is otherwise doing well, you can monitor them at home. If the change in their appetite becomes a pattern, they are showing signs that they are in pain, vomiting, or having diarrhea, it is time to consult with a vet.
Our in-home sick pet visits offer a calm, stress-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I worry about my dog not eating?
If your dog has not eaten in more than one or two days or is displaying any other changes in behavior, it’s best to reach out to your veterinarian to rule out any medical cause.
What can you do for a dog that won't eat?
The treatment for a dog who won’t eat will depend on the cause. Picky eaters can often be enticed to eat if offered a new food or tasty mix-in. If your dog is reacting to a vaccine, a change in routine, or a new medication, this will likely be a temporary issue. However, whenever your normally healthy eater loses interest in eating, it’s always best to have them checked out by a veterinarian.
Why is my dog not eating food but acting normally?
This could be for any of the reasons included above. Because a dog not eating food is a non-specific symptom, it’s important to remain watchful and monitor your pet’s appetite over the next two to three days.
How long can a dog go without eating?
Healthy dogs can typically go without food for three to five days, provided they have access to water. However, seeking veterinary attention sooner is essential to address any underlying issues and ensure the dog's well-being.
What tests are performed to determine why a dog is not eating?
Diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, ultrasound, and sometimes advanced imaging may be necessary. These tests help identify underlying health conditions and guide treatment decisions.
