'Why is my dog not eating?' is a frequent question among pet parents. Dogs’ appetites, just like humans’, can vary depending on diverse factors. Thus, if your dog decides to skip a meal or two, there is nothing to worry about. He’s probably just too full from yesterday or may have a mild stomach ache. However, when a dog is reluctant to eat for more than 24 hours, it’s time for us to take action.
Naturally, this doesn’t only refer to not eating. All dogs are different and every dog expresses his emotions in his own way. Your dog can start eating less, lose some weight, vomit, be lethargic, refuse treats, etc. Any change in his eating behavior is worth being examined.
Why is my dog not eating his food anymore?
First of all, don't panic: It’s important for you to know that when a dog is not eating, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he is sick or has a serious condition.
Your dogs’ health is a complex matter and should be treated as such. So, why is my dog not eating? There are several reasons why a dog might be losing his appetite all of a sudden:
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Illness: Sometimes, loss of appetite can be a symptom of illness. However, illnesses will usually come accompanied by other notorious symptoms like fever, pain, lethargy, to name a few. If your dog shows two or more symptoms, you should go to the vet for a checkup, to get the right diagnosis.
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Dental disease: One of the symptoms of dental disease is showing difficulty in eating. Just like we wouldn't eat meat or stale bread when we are experiencing a toothache, dogs will not eat dry kibble that is hard on their teeth. Gum disease can be extremely painful and bothersome, and it can make your dog reluctant to eat. Dental care is essential: Approximately 80% of dogs will develop a form of dental disease throughout their lives. You can check all our dental products to provide your dog the right oral care he needs.
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Anxiety: This is one of the most common causes of loss of appetite. Has it happened to you that you leave your house and when you come back your dog hasn’t even touched the food bowl? Some dogs suffer from anxiety, and this anxiety worsens when they are left alone. You can try giving him Hemp Calming Treats to soothe him out and provide relief.
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Meds: Take into account that if your dog is under the effect of any medication, this can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and change in his appetite. Always consult with your vet if your dog is showing at least one of these symptoms.
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Food preferences: Another cause that may be leading to not eating is your pups’ food preferences. Imagine if you had to eat every day the same food, over and over again. Even if you love that food in the beginning, you will probably end up hating it. To make it a little more interesting, mix things up: try new foods, flavors, and textures. You can also soften his dry food with some water, and try some new dog treats.
- Depression: Last in order but equally important, your pup can be suffering from depression. New environments can make dogs feel anxious, stressed, or depressed and cause a change in their eating routine. Pay special attention to sudden changes in his life: moving houses, unfamiliar surroundings, the arrival of a new family member, or your neighbor’s dog passing away. A small and even imperceptible change for you, can have a great impact on your dog's life.
