It’s a common concern for any dog owner: “my dog won’t eat what can I give him?” Just like humans, a dog’s appetite can diminish when they’re feeling unwell. A single missed meal might not be a cause for alarm, but if your dog consistently refuses food, it’s crucial to understand the underlying reasons and know the best course of action. This guide will help you identify why your canine companion might be avoiding their food, suggest effective strategies and suitable foods to entice them, and clarify when it’s time to seek professional veterinary help.
Understanding Why Your Dog May Refuse Food
A loss of appetite in dogs can stem from various issues, ranging from minor discomforts to more serious health problems. Recognizing these potential causes is the first step in addressing your dog’s reluctance to eat.
Common reasons a dog might lose their appetite include:
- Illness or Infection: Many diseases can cause nausea, pain, or general malaise, leading to a decreased desire to eat.
- Disease: Chronic conditions, organ issues, or dental problems can all impact appetite.
- Recovery from Surgery: Post-operative discomfort, pain medication side effects, or stress can suppress hunger.
- Mourning a Death: Dogs can experience grief, which may manifest as a lack of interest in food.
- Aging: Older dogs might have reduced appetites due to slower metabolism, dental issues, or other age-related conditions.
- Stress or Anxiety: Changes in environment, new pets, or separation anxiety can lead to temporary appetite loss.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately
While a temporary loss of appetite might resolve on its own, certain accompanying symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when your dog exhibits signs of distress alongside food refusal.
You should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for an examination and potential testing if your dog shows any of the following symptoms in conjunction with a loss of appetite:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or extreme tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent diarrhea
- Gagging or difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing or unusual breathing
- Coughing
Effective Strategies to Encourage a Sick Dog to Eat
If your dog is turning away from their food, there are several methods you can try to stimulate their appetite. Finding the right approach often depends on your dog’s specific preferences and the reason for their reduced hunger. It might take some patience and experimentation to discover what works best for your furry friend.
Sick Labrador lying on a white couch
Allow Some Time and Monitor Hydration
If your dog won’t eat, the first step is often to allow them some time. Dogs can typically go for a day or two without eating much. However, it is crucial to ensure they are drinking water regularly. It’s normal for a dog to occasionally turn down a meal, just as people aren’t always hungry. You might consider leaving your dog’s food out for them to graze on throughout the day if they become hungry. Prioritize water intake above all else during this period.
Offer Special Treats or “Human” Food (Plain & Safe)
Sometimes, the allure of something new and delicious can tempt a sick dog to eat. Try offering a small amount of human food that they don’t normally get. Plain, cooked chicken (without skin or bones) or even meat-based baby food (ensure no onion or garlic) can be incredibly enticing. Start with a very small portion to see if they show interest. If they do, you can gradually mix a little with their existing dry food to encourage them to return to their regular diet. Remember not to overindulge them, as excessive treats can negatively impact their health.
Consider Changing Dry Food Brands or Adding Wet Food
If your dog typically eats dry kibble and has suddenly lost interest, another brand or type of food might be a better fit. You could try a small sample pack from a pet store. Alternatively, mixing in some wet dog food can significantly increase palatability and stimulate a dog’s appetite more than dry food alone. Many dogs find wet food to be an exciting treat.
Warm Up Your Dog’s Food
Heating your dog’s food can make a big difference. Warming food enhances its aroma and taste, which is particularly helpful for sick dogs who might have a dulled sense of smell and taste. Food that smells more fragrant can help entice your dog to take that first bite, and improved taste can encourage them to continue eating.
Add Broth to Your Dog’s Food
Adding warm broth to your dog’s food can boost both its smell and flavor, similar to warming the food itself. Chicken or bone broth can add a delicious extra layer of taste that may be just the thing to get a dog who has become uninterested in their current food to start eating again. Ensure the broth is low in sodium and free of onions or garlic.
Hand-Feed Your Dog
Owner gently hand-feeding their dog individual pieces of food
Some dogs find comfort and encouragement in being hand-fed when they are not feeling well. Try offering individual pieces of your dog’s food directly from your hand. This personal interaction can often soothe a sick pet and encourage them to eat. While this process might take some time, your dog may eventually feel comfortable enough to eat from their bowl on their own.
Review Instructions for Any Medication
Certain medications, such as antibiotics, can sometimes reduce a dog’s appetite. If your dog is currently on any medication, carefully read the instructions. Some medications recommend waiting a certain period before feeding. For instance, waiting at least fifteen minutes after administering medication can ensure it settles in their stomach before food arrives, potentially reducing any stomach upset that could affect appetite.
Allow Your Dog to Eat Grass (With Caution)
If your dog is refusing their regular food but shows interest in eating grass, you might allow them to do so, though with caution. Eating grass can sometimes induce vomiting, which may actually help if your dog is feeling ill due to an upset stomach. Just ensure your dog remains well-hydrated. However, if your dog vomits more than twice, or consistently eats grass every time they go outside, this is a clear sign that a veterinary visit is necessary.
Stimulate Your Dog’s Appetite with Vet-Prescribed Medications
If your dog has refused food for an extended period or has a health condition known to suppress appetite, your veterinarian might prescribe or recommend a medicinal appetite stimulant. These stimulants can work by reducing nausea or by mimicking hormones that trigger hunger. This approach requires a proper diagnosis from your vet to ensure the correct stimulant is prescribed for your dog’s specific condition.
Syringe Feeding (Only Under Veterinary Guidance)
Force-feeding via a syringe is a measure of last resort and should only be attempted if other methods have failed and, critically, only under the direct guidance of your veterinarian. If your dog hasn’t eaten in two days and your vet has approved it, you can try using a syringe to administer liquids like broth or watered-down wet food. Your veterinarian can demonstrate the correct and safe way to syringe-feed your pet to prevent aspiration pneumonia or other negative health effects.
Best Foods to Offer When Your Dog Won’t Eat
When your dog is sick and refusing their regular meals, certain foods are often more appealing and easier on an upset stomach. These options can help provide essential nutrients and hydration during their recovery.
Wet Dog Food
If your dog typically eats dry kibble, introducing wet food can be a game-changer. For many dogs, wet food is an exciting and highly palatable treat. An added benefit is its higher water content, which can contribute to your dog’s hydration, especially important if they’re not drinking much water.
Baby Food
Plain, meat-based baby food can be very appetizing and easy for sick dogs to eat. Look for varieties made from chicken, lamb, or turkey, and always ensure they contain no onion or garlic, as these ingredients are toxic to dogs. Baby food can provide much-needed nutrients in a highly digestible form.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is an excellent choice for a sick dog. It’s incredibly mild, nutritious, and usually sits well in an upset stomach. If your dog has a suppressed appetite, bone broth can be a gentle way to introduce essential nutrients and encourage them to consume some liquid.
Chicken Broth
Similar to bone broth, chicken broth offers a delicious flavor that dogs enjoy and is typically easy on a sensitive stomach. If an upset stomach is contributing to the loss of appetite, a low-sodium chicken broth can be a comforting and palatable option.
Shredded Chicken
Shredded chicken and white rice, often used for sick dogs
Unseasoned, boiled shredded chicken is a highly appealing food for most dogs. It’s easy for dogs with upset stomachs to digest and can be a significant incentive for them to eat something. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and cut into small, manageable pieces.
Chicken and Rice
A classic bland diet for sick dogs, chicken and white rice are common ingredients in many commercial dog foods. When boiled (unseasoned) and mixed, this combination is gentle on an upset stomach. Make sure the chicken is well-cooked and cut into small pieces, and use plain white rice, as brown rice can be harder to digest for sensitive stomachs.
Pumpkin
Canned, plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugars and spices) is beneficial for canine digestion. It’s rich in fiber and packed with vitamins like A and C, along with minerals such as iron and magnesium. Offer your dog a few tablespoons of unseasoned canned pumpkin to aid digestion and provide nutrients.
The Critical Importance of Hydration
When your dog won’t eat, it’s easy to focus solely on food intake and inadvertently overlook the importance of water. However, adequate hydration is arguably more critical than food intake. Dogs can naturally go longer without food, but their tolerance for not drinking water is significantly less. While a dog can survive for several days without food, they can typically only go about three days without water intake. You should never force your dog to drink, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia. If your dog isn’t eating or drinking for 48 hours or more, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention.
How to Encourage Water Intake
If your dog is showing little interest in drinking water, try these tricks to encourage hydration:
- Offer an ice cube for them to lick.
- Present water on your fingers, which can be less intimidating than a bowl.
- If recommended and approved by your vet, offer Pedialyte (unflavored).
- Add a few ice cubes to their water bowl; some dogs prefer cooler water.
Signs of Dehydration
Closely monitor your dog for any signs of dehydration. Familiarize yourself with these common symptoms:
- Loss of appetite (can be a symptom of dehydration itself)
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of skin elasticity (skin tenting when gently pulled up)
- Dry and sticky gums
- A dry nose
- Sunken or dry-looking eyes
If your pet exhibits any signs of dehydration, seek immediate veterinary attention. Your veterinarian can provide subcutaneous fluids to quickly rehydrate them while also working to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of their sickness.
Foods to Avoid When Your Dog is Sick
When your dog is unwell, it’s essential to be extra cautious about what they consume. Avoid feeding them anything too rich, as this can further upset their digestive system or worsen existing symptoms. If your dog typically gets human food frequently, it’s wise to reduce these treats when they’re sick.
It’s also crucial to ensure your dog hasn’t had access to any of the following substances, as they are toxic or harmful to dogs:
| Don’t Feed Your Dog: | Because… |
|---|---|
| Xylitol | It can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure. |
| Avocado | Avocado seeds can cause an intestinal obstruction, and the persin in the avocado itself can cause illness in some animals. |
| Grapes or Raisins | These can cause acute kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. |
| Caffeine | Found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks, caffeine can be fatal to dogs. |
| Onions or Garlic | These alliums can cause red blood cell damage (anemia) or poisoning. |
| Alcohol | Can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, breathing problems, tremors, coma, and even death. |
| Milk or Other Dairy Products | Many dogs are lactose intolerant and can experience diarrhea and digestive problems. |
| Human Medication | Medicines intended for humans can be toxic and potentially fatal for dogs. Always consult a vet before administering any medication. |
| Chocolate | Contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and potentially death, depending on the type and amount consumed. |
| Sugar | Sugary foods can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and potentially diabetes in dogs. |
| Macadamia Nuts | Can cause muscle weakness, tremors, vomiting, fever, and depression. |
| Raw Eggs | Pose a risk of salmonella or E.coli infection, and can interfere with biotin absorption. |
| Raw Fish or Meat | Can carry parasites or bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli, which can make your dog very sick. |
| Uncooked Yeast Dough | Can expand in the dog’s stomach, causing bloating and potentially a life-threatening condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), and the yeast can produce alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning. |
| Fat Trimmings | Can cause pancreatitis in dogs, a serious inflammation of the pancreas. |
| Spices, Baking Powder, or Baking Soda | Many spices, as well as baking powder and baking soda, can be toxic to dogs or cause severe digestive upset. |
| Bones | Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or serious damage to the digestive system. Raw bones also carry risks of bacterial contamination and tooth fractures. |
| Fruits with Seeds or Pits | Seeds and pits from many fruits (like apples, cherries, peaches) contain cyanide and can cause digestive problems or be poisonous. Always remove them. |
| Salt | Too much salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning, causing vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death. It also contributes to dehydration. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs Not Eating
When Shouldn’t I Feed My Sick Dog?
If your dog has been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, it is generally recommended to wait at least twelve hours after the last episode before attempting to offer food again. Feeding too soon might further upset their stomach and lead to more vomiting. If vomiting or diarrhea persists for two days or more, always take your dog to the vet.
How Much Should I Feed My Sick Dog?
The amount of food you should give a sick dog depends on their size, the nature of their illness, and their specific needs. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice. Additionally, let your dog guide you; if they eat some but then refuse more, wait a while before offering food again. Small, frequent meals are often better than large ones for a sensitive stomach.
Do Sick Dogs Lose Their Sense of Smell?
Smell is a dog’s most powerful sense, and various factors can affect it. While illness alone doesn’t necessarily cause a loss of smell, conditions like allergies, infections, a dry nose, or old age can certainly diminish it. An impaired sense of smell can make food less appealing, which is why warming food helps.
What Else Can I Do to Help My Dog?
Ensuring your dog is comfortable is paramount. Provide them with a soft, clean bed in a quiet area where they can rest undisturbed. If they are up to it, short, gentle walks can sometimes help stimulate their appetite or simply provide a change of scenery. Crucially, try not to let your dog sense your anxiety. Dogs are very perceptive and can pick up on human emotions, which can add to their stress if you appear nervous.
How Long Can a Dog Go Without Food?
Dogs can typically go three to five days without food, though this is far from ideal and should be avoided if possible. If your dog has gone two days without food, it is highly recommended to call a veterinarian if you haven’t already. More important than food intake is water intake; dogs have a much lower tolerance for dehydration. While you shouldn’t force them, encourage water consumption.
Should I Feed My Dog After They Throw Up?
It is generally best to withhold food from your dog for a few hours after they vomit. This allows you time to observe their behavior for any other concerning symptoms and to see if the vomiting continues. Always ensure fresh water is available to your dog, even after they have thrown up.
Should You Force-Feed a Sick Dog?
Veterinary technician force-feeding a dog using a syringe
Force-feeding a dog using a syringe should only be considered if your dog has not eaten for more than 48 hours and, most importantly, only after your veterinarian has examined your pet and explicitly approved this method. Your vet can demonstrate how to safely force-feed your pet liquids or watered-down food during an examination, ensuring it is done correctly to avoid harm.
What to Do If Your Dog Still Refuses Food After 48 Hours
If your dog is still refusing food after 48 hours, it’s a clear signal that immediate veterinary care is essential. Prolonged lack of nutrition and hydration can quickly worsen a dog’s condition. An expert team of veterinary professionals can accurately diagnose the underlying issue and implement the necessary treatment to help your furry friend recover and regain their appetite.
When your dog won’t eat, it’s a concerning situation that requires careful observation and often, professional advice. By understanding the potential reasons, trying gentle encouragement with suitable foods, and knowing when to seek veterinary help, you can provide the best care for your beloved companion. Never hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you are worried about your dog’s appetite or overall health.
