It’s always concerning when your beloved canine companion turns their nose up at mealtime. Just like humans, dogs can lose their appetite when they’re feeling under the weather. While one skipped meal might not be a cause for alarm, persistent refusal to eat can signal a deeper issue and requires your attention. Understanding why your dog might not be eating and knowing the right steps to encourage them can make all the difference in their recovery.
A dog’s refusal to eat, medically known as inappetence or anorexia, can stem from a variety of reasons, ranging from minor discomforts to more serious health conditions. It’s important to observe your dog closely for any accompanying symptoms, as this can provide crucial clues about the underlying cause. Keeping your dog well-nourished, even when they’re sick, is vital for their healing process and overall well-being.
Why Your Dog Might Be Refusing Food
A dog’s loss of appetite can be attributed to several factors. Identifying the potential cause can help you decide on the best course of action. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Illness or Infection: Many illnesses, from a simple stomach upset to more complex conditions, can lead to a decrease in appetite.
- Disease: Chronic diseases affecting organs like the kidneys, liver, or heart can impact a dog’s desire to eat.
- Recovery from Surgery: Post-operative pain or the lingering effects of anesthesia can temporarily suppress appetite.
- Mourning a Death: Dogs can experience grief, which may manifest as a loss of interest in food.
- Aging: Older dogs may have a reduced sense of smell or taste, dental problems, or slower metabolism, leading to decreased food intake.
- Stress or Anxiety: Changes in environment, separation anxiety, or fear can cause a dog to stop eating.
- Dental Issues: Painful teeth or gums can make eating uncomfortable.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause nausea or stomach upset, leading to a refusal to eat.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
While a temporary loss of appetite might resolve on its own, certain symptoms warrant immediate veterinary attention. If your dog exhibits any of the following signs in conjunction with not eating, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for an examination and potential testing:
- Persistent Vomiting
- Lethargy or extreme fatigue
- Significant Weight Loss
- Diarrhea
- Gagging or difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Coughing
- Signs of pain or discomfort
- Not drinking water
These symptoms can indicate a serious health problem that requires professional diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can significantly improve your dog’s prognosis.
Effective Methods for Encouraging Your Sick Dog to Eat
When your dog is unwell and refusing food, it can be a distressing time for any pet owner. Fortunately, there are several gentle and practical methods you can try to stimulate their appetite. The most effective approach often depends on your dog’s specific condition and preferences, so don’t be discouraged if the first method you try doesn’t yield immediate results. Patience and persistence are key.
Give Them Some Time
Sometimes, the simplest solution is to allow your dog a little time. Healthy dogs can typically go for a day or two without eating solid food without severe consequences, provided they are still drinking water. It’s not uncommon for dogs, much like people, to occasionally skip a meal if they’re not feeling hungry. You might consider leaving their food bowl out for a while, allowing them to graze throughout the day if their appetite returns. However, always ensure they have constant access to fresh water.
Offer Special Treats
If your dog isn’t feeling well, you can try enticing them with foods they don’t normally get. Human foods, when safe and offered in moderation, can be incredibly appealing. Options like plain, cooked chicken or even unseasoned baby food (meat-based, without onion or garlic) can be so irresistible that your dog might be tempted to eat. Start with a very small amount to see if they show interest. If they do, you can try mixing a bit of this special food with their regular dry kibble to encourage them to eat their usual diet alongside the treat. Remember not to overindulge your dog in these treats, as it could negatively affect their health or lead to a picky eater.
Sick Labrador resting on a white couch
Experiment with Different Dry Food Brands or Wet Food
If your dog consistently struggles with their current dry food, a different brand might be a better fit. Many pet stores offer sample packs, allowing you to test various options without committing to a large bag. Alternatively, introducing wet food can often stimulate a dog’s appetite more effectively than dry kibble due to its richer aroma and more palatable texture. Wet food can also contribute to their hydration.
Warm Up Their Food
Heating your dog’s food, whether dry or wet, can significantly enhance its aroma and palatability. Sick dogs often have a diminished sense of smell and taste, making unheated food less appealing. Warming the food slightly can make it more fragrant and enticing, encouraging your dog to take that first bite and continue eating. Ensure the food is only warm, not hot, to prevent burning their mouth.
Add Broth to Their Food
Adding warm, unsalted chicken or bone broth to your dog’s regular food can work wonders. Not only does it boost the smell and palatability, similar to heating the food, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor that might pique a sick dog’s interest. If your dog has grown tired of the taste of their current food, the new flavor profile from the broth could be just what’s needed to get them eating again. Ensure the broth contains no onions, garlic, or excessive salt.
Hand-Feed Your Dog
Sometimes, a bit of personal attention can go a long way. Try hand-feeding individual pieces of your dog’s food. This can provide comfort to a dog that isn’t feeling well and may encourage them to eat. This process might take some time, but hopefully, after you’ve hand-fed them a few pieces, your dog will feel secure enough to start eating from their bowl on their own.
An owner gently hand-feeding their dog
Understand Medication Instructions
Certain medications, particularly antibiotics, can reduce a dog’s appetite or cause stomach upset. If your dog is on any medication, carefully read all instructions. Some medications require administration with food, while others might need to be given on an empty stomach, with food offered later. If instructed to wait, ensure you wait at least 15 minutes after giving medication before offering food. This allows the medicine to settle in their stomach and coat it properly before food arrives, potentially minimizing discomfort.
Allow Them to Eat Grass (with caution)
If your dog is refusing their regular food but keeps trying to eat grass, you should generally let them. Eating grass can sometimes induce vomiting, which might actually be beneficial if your dog has an upset stomach. If whatever is making them feel ill could be eased by vomiting, their instincts might be leading them to consume grass. However, this comes with a caveat: keep your dog well-hydrated. If your dog vomits more than twice, or if they eat grass every time they’re outside, it’s a clear sign that a veterinary visit is necessary. For more information on what to avoid, you can check our guide on what vegetables can you feed your dog.
Two brown dachshunds chewing on grass outdoors
When to Seek Veterinary Care
A visit to the veterinarian is always a wise decision if your dog is sick and won’t eat. Your vet can accurately diagnose what ails your dog and recommend the most appropriate course of action to get them feeling better. They can also prescribe necessary medications, whether to treat the underlying illness or specifically to encourage appetite. Never hesitate to consult a professional when your dog’s health is at stake.
Appetite Stimulants
If your dog has refused food for an extended period or has a medical condition that naturally suppresses appetite, your vet might prescribe or recommend a medicinal appetite stimulant. These can range from medications that reduce nausea to those that mimic the hormones responsible for hunger. This approach requires a proper veterinary diagnosis to ensure the correct stimulant is administered for your dog’s specific condition.
Syringe-Feeding (Last Resort)
Syringe-feeding is a more drastic measure and should only be attempted if other methods have failed and, crucially, after consulting with your veterinarian. If your dog hasn’t eaten in two days, you might carefully use a syringe to feed them liquids like broth or watered-down wet food. If your vet has prescribed liquid medication, a syringe can also be used for administration. It is paramount to speak with a vet before trying this, as improper syringe-feeding can lead to aspiration pneumonia or other negative health effects. Your veterinarian can demonstrate the correct and safe technique.
Best Foods to Offer a Sick Dog
When your dog is sick, certain foods are more appealing and easier on their sensitive stomach. These options are often bland, easy to digest, and can provide essential nutrients without causing further upset.
Wet Food
If your dog typically eats dry kibble, offering wet food can be a game-changer. For many dogs, wet food is a highly anticipated treat due to its strong aroma and soft texture. An added benefit is its higher water content, which can help keep your dog hydrated, especially if they’re not drinking much.
Baby Food
Plain, meat-based baby food can be an excellent option for a sick dog. It’s incredibly easy to eat, usually palatable, and can be quite nutritious. When choosing baby food, always opt for varieties that contain only meat (like chicken, lamb, or turkey) and are free from onion, garlic, or any other seasonings, as these can be toxic to dogs.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a mild yet highly nutritious option that is very gentle on an upset stomach. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. If your dog has a suppressed appetite, a good quality bone broth can be an effective way to provide some much-needed nutrients and encourage them to consume liquids.
Chicken Broth
Similar to bone broth, unsalted chicken broth is not only appetizing but also easy on a dog’s stomach. If the underlying cause of their appetite loss is an upset stomach, plain chicken broth can be a comforting and digestible food to try, helping them stay hydrated and providing some energy.
Shredded Chicken
Plain, boiled, unseasoned shredded chicken is a top favorite for many dogs. It’s easy for dogs with upset stomachs to digest and often acts as a significant incentive for them to eat something. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and cut into small, manageable pieces. Avoid any seasonings, as these can further irritate a sensitive digestive system.
Chicken and Rice
The classic chicken and rice combination is a go-to for many veterinarians recommending a bland diet. Both ingredients are commonly found in commercial dog foods. Use unseasoned, boiled white rice and thoroughly cooked, unseasoned chicken cut into small pieces. This simple, bland meal is gentle on an upset stomach and provides essential carbohydrates and protein for energy.
Pumpkin
Pure, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is excellent for your dog’s digestion. It’s rich in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements, and contains numerous vitamins, including A and C, along with minerals like iron and magnesium. Offer your dog about four tablespoons of unseasoned canned pumpkin. Avoid pumpkin pie filling due to its high sugar content and spices, which could exacerbate stomach upset.
The Critical Importance of Water
While your focus might naturally be on getting your dog to eat, water intake is arguably even more crucial. Dogs can survive for several days (typically three to five) without food, but their tolerance for dehydration is much lower, generally only lasting up to three days without water. If your dog is refusing to eat, prioritizing hydration becomes paramount. You should never force your dog to drink, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia, a serious condition where liquid enters the lungs. If you are concerned about what other items your dog shouldn’t ingest, please refer to our detailed guide on what not to feed dogs list.
Strategies to Encourage Water Intake
If your dog isn’t showing interest in their water bowl, try these tricks to encourage them to drink:
- Ice Cubes: Many dogs find licking an ice cube appealing.
- Water on Your Fingers: Offer small amounts of water from your fingers; the interaction can sometimes encourage them.
- Pedialyte: Only if recommended and approved by your vet, Pedialyte can help restore electrolytes.
- Ice in Water Bowl: The coldness and novelty of ice in their bowl might tempt them to drink.
Recognizing Signs of Dehydration
Closely monitor your dog for any signs of dehydration, as this requires immediate action. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite (can be both a cause and a symptom)
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of skin elasticity (skin tenting when gently pulled up)
- Dry and sticky gums
- A dry nose
- Sunken, dry-looking eyes
If your pet exhibits any signs of dehydration, seek immediate veterinary attention. Your vet can administer subcutaneous fluids to quickly rehydrate them while addressing the underlying cause of their sickness. For more comprehensive information about safe fruits and vegetables, you can explore what fruits and vegetables can dogs not eat and what fruits and vegetables can dogs not have.
What Not to Feed a Sick Dog
When your dog is unwell, it’s just as important to know what not to feed them as what to offer. Avoid anything too rich or fatty, as these can further upset a sensitive stomach and potentially trigger pancreatitis. Also, be vigilant about common human foods and ingredients that are toxic to dogs.
If your dog is already sick, double-check that they haven’t had access to any of the following:
- Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products, it can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure.
- Avocado: While the flesh isn’t highly toxic, the pit can cause an obstruction, and some dogs may be sensitive to persin in the fruit, causing illness.
- Grapes or Raisins: Highly toxic and can cause acute kidney failure.
- Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, and some sodas, it can be fatal to dogs.
- Onions or Garlic: These alliums can cause red blood cell damage, leading to anemia or poisoning.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, breathing problems, disorientation, and potentially death.
- Milk or Other Dairy Products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, leading to diarrhea and other digestive problems.
- Human Medication: Never give your dog human medications without veterinary guidance, as they can cause illness and even death.
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and death depending on the amount and type.
- Sugar and Sugary Foods: Can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and potentially diabetes.
- Macadamia Nuts: Can cause weakness, muscle shakes, vomiting, and other neurological symptoms.
- Raw Eggs: Carry a risk of salmonella or E.coli infection, and avidin (an enzyme in raw egg whites) can interfere with biotin absorption.
- Raw Fish or Meat: Can contain bacteria (like Salmonella, E.coli) or parasites that are harmful to dogs.
- Uncooked Yeast Dough: Can rise in your dog’s stomach, causing painful bloating, and produce alcohol, leading to alcohol poisoning.
- Fat Trimmings: Excess fat can cause pancreatitis, a painful and potentially severe inflammation of the pancreas.
- Spices, Baking Powder, or Baking Soda: Many spices can be irritating or toxic, and baking ingredients can cause electrolyte imbalances or gastric upset.
- Bones (cooked or raw): Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage. Raw bones carry a risk of bacteria and can also cause obstructions or dental damage.
- Fruits with Seeds or Pits: Seeds and pits can cause digestive obstructions or may contain cyanide, which is poisonous.
- Salt: Too much salt can lead to salt poisoning, causing vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and dehydration.
If you’re unsure about specific meats, please consult our guide on what meat is dangerous for dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Feeding a Sick Dog
When shouldn’t I feed my sick dog?
If your dog has been vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, it’s generally best to withhold food for at least 12 hours after the last episode. Feeding them too soon could upset their stomach further and trigger more vomiting. During this time, ensure they have access to fresh water. If vomiting or diarrhea persists for two days or more, always consult your vet.
How much should I feed my sick dog?
The amount of food suitable for a sick dog depends on their individual size, the nature of their illness, and their current appetite. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for specific guidance. In general, let your dog be your guide. Offer small, frequent meals rather than large ones. If your dog eats a little but then refuses more, wait a while before offering food again. Do not force them to eat beyond their comfort level.
Do sick dogs lose their sense of smell?
While illness itself doesn’t automatically diminish a dog’s sense of smell, various factors associated with sickness can affect it. Allergies, nasal infections, or even old age can impact their olfactory abilities. If your dog’s nose is dry, that can also temporarily decrease their sense of smell. Since smell is paramount to a dog’s appetite, a hindered sense of smell can definitely contribute to refusal to eat.
What else can I do to help my dog feel better?
Beyond food and water, ensuring your dog’s comfort is vital. Provide a comfortable, quiet, and warm place for them to rest. If they’re up to it, short, gentle walks might help stimulate their appetite and relieve boredom. Crucially, try not to let your dog see that you’re nervous or stressed. Dogs are highly perceptive and can pick up on human emotions, which could add to their own stress levels. A calm, reassuring presence from you can significantly aid their recovery.
How long can a dog go without food?
Dogs can typically go without food for three to five days. However, this is not ideal, and if your dog has gone two days without eating, it is highly recommended to contact a veterinarian if you haven’t already. More critical than food intake is their water consumption. If you’re struggling to encourage your dog to eat, focus intensely on keeping them hydrated without forcing them to drink.
Should I feed my dog after they throw up?
It’s generally best to withhold food from your dog for a few hours (at least 6-12) after they throw up. This allows their stomach to settle and gives you time to observe if the vomiting continues or if any other concerning symptoms arise. Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water, even after vomiting, but monitor their drinking to prevent them from gulping too much at once.
Should you force-feed a sick dog?
Force-feeding a sick dog, especially via a syringe, should only be done as a last resort and strictly under the guidance and instruction of your veterinarian. If your dog has not eaten for more than 48 hours, a vet might deem it necessary. Your veterinarian can examine your pet, determine if force-feeding is appropriate, and, most importantly, demonstrate how to safely force-feed your pet to avoid complications like aspiration.
What to Do After 48 Hours
If your dog is still refusing food and exhibiting signs of illness after 48 hours, it’s imperative to seek immediate veterinary care. A team of expert veterinary professionals can accurately diagnose the underlying issue and initiate appropriate treatment before your furry friend’s condition worsens. Prolonged lack of food and water can lead to serious complications, and professional medical intervention is crucial for their recovery and well-being.
