What Can You Give a Dog That Refuses to Eat? Expert Tips for Encouraging Appetite

Just like humans, dogs can experience a loss of appetite when they’re not feeling their best. While missing a single meal isn’t typically cause for alarm, prolonged refusal to eat can signal an underlying health issue that requires attention. As dedicated pet parents, understanding the reasons behind your dog’s reluctance to eat and knowing how to respond is crucial for their well-being. This comprehensive guide will walk you through potential causes, effective feeding methods, suitable food options, and when it’s essential to contact your veterinarian. what to feed a dog who will not eat

Why Does a Dog Lose Their Appetite?

A dog’s refusal to eat, medically known as anorexia (when a dog completely stops eating) or hyporexia (when a dog eats less than usual), can stem from a variety of factors. Pinpointing the exact cause is the first step towards helping your furry friend regain their appetite and health.

The most common reasons a dog may lose interest in food include:

• Illness or Infection: This is often the primary suspect. Many illnesses, from minor gastrointestinal upsets to more serious systemic diseases, can cause a dog to feel nauseous, lethargic, or simply too unwell to eat. Infections, whether bacterial, viral, or parasitic, can also significantly impact appetite.
• Disease: Chronic conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, dental disease, or pancreatitis can lead to persistent appetite loss. Pain associated with certain diseases, like arthritis or spinal issues, can also make eating uncomfortable.
• Recovery from Surgery: Post-operative recovery often involves pain medication and general anesthesia, both of which can temporarily suppress appetite. Dogs may also experience discomfort or nausea as they heal, contributing to their reluctance to eat.
• Mourning a Death: Dogs are highly sensitive creatures and can grieve the loss of a companion animal or a human family member. This emotional distress can manifest as a loss of appetite, lethargy, and changes in behavior.
• Aging: As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, and their sense of smell and taste may diminish. This can lead to a decreased interest in food. Dental problems common in older dogs can also make chewing painful.
• Stress or Anxiety: Environmental changes, new pets, moving to a new home, separation anxiety, or loud noises can cause significant stress in dogs, leading to temporary or prolonged appetite suppression. A stressful feeding environment can also deter a dog from eating.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications, particularly antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, or certain pain relievers, can cause nausea or stomach upset, leading to a decreased desire to eat. Always review medication instructions for potential side effects.
• Picky Eating Habits: While less common than illness, some dogs are simply picky eaters. This can be exacerbated if they are frequently offered human food or if their diet changes often.
• Environmental Factors: Excessive heat, humidity, or a change in routine can sometimes affect a dog’s appetite.

Understanding these potential causes is vital. If your dog’s refusal to eat is a new development or accompanied by other symptoms, professional veterinary advice is always recommended.

When Should You Contact Your Veterinarian?

While it’s natural for a dog to skip an occasional meal, certain symptoms combined with a loss of appetite warrant immediate veterinary attention. Timely intervention can often prevent a condition from worsening and lead to a quicker recovery.

You should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible if your dog exhibits any of the following symptoms in conjunction with a loss of appetite:

• Vomiting: Persistent or severe vomiting, especially if it contains blood or is accompanied by abdominal pain, is a serious concern.
• Lethargy: A significant decrease in energy levels, reluctance to move, or unusual drowsiness.
• Weight Loss: Noticeable or rapid weight loss over a short period.
• Diarrhea: Acute or chronic diarrhea, particularly if it’s bloody or severe.
• Gagging or Retching: Repeated attempts to vomit without producing anything, which can be a sign of a serious condition like bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus).
• Wheezing or Coughing: These respiratory symptoms, especially if new or worsening, could indicate a respiratory infection or other underlying issue.
• Changes in Drinking Habits: Extreme thirst or, conversely, a complete refusal to drink water.
• Pain or Discomfort: Whining, limping, reluctance to be touched, or any other signs of pain.
• Fever: An elevated body temperature.
• Changes in Urination/Defecation: Straining, increased frequency, or unusual color/consistency.

These symptoms, particularly when combined with an unwillingness to eat, could indicate a serious health problem requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. Early detection can make a significant difference in your dog’s prognosis. Your veterinarian can perform an examination and recommend potential testing, such as blood work or X-rays, to determine the underlying cause.

Methods for Encouraging a Dog That Refuses to Eat

If your dog is sick and refusing food, there are several gentle approaches you can try to stimulate their appetite. Remember, what works for one dog might not work for another, so be patient and try different methods. If your dog’s refusal to eat persists or worsens, always consult your vet.

Sick lab on white couch*A sick Labrador rests on a white couch, showing signs of discomfort.*

1. Give Them Time

Dogs can sometimes go a day or two without eating much, especially if they’re feeling a bit off. If your dog turns down one meal but otherwise seems fine, allow them some time. It’s not uncommon for dogs, just like people, to occasionally lack an appetite. Ensure they have constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration, which is more critical than food intake. You might consider leaving their food out for a short period (15-20 minutes) to allow them to graze if they become hungry. If they don’t eat, remove the food and try again at the next mealtime.

2. Offer an Irresistible Treat

If your dog hasn’t been feeling well, offering a special treat can sometimes entice them to eat. Human foods that are safe for dogs, like small amounts of plain, cooked chicken or even meat-based baby food (without onion or garlic), can be highly appealing. Start with a tiny portion to see if they show interest. If they do, you can try mixing a small amount with their regular dry food to encourage them to eat their usual diet. However, avoid overindulging your dog in these treats, as it can upset their stomach further or lead to an unbalanced diet.

3. Change Dry Food Brands or Add Wet Food

If your dog consistently struggles with dry kibble, the brand or texture might be the issue. Consider trying a small sample pack of a different high-quality dry food brand from your local pet store. Alternatively, mixing in some wet dog food with their dry kibble can significantly boost palatability and scent, which often stimulates a sick dog’s appetite more effectively than dry food alone. Wet food also adds extra hydration, which is beneficial. my dog wont eat what can i give him

4. Warm Up Their Food

Heating your dog’s food, whether it’s wet food or dry kibble mixed with a little warm water or broth, can dramatically increase its aroma and make it more appealing. When dogs are sick, their sense of smell and taste can be dulled. Warming food enhances its natural odors, making it more fragrant and enticing, which can help persuade your dog to take that first bite and encourage them to continue eating. Ensure the food is only lukewarm, not hot, to prevent burns.

5. Add Broth

Adding warm, low-sodium chicken or beef broth to your dog’s food can be a game-changer. Beyond just warming the food, broth introduces additional flavor that can be highly attractive to a dog whose appetite is suppressed. If your dog has become bored with their current food or is simply not feeling its taste, the savory appeal of broth might be just the thing to spark their interest and get them eating again. Always use unsalted or low-sodium broth specifically made for pets, or plain homemade broth, to avoid excessive sodium which can be harmful.

6. Hand-Feed Your Dog

Owner hand-feeding their dog with care*An owner gently hand-feeds their dog, providing comfort and encouragement during a meal.*

Sometimes, a sick or anxious dog responds well to the comfort of being hand-fed. Try offering individual pieces of food directly from your hand. This personal interaction can be very reassuring and may encourage a hesitant dog to eat. While it might take a while for them to eat a full meal this way, the goal is to get them to start, hopefully leading to them eating from their bowl on their own. This method also allows you to closely monitor how much they are consuming.

7. Review Medication Instructions

If your dog is currently on medication, especially antibiotics or other drugs known to cause gastrointestinal upset, it could be contributing to their loss of appetite. Carefully read all medication instructions. Some medications should be given with food, while others are best given on an empty stomach, or require a waiting period before food is offered. For example, waiting at least fifteen minutes after administering certain medications can ensure the medicine has settled in their stomach, potentially reducing nausea when food is introduced. Always consult your vet if you suspect medication side effects are affecting appetite.

8. Allow Them to Eat Grass (with caution)

If your dog refuses their normal food but shows interest in eating grass, you can generally allow them to do so. Many dogs instinctively eat grass when they have an upset stomach, as it can induce vomiting and help them clear whatever is bothering them. However, it’s crucial to monitor them closely. If your dog vomits more than twice after eating grass, or if grass-eating becomes a regular occurrence every time they’re outside, it’s a strong sign that a veterinary visit is needed. Always ensure your dog remains well-hydrated, especially if they are vomiting.

Two brown dachshunds eating grass in a garden*Two brown dachshunds are seen eating grass in a lush green garden.*

9. Consult Your Veterinarian

As mentioned, a veterinary visit is always a good idea if your dog is sick and won’t eat for an extended period (more than 24 hours, or sooner if other symptoms are present). Your vet can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your dog’s appetite loss and recommend the most appropriate course of action. They can also prescribe medications, whether to treat the illness directly or to act as an appetite stimulant. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for persistent anorexia.

10. Medicinal Appetite Stimulants

For dogs who have refused food for a prolonged period, or those with chronic health conditions that suppress appetite, a veterinarian might prescribe or recommend a medicinal appetite stimulant. These can work in different ways: some reduce nausea, making the dog feel more comfortable eating, while others mimic natural hormones that trigger hunger. The effectiveness of a stimulant depends on the underlying reason for appetite loss, so an accurate diagnosis from your vet is paramount before considering this option.

11. Syringe-Feeding (as a last resort and with vet guidance)

Syringe-feeding is a more intensive measure and should only be considered if other methods have failed and only after consultation with your veterinarian. If your dog hasn’t eaten in two days and is becoming weak or dehydrated, your vet might instruct you on how to syringe-feed liquids like diluted wet food, bone broth, or a veterinarian-prescribed critical care diet. It’s crucial to learn the correct technique from your vet to prevent aspiration pneumonia, where food or liquid enters the lungs. Never force-feed a dog who is unwilling to swallow or showing signs of distress.

What Foods Should I Feed My Sick Dog That Refuses to Eat?

When your dog is unwell, offering bland, easily digestible, and highly palatable foods can make a big difference in encouraging them to eat. Here are some veterinarian-recommended options that are typically well-tolerated by sick dogs:

1. Wet Dog Food

If your dog normally eats dry kibble, introducing a high-quality wet dog food can be an excellent strategy. For many dogs, wet food is a much more enticing treat due to its stronger aroma and softer texture. A significant bonus is its higher water content, which helps keep your dog hydrated, a crucial factor when they’re not eating or drinking much. Look for formulas specifically designed for sensitive stomachs if available.

2. Baby Food

Meat-based baby food (like plain chicken, lamb, or turkey purees) can be highly appetizing and easy for sick dogs to consume. It’s often bland and smooth, making it gentle on an upset stomach. Crucially, ensure the baby food contains absolutely no onion or garlic powder, as these ingredients are toxic to dogs. Always check the ingredient list thoroughly.

3. Bone Broth

Plain bone broth is not only mild and nutritious but also incredibly soothing for an upset stomach. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. If your dog has a suppressed appetite, bone broth can be a fantastic way to provide essential nutrients and hydration without overwhelming their digestive system. Ensure it’s unsalted and free of any seasonings or added vegetables like onions.

4. Chicken Broth

Similar to bone broth, plain, low-sodium chicken broth is highly palatable and easy on a sensitive stomach. Its familiar savory scent often tempts dogs to drink or lap it up, providing both hydration and a small amount of nutrients. Make sure it’s unseasoned and low in sodium to prevent further gastric upset.

5. Shredded Chicken

Plain, boiled, unseasoned shredded chicken is a go-to for many veterinarians when a dog is refusing to eat. Dogs typically adore chicken, and its soft, digestible nature makes it easy for an upset stomach to handle. Ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and shredded into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking and aid digestion. Avoid any skin or bones, and absolutely no seasonings.

6. Chicken and Rice

The classic bland diet for dogs with gastrointestinal issues, boiled chicken and white rice, is often recommended. This combination is gentle on the digestive system while providing some much-needed energy. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly boiled without any seasonings, and the white rice is cooked until soft. Mix them in a ratio of about one part chicken to two parts rice. This combination forms the base of many prescription diets for sensitive stomachs. what to feed dog that will not eat

7. Pumpkin

Plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is an excellent source of fiber and contains beneficial vitamins (A, C, E, iron, magnesium, potassium). It can help regulate digestion, whether your dog is experiencing diarrhea or constipation. Offer about four tablespoons of unseasoned canned pumpkin. The sugars and spices in pumpkin pie filling can further upset your dog’s stomach, so always opt for pure pumpkin puree.

What Are the Healthiest Foods for My Dog (Beyond Illness)?

While the focus is on tempting a sick dog to eat, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is key to preventing many illnesses. Beyond their regular dog food, certain human foods, when given in moderation, can offer significant health benefits. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s regular diet.

Here are a few healthy options:

• Cooked Eggs: A fantastic source of protein, essential amino acids, vitamins (A, D, E, K, B vitamins), and minerals like calcium. Cooked eggs are easily digestible and provide a powerful nutritional boost.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, flaxseed, and certain fish (like salmon), Omega-3s are excellent for joint health, skin and coat condition, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Your vet can recommend appropriate supplements or dietary sources.
• Mushrooms (Specific Types): While many mushrooms are toxic, certain edible types (like plain, cooked white button mushrooms or shiitake) are rich in B vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and can support the immune system. However, due to the risk of mistaken identity with toxic varieties, it’s generally safer to avoid offering wild mushrooms and to only give commercially available, well-identified, and cooked mushrooms in small amounts, after vet consultation.

Remember, a balanced commercial dog food should form the foundation of your dog’s diet. These human food additions are supplemental.

The Critical Importance of Water

When your dog is refusing to eat, it’s easy to focus solely on their food intake. However, water consumption is arguably even more critical. Dehydration can quickly become a severe issue, often accelerating the progression of illness.

Dogs can generally go for three to five days without food, but their tolerance for not drinking water is significantly less. At most, a dog can survive about three days without water intake, but serious health complications can arise much sooner. Therefore, encouraging water consumption is paramount. Do not attempt to force your dog to drink, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia, where water enters the lungs.

If your dog hasn’t eaten or drunk water for 48 hours or more, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. Dehydration can quickly become life-threatening.

How to Encourage Water Intake

If your dog is showing little interest in plain water, try these tricks to encourage them to drink:

• Offer Ice Cubes: Many dogs find licking ice cubes intriguing and refreshing. It’s a fun way to get small amounts of water into them.
• Offer Water on Your Fingers: Sometimes, a dog will lap water from your fingers, which can be less intimidating than a bowl.
• Consider Pedialyte (Vet-Approved): If recommended and approved by your vet, unflavored Pedialyte can help replenish electrolytes, but it should only be given under veterinary guidance due to its sodium content.
• Add Ice to Their Water Bowl: The cold temperature and perhaps the sound of the ice can make water more appealing.
• Use a Water Fountain: The circulating water in a pet fountain can entice some dogs to drink more due to its freshness and movement.
• Offer Flavored Water: A small amount of low-sodium chicken or beef broth mixed into water can make it more palatable.

Signs of Dehydration

Closely monitor your dog for any signs of dehydration. Recognizing these symptoms early is vital:

• Loss of Appetite: This is often an early indicator.
• Panting: Excessive or persistent panting.
• Lethargy: Reduced energy and enthusiasm.
• Loss of Skin Elasticity: When you gently pull up the skin on their back, it should snap back quickly. If it returns slowly or remains tented, it’s a sign of dehydration.
• Dry and Sticky Gums: Healthy gums are moist and pink. Dehydrated gums appear dry, tacky, or pale.
• Dry Nose: While not always a definitive sign, a very dry nose can sometimes indicate dehydration.
• Dry-Looking Eyes: Sunken or dull eyes can be a symptom.

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet shows any signs of dehydration. Your veterinarian can administer subcutaneous fluids or intravenous fluids to quickly rehydrate them while simultaneously addressing the underlying cause of their sickness. what to feed a sick puppy that will not eat

What Not to Feed a Dog, Especially When They’re Sick

When your dog is sick, their digestive system is already compromised, making it even more crucial to avoid foods that could cause further irritation or be toxic. Even common human foods can be harmful.

If your dog is sick, you absolutely shouldn’t feed them anything too rich, fatty, or highly seasoned. Sometimes, dogs become unwell precisely because they’ve consumed too many rich human foods. If you regularly treat your dog with table scraps, it’s wise to cut back, especially when they’re ill.

Furthermore, ensure your dog hasn’t had access to any of the following commonly toxic or problematic foods:

Always err on the side of caution. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately. what is the one meat that dogs should never eat

Frequently Asked Questions About Feeding a Dog That Refuses to Eat

Addressing common concerns can help alleviate worry and guide your actions when your dog isn’t eating.

When Shouldn’t I Feed My Sick Dog?

If your dog has been actively vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, it is generally recommended to withhold food for at least 12 hours after the last episode. This allows their digestive system to rest and recover. Feeding too soon can irritate their stomach further and trigger more vomiting or diarrhea. After the fasting period, reintroduce food slowly in small, frequent amounts. If vomiting or diarrhea persists for 24-48 hours or more, or if your dog seems increasingly unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How Much Should I Feed My Sick Dog?

The amount of food to offer a sick dog depends heavily on the individual dog, their size, the nature of their illness, and their current appetite. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

• Start Small: Begin by offering very small, frequent meals (e.g., a tablespoon every few hours) rather than a large portion. This prevents overwhelming their sensitive stomach.
• Monitor Appetite: Let your dog guide you. If they eat a small amount and then refuse more, don’t force it. Wait a while and try again later.
• Follow Vet Instructions: Your veterinarian will provide the most accurate feeding guidelines based on your dog’s specific condition and dietary needs. They might recommend a specific prescription diet.
  The goal is to provide enough nutrients to support recovery without causing further digestive upset.

Do Sick Dogs Lose Their Sense of Smell?

While illness itself doesn’t always directly cause a loss of smell, various factors associated with being sick can certainly impact a dog’s olfactory senses, which are paramount to their appetite.

• Congestion: Respiratory infections, allergies, or nasal discharge can block nasal passages, significantly diminishing their ability to smell food.
• Inflammation: Inflammation of the nasal lining due to illness can reduce the sensitivity of olfactory receptors.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause dry mouth or alter taste/smell perception.
• Dehydration: A dry nose can also decrease the effectiveness of scent reception, as moisture helps trap odor molecules.
  Since smell is the most powerful of a dog’s senses and heavily influences their desire to eat, anything that hinders it can reduce their appetite. Warming food or adding strong-smelling broth can help counteract this.

What Else Can I Do to Help My Dog Feel Better?

Beyond food and water, providing a comfortable and calm environment can significantly aid your dog’s recovery:

• Comfortable Resting Area: Ensure they have a soft, warm, quiet, and easily accessible bed or resting spot where they won’t be disturbed.
• Gentle Exercise (if appropriate): If your dog is up to it, short, gentle walks can stimulate their appetite and bowels, and provide a mental boost. Avoid strenuous activity.
• Maintain Calm: Dogs are highly attuned to human emotions. If you are anxious or stressed, your dog will pick up on it, potentially increasing their own stress and making them feel worse. Try to remain calm and reassuring.
• Regular Potty Breaks: Ensure they have frequent opportunities to go outside, especially if they are prone to accidents when unwell.
• Grooming: Gentle brushing can be soothing and helps keep them clean, particularly if they have been vomiting or have diarrhea.
• Monitor Closely: Continuously observe their behavior, symptoms, and overall demeanor. Keep a detailed log to share with your vet.

How Long Can a Dog Go Without Food?

While dogs can technically survive three to five days without food, this is far from ideal and can lead to serious health complications, especially if they are already sick.
If your dog has gone 24 hours without eating, and especially after 48 hours, it is highly recommended to contact your veterinarian if you haven’t already. Prolonged anorexia can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle wasting, and worsening of underlying conditions.
As emphasized earlier, water intake is even more critical. A dog’s ability to go without water is much shorter, typically no more than three days, and severe dehydration can occur much faster. Always prioritize encouraging water consumption (without force).

Should I Feed My Dog After They Throw Up?

It is generally best to withhold food for at least a few hours (typically 6-12 hours) after your dog has vomited. This allows their stomach to settle and provides an observation period to see if the vomiting stops or if other concerning symptoms develop. During this time, ensure they have access to fresh water. Once the vomiting has ceased for several hours, you can slowly reintroduce a bland diet in small, frequent amounts. If vomiting continues or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, consult your vet immediately.

Should You Force-Feed a Sick Dog?

A veterinary technician carefully force-feeding a dog, highlighting a method used under professional guidance.

Force-feeding a sick dog, especially via a syringe, should only be done under strict veterinary guidance and typically only after 48 hours of refusing to eat, and when other methods have failed. Your veterinarian must first examine your pet to determine if force-feeding is appropriate and safe.
Force-feeding can be dangerous if done incorrectly, potentially leading to aspiration pneumonia (food entering the lungs) or causing further stress and aversion to food. Your vet can demonstrate the correct and safest technique for syringe-feeding liquids or critical care diets. In most cases, it’s better to address the underlying cause of appetite loss and encourage eating naturally, or through vet-prescribed appetite stimulants, rather than resorting to force-feeding.

What to Do After 48 Hours

If your dog is still refusing food and, critically, water, after 48 hours, it is a serious medical concern. At this point, you must seek immediate veterinary care. Prolonged lack of food and water can lead to severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, organ damage, and a rapid decline in health.

An expert team of veterinary professionals can thoroughly diagnose and treat your furry friend. They can provide essential supportive care such as intravenous fluids to combat dehydration, anti-nausea medications, appetite stimulants, and specific treatments for any underlying illness. Early intervention at this stage is crucial to prevent their condition from worsening and to give your dog the best chance at recovery.

Remember, you are your dog’s best advocate. Trust your instincts, monitor them closely, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for guidance and support.