Why Your Dog Isn’t Eating: Common Causes and How to Help
by Lara Shannon
Does your dog often leave their food untouched, or seem to be a picky eater? While there are several reasons a dog may lose interest in their food, many causes stem from what we, as pet owners, unintentionally do. Let’s explore the main reasons your dog may not be eating and share tips to help them regain their appetite.
1. Are You Creating a Fussy Eater?
Dogs are smarter than we sometimes give them credit for! They might be holding out for something more enticing if they’re frequently offered "high-value" treats. When we add cheese, chicken, or other extras to their food, dogs quickly learn that by avoiding their regular meal, they’ll be rewarded with tastier options.
If your dog’s diet is already nutritionally complete, try removing the bowl if they don’t eat within 30 minutes, without offering additional treats or snacks until their next meal. Feeding them at regular times and avoiding overfeeding will help encourage healthy eating habits and reduce pickiness.
2. Dietary Changes and Slow Transitions
Switching your dog’s food too abruptly can lead to an upset stomach, or they may simply reject the new food due to unfamiliar tastes and textures. Dogs can be naturally picky based on what they were fed as puppies, with preferences for specific flavors, textures, or even kibble sizes.
When introducing a new food, transition gradually over a week or two. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with their old food until they’re fully switched over. This gentle change reduces the risk of digestive issues and helps them adjust to the new taste.
3. Tummy Troubles and Gastrointestinal Upsets
Consistency in diet is essential for your dog’s digestive health. Changing their food too often can upset their stomach, and eating unusual items — whether scraps from the park or the trash — can cause temporary gastrointestinal issues. Signs of a stomach upset include vomiting or diarrhoea, which may put your dog off eating.
If you notice symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, or lethargy, monitor your dog closely. Provide fresh water, and if the symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or if you see blood in their stool, consult your vet.
4. Changes in Routine
A new schedule, moving to a new home, or even a holiday can disrupt a dog’s eating habits. Dogs thrive on routine, and any shift can leave them feeling anxious or insecure, causing a decrease in appetite.
To help your dog adjust, keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible. Make sure they have a safe, quiet space for eating, and positively reinforce their curiosity about their food with gentle praise or a calm presence.
5. Stress, Anxiety, and Eating Environment
Changes to their environment, stress and anxiety, or separation anxiety can lead to a loss of appetite, especially in multi-dog households where they may feel that there is competition for food. Dogs are sensitive to subtle cues from other pets — like staring, growling, or crowding — which can make them feel uncomfortable.
Consider feeding dogs separately in multi-dog households to create a stress-free mealtime (read more about multi-dog households here). Remove potential distractions like drafts, loud noises, or even the clinking of their tags against the bowl to make the eating area as calming as possible.
6. Aging and Loss of Senses
Senior dogs often experience a decline in senses such as smell, which affects appetite. They may also face dental issues that make chewing painful.
For older dogs, try warming their food or adding a small amount of meat or vegetables to enhance the aroma. Always introduce any new foods gradually. If your dog is struggling due to sore teeth or gums, consult your vet, as they may need dental care.
7. Sore or Rotten Teeth
Dental health is crucial for a dog’s overall well-being. If they suddenly go off their food and none of the other reasons apply, sore gums or decaying teeth could be the cause. Check for bad breath or visible signs of oral discomfort and schedule a vet visit if you suspect dental issues.
When to Consult a Vet
Most of the time, minor adjustments to routine or diet will resolve a dog’s disinterest in food. However, if your dog refuses to eat for more than 24 hours, or if they show signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss, consult your vet immediately, as there may be an underlying health issue that requires medical attention
Support your dog’s gut health with probiotics
If your dog tends to get regular stomach upsets, or if you are transitioning across to a new diet, then adding some high quality probiotics can be very beneficial. They can also assist with skin and allergies as well, as well as Leaky Gut Syndrome and other issues caused by a poor gut microbiome.
Addressing your dog’s eating habits may require some trial and error, but with patience and a few mindful adjustments, you can encourage a healthier relationship with food. Remember, dogs rely on their routine, and with consistent care, you can help your furry friend return to their regular eating habits.
About the Author
Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love Your Dog