Is Your Dog Not Eating? Here's What You Can Do To Help.

Have you noticed your dog not eating?
It can be stressful for a pet parent. Here are some reasons why your dog might not be eating and what you can do to ensure it is getting what it needs!
5 Reasons Why Your Dog Won’t Eat
There are many different reasons why your pet might not be enjoying its meal. Some of these reasons are simple, and others are more complex.
Always remember that if your pet has not eaten for numerous days, it is best to see a veterinarian.
1. Distraction or Stress
Dogs can be easily distracted, especially if they are curious, active breeds.
Is there an opportunity to play? Is there a visitor in the house? Are you pet-sitting someone else’s dog?
There could be a host of reasons why your pet is struggling to concentrate on their meal.
Think over any new surroundings or distracting elements. If you think there is anything causing your pet stress, consider how you can remove that distraction.
Once these things settle down, your dog should be ready to dine again.
2. Too Many Snacks
While this seems obvious, sometimes it’s good to take inventory of what your pet has been eating before their meal.
Were there any special snacks or treats? Did they nibble on a tasty dog biscuit while you were enjoying your afternoon snack?
Ensuring your pet isn’t filling up on treats and getting nutritious meals is important. They won't be interested in their meal if they’ve been eating too many other things.
3. Picky Eater
Some pets are picky eaters and have specific types of foods that they enjoy eating. Changing their type of pet food or mixing in a bit of canned dog food can often get them interested in their food again.
However, if your dog’s appetite has not been normal for a while, don’t assume it’s because they’re picky. Usually, if it has been an extended period, there is another underlying reason.
4. Illness
If your pet is quieter than normal or looks listless, it’s possible that it’s dealing with illness.
It may be a passing flu bug, or it may be caused by eating something that wasn’t food. (For instance, chewing on a shoe or swallowing something that wasn’t meant for consumption.)
Usually, this illness will pass quickly, but if it doesn’t, contact your veterinarian to find out what your pet might be struggling with.
5. Health Problems
This is rare, but some pets have underlying health issues that prevent them from enjoying their meals.
Cancer, heart disease, kidney failure, and other chronic issues will trigger a loss of appetite. If your pet is experiencing pain, allergic reactions, or indigestion, this may also lead to appetite loss.
Getting your pet examined is a good idea if you notice that they are struggling to maintain a healthy appetite.
If you have a senior dog, they may struggle with aches and pains as they bend to their bowl. In that case, you may want to read about the benefits of raised dog bowls and consider choosing one for your pet.
Tips To Help Your Pet’s Appetite
- Warm their food – the smell and aroma will make it more appealing.
- Mix in a food topper – it will add a fun twist to tempt them.
- Add some broth - to make it more appealing and digestible.
- Exercise your pet – work up their appetite!
- Try an elevated dog bowl – especially great for senior pets.
- Try a different kind of food – sometimes pets are picky.
- Talk to your vet – get an expert opinion on the matter.
We hope this helps resolve the issue of your dog not eating.