My Dog Doesn't Want to Eat: What Do I Do? Causes and Solutions

There are several factors why our dogs are losing or have lost their appetite; It may be that we are not giving them quality food or many other things. What we must be clear about is that, whatever the reason. We must not let it go, it has importance and at Waggy's we will tell you why.

During the blog, you will be able to find out what are the reasons why your pet does not want to eat, symptoms and behaviors they may have, what we can do to stimulate their appetite and much more. Stay reading and together let's continue working to provide them with the life they deserve. Let's get to it!

My dog ​​doesn't eat: causes

Before starting, it is important to emphasize that lack of appetite in dogs is something very abnormal and that it can also be a symptom of some diseases. Next, we will develop the most common causes that your furry friend may be experiencing:

Stress

Waggy's is an expert in reducing stress and anxiety, so we know that stress can affect dogs' appetite, whether due to changes in the environment, unfamiliar situations, or traumatic events.

Food change

Suddenly introducing a new type of food or changing a dog's diet can cause food refusal. Try the barf diet 

Indigestion

Digestive problems, such as indigestion, can make dogs uncomfortable and lose interest in eating.

Parasites

The presence of internal or external parasites, such as intestinal worms or fleas, can cause discomfort and affect appetite.

Problems in the oral canal

Tooth pain, gum infections, or other oral problems can make eating painful and discouraging.

Old age

In older dogs, loss of appetite may be related to health problems associated with old age, such as arthritis or chronic illnesses.

Boredom

Lack of mental and physical stimulation can lead to boredom, which in turn can affect the dog's interest in food.

Trauma

Physical injuries or trauma can affect a dog's eating behavior, especially if they associate food with negative experiences.

Other reasons may be vaccines, low-quality food such as feed, drug consumption, tumors, pancreatitis and kidney failure.

Symptoms and behaviors of a dog that does not eat

A dog that is not eating may display a variety of symptoms and behaviors that indicate a loss of appetite:

• Your pet may shy away from the food bowl or show complete disinterest when offered food.
• He may also show interest in food but only lick or sniff it instead of eating it.
• Lack of food intake can lead to a decrease in energy and vitality. Your furry friend may act apathetic, lethargic, or show less interest in playing or doing usual activities.
• You may notice changes in the dog's general behavior, such as irritability, nervousness, or aggression, especially if the lack of appetite is related to pain or discomfort.
• Stress or anxiety associated with a lack of appetite can sometimes manifest in excessive drooling.
• You may notice changes in the frequency or consistency of your dog's bowel movements, whether it be constipation or diarrhea.
• Dental or gum problems can manifest with bad breath, red or swollen gums, and a refusal to chew.

How long can a dog go without eating?

The length of time your pet can go without eating food will depend on many external factors such as breed, age, size, and it could even be their medical history. However, a healthy pet should not go without food for more than 48 hours; after that period, your furry friend is likely to have serious health problems. Either way, Waggy's will always recommend consulting with your veterinarian.

What should I do if my dog ​​doesn't want to eat? Tips

You will have to stimulate it to whet its appetite, although it is not a guarantee, it can be a very useful tool. Here are some tips on how to do it:

• Offer your pet different food that catches its attention. Options such as cooking special cookies for them or offering chicken broth with pieces of vegetables in their croquettes can be a great start. Remember that here we have a blog with the best recipes for homemade dog biscuits . And if you don't know What vegetables can dogs eat? Click the link to find out.
• We must choose their foods appropriately. When our furry friends are sick or downcast, they need foods that match their problems, foods that give them energy.
• Add species that are pleasant to their sense of smell. Sprinkle the usual food with some leaves or crushed pieces of mint, alfalfa, dill, fennel or ginger, these new aromas will be pleasant.

Tips to stimulate appetite in dogs

Vary the ingredients

Change the protein sources in your pet's diet, you can try beef, chicken, turkey, fish, etc. This not only improves the flavor but also provides a variety of nutrients. We also recommend adding dog-safe vegetables to the food, such as carrots or peas. Some dogs enjoy the texture and flavor of vegetables.

Try wet food

Switch between dry and wet food as wet food often has a stronger aroma and may be more appealing to dogs with difficult appetites. Also, try slightly heating wet food to intensify the smells and make it more appetizing.

Exercise

Providing exercise before mealtime will always be a good stimulant, a tired dog is more likely to have a healthy appetite. You can incorporate interactive or food dispensing toys. Do you already know Waggy's crazy ball? It is one of the best dog toys 

Incorporate homemade food

Prepare balanced homemade meals with dog-safe ingredients but don't forget to consult with your veterinarian to make sure you are meeting all nutritional needs. Consider adding natural, safe food supplements, such as Omega 3-rich fish oils for dogs , which can improve taste and overall health.

A good option for supplements with these characteristics are the Waggy 's brand puppy treats , which in addition to Omega 3 contain CBD for dogs, which helps reduce stress and anxiety levels in dogs and is a good way to level their emotions. in case they suffer an imbalance.

How to prevent loss of appetite in my dog

• Establish regular meal times and follow a consistent routine. Dogs tend to feel more comfortable and secure when they have structure in their schedules.
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight. Being overweight can contribute to health problems and affect appetite.
• Schedule regular veterinary checkups to catch any health problems early. Many diseases can affect appetite before showing other symptoms.
• Minimize stress and anxiety in your dog's life. Sudden changes in the environment, loud noises or stressful situations can affect your appetite.
• Use positive training methods to build a strong, positive relationship with your dog. A positive environment can positively influence your appetite.

Conclusion

In this blog we conclude that lack of appetite in dogs can be an indicator of various health problems or environmental factors. Maintaining a balanced diet, providing regular routines, preventing sudden changes in diet, encouraging exercise and maintaining regular veterinary checkups are key ways to prevent loss of appetite. Close observation of behavior and quick response to any changes in appetite are essential to ensure the well-being of our canine friends. If the lack of appetite persists, it is recommended to seek the guidance of a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.