From time to time, our dogs, just like their human counterparts, go on strike when it comes to eating their usual food. For whatever reason, no amount of persuasion will get them to eat foods they loved a day or two ago.
Are they being picky or is something wrong? Personally, I prefer the attitude of thinking that something is wrong, and if for the second meal the reaction is the same, we go to the vet.
It’s true that dogs can behave like humans and just not feel like eating at one point or another, but refusing two meals in a row for a dog who normally loves his food creates room for concern.
What are some of the things that can cause a loss of appetite?
The first thought that comes to mind is, have you changed brands? If you’re trying a new food or adding a supplement to your current brand, that can easily be the problem. Your dog does not like the new food or the supplement.
If you are using the same brand and have just opened a new bag, there is a remote chance that something is wrong with the food! It may be moldy or spoiled, just because it looks good doesn’t mean it’s good. Remember our scary episode with spoiled cat and dog food a while back? Most grocery stores will be happy to return a bag of pet food if you’re concerned.
The next thing to worry about is dental and oral problems! Your dog may have a toothache, sore gums, or a problem with one of his teeth. A sore mouth will cause a dog not to eat.
Is your dog suffering from diarrhea, panting, vomiting, or anything else out of the ordinary? Dogs are excellent at hiding the symptoms of illness. If you notice any of these things, may I suggest a quick trip to the vet?
Have there been changes in the home? New comings and goings can cause a disruption in the normal household routine and dampen a dog’s appetite. The animals don’t really enjoy the change. They really go for the simple and constant life.
Is your dog losing weight? If not, check with the other family members and see if anyone is sneaking extra food or treats to the dog for people. A new and different food source can cause a change in a dog’s appetite.
If your dog has an ear infection (which is usually related to food allergies or environmental allergies), this can also be a cause of poor appetite.
Is your dog taking any medications, either prescription or over-the-counter, that could be making him nauseous or unwell? Remember that medicines have side effects that can cause many kinds of problems.
The important thing to remember is that any unusual changes in your dog’s behavior are really a major sign that something is wrong and should be attended to by your vet as soon as possible.
Female dogs in heat tend to lose their appetite, as do male dogs when a female is nearby. The important thing here to remember is that if your female stops eating after the heat cycle has passed, be sure to take her to the vet as she may have what is called pyometra.
Pyometra is pus in the uterine cavity that often develops after a heat cycle and is life-threatening for your dog. Signs of this problem are loss of energy, poor appetite, and increased thirst. Spaying your pet is strongly recommended to avoid this problem.
As dogs age, like people, their appetites change, what they liked one day may not be what they prefer today. If your dog has had a medical checkup and your vet can’t find a reason for the loss of interest in food, you may have to improvise and create a new interest.
Sounds like a lot of work, yes it may be, but if your older dog has suddenly become a bit finicky, consider it a small price to pay for all the years of love and loyalty you’ve given him.
Your vet may prescribe some medications to stimulate appetite and you can go the extra mile and think of new ways to offer pet food and/or human food in small amounts at a time. Some dogs when they are going through this stage do not like to eat the same thing twice in a row. So take the time to discipline yourself and think about your dog’s menu just like you would your own. Almost any food can be offered except chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts.
Baby foods are a good choice, as are foods on your plate, fresh vegetables, smelly foods like liver sausage, chicken or beef liver sautéed in butter or sauces mixed with dry foods.
Whatever you do, don’t give up, this could be just a phase or it may not be, whatever the end result is, your dog deserves your care, you wouldn’t abandon your best friend, would you?
