What to do when dog loses interest in food?

Because loss of appetite in dogs can indicate illness, it is important to seek veterinary care if you notice changes in your dog's eating habits. It is especially important to respond promptly to a refusal to eat in dogs that usually eat well.
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Why is my dog suddenly not interested in her food?

Often, dogs lose their appetite for many of the same reasons humans do, such as dental issues, pain, not liking their food, and stress. If your dog refuses to eat and has additional symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of energy, you should contact your vet immediately.
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Do dogs go through phases of not eating?

Most of the time, a dog's lack of interest in eating is just a passing phase, not a reason for concern. However, changes in your dog's eating patterns for more than one to two days may indicate an issue with their health.
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Is it normal for dogs to stop liking their food?

Your dog may refuse to eat their food because they really don't like it or because they've been holding out for their favourite snacks. Also, if a dog's not feeling well, they may not eat much but may make an exception to a treat. If your dog's appetite suddenly changes, make sure to speak to your vet for advice.
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Why has my dog lost interest in dry food?

Consult With Your Veterinarian

Anytime your dog has a change in appetite, a call to the veterinarian should be at the top of your list. Lack of appetite can be related to some health issues, and a dog not eating dry food in particular may signal a dental issue that needs addressed.
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What to do when your dog not eating food or drinking water l Tips on LOSS OF APPETITE l

Why is my dog not eating his food but acting normal?

Although a loss of appetite in dogs doesn't necessarily indicate serious disease, prompt veterinary attention is important because it could be a sign of significant illness, including cancer, various systemic infections, pain, liver problems, and kidney failure.
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Why won't my dog eat his dog food anymore?

Many dogs won't eat if they're not feeling well, especially if they're suffering from intestinal or dental issues, so you should visit your veterinarian to make sure nothing's wrong. But if your dog eats other kinds of food (like wet food or snacks) and refuses to touch his dry food, it may mean he's a picky eater.
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Why is my dog not eating his food but will eat treats?

Your Dog Might Be a Picky Eater

Some dogs develop picky eating habits over time. If your dog refuses to eat their regular food but enjoys treats, they might just be being selective. Dogs, like people, can have food preferences and may decide they don't like the taste or texture of their food.
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Should I take my dog's food away if he doesn't eat it?

Don't leave food out for your dog to graze on — take it back within 10 minutes if it hasn't been eaten to help cement the idea of mealtimes. Use your dog's kibble as treats, and only offer meals for short periods of time. This leaves your dog no choice but to eat their food and hopefully get used to it.
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Can dogs get bored of their food?

Some dogs become bored with the smell, flavor, and texture of their food.
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When should I be concerned about my dog not eating?

If you're noticing a decreased appetite but your dog seems otherwise healthy, contact your veterinarian for an appointment. If your dog is also vomiting or having diarrhea, acting lethargic, has a tense or distended abdomen, or yelps when their abdomen is touched, contact an emergency vet for guidance.
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How to encourage a dog to eat?

Methods for Feeding a Sick Dog
  1. Wait. If your dog won't eat, the first step is to allow them some time. ...
  2. Give Your Dog a Treat. ...
  3. Change Dry Food Brands. ...
  4. Heat up Your Dog's Food. ...
  5. Add Broth to Your Dog's Food. ...
  6. Hand-Feed Your Dog. ...
  7. Read the Instructions on Any Medication. ...
  8. Let Your Dog Eat Grass.
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How long is too long for a dog not to eat?

If your dog hasn't eaten in over 12 hours with no obvious cause or is exhibiting any other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy this may be an emergency situation and you should call or bring your dog in for emergency care as soon as possible.
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Why is my dog suddenly picky about her food?

Picky eating can relate to a dog's character, medical problems, unsuitable food, and pet parent habits. Age, weight, activity level, and health status influence the ration a dog needs for a healthy meal. Contact a board-certified veterinary nutritionist if preparing homemade meals for your dog.
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Is it okay to leave dry dog food out all day?

Downsides: Leaving dog food out all day could attract insects, rodents, or raccoons. That's especially the case if you feed your dog outside, so be on the lookout. And if you have more than one pet, they may bicker over the food. Also, this method is not for dogs that are diabetic.
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How do I get my dog to start eating dog food again?

11 Tips for Feeding a Picky Dog
  1. Create a Feeding Routine. Dogs need routines, and mealtime is no exception. ...
  2. Optimize the Location. ...
  3. Use the Right Bowl. ...
  4. Don't Feed Treats or Table Scraps. ...
  5. Try a Topper. ...
  6. Experiment with Texture. ...
  7. Find a New Flavor. ...
  8. Factor in Food Sensitivity.
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Why is my dog eating less but acting normal?

Your dog could be avoiding his food due to liver disease, infections, a blockage, tumor or kidney failure. If your dog isn't eating but seems otherwise fine, that's likely not the issue. However, if he doesn't start chowing down within 24 hours, it's time to seek medical help.
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Should I force my dog to eat if he doesn't want to?

I would not force her to eat food she does not like, and there could be something wrong with the food. You might talk to the pet store where you bought it and let them know she won't eat it, or contact the company.
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How many times a day should a dog eat?

Dogs should eat at least two meals each day, about 12 hours apart. But a breakfast, lunch, and dinner schedule is an equally great option. If more than 12 hours elapses between meals, the stomach can become hyperacidic causing nausea.
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How long will a picky dog go without eating?

As long as a dog is not ill, either with a chronic illness such as kidney disease, or with an acute illness such as a respiratory infection, he can survive for over a week without eating. Most dogs will not hold out very long before their survival instinct kicks in and they take your advice to eat what is offered.
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Why does my dog no longer want to eat his food?

Dogs may go off their food because of changes in their environment, stress, an adverse reaction to drugs, and nausea. Dental problems, pain and internal obstructions can also cause dogs to lose their appetite.
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What is the best thing to feed a dog that won't eat?

Although you might think your dog is turning their nose up at their food because it's bland or boring if they're vomiting it's more likely that they're feeling nauseous. Rather than reaching for something more exotic and palatable, stick to bland foods like limited ingredient dog food, chicken, or pumpkin.
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Why did my dog suddenly stop liking her food?

Stress or Environmental Changes: Changes in the household, such as a new pet, moving, or changes in routine, can stress dogs and affect their eating habits. Age or Dietary Needs: As dogs age, their dietary needs can change. They might require a different formulation that is easier to digest or more appealing.
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Why isn't my dog eating his food but eats treats?

Certain health issues might cause your dog to lose interest in their regular food but continue eating treats. Illnesses such as dental problems, kidney diseases, or neurological conditions can alter a dog's appetite and make them picky about food.
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When a dog loses interest in food?

Changes in routine, a new environment, or other stressors may be causing your dog to be less interested in his food. Your dog may be bored with his current food. Dogs can develop food preferences over time, so switching to a new protein, flavor, or brand of dog food may help stimulate his appetite.
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