Why is My Dog Not Eating? Common Causes and Resolutions

Feb 18, 2026

Dog lying beside a bowl of kibble, a typical sign behind the question Why is My Dog Not Eating

Stress, routine changes, or health issues often cause a dog to lose interest in food. Skipping one meal can happen, but ongoing refusal may signal dental pain, digestive trouble, or illness.

If the dog acts normal, the issue often stays minor and brief. If other symptoms appear or eating stops completely, seek veterinary care.

Why is My Dog Not Eating?

A dog often stops eating due to medical issues or environmental changes that affect appetite, comfort, or overall health.

Medical Related Reasons

Dental disease: Broken teeth, loose teeth, or mouth pain make chewing uncomfortable. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) — Dental Health
Upset stomach: Digestive issues, acid reflux, allergies, or a sudden diet change can reduce appetite.
Underlying illness: Infections, depression, and other health conditions like pancreatitis commonly lower food intake.
Bad breath: Oral disease often causes foul odor and pain during meals.
Older dog concerns: Senior dogs often lose interest in food as health changes develop.
Other symptoms: Vomiting, low energy, parasites, or changes in water intake require a call to the veterinarian.

Environmental Reasons

Routine changes: Travel, loud sounds, or new surroundings disrupt normal eating patterns.
Picky habits: Some dogs (e.g. small breeds) refuse regular meals after eating table scraps or rich treats.
Food preferences: A sudden dislike of dry or wet food can follow frequent treats.
Multiple pets: Competition around bowls can limit access to meals.
Stress factors: Anxiety can reduce appetite even when the dog seems otherwise normal.

What Do I Do If My Dog Won’t Eat?

A dog that refuses food often responds to simple adjustments. Careful observation helps identify medical concerns early.

Check Food and Feeding Setup

Start with small changes that support normal eating without force.

Offer the usual food instead of switching diets.
Place clean food and water bowls in a quiet area.
Limit treats and avoid table scraps.
Serve meals at consistent times each day.

Try Gentle Appetite Boosts

Mild appetite loss can improve with safe, simple steps.

Warm dry food slightly to enhance its aroma.
Add warm water or low sodium beef broth to meals.
Hand feed small portions to encourage interest.
Mix a small amount of wet food into the regular diet.

Observe Behavior and Symptoms

Watch for signs beyond food refusal.

Track food intake and water consumption.
Check the mouth for loose teeth, damage, or bad breath.
Check signs of separation anxiety or sadness
Look for vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior.
Monitor appetite changes that last more than a day.

Know When to Seek Veterinary Guidance

Some situations require prompt medical care.

Call the veterinarian if no food intake occurs for over twenty four hours.
Seek care if appetite loss comes with pain or low energy.
Schedule an exam for puppies, senior dogs, or pets with existing health conditions.
Try using vitamins and supplements
Get immediate help if refusal continues or symptoms worsen.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Certain actions can make the problem worse.

Do not force feed (try using treats).
Do not replace meals with human food.
Do not rely on table scraps to spark interest.
Do not ignore repeated refusal to eat.

How Do I Increase My Dog’s Appetite?

Small, consistent adjustments often help restore appetite when the issue stays mild and brief.

Stick to a regular diet: Serve the usual food on a consistent schedule to reinforce routine.
Enhance aroma: Warm the food slightly or add warm water to increase scent and appeal.
Add safe flavor boosters: Mix a small amount of wet food or low sodium beef broth into dry kibble.
Limit treats: Cut back on snacks and avoid human food that disrupts normal intake.
Create a calm space: Keep bowls in a quiet area away from noise and activity.
Use positive encouragement: Offer gentle hand feeding to spark interest in meals.
Support dental comfort: Check the mouth for signs of pain or dental problems.
Monitor changes: Track appetite and contact a veterinarian if refusal continues.

When to See a Vet

A dog that refuses food for an extended period or shows warning signs requires prompt veterinary care.

No food intake for more than one day
Appetite loss with vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness
Signs of dental disease such as bad breath or damaged teeth
Noticeable weight loss or repeated skipped meals
Reduced water intake along with low food consumption
Refusal to eat after possible exposure to toxins or spoiled food
Behavior changes that suggest a health issue
Sudden appetite loss in puppies or senior dogs
Visible discomfort or signs of pain

Related Post: Understanding Dog Gut Health

Helpful Supplements for Increasing Dog Appetite

Probiotics may support beneficial gut bacteria levels in dogs, which can improve digestion and immune function by supporting a balanced microbiome and reducing gastrointestinal disturbance. (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)

Certain natural supplements and dog treats can make meals more appealing and support overall balance, which may help encourage consistent eating.

Product	Form	Primary Focus	Best For	How to Use
CBD Oil for Dogs	Liquid	Daily balance and appetite support	Dogs that resist food	Add to food or give orally
CBD Dog Treats	Soft treats	Flavor and routine support	Dogs motivated by treats	Offer before or with meals
Multivitamin Soft Chews	Soft chews	Nutritional balance	Dogs needing daily support	Serve once daily
Probiotics Soft Chews	Soft chews	Digestive balance	Dogs with mild digestive sensitivity	Give daily with meals

HolistaPet CBD Oil for Dogs

A full spectrum hemp extract oil designed to support calm behavior and overall wellness. It mixes easily with food for simple daily use.

Key ingredients:

Full spectrum extraction preserves naturally occurring terpenes including myrcene and beta-caryophyllene, which research suggests may support calm behavior and comfort in dogs.

Full spectrum hemp extract.
Hemp seed oil

How it works:

Supports the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate normal appetite and daily balance.

Application method:

Place drops directly into the mouth
Mix into food before serving

Benefits:

Easy liquid format
Simple ingredient profile
Flexible dosing options

HolistaPet CBD Dog Treats

Soft, flavorful treats infused with hemp extract and functional ingredients that dogs often enjoy.

Key ingredients:

Sourced from non-GMO, USA-grown hemp using CO2 extraction to retain the full terpene profile including linalool and humulene, known for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

Full spectrum hemp extract
Turmeric
Hemp seed powder

How it works:

Combines appealing flavor with plant based ingredients that support daily comfort and routine.

Application method:

Offer as a treat before meals
Use as a topper reward with food

Benefits:

Highly palatable
Convenient chew format
Easy daily serving

HolistaPet Multivitamin Soft Chews for Dogs

A daily multivitamin chew formulated to support overall nutritional balance.

Key ingredients:

Essential vitamins
Trace minerals
Natural chew base

How it works:

Provides foundational nutrients that support daily vitality and balanced nutrition.

Application method:

Give recommended number of chews daily
Serve with meals

Benefits:

Supports daily wellness
Soft texture
Simple once daily use

HolistaPet Probiotics for Dogs Soft Chews

Digestive support chews formulated to promote gut balance and normal digestion.

Key ingredients:

Probiotic strains
Natural soft chew base

How it works:

Supports healthy gut flora, which plays a role in digestion and consistent eating patterns.

Application method:

Give daily as directed
Pair with regular meals

Benefits:

Supports digestive balance
Palatable chew format
Easy daily addition

Final Thoughts

A dog that refuses food needs attention. Mild appetite changes may improve with simple steps, but ongoing refusal or added symptoms often signal a health concern. Provide immediate attention and maintain consistent feeding routines to prevent appetite issues

For more information on nutrition for dogs click here.