My Dog ​​has No Appetite, What Can I Do?

The fact that a dog loses his appetite is not normal. It may be due to various reasons, both physical and psychological, that it will be appropriate to elucidate quickly in order to find a solution to the problem, allowing the animal to return to feed in the right way.

In cases like these , observation, analysis of possible causes and a visit to the veterinarian are therefore necessary.

Reasons why the dog has no appetite

If a dog is still in good health, it is unlikely that it will lose the desire to eat unless it hate the food it has been given or wants to attract its owners in this way.

Among the causes that can cause a dog to lose appetite we find:

• The development of cancer, systemic infections, dental disease, pain, stomach or hormonal problems, kidney failure or an obstruction of the intestine.
• If the dog is on antibiotics or anti-inflammatories.
• If the dog has been recently vaccinated.
• Sudden changes in his daily life : moving, traveling, births or deaths within the family unit, arguments at home, divorce and any other situation that may cause him to be restless and cause him sadness, fear, nervousness, depression or anxiety.
• A change in the brand or variety of the feed he usually consumes.
• If the food you prepare for him is not suitable for his age and size. For example, a small breed dog needs specific kibble due to the size of its small mouth.

• If he receives too many rewards or if he is used to receiving food dedicated to humans. In this case, the animal may be too satisfied with these “extras”, which it considers much more appetizing than its usual food, by refusing it. These foods also fail to provide all the nutrients the dog needs.
• If he is entering old age and his energy needs are no longer what they used to be, his sense of taste and smell may begin to fade.

How to deal with loss of appetite

If your dog has not eaten for more than three days, a visit to the vet will be necessary to determine the causes and define the steps that must be followed for his recovery.

The solutions will change based on the reasons that are causing your pet to lose appetite. In case of depression or physical pathologies, it will be necessary to carry out specific treatments that will be up to the doctor to indicate and supervise.

Below we will show you some precautions that can help your dog recover his appetite.

• Feed them more tempting food, keeping in mind that dogs choose their food primarily based on their sense of smell.

You can opt for wet food, which is always tastier. It is also possible to prepare an excellent homemade recipe for him. In this case, consult with your veterinarian to find out how to cover all the nutritional needs of the animal.

You can also moisten dry food with hot water to make it more appetizing, thereby enhancing the aroma of the food. Also remember that the croquettes must be kept tightly closed and in a cool and dry place, to prevent them from losing their smell.

• Walk the dog or play with him for a long time before meal time.
• To stimulate him to eat, offer him food directly from your hands, but do not always do it: it is not good for him to take this habit.
• Feed him on a regular schedule.
• Make sure mealtimes are fun for the dog. You can use a toy food dispenser, or order him to do something and then reward him when he executes the order correctly.
• Vary your usual mealtime routine. If your dog normally eats alongside other animals, let him eat alone. Also try changing its bowl or placing it at a different height.
• Indulge him with cuddles and caresses, especially in the face of situations within the family that could have negative consequences for him.

Keep in mind that situations of lack of appetite cannot last very long, otherwise your pet will weaken and this could compromise its immune system.

With patience and imagination, and always relying on the professional help of the veterinarian, you will surely find a solution to make the dog go back to being a happy animal and want to eat with appetite.