Why Is My Dog Not Eating What I Give It?

Did no one warn you before getting a dog that they are just like small babies? You’ll have to handle all kinds of tantrums. And now that you’re trying to solve the mysterious case of missing appetite, let us tell you that it is not some tantrum (most probably). It can be because of numerous reasons, and some can even be serious. 

First, let’s rule out the obvious: Did you accidentally feed them last night’s pizza under the table?  Because now you’ve given them a taste of heaven and they won’t settle for anything less. 

Okay seriously, the reason for lack of appetite in dogs can range from dental issues to dietary boredom to even cancer. Here are some of the most common reasons for your dog to not eat – ⁽¹⁾

Yes, your pup can be a fussy eater at times, and you would know it. But all this while they were in good health and shape, so you didn’t worry. Now that you’re looking for more reasons, we assume that it’s something else. 

Just as we don’t feel like eating much in fever or other sickness, dogs also feel the same at times. If you see any of the underlying signs along with a lack of appetite in your dog, there is a need for concern. 

Your dog may be affected by gastrointestinal issues, infections, liver or kidney problems or even cancer.

There is a chance that your dog is hungry and wants to eat but the pain and discomfort because of some dental condition is not allowing them. Here are some signs that you should look for – 

It is important to get their teeth regularly checked to avoid bacteria and other infections.

The pain or discomfort may not necessarily be in their mouth. It can be anywhere in their body. Something like back pain or arthritis can even make reaching to food difficult at times. Apart from that, eating something they are not supposed to can also cause pain. It includes – 

The environment in which you’re trying to feed your dog may be causing stress or anxiety in them. Things like loud noises, other aggressive dogs, etc. can cause anxiety in them. It often results in dogs refusing food. Other reasons that can induce anxiety in them include –

Lack of appetite is not a disease but a sign of an underlying problem. It is important to identify the same and treat it to make your dog eat again. 

Why is My Dog’s Stomach Making Noises and Not Eating?

A dog’s stomach can make noises just like ours and it is completely normal. The noises are called borborygmi and are a result of a process called peristalsis (food and water moving through the digestive tract). 

You usually hear sounds from a dog’s stomach when they’ve not eaten for a long time as it’s like water moving through a hollow pipe. However, a dog’s stomach can also make noise when there are gastrointestinal issues present. 

Medical conditions like diarrhea, bowel obstruction, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), parasite or bacterial infections, gas, etc. can all cause stomach noises. And these can be the reason your dog is not eating. ⁽²⁾

Why is My Dog Shaking and Not Eating?

Several issues can cause your dog to shake or shiver including excitement, anxiety, cold, wet body, etc. Apart from that, some forms of toxicity can also cause trembling in dogs. The most common reasons for your dog to shake are – ⁽³⁾

There may be some harmless reasons for your dog to shake as well like excitement. However, if there is no reason for excitement, you should see a vet immediately. And your dog is not eating because of one of the above probable disorders. 

Why Is My Dog Gaining Weight but Not Eating More?

The most common reason for dogs to gain weight without eating more than usual is hypothyroidism. It is when the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism in the body, becomes underactive. The metabolism, hence, slows down which eventually leads to weight gain. ⁽⁴⁾

The signs that your dog is suffering from hypothyroidism include – 

The bad thing here is that this condition cannot be completely cured. Medications, however, can help keep it in control. 

Cushing’s disease can be another reason why your dog is gaining weight without eating more. It is when the dog’s body produces too much cortisol. It is one of the body’s natural steroids. It helps regulate proper body weight, tissue structure, skin condition, and other features of good health. It is more common in adult and senior dogs. 

A study conducted in 2018 in the US shows that an estimated 60% of cats and 56% of dogs in the United States were overweight or obese. 

More About Spot Pet Insurance

While owning a pet is one of the best experiences in the world, it can be quite challenging at times. This is because pets like dogs and cats are prone to multiple illnesses and medical conditions during their lifetime. You may be able to prevent some but not others. However, you can save up to 90% of all the treatment-related costs. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more. 

Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!