2024-08-15
We understand that a dog's appetite can speak volumes about its well-being and readiness for training. Just like humans, dogs can sometimes experience fluctuations in their eating habits, leaving concerned owners and trainers alike searching for answers. Whether your service dog-in-training is exhibiting picky eating behaviors or outright disinterest in food, it’s crucial to delve into the underlying reasons behind their decreased appetite. By addressing the lack of appetite we can ensure our service dogs are not only physically fit but also mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.
When your dog won’t eat, it can be distressing. Most dogs are primarily motivated by food and when they are not showing much interest in that – we quickly start to worry. Additionally, when it comes to training a dog we tend to use food, praise, and petting to motivate them to perform as expected. If your canine has lost their healthy appetite there are a few common reasons that we need to discuss.
Changes in environment, motion sickness, or nervousness can affect your canine’s appetite even if they are known to be voracious eaters. If your dog has not been exposed to frequent travels at long distances they might need a day or two to regain their appetite after you move. Let your dog calm down and learn more about their new environment. When they settle they should be more receptive to treats and enjoy their meals.
Some dogs are naturally picky eaters, while others may be uncomfortable eating in certain situations. Make sure your dog’s food and water bowls are clean and that you regularly sanitize them. As a rule – place your paw friend’s bowls at a quiet spot in your home where there is not a lot of activity.
If your dog does not like their food you may want to buy different kinds from different brands. Canines with very sensitive noses may not like some additives typically used in dog food like rosemary extract and synthetic flavors.
We recommend you try cooking for your dog which can be as simple as boiling pig and poultry meat, and eggs and steaming various vegetables like broccoli, and carrots. You could add variety to your dog’s dry food by adding yogurt, pumpkin puree, and the soft part of the watermelon (fewer seeds are better!)
Pain in the mouth due to broken or loose teeth, severe gingivitis, or oral tumors can cause dogs to avoid eating. Dental hygiene is crucial for the well-being of your canine. We sincerely urge you to wash your dog’s teeth at least once a week and supply your valued partner with dental sticks. There are awesome dental sticks with mint that can help your dog keep their breath fresh and their mouth clean. If your dog loves to carry sticks and suddenly they stop doing that check their mouth for any damage to their teeth and any inflammation or cuts.
Dogs may stop eating if they have ingested something they should not have like toys, large bones, or household objects. If your paw friend has barely touched their meals and they are whining continuously – take them to the veterinarian for a full body check. An obstruction of their food tract can be life-threatening and you should quickly seek veterinary medical care.
Some dogs experience temporary loss of appetite after vaccinations. This is normal and you should keep an eye on your dog in case other problem behaviors appear. Other side effects of the vaccination include:
Mild swelling and pain at the site of the injection;
Your dog might seem tired or less active than usual for a day or two;
Some dogs might experience gastrointestinal upset.
Arthritis causes chronic pain and discomfort, which can affect a dog’s overall well-being and behavior, including their eating habits. Moving for your dog can be painful and if the arthritis has impacted their neck and jaw it can significantly reduce their appetite. If your canine is taking strong medication to relieve the pain in their joints the side effects may include poor appetite. Sadly, weight management and medication are the only tools we can use to make our valued furry friends deal with the effects of Arthritis.
A decreased appetite in dogs might indicate sickness and it may be accompanied by lethargy. If your dog has low energy levels they would not be ready to play, run or react excitedly to toys. Prompt veterinary attention is strongly advised as the lack of appetite and low energy levels could be signs of significant illness, including cancer, infections, pain, liver problems, or kidney failure.
Intestinal parasites can lead to upset stomachs and diarrhea, discouraging dogs from eating. Significant weight loss is often a sign of potential parasite infection and you should seek assistance from your preferred veterinarian. If you are interested in learning how to spot parasites in your dog’s poo, then you might need to know this:
Roundworms look like spaghetti strands and can be several inches long. Tapeworms appear as small, rice-like segments, often moving or found around the anus. Hookworms are not usually visible to the naked eye but can cause dark, tarry stools due to blood loss.
Diarrhea or loose stools can be a sign of parasitic infection. Blood (bright red or dark, tarry) can indicate hookworms or other parasites causing intestinal damage. Seek immediate veterinary care for your dog if you believe that might be the case based on your observations.
Remember that if your dog’s appetite changes significantly and abruptly seeking veterinary care is strongly encouraged. Of course, you should keep in mind that medical treatments for cancer, vaccination, and significant changes in your life can temporarily cause poor appetite. For personalized advice, consult your veterinarian.
