If you’ve noticed that your dog is crying and not eating, it can be a concerning situation.
Dogs, like humans, experience discomfort and distress, and crying is often a way for them to communicate that something isn’t right.
The combination of crying and refusing food could point to a variety of causes, ranging from minor issues to more serious health concerns.
We outline the potential reasons why your dog might be crying and not eating, what you can do to help, and when to seek veterinary care.
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Here’s Why Your Dog Might Be Crying and Not Eating
When a dog is crying and not eating, it’s often a sign that something is wrong—either physically, emotionally, or both. Pain from injury, illness, dental issues, or gastrointestinal discomfort can cause a dog to whine or whimper while refusing food. Emotional stress, anxiety, or depression due to environmental changes, separation, or trauma may also lead to loss of appetite and vocal distress. In some cases, more serious underlying medical conditions such as infections, organ dysfunction, or poisoning could be to blame.
Because this combination of symptoms may indicate a significant health issue, it’s important to monitor your dog closely and consult a veterinarian if the behavior continues.
Common Causes of Dog Crying and Not Eating
1. Pain or Injury
Pain is one of the most common reasons why dogs might cry and stop eating.
Just like us, dogs feel physical discomfort and often vocalize when something hurts.
If your dog is limping, has trouble moving, or exhibits signs of pain (like whining, crying, or avoiding certain actions), it could be due to an injury.
Injuries might include:
Sprains or fractures
Arthritis or joint pain
Toothaches or gum issues
Internal injuries
Pain can cause a dog to lose its appetite because eating might feel uncomfortable or painful.
If your dog is crying and not eating, look for signs of physical injury or abnormal behavior such as limping, stiffness, or unusual postures.
Related: Dog diarrhea and not eating (Explained)
2. Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal problems are another common cause of crying and refusal to eat.
When dogs have upset stomachs or digestive issues, they may cry due to discomfort.
Gastrointestinal issues that might lead to a dog crying and not eating include:
Indigestion or bloating: Dogs can suffer from upset stomachs due to eating something they shouldn’t, or from food intolerances.
Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite, causing your dog to cry in distress.
Constipation or diarrhea: Abdominal discomfort due to constipation or diarrhea may result in crying and a lack of appetite.
If your dog has vomiting, diarrhea, or other signs of digestive discomfort, the refusal to eat is often due to nausea or general malaise.
To support your dog, it’s important to monitor for other symptoms like lethargy, changes in stool, or vomiting.
3. Infections or Illnesses
Infections can cause your dog to cry and refuse food as their body tries to fight off the illness.
Various conditions can lead to these symptoms, including:
Fever: If your dog has an infection, they may develop a fever, which can make them feel weak and less inclined to eat.
Ear infections: Infections in the ears can cause pain and irritation, leading to crying and a refusal to eat.
Respiratory infections: Conditions like kennel cough or pneumonia may cause discomfort and breathing difficulties, leading to crying and lack of appetite.
It’s important to watch for other signs of illness, such as fever, coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge.
If you suspect an infection or illness, consult your vet immediately for a proper diagnosis.
4. Dental Problems
Dental issues are a common, often overlooked, cause of crying and not eating in dogs.
Dental pain, such as from tooth decay, gum disease, or abscesses, can cause a dog to cry and avoid eating because chewing becomes painful.
If your dog has bad breath, drools excessively, or paws at its mouth, dental issues could be the culprit.
A vet will need to examine your dog’s teeth to determine the cause of the discomfort.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Dogs are highly sensitive to their environment, and stress can affect their eating habits and emotional state.
Significant changes in their routine, such as a move to a new home, the introduction of a new pet or person, or even loud noises, can lead to anxiety, which may result in crying and a refusal to eat.
Stress can lead to a number of physical and emotional symptoms in dogs, including:
Loss of appetite
Whining or crying
Excessive pacing or drooling
Aggression or fear-based behavior
If your dog has recently experienced a significant change in its environment or routine, stress or anxiety could be contributing to the crying and lack of appetite.
To help your dog feel more comfortable, try to provide a calm and stable environment.
If the anxiety persists, consult with your veterinarian about possible treatments, including medications or behavioral therapy.
6. Food or Dietary Issues
Sometimes, the reason your dog is crying and not eating is simply that they don’t like the food they’ve been given.
While this may seem trivial, food preferences can lead to issues if your dog’s diet is not balanced or if they suddenly stop liking a certain type of food.
In some cases, a change in diet or introduction of new food may upset your dog’s stomach, causing them to cry and avoid eating.
Additionally, food allergies or sensitivities can make your dog feel uncomfortable and lead to symptoms like crying, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If you recently changed your dog’s food or treats, consider going back to the previous brand and flavor to see if that resolves the issue.
Related: Dog coughing and not eating (Explained)
7. Age-Related Changes
Older dogs are more likely to develop health issues that may cause them to cry and stop eating.
As dogs age, they may experience a decline in their sense of taste or smell, making food less appealing.
They may also develop age-related conditions, such as:
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome: Similar to dementia in humans, older dogs may become confused, disoriented, and less interested in food.
Arthritis or mobility issues: Joint pain can make it harder for older dogs to move around, which may lead to crying and reluctance to eat.
If you have an older dog, consider scheduling a vet visit to ensure there aren’t underlying conditions contributing to their crying and lack of appetite.
8. Poisoning or Toxicity
Accidental poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening cause of crying and refusal to eat.
Dogs may ingest toxic substances such as household cleaners, certain plants, or human medications, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and crying.
Common signs of poisoning include:
Excessive drooling
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Seizures or tremors
If you suspect that your dog has ingested something toxic, it’s crucial to seek veterinary help immediately.
Quick treatment can make a significant difference in your dog’s recovery.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Crying and Not Eating
If your dog is crying and not eating, here are some steps you can take to help them:
Check for injury or discomfort: Examine your dog for signs of injury, swelling, or discomfort. If you notice any abnormalities, contact your vet for advice.
Monitor their behavior: Keep track of other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. These can provide clues to the underlying cause of the crying and lack of appetite.
Offer bland food: If your dog is refusing their regular food, try offering bland foods like boiled chicken and rice, which are gentle on the stomach.
Provide a calm environment: If stress or anxiety is the cause, try to create a quiet and safe space for your dog. Avoid loud noises and give them plenty of time to relax.
Visit the vet: If your dog’s crying and lack of appetite persists for more than a day or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s best to seek veterinary care. A vet can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment.
When to Seek Help from a Veterinarian
If your dog’s crying and refusal to eat is accompanied by:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Fever or lethargy
Swelling or limping
Difficulty breathing or coughing
It’s essential to take your dog to the vet immediately. Prompt treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and help your dog feel better faster.
Key Takeaway
Crying and not eating can indicate a range of issues in dogs, from minor discomforts to serious health problems.
By observing your dog’s behavior and looking for other symptoms, you can often pinpoint the cause.
If in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s health and well-being.
By addressing the issue early, you can help your dog feel better and avoid long-term complications.