When your dog starts getting sick and refuses to eat, it’s more than just a passing issue—it can be a sign of serious underlying problems.
We outline the common causes of dog getting sick and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Getting Sick and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Vomiting combined with a loss of appetite usually points to an internal disturbance in your dog’s health.
This may range from mild digestive upset to life-threatening issues like pancreatitis or toxin ingestion. Other possible causes include gastrointestinal blockages, infections, kidney or liver disease, and even stress or anxiety.
The sudden change in behavior, especially refusal to eat, signals the body is under distress and should never be ignored.
Common Causes of Dog Getting Sick and Not Eating
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is a common cause of both vomiting and appetite loss in dogs.
It often results from eating spoiled food, garbage, or sudden diet changes. Dogs may vomit bile or partially digested food and become lethargic.
Mild cases can sometimes be managed at home, but if symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, dehydration and worsening symptoms can occur.
Pancreatitis
When the pancreas becomes inflamed, dogs often vomit repeatedly and stop eating.
This condition is often triggered by fatty foods or certain medications. Your dog may also show signs of abdominal pain, restlessness, or a hunched posture.
Pancreatitis can range from mild to severe and always requires veterinary diagnosis and management.
Foreign Body Obstruction
Dogs are curious and may swallow toys, bones, or other non-food objects that block their intestines.
These obstructions prevent food from passing normally, leading to vomiting and a sudden refusal to eat.
You might also notice abdominal bloating, whining, or straining without producing stool. This is a medical emergency.
Read more: Dog Being Sick and Not Eating and Lethargic (What it means)
Kidney or Liver Disease
Organ dysfunction can cause nausea, vomiting, and significant appetite loss.
Toxins build up in the bloodstream when the kidneys or liver can’t function properly. In chronic cases, symptoms may develop slowly.
Bad breath, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/gums), or excessive drinking and urination are common signs.
Toxin Ingestion
Many household items, including chocolate, xylitol, human medications, and certain plants, are toxic to dogs.
If ingested, symptoms can include vomiting, drooling, tremors, and not eating.
Rapid veterinary care is essential to prevent organ failure or death.
Stress or Anxiety
Stressful events like moving, changes in the household, or loud noises can affect your dog’s stomach.
This may cause them to vomit, lose interest in food, and isolate themselves.
While emotional causes are usually temporary, persistent stress-related symptoms still need evaluation to rule out medical causes.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Getting Sick and Not Eating
Start by removing food for 12–24 hours if your dog is vomiting but still drinking water.
Offer small amounts of bland food like boiled chicken and rice after the fasting period. Observe for improvement.
Keep your dog comfortable and hydrated. If vomiting continues, becomes more frequent, or is accompanied by other symptoms, call your vet.
Do not administer human medications unless directed by your veterinarian.
Watch for anything your dog could have ingested, and bring it with you to the vet if you suspect toxicity.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog:
Vomits repeatedly or can’t keep water down
Becomes lethargic or collapses
Has a bloated abdomen
Shows signs of pain or distress
Hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours
Vomits blood or has blood in the stool
Is a puppy, senior dog, or has pre-existing health conditions
Early treatment can prevent complications like dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or organ failure.
Read more: Dog Green Poop and Not Eating (Causes and what to do)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is getting sick and not eating, it’s a clear signal that something isn’t right.
While mild digestive issues can resolve at home, ongoing symptoms or additional warning signs need prompt veterinary attention.
Trust your instincts and don’t delay seeking help—your dog’s health may depend on it.