It’s always concerning when your dog starts losing weight and refusing food. These two symptoms together could indicate something as simple as stress or as serious as a chronic illness.
We outline the common causes of dog getting skinny and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Getting Skinny and Not Eating — Why It Happens
When your dog is losing weight and turning away from food, it often points to an underlying medical or emotional issue. Conditions like parasites, dental disease, diabetes, cancer, or anxiety can all lead to weight loss and reduced appetite.
In some cases, aging or chronic pain can cause dogs to slowly become thinner without their owners noticing right away.
If your dog is noticeably skinny and also not eating, it’s time to take the situation seriously.
Common Causes of Dog Getting Skinny and Not Eating
Intestinal Parasites
Worms and other intestinal parasites are common in dogs, especially puppies or those that aren’t on regular preventatives. These parasites feed off your dog’s nutrients, making it hard for them to gain or maintain weight.
Dogs may also feel queasy or bloated, which suppresses their appetite. Signs include a pot-bellied appearance, scooting, or visible worms in stool. If untreated, parasites can lead to malnutrition and further digestive distress.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Not Eating (What this means)
Dental Disease
Oral pain is a frequently overlooked reason dogs stop eating. Infected gums, loose teeth, or oral tumors can make chewing painful. As a result, dogs may stop eating altogether, leading to weight loss over time.
You might notice bad breath, pawing at the mouth, or drooling. Dental disease is common in senior dogs and smaller breeds.
Chronic Illness (e.g., Kidney or Liver Disease)
Chronic illnesses often result in a slow but steady decline in body condition. Dogs with kidney or liver disease may experience nausea, fatigue, and appetite loss.
They may start turning their nose up at food, then lose muscle mass and fat. Other symptoms might include increased thirst, vomiting, or changes in urination.
Diabetes
Diabetes can cause dogs to lose weight rapidly despite eating normally at first. Eventually, they may develop nausea or become lethargic and refuse food altogether.
Look for increased drinking, urination, and possibly sweet-smelling breath. If your dog has both weight loss and changes in eating or drinking habits, diabetes could be the cause.
Cancer
Certain cancers can lead to sudden or progressive weight loss. Tumors may interfere with appetite directly, cause gastrointestinal discomfort, or drain the body’s energy.
Lymphoma, intestinal cancers, and oral tumors are especially known for impacting a dog’s eating habits. If your dog seems weak, is losing weight rapidly, and has visible lumps or persistent vomiting, a vet visit is urgent.
Stress or Anxiety
Mental health affects physical health in dogs, too. A big move, changes in the home, or the loss of a companion can result in depression or anxiety, both of which may suppress appetite.
Dogs under stress may not eat much and may pace, whine, or hide. Extended stress can lead to weight loss, especially if the dog is already sensitive or underweight.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Getting Skinny and Not Eating
Start by closely observing your dog’s behavior. Note how long they’ve been eating less, any other symptoms, and how quickly they’ve lost weight. Sometimes, a mild tummy upset will pass within a day, but noticeable weight loss should never be ignored.
Try offering bland, easy-to-digest food like plain boiled chicken and rice. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and a calm environment.
Check their mouth for signs of dental pain, and review their stool for visible parasites or abnormal color.
If your dog hasn’t eaten in more than 24 hours or continues to lose weight, make a veterinary appointment. Diagnostic testing is often necessary to uncover internal issues like organ failure, diabetes, or cancer.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Weight loss and appetite loss are red flags, especially when they appear together. Call your vet if:
Your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours
They have visible signs of weight loss
You notice vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urine
Their belly is bloated or painful
There are signs of oral pain or bad breath
Prompt treatment can often make the difference in recovery outcomes, especially for serious conditions.
Read more: Dog Gassy and Not Eating (Why it might be serious)
Key Takeaway
When your dog is getting skinny and not eating, it’s a signal that something deeper may be going on. While stress or dental pain might be to blame, more serious illnesses like diabetes or cancer are also possible.
Stay observant, offer supportive care at home, and don’t delay a vet visit if your dog’s symptoms continue or worsen. Acting quickly gives your dog the best chance for a full and healthy recovery.