A dog that feels unusually hot and refuses food can be alarming, especially if the symptoms develop suddenly. These signs can indicate anything from mild overheating to life-threatening conditions that demand swift medical care.
We outline the common causes of dog hot and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Hot and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs that feel hot and aren’t eating may be experiencing fever, heatstroke, infection, or inflammation. Other causes include reactions to medications, underlying illness, or external environmental stressors like high temperatures or sun exposure. Sometimes, pain or internal organ issues can elevate body temperature and suppress appetite.
Common Causes of Dog Hot and Not Eating
Fever
Fever is one of the most common reasons a dog may feel hot to the touch and lose interest in food.
Fever is typically the body’s natural response to infection or inflammation. It raises the core temperature to help fight off invading organisms.
Dogs with a fever may have warm ears, dry nose, and seem lethargic or withdrawn. A temperature above 103°F (39.4°C) is considered abnormal in dogs.
Fever can arise from many causes, including bacterial infections, viral illnesses, or even tick-borne diseases, all of which can dampen appetite.
Read more: Dog Not Eating and Panting (Could it be stress or pain?)
Heatstroke
Heatstroke can occur when a dog is exposed to high temperatures or overexerts itself in warm weather.
As the dog’s body struggles to regulate internal temperature, they may become dangerously hot, weak, and disoriented.
Loss of appetite is common, and vomiting or collapse may follow.
Flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, and those left in hot cars are especially vulnerable. Heatstroke is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Infection or Inflammation
Infections, whether internal or external, often trigger both a fever and a loss of appetite.
Conditions like pneumonia, infected wounds, urinary tract infections, or gastrointestinal infections can raise body temperature and lead to systemic illness.
Affected dogs may appear hot, dull, and refuse food. Inflammatory diseases such as pancreatitis or immune-mediated disorders can produce similar symptoms.
Vaccination Reaction
Some dogs may experience mild side effects after vaccination, including warmth and reduced appetite.
This reaction typically occurs within 24–48 hours and resolves on its own. The dog may feel slightly feverish and less interested in eating but should still remain generally alert.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to rule out a more serious complication.
Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Certain toxins can raise a dog’s internal temperature while also causing nausea, abdominal discomfort, or vomiting.
Common culprits include chocolate, xylitol, antifreeze, or certain medications. These substances not only affect the nervous and digestive systems but can also induce fever or inflammation.
Dogs that ingest something harmful may pant excessively, drool, or show signs of pain and discomfort. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial in suspected poisoning cases.
Pain or Internal Illness
Pain alone can make a dog feel warmer and suppress its appetite.
Dogs with injuries, dental infections, or internal issues like liver or kidney disease may exhibit these symptoms. Pain-induced stress can elevate body temperature even in the absence of infection.
In these cases, the dog may isolate itself, avoid food, and seem warmer than usual, especially around the head or abdomen.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Hot and Not Eating
First, check your dog’s temperature using a pet-safe rectal thermometer. A normal canine body temperature is 101–102.5°F (38.3–39.2°C). Anything over 103°F warrants close monitoring or action.
Move your dog to a cool, shaded area if overheating is suspected. Offer small amounts of cool water but avoid forcing food or excessive fluids.
Try to identify possible causes, such as recent vaccination, hot weather exposure, or ingestion of something unusual. Avoid giving any human medications unless explicitly directed by a veterinarian.
Keep your dog calm, limit physical activity, and monitor other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior. If the symptoms last more than 24 hours or worsen, consult your vet immediately.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your vet promptly if your dog:
Has a temperature over 103.5°F
Is panting excessively, drooling, or breathing rapidly
Vomits or has diarrhea alongside the symptoms
Becomes lethargic or collapses
Shows signs of pain, bloating, or disorientation
Sudden overheating and appetite loss can be early signs of serious illness or heatstroke, which can progress rapidly. Early intervention can prevent complications and support recovery.
Read more: Dog Howling and Not Eating (What these signs may mean)
Key Takeaway
When your dog feels hot and stops eating, it’s essential to pay attention to the surrounding symptoms and act quickly.
Whether it’s heatstroke, fever, or an infection, taking early steps like cooling them down, checking their temperature, and contacting a vet can make a major difference.
Your awareness and fast action help ensure your dog stays safe, comfortable, and on the road to recovery.