When your dog is having loose motion (diarrhea) and refusing to eat, it’s a clear signal that something is off. This combination can quickly lead to dehydration, weakness, and a worsening of the underlying problem.
We outline the common causes of dog loose motion and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Loose Motion and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Loose motion paired with a loss of appetite often points to gastrointestinal upset, infections, dietary indiscretion, or internal issues like parasites or inflammation. A dog may feel nauseated, have abdominal discomfort, or be dealing with a systemic illness that impacts digestion.
In some cases, the cause is minor and self-limiting. But in others, especially if symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, it may be a sign of something more serious.
Common Causes of Dog Loose Motion and Not Eating
Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines and is one of the most common reasons dogs have diarrhea and refuse food.
It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, spoiled food, or sudden diet changes.
Your dog might also show signs like vomiting, lethargy, or a bloated abdomen.
The discomfort and nausea make eating unappealing, while the inflammation leads to watery or soft stools.
Left untreated, it can lead to rapid dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Read more: Dog Vomiting and Not Eating (What’s behind it?)
Intestinal Parasites
Worms and other intestinal parasites such as Giardia or coccidia often cause loose stool and poor appetite.
These parasites interfere with nutrient absorption and irritate the digestive tract.
Dogs, especially puppies or rescues, may experience frequent diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, and fatigue.
An untreated infestation can lead to malnourishment and chronic gastrointestinal distress.
A simple fecal test at the vet can confirm the presence of parasites and guide deworming treatment.
Dietary Indiscretion
Dogs are known to eat things they shouldn’t—garbage, table scraps, spoiled food, or foreign objects.
This behavior can lead to digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and a refusal to eat due to nausea.
Loose motion often occurs because the digestive tract is trying to eliminate the irritating substance.
Depending on what was ingested, symptoms may improve within 24–48 hours, or escalate if toxins or blockages are involved.
Viral or Bacterial Infections
Illnesses like parvovirus, distemper, or bacterial infections (e.g., salmonella) can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
In younger dogs or unvaccinated pets, these conditions can be life-threatening.
Signs may include severe diarrhea, bloody stool, vomiting, high fever, and complete refusal to eat.
These infections require urgent veterinary attention and often hospitalization.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and is often triggered by eating fatty or rich foods.
It causes abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and a total lack of appetite.
Dogs with pancreatitis often act subdued, prefer to lie down, and may adopt a prayer-like position to ease pain.
Without treatment, pancreatitis can become a recurring or life-threatening issue.
Food Allergies or Intolerances
Some dogs develop sensitivities or allergies to ingredients in their food.
This can lead to chronic loose stools, gurgling stomach, skin issues, and disinterest in eating.
Changing the protein source or switching to a limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic diet often helps.
It’s important to work with your vet before making major dietary adjustments.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Loose Motion and Is Not Eating
Start by monitoring your dog’s hydration. Offer small amounts of water or unflavored electrolyte solution.
If your dog is alert and otherwise stable, you can try fasting them for 12–24 hours (unless they are a puppy or senior), then reintroduce bland food like boiled chicken and rice.
Avoid giving human medications or over-the-counter remedies unless your vet has instructed you to do so.
Keep your dog in a calm, clean space where you can easily observe their bathroom habits and overall behavior.
Track stool consistency, frequency, and any changes in energy levels or additional symptoms.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog has had loose motion and refuses to eat for more than 24 hours, it’s time to call your vet.
Puppies, seniors, and dogs with preexisting conditions should be seen even sooner.
Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the following:
Bloody or black stool
Vomiting along with diarrhea
Signs of pain (whining, hunched posture, trembling)
Visible worms in stool
Extreme lethargy or collapse
Dehydration (sunken eyes, sticky gums, skin doesn’t snap back quickly)
Early intervention can prevent complications and reduce recovery time.
Read more: Dog Loose Stool and Not Eating (How worried should you be?)
Key Takeaway
Loose motion combined with a refusal to eat is never something to ignore in your dog.
While minor stomach upset may resolve quickly with rest and bland food, persistent or severe symptoms can signal something more serious.
Stay observant, offer supportive care at home if your dog is stable, and don’t hesitate to call your vet if anything seems off.
Your quick action could make all the difference in your dog’s health and comfort.