It can be distressing to hear your dog crying at night, especially when they’re also refusing to eat. These signs may indicate discomfort, illness, or emotional stress that shouldn’t be ignored.
We outline the common causes of a dog not eating and crying at night, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Not Eating and Crying at Night — Why It Happens
When a dog is not eating and crying during the night, it usually points to a mix of physical discomfort and emotional distress. Dogs may whimper or whine when they’re in pain, anxious, feeling unwell, or experiencing digestive upset. A sudden lack of appetite paired with nighttime vocalizing often signals underlying issues such as injury, illness, separation anxiety, gastrointestinal distress, or even cognitive changes in older dogs.
Common Causes of a Dog Not Eating and Crying at Night
Pain or Injury
Dogs in pain often cry, especially when they lie down or shift positions. This pain could be from arthritis, a sprain, an internal issue, or even dental discomfort.
Pain can cause your dog to avoid eating and become restless at night, whimpering or whining because they can’t get comfortable.
You might also notice limping, stiffness, or flinching when touched.
This combination of symptoms should not be ignored, especially if the crying is sudden and persistent.
Read more: Dog restless at night and Not Eating (When it’s more than just a mood)
Separation Anxiety
Many dogs become distressed when left alone, especially overnight. If your dog is used to sleeping near you and suddenly isn’t, this can cause crying at night and even refusal to eat due to stress.
Dogs with separation anxiety may pace, bark, whine, refuse food, or exhibit destructive behaviors when left alone.
Nighttime vocalizing caused by anxiety is more common in puppies and rescue dogs but can occur at any age.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Upset stomach, nausea, or bloating can cause your dog to skip meals and cry from discomfort. Conditions like gastritis, indigestion, gas, or even intestinal blockage may be the culprit.
Signs to look for include drooling, licking lips, gurgling stomach sounds, stretching in odd positions, or trying to eat grass.
If your dog is also vomiting or having diarrhea, the urgency for care increases significantly.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Senior Dogs
Older dogs may suffer from Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (similar to dementia). They may forget routines, become disoriented at night (“sundowning”), and cry for no apparent reason.
These dogs may also lose interest in food and struggle with navigating their environment.
Changes in sleep patterns, pacing, staring at walls, or confusion during the night are red flags to discuss with your vet.
Emotional or Environmental Stress
Changes in the household—like moving, a new pet, guests, loud noises, or a disruption in routine—can stress dogs and suppress their appetite.
Dogs may cry at night as they try to cope, especially if they’re sleeping alone or in a new space.
If your dog is otherwise healthy but recently went through a big change, this could be the root of their behavior.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Not Eating and Crying at Night
Start by offering your dog a quiet, comforting space to rest. Avoid scolding or trying to force food, as this can increase anxiety. Instead, offer bland food like boiled chicken and rice or a small spoonful of wet dog food to see if they’ll eat.
Try to soothe your dog with your presence—sit nearby, talk gently, or play calming music. If your dog has recently experienced a disruption in their routine, try reintroducing normal habits gradually.
Monitor their behavior closely. If they begin eating again within 12–24 hours and the crying subsides, it may have been a temporary emotional upset. If not, they may need medical intervention.
Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and isn’t showing signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or lethargy. Keep track of any bowel movements or vomiting as these will help your vet identify the cause.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Persistent crying combined with not eating is a red flag. Call your vet if your dog:
Refuses food for more than 24 hours
Cries continuously or seems in pain
Has additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating
Shows signs of injury or limping
Is an older dog with recent behavioral changes
Even if the symptoms seem minor, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Prompt evaluation can prevent complications from conditions like gastrointestinal blockages or internal injury.
Read more: Dog Being Needy and Not Eating (Why it happens)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is crying at night and refusing food, it’s a sign they’re uncomfortable—whether physically or emotionally. Watch for signs of pain, stress, illness, or environmental changes, and take action accordingly.
Gentle care and timely veterinary attention are key to ensuring your dog feels better and starts eating again. Never ignore nighttime distress—it’s your dog’s way of asking for help.