When your dog isn’t acting like themselves and refuses food, it’s natural to worry. Dogs are usually eager eaters, so when they seem under the weather and skip meals, something could be wrong.
We outline the common causes of a dog not feeling well and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Not Feeling Well and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs may stop eating and appear unwell due to illness, pain, emotional stress, or changes in their environment. Digestive issues, infections, dental pain, poisoning, and internal diseases like kidney failure can all lead to a drop in appetite and energy.
Behavioral triggers, such as anxiety or trauma, can also make a dog seem off and uninterested in food. Sometimes, the cause is mild and passes with time — but in other cases, it can signal a serious condition.
Common Causes of Dog Not Feeling Well and Not Eating
Gastrointestinal Upset
GI upset is a common culprit when dogs stop eating and look sick. They might have eaten something they shouldn’t have, picked up a stomach bug, or developed food intolerance.
You might notice vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or loud stomach noises.
Even if they don’t vomit, the nausea alone can make a dog turn away from food. Mild cases can resolve at home, but persistent GI issues need veterinary care.
Read more: Dog Not Pooping and Not Eating (Is constipation causing this?)
Infection or Fever
Infections — whether bacterial, viral, or parasitic — often cause both lethargy and appetite loss. A fever is the body’s natural response to fighting infection and usually makes dogs feel worse.
They may appear warm, sleep more, and isolate themselves.
Common infections include respiratory illnesses, tick-borne diseases, and urinary tract infections. All can cause your dog to seem under the weather and avoid food.
Dental Pain or Mouth Issues
Toothaches, inflamed gums, or oral injuries can make eating painful. If your dog approaches their food but pulls back or only eats soft treats, a dental issue could be to blame.
You may also notice drooling, pawing at the mouth, or bad breath.
Mouth problems are not always obvious, so a vet exam is important if appetite loss continues.
Kidney or Liver Disease
Chronic conditions like kidney failure or liver disease often cause vague symptoms: poor appetite, vomiting, weight loss, and lethargy. These diseases progress slowly and can make a dog seem generally unwell.
Toxins build up in the body, making your dog feel nauseated and weak.
Early diagnosis can improve outcomes, so it’s important not to ignore signs.
Pain or Injury
Dogs instinctively hide pain, but an injury or internal discomfort can cause them to stop eating and act sick. Arthritis, spinal problems, or even abdominal pain from bloat or pancreatitis could be the source.
They may move slowly, avoid being touched, or show signs of restlessness.
If you suspect your dog is hurting, a prompt vet visit is essential.
Emotional Stress or Anxiety
Emotional triggers — such as a move, new pet, loud noises, or a change in routine — can affect your dog’s behavior and appetite.
Stressed dogs may hide, act withdrawn, or sleep more.
While emotional changes can cause short-term appetite loss, ongoing anxiety may need behavioral support or medication.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Not Feeling Well and Not Eating
Start by monitoring their symptoms. Take note of whether they are drinking water, urinating, vomiting, or having normal bowel movements. If they’re still drinking and not showing distress, give it 24 hours before offering bland food like boiled chicken and rice.
Keep them calm and in a quiet space. Stress can worsen symptoms, so provide comfort and a safe place to rest. Avoid giving treats or table scraps, which may upset their stomach further.
If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours or is acting increasingly sick, call your vet. Never try to force-feed your dog.
Sometimes appetite stimulants, fluids, or anti-nausea meds are needed, which only a vet can provide safely.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your vet right away if:
Your dog is vomiting repeatedly or has diarrhea.
There’s blood in vomit, stool, or from the nose.
Your dog is panting heavily, shivering, or seems in pain.
They haven’t eaten or drunk water in over 24 hours.
They are unable to stand, seem disoriented, or are unresponsive.
Waiting too long can make things worse. Many causes of lethargy and appetite loss are treatable — but only if caught early.
Read more: Dog Not Drinking Water and Not Eating (Why this happens)
Key Takeaway
A dog who isn’t feeling well and won’t eat is trying to tell you something. Whether it’s a stomach upset, infection, pain, or stress, appetite loss is never something to ignore.
Monitor your dog closely, offer comfort and bland food if safe, and don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care. Getting answers early can make all the difference in helping your dog recover fully and quickly.