When your dog is pooping but not eating, it can feel confusing and alarming. Their digestion seems active, but their lack of appetite may signal something is off.
We outline the common causes of dog pooping and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Pooping and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs that are still having bowel movements but refuse food may be dealing with anything from stress to organ issues. Digestive upset, infections, pain, toxins, or chronic diseases could all cause these symptoms. Some dogs may be experiencing nausea or discomfort despite regular bowel movements. Others may be reacting to medication, anxiety, or a recent change in diet.
Common Causes of Dog Pooping and Not Eating
Gastrointestinal Upset
Dogs with mild stomach or intestinal irritation might continue pooping normally, especially if the irritation is upper-GI related.
They may feel too nauseous to eat, particularly if they’ve eaten something they shouldn’t have, like table scraps or spoiled food. Often, they’ll show signs like lip licking, drooling, or turning away from food bowls.
This condition can resolve on its own, but persistent symptoms should not be ignored, especially if vomiting or diarrhea develops.
Read more: Dog Not Eating and Drinking a Lot of Water (Is it serious or just dehydration?)
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause loss of appetite, nausea, and abdominal pain, even if bowel movements continue.
It often results from high-fat meals or certain underlying conditions. Dogs with pancreatitis may hunch their back, seem lethargic, or vomit.
This condition is serious and requires prompt veterinary attention.
Kidney Disease
Dogs with kidney problems often lose their appetite due to toxin buildup in the bloodstream.
Yet, their colon may still function for a while, especially in early stages. You might notice increased drinking, more frequent urination, or bad breath.
Left untreated, kidney disease can cause dehydration and dangerous systemic issues.
Liver Dysfunction
Liver issues can cause nausea, reduced appetite, and energy loss even if the digestive tract is still moving waste.
Dogs might seem confused or weak due to toxins accumulating in the blood.
They may also have pale gums, yellow-tinged eyes or skin (jaundice), or dark urine and stools.
Pain or Injury
Pain from arthritis, injury, or internal problems can make a dog too uncomfortable to eat.
Yet their digestive system may still process previous meals. Dogs in pain might isolate themselves, pant, or yelp when touched.
This is especially common in older dogs or those with spinal or abdominal injuries.
Anxiety or Emotional Distress
Sudden stress from a household change, separation anxiety, or loud noises may affect your dog’s appetite.
However, this typically doesn’t stop normal pooping. These dogs may pace, hide, tremble, or refuse food out of nervousness.
Behavioral causes should still be taken seriously, especially if they persist more than a day or two.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Pooping and Not Eating
If your dog skips one meal but otherwise seems normal and is still pooping normally, it may be okay to monitor them for a short time.
Try offering bland, easy-to-digest foods like boiled chicken and rice in small portions.
Make sure fresh water is always available, and check for signs of dehydration by gently lifting their skin to see if it snaps back quickly.
Avoid giving treats or new foods that might upset their stomach further.
If your dog has recently been vaccinated, dewormed, or had a medication change, call your vet to discuss possible side effects.
Keep a log of symptoms—such as when they last ate, pooped, and any behavioral changes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your vet if your dog:
Refuses food for more than 24 hours
Shows signs of abdominal pain (whining, bloated belly, stiff posture)
Vomits repeatedly or has diarrhea
Becomes lethargic, weak, or disoriented
Has very dark, bloody, or tar-like stools
Has a known chronic condition like diabetes or kidney disease
Veterinary exams may include bloodwork, X-rays, or an ultrasound to pinpoint the underlying issue.
Read more: Dog Pooping Blood and Not Eating or Drinking (What it means)
Key Takeaway
When your dog is pooping but not eating, it could be a sign of a mild digestive issue or a more serious underlying condition.
Watch for additional symptoms, and don’t hesitate to involve your vet if your dog’s behavior changes, worsens, or lasts more than a day.
Prompt attention can make all the difference in ensuring your dog stays healthy and comfortable.