German Shepherd Diarrhea and Not Eating (Here’s Why)

Common Causes of Diarrhea and Loss of Appetite in German Shepherds

1. Underlying Illness

Just like humans, German Shepherds can suffer from a variety of illnesses that impact their appetite and digestion. These include:

• Viral or bacterial infections

• Gastrointestinal diseases (like IBD or colitis)

• Systemic illnesses such as kidney or liver problems

Pain, nausea, and emotional distress caused by these conditions can make your dog too uncomfortable or anxious to eat.

And when food is associated with discomfort, they may simply avoid it altogether.

Related: German Shepherd with diarrhea: A Guide

2. Gastrointestinal Infection

German Shepherds are active and curious, which sometimes leads to exposure to parasites, viruses, or harmful bacteria. These infections can:

• Cause inflammation in the gut

• Trigger nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Lead to a sharp drop in appetite

Common culprits include giardia, parvovirus, or salmonella, all of which can be serious without treatment.

3. Sudden Diet Change

Have you recently switched your German Shepherd’s food? A rapid diet change is a major trigger for diarrhea and food refusal, especially in this breed with a sensitive stomach.

Possible reactions include:

• Food intolerance or allergy

• Taste aversion

• Digestive upset from unfamiliar ingredients

German Shepherds often require a gradual transition when changing foods. Sudden changes can lead to gastrointestinal distress and refusal to eat.

4. Stress and Anxiety

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and emotionally sensitive. Stressful events—like moving homes, being left alone, or introducing new pets—can cause:

• Diarrhea

• Appetite suppression

• Behavioral changes like hiding, whining, or pacing

Stress impacts hormone levels, which can directly affect digestion and eating habits. Chronic stress can even suppress their immune system, worsening other health issues.

5. Poison Ingestion

Accidental ingestion of toxins or spoiled food can lead to acute gastrointestinal distress. German Shepherds may show:

• Sudden diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Complete refusal to eat

Common sources of toxins include:

• Household cleaning products

• Medications

• Contaminated water

• Human foods like chocolate, grapes, or onions

Toxins may also damage internal organs, resulting in more severe symptoms that require immediate veterinary care.

6. Medication Side Effects

Some medications, including antibiotics, NSAIDs, or dewormers, can cause nausea and diarrhea in German Shepherds. These side effects can reduce appetite, especially if the medication:

• Tastes bad or has a strong smell

• Affects their mood or energy levels

• Causes mouth discomfort or stomach upset

If your dog has recently started a new medication and shows signs of digestive issues, consult your vet for alternatives.

How Long Can a German Shepherd Go Without Eating?

If your German Shepherd has diarrhea, a short fasting period of 12–24 hours is often recommended to give the gut time to rest. However, they must continue to drink water to prevent dehydration.

After fasting, reintroduce food slowly with bland options like:

• Boiled chicken (no seasoning)

• Plain white rice

• Pumpkin purée

If your dog still refuses food after 24 hours, or if diarrhea persists, veterinary attention is essential.

German Shepherd Puppy Diarrhea and Not Eating

Puppies are particularly vulnerable to gastrointestinal issues due to their immature immune systems and developing digestive tracts.

When a German Shepherd puppy has diarrhea and isn’t eating, it should always be taken seriously.

Related: German Shepherd breathing heavily (Here’s why)

Common Causes in Puppies:

• Parvovirus: Highly contagious and life-threatening if not treated promptly

• Worms/Parasites: Roundworms, hookworms, and coccidia are common in puppies

• Vaccination side effects: Sometimes mild stomach upset can occur

• Diet change or weaning stress

What to Watch For:

• Lethargy, vomiting, bloated belly, fever, refusal to eat or drink

Puppies can become dehydrated very quickly. If your puppy hasn’t eaten or drunk anything for more than 12 hours or has diarrhea lasting over 24 hours, see a vet immediately.

Older German Shepherd Diarrhea and Not Eating

Senior German Shepherds (typically 8+ years old) may experience digestive upset for different reasons.

Their metabolism slows, and they may develop chronic health problems.

Common Causes in Older Dogs:

• Organ dysfunction: Kidney or liver disease can trigger diarrhea and appetite loss

• Cancer: Intestinal or abdominal tumors may cause chronic symptoms

• Dental pain: Older dogs may stop eating due to tooth or gum pain

• Degenerative conditions: These may affect how well food is digested or absorbed

Warning Signs: Rapid weight loss, frequent vomiting, changes in behavior, signs of pain

Tip: Always monitor water intake. Dehydration in older dogs can progress rapidly and become dangerous.

German Shepherd Has Diarrhea but Is Still Drinking Water

If your German Shepherd is still drinking water but not eating, that’s a good sign—they’re staying hydrated. However, this doesn’t mean the problem should be ignored.

Common reasons for this include:

• Dietary indiscretion (eating garbage or table scraps)

• Parasites

• Viral or bacterial infections

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Kidney or liver disorders

Watch for other symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, or blood in the stool. If any of these are present—or if symptoms last more than a day—contact your vet.

Can Not Eating Cause Diarrhea in German Shepherds?

In general, not eating doesn’t directly cause diarrhea, but the two symptoms often share a root cause. For example:

• Skipping meals may cause bile to accumulate, leading to stomach irritation or vomiting

• Stress or illness can trigger both symptoms simultaneously

• Pancreatitis or intestinal issues often affect both appetite and stool consistency

So while one may not cause the other, together they usually indicate an underlying health issue that needs medical evaluation.

German Shepherd Has Diarrhea and Won’t Eat or Drink

This is a serious emergency. When your German Shepherd is not eating or drinking—and has diarrhea—they are at high risk of:

• Severe dehydration

• Electrolyte imbalance

• Organ dysfunction

• Life-threatening illness

Conditions such as pancreatitis, toxin ingestion, or systemic infections are common culprits. Seek immediate veterinary care, especially if your German Shepherd is a puppy, senior, or already has health issues.

What to Do If Your German Shepherd Has Diarrhea and Isn’t Eating

Here are signs that mean it’s time to see your vet:

• Diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours

• Blood or mucus in the stool

• Vomiting in addition to diarrhea

• Refusal to drink water

• Lethargy or signs of pain

• Dry nose, sunken eyes, or pale gums

• Suspected poisoning

• Your dog is a puppy or senior

Prompt treatment can prevent complications and get your German Shepherd back on their paws quickly.

Key Takeaway

Diarrhea and lack of appetite in your German Shepherd can result from multiple causes—ranging from stress and dietary changes to infections or toxins.

While occasional digestive upset may resolve on its own, prolonged or severe symptoms require prompt veterinary care.

Pay attention to your dog’s behavior, hydration levels, and other warning signs. With the right care and early intervention, most German Shepherds recover quickly and return to their happy, healthy selves.