It can be deeply unsettling to notice your old dog refusing food and sleeping excessively at night. While changes in sleep patterns and appetite can come with age, these combined symptoms may indicate an underlying health issue that shouldn’t be ignored.
We outline the common causes of an old dog not eating and sleeping a lot at night, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Old Dog Not Eating and Sleeping a Lot at Night — Why It Happens
When a senior dog shows disinterest in food and starts sleeping more than usual at night, it may signal age-related illness, pain, or stress. Metabolic conditions, organ dysfunction, chronic pain, and cognitive decline are all potential culprits.
Sometimes, these symptoms stem from temporary issues like gastrointestinal upset, but in older dogs, they more often point to more serious problems that need attention.
Common Causes of Old Dog Not Eating and Sleeping a Lot at Night
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (Dog Dementia)
Cognitive decline in aging dogs can disrupt their internal clock, leading to changes in sleep-wake cycles.
A dog with dementia may sleep heavily at odd hours or appear lethargic and confused.
They may also forget routines, lose interest in food, or appear anxious at night.
This condition often progresses slowly, but early symptoms like nighttime restlessness and lack of appetite are warning signs.
Read more: Old dog shivering and not eating (Here’s why)
Chronic Pain (Arthritis, Dental Disease, Injury)
Pain from arthritis or dental problems can make eating difficult and exhausting. Older dogs in pain may also sleep more to avoid activity that aggravates discomfort.
Signs include limping, reluctance to move, whining, or changes in posture. If pain is interfering with your dog’s rest and appetite, they need medical relief.
Kidney Disease
In senior dogs, kidney function often declines with age. Toxin buildup from poor filtration can lead to nausea, appetite loss, and extreme fatigue.
You might notice your dog drinking more water, urinating frequently, or having pale gums. Bloodwork is needed to confirm kidney problems.
Heart Disease
Heart conditions can cause tiredness due to reduced oxygenation and circulation. Dogs with heart disease may be too tired to eat and sleep longer to compensate for energy loss.
Coughing, labored breathing, and intolerance to exercise may also be present. Left untreated, heart disease can be life-threatening.
Liver Disease
The liver processes toxins and supports digestion. In older dogs, liver dysfunction may cause appetite loss, lethargy, and increased sleep.
Other signs include vomiting, yellowing of the gums or eyes (jaundice), and weight loss. Early intervention is crucial to prevent worsening liver damage.
Cancer
Many cancers in senior dogs lead to general malaise, decreased appetite, and excessive sleeping, especially at night.
Weight loss, swelling, or visible masses may also appear. Some cancers, like lymphoma, affect internal organs and go unnoticed until symptoms are advanced.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Old, Not Eating, and Sleeping a Lot at Night
Begin by offering highly palatable, soft foods. Try warming their food or adding low-sodium chicken broth to entice eating. Hand-feeding may help a hesitant senior dog.
Create a calm nighttime environment to promote rest. Soft bedding, dim lights, and a familiar routine can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
Keep a daily journal of their symptoms, food intake, and sleep behavior. Noting changes over time will help your vet pinpoint the issue.
Ensure your dog stays hydrated. If they aren’t drinking on their own, you can try ice cubes, water-rich foods, or oral rehydration solutions under guidance.
Most importantly, schedule a veterinary visit. A thorough physical exam and lab tests can help identify silent issues like organ failure or pain that require immediate attention.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your old dog refuses food for more than 24 hours and is excessively sleepy, it’s time to consult a vet.
Seek urgent care if they show signs like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid weight loss, breathing problems, or visible pain.
Also act quickly if they’re disoriented, bumping into things, or vocalizing unusually at night—these could indicate neurological or cognitive issues.
Long-term appetite changes and disrupted sleep shouldn’t be dismissed in senior pets. Early intervention can greatly improve quality of life.
Read more: Old Dog Vomiting and Not Eating (What it could mean)
Key Takeaway
When your old dog is not eating and sleeping a lot at night, it’s more than just aging—it could be a sign of illness, pain, or cognitive decline. Keep a close eye on their symptoms, offer supportive care at home, and consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. With prompt attention, many of these issues can be managed to keep your senior dog comfortable and happy.