Like people, there are certain kinds of dogs that are just picky with what they eat. Maybe they just don’t like the food you’ve dished up. It is also common for dogs to refuse to eat when they are new to the surroundings…
Pet canines are a source of joy, and, at times, frustration. When they are playful and obedient, we beam like proud parents, showing off our well-behaved pooch. But when they get stubborn and naughty, we’ll surely feel irritated and even helpless. Whether our dog behaves like an angel or like a wayward hound, we love them because they are loyal and true. They surely become significant members of our family. Because of this, making sure that they are in the best of health is an important part of being a responsible pet owner.
Causes of Eating Problems
If you are a pet owner, then you probably have experienced a time when you’re dog just refused to eat, and you can’t find any obvious reasons why. Your pet may look good from outside, and he may behave the same – but he just won’t eat. One minute, he is greedily devouring the food you placed in front of him, and the next time you feed him, he just turns away from his favorite meal. What could be the problem?
It is actually fairly common for dogs to refuse to eat from time to time. In case the incident just occurred maybe once or twice, then it’s not a big issue. However, when a pet canine refuses to eat for several days, then it’s best to bring him to his vet or to an animal hospital.
There are several causes of dog eating problems, or, as some call it, dog anorexia. Here are a few issues that pet owners must be aware of in order to help them determine if their pets’ eating problems are serious or not.
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Being a Picky Eater
Like people, there are certain kinds of dogs that are just picky with what they eat. Maybe they just don’t like the food you’ve dished up. It is also common for dogs to refuse to eat when they are new to the surroundings, such as when you’ve just moved to a new home or when traveling. Canines might also refuse food if they are surrounded by unfamiliar people or other dogs.
One way to check if the problem might be serious is to feed your dog with something that he really likes, say, a small piece of bacon or hotdog. When your pet eats it, then he’s just being picky. But when a pet says no even to his most favorite food, then there may be a more serious health issue. This is the time when you call your pet’s vet.
Illness
As mentioned, when your dog snubs his favorite table food, then he might be ill, especially if he declines to eat for several days. Schedule an appointment with your pet’s doctor when the eating problem persists, particularly when you observe weakness and severe decline in weight.
There are many illnesses that could cause a dog to not eat. Dental problems, worms and other internal problems could be causing your dog to lose appetite. A vet will need to check blood panel, stool, x-ray and ultrasound to determine the exact cause of your pet’s eating disorder.
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Claire Howard is a freelance blogger and a pet lover. She blogs about her experiences as a pet owner. She also writes for pet healthcare facilities, like Arbor Pet Hospital. This pet medical facility offers veterinary and personal pet care services.
