There are dozens of reasons why a puppy may refuse to eat and it is important to diagnose the problem at an early stage. If your puppy rejects not only the usual dish but also a treat and something new, it's worth thinking about.
We will tell you several ways to identify and solve the problem. But if the situation does not return to normal after a few days of trying, it is worth contacting your vet.
CAUSES OF ANOREXIA IN DOGS
Anorexia in humans and anorexia in dogs are two different problems. In the first case, this term is most often used to refer to the problem of eating behavior when a person starves because of a false perception of being too full.
In dogs, however, the term "anorexia" means a complete lack of appetite and refusal to eat. There are several reasons for this disease, but it's possible that the puppy isn't sick, but just too picky.
Worst possible cause:
Cancer.
Infection.
Liver and kidney diseases.
Among the more common and less dangerous causes:
Change of scenery.
Recently vaccinated.
Fear and anxiety.
Your baby's teeth will cut.
As a person, serious illnesses, such as cancer or kidney problems, reduce appetite and cause general sluggishness and ill health. Keep an eye on your dog and ask your vet if you suspect the disease is easy to control
If you just moved into a new home or just took your puppy away from the breeder, your baby may be afraid of a change of scenery. This problem can only be solved by time, affection and good treatment.
Sometimes the dog gets seasick in the car, but usually, nausea and lack of appetite go away in 24 hours.
If he's a small puppy, the problem can be tooth growth. Baby teeth fall out at around 8-10 weeks of age and the molars grow to seven months. Puppies may avoid certain foods during this period, especially foods that cannot be chewed.
When there are several dogs in the house, one may refuse to eat because of the aggression of the other. Sometimes they fight over food or simply eat much faster.
WHAT DO I DO?
Whatever the reason, the problem is one thing - puppy doesn't eat. If he's not spinning at your feet waiting for the bowl to be on the floor, it's time to take action. And the first thing to do - to understand whether the baby is sick or just too picky.
Dogs tend to get used to the same food and are unbelievable about changing their diet. Even small puppies can act on the same rule. So, if you've switched from one food to another, the answer to the question "why" is found.
Try to mix the old food with the new one. A familiar smell is also a great way to convert your puppy to adult food. Two types of dry food mix perfectly together, just like two types of wet food, but this method won't work if you switch from wet to dry or vice versa.
If you suspect your dog is having problems with his appetite because of his fastidiousness, try the following:
Offer some meat (preferably low-fat chicken or beef).
Heat the dry food in the microwave. It takes 10-20 seconds to enhance the flavor and attract attention.
Try adding some water or broth to the food to soften it and make it more convenient to eat.
If you have a cat, try to mix some dry cat food into your dog's regular meal. Cat food has a strong, attractive smell and a high protein content.
If any of these methods work, it's probably a matter of picky, not sick. In this case, reduce the amount of treats, eat strictly at the same time and do not change the diet. Soon your dog will have to start eating.
If your puppy still hasn't touched the food within 20-30 minutes of feeding, take the bowl out of sight. Put it back in its place only during the next meal, not before. If food isn't available all the time, it will look more tempting.
Are you sure there's no other reason to worry other than lack of hunger? Then increase the walking time and the number of games to make your baby tired and hungry.
If there is more than one dog in the house, try feeding them separately to make sure that no one is interfering with their food or taking away food.
WHEN TO GO TO THE VET?
None of the methods work and it's been more than a day? Well, it's time to go to the doctor!
Pay attention to the symptoms that mean the dog is sick, not just picking on the dog:
Multiple vomiting or diarrhea.
Constipation.
Fever.
Refusal from water.
Signs of pain and discomfort.
Shiver.
If you notice several signs from the list or just suspect that the situation is getting out of hand, don't delay. Any illness is easier to cure at an early stage.
As you can see, there are more than a dozen reasons for refusing to eat and most of them are not dangerous to your health. Try different methods and observe to react promptly. We wish your puppy good health!https://petsfusion.com/news/176/shchenok-otkazivaetsia-est/