Ava Williams
While cats often turn on their heels when they are fed if they don’t like the food, dogs are always hungry and will eat whatever is put in front of them. As with many things in life, there are exceptions. It is important to recognize the reasons why a dog suddenly has no appetite. On the one hand, if you have problems with your stomach or digestive tract, it makes sense to contact a veterinarian as early as possible. On the other hand, such a visit causes costs that can be saved because the lack of appetite can be attributed to things other than health problems.
A question of external circumstances
As with humans, the appetite of dogs also fluctuates. When the weather is too hot, for example, dogs are often less inclined to eat large amounts of food. Feeding in the morning and then again in the evening makes sense, especially in summer. Furthermore, changes in the hormone balance can lead to the dog not wanting to eat. This is often the case for bitches in heat. In addition, many dogs have problems eating when they are under stress. In this case, you should first wait and give the food again later.
Is the feed good quality?
Even though dogs tolerate meat in all possible raw forms much better than humans, that doesn’t mean that all dogs eat everything. In this respect, the dog’s lack of appetite can sometimes be attributed to the fact that it does not like a certain type of food. If in doubt, the meal should then be exchanged. However, it is important not to make this procedure the rule, so that the dog does not learn that it can gain power over the menu by refusing it. In this respect, regular close observation is important to be able to assess the reasons for the dog’s loss of appetite.
To provide variety
Although dogs are not usually gourmets, they do appreciate a certain amount of variety. This is also beneficial for your health as the ingredients are composed in different ways. In this way, the dog not only develops more appetite, but its body is also better supplied.
During longer phases without food intake
If the dog refuses to eat for a longer period, there are usually health problems. Digestive problems often show up in the form of vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Dental problems or pieces of bone that has become wedged in the esophagus are less obvious from the outside. Therefore, if there is a persistent loss of appetite without recognizable external reasons, a short-term appointment with a veterinarian should always be arranged in case of doubt.