Why is My Dog Drinking Water But Not Eating?

Healthy dogs can go without food for a few days but for us, the parents, this is always concerning 😳

The decrease in appetite can also be due to a variety of reasons including stomach problems, dental issues, anxiety, stress, pain, or maybe they just got bored of their food.

In any case, it is better to monitor your pet and check for any signs that may be accompanying the lack of appetite.

In this article, we explore the potential causes and answer common questions on this topic.

Why is my dog just drinking water and not eating?

Upset Stomach

Digestive issues can cause a loss of appetite. Other signs include frequent vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and abdominal discomfort. In this case, it may be best to withhold food for a short period of time, and once the dog’s stomach settles you can offer small and bland meals such as boiled white meat (turkey or chicken) with boiled rice or potato.

One complication of diarrhea is dehydration, however, if your dog is drinking well it is unlikely to happen.

If the problem persists, consult with your vet. They can help determine the underlying cause of the digestive issues and recommend treatment or dietary changes.

Dental Pain

Another possibility is that the dog may be experiencing dental pain, making it difficult for them to eat solid food. It may be worth checking their mouth, or any signs of dental issues. We wrote a complete guide on how to recognize dental problems and solutions: Comprehensive Guide to Senior Dog Dental Care.

Stress or Anxiety

Stress or anxiety can also lead to a loss of appetite in dogs. If there have been any recent changes or stressful events in the dog’s environment, it may be helpful to create a calm and comfortable space for them and try to reduce any sources of stress.

Why my dog isn’t eating but acting normal?

If your dog isn’t eating but still feeling fine, and not experiencing any of the previous reasons, maybe check if they got bored of their food, or if they have problems with the bowl.

Can a dog survive without eating but drinking water?

A healthy dog can typically go without eating for about 1-3 days. However, if your dog refuses to eat for more than a day or is showing signs of illness or discomfort, it is best to consult with your veterinarian for further guidance.

Why is my Senior dog not eating but drinking water?

Similarly to adult dogs, senior dogs may be also experiencing upset stomachs, dental problems, anxiety, or stress, which lead to a decrease in their appetite.

Additionally, there are certain medical conditions prevalent in senior dogs can also lead to a decreased appetite, including:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Joint pain
• or side effects of medications

When should I worry about my dog not eating?

Monitor your pet. In cases where a dog’s lack of appetite persists, is getting worse, or other symptoms appear, it is important to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

👆🏼Important: Pay attention to alarming signs that could be accompanying the lack of appetite such as lethargy or black stools. In those cases, call the vet straight away.

Conclusion

It is not uncommon for dogs to lose interest in food from time to time. So don’t get all alarmed right away. Pay close attention to other signs, and address common reasons such as stomach or dental problems, stress, or anxiety. Maybe add delicious toppings to their regular meals. I sprinkle dry liver and always works for my dogs.

But if you don’t see any improvements or the symptoms are getting worse, it is best to arrange a visit to the vet. There are other health problems that can lead to a decreased appetite, and your vet is the best person to diagnose and provide further guidance.

Related Articles:

• Why Is My Senior Dog Drinking So Much Water?
• How to Help Your Senior Dog Gain Weight
• Why My Old Dog Won’t Eat from the Bowl Anymore