Dog Wellness

How Long Can Your Dog Go Without Eating?

How Long Can Your Dog Go Without Eating?

Andrew Alpin, M.Sc.

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Andrew Alpin, M.Sc.

Ever wondered how long your dog can go without eating before it becomes concerning? As a dog parent, this is a crucial question. Whether your dog has suddenly lost his appetite or seems under the weather, knowing when to take action can be the difference between a minor issue and a serious problem. Dogs, like people, can have off days, but there’s a limit to how long they can skip meals safely. Let’s break down the facts and offer some advice that might help your furry companions.

How Long Can Dogs Go Without Food?

Retriever Dog lieing on its side looking into the camera
Retriever Dog lieing on its side looking into the camera. Image by Malija via Depositphotos.

Healthy dogs can generally go three to five days without food, assuming they’re still drinking water. Of course, this varies depending on your dog’s overall health, age, and size. For example, small-breed puppies can only last about 12 hours without food due to the risk of hypoglycemia. But before you panic about your dog missing a meal or two, consider their food intake over the last 24 hours—sneaky snacks or extra treats might just mean they’re not that hungry.

Is Your Dog Really Not Eating?

Golden Retriever dog
Golden Retriever dog. Image by edu1971 via Depositphotos.

Sometimes, what looks like a dog refusing to eat could just be them holding out for something better. (They’ve seen us sneaking snacks from the fridge—they know there’s tastier stuff out there!) If your dog has been getting lots of treats or sneaking bites of human food, they might just be full. Make sure you’re feeding the right amount, and don’t jump to conclusions after one skipped meal.

When It’s Dangerous for a Dog to Skip Meals

Sleepy dog.
Sleepy dog. Image byTAObEZtA via Depositphotos.

While healthy dogs can handle a few days without food, sick dogs or puppies need quicker attention. If your dog is already battling an illness, not eating could worsen their condition. Similarly, small-breed puppies can develop life-threatening hypoglycemia if they don’t eat for as little as 12 hours. If your dog isn’t drinking either, this is even more concerning, as dehydration can set in fast. You know your dog best—trust your gut and don’t hesitate to contact the vet if things seem off.

When Should You Call the Vet?

Dog with a vet.
Dog with a vet. Image by kalinovsky via Depositphotos.

If your dog goes 48 hours without eating anything, it’s time to call the vet. But don’t wait that long if they’re showing other concerning symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. If they’re not drinking either, that’s a bigger red flag—contact your vet within 24 hours. Remember, each dog is different, so if you feel something’s not right, always err on the side of caution.

What to Expect at the Vet

Dog at vet clinic.
Dog at the vet clinic. Image by IgorVetushko via Depositphotos.

When you take your dog to the vet, they’ll do a thorough physical exam to check for any signs of malnutrition or dehydration. If the problem isn’t obvious, the vet may recommend additional tests, like X-rays, blood work, or a urinalysis, to pinpoint the cause. These tests will help identify any underlying health issues that may be affecting your dog’s appetite. The sooner you get to the root of the problem, the sooner your pup can get back to their happy, hungry self.

Common Reasons Dogs Stop Eating

Sick dog.
Sick dog. Image by websubstance via Depositphotos.

Dogs can stop eating for a variety of reasons, ranging from health problems to emotional issues. Medical reasons include infections, dental problems, or an upset stomach. Cognitive issues, such as anxiety or depression, can also lead to a lack of appetite. Sometimes, they’re just being picky—who can blame them for wanting something tastier than kibble?

How to Encourage Your Dog to Eat

Owner feeding his little dog at home
Owner feeding his little dog at home. Image by DragonImages via Depositphotos.

If your dog’s appetite is lagging, try a few tricks to get them back on track. Hand-feeding can sometimes coax a reluctant eater into taking a few bites. You can also switch up their food, offering a different flavor or brand. Adding something irresistible like peanut butter or chicken broth to their kibble might just do the trick. Heating up their food can also enhance the smell, making it more appealing. And, in some cases, your vet might recommend an appetite stimulant to help jumpstart their eating.

Why Hydration is More Important Than Food

Dog drinking water.
Dog drinking water. Image by alex_ugalek via Depositphotos.

While dogs can go a few days without food, water is a different story. A dog can show signs of dehydration after just 24 hours without drinking. Keep an eye on their water intake, and if they aren’t drinking, get them to the vet sooner rather than later. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, so don’t wait too long to seek help.

Conclusion

Portrait of a young dog
Portrait of a young dog. Image by pitrs10 via Depositphotos.

Most healthy dogs can go without food for up to three to five days, but it’s always important to monitor their behavior and symptoms closely. If they’re not eating but still drinking water and acting normally, you may not need to worry right away. However, if your dog refuses food for more than two days or shows other concerning symptoms, call the vet. By staying in tune with your dog’s habits and understanding when to seek help, you can keep them happy, healthy, and well-fed—because no one likes a hangry pup!

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