There are any number of reasons a young dog may be off its feed. Some times at the end of a rapid growth phase, the appetite naturally decreases because the calories are no longer needed for growth. Your dog also may have decided to become picky and wait for you to provide something more interesting. Another possibility is that with the approach of puberty, hormones will make a dog interested in other things beside food.

There also could be a medical reaon for a lack of appetite. A day or two of not eating is nothing to worry about, but if it continues or if your dog is losing weight, it is essential that your veterinarian examine it. Young dogs frequently suffer tonsillitis or strep throat, for example, which can make eating painful. Other chronic or low-grade infections, parasite infestations or congenital ailments could be causing your dog enough discomfort to make it uninterested in his meals.

If your veterinarian suspects a condition, he or she may run such tests as a fecal exam, a throat culture, a blood test or an X-ray to pinpoint the diagnosis. Once the pup receives a clean bill of health, your veterinarian can help you develop an appropriate feeding schedule.

Author(s): Wilcox, Bonnie, D.V.M.
Publication: Dog Fancy
Issue Date: March 1994