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My dog isn't eating much and is scratching a lot. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 9 months old

Rosy our jack russell hasn't been eating her usual amount of food. She is not lethargic and hasn't got any diarrhoea and no vomiting. She is drinking plenty but is scratching a lot. She is up to date with worming and flea treatment it's just her eating. She is 2 years old.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on November 20th, 2017

It sounds from what you are describing that Rosy’s decreased appetite is most likely related to a mild gastrointestinal upset or behaviour issue. I would advise the following

Bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. This will be good for her gastrointestinal tract and will tempt her to eat. Do this for a few days.
Low sodium chicken broth if she isn’t drinking enough

If she starts to vomit, have diarrhoea,seems lethargic please post another question here and I will help you further.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 2nd, 2017

    Hello. I am sorry that Rosy isn't feeling well. Shivering is often a sign of pain, as is sleeping and not being active. If she hasn't eaten today and is painful, I would be concerned about gastritis (sore abdomen) or other concerns in the gut. Also, back pain can cause these signs. You can try to offer her a bland diet of chicken (boiled/boneless/skinlesS) and boiled rice. If she eats this and doesn't vomit and returns to her normal behaviour then I wouldn't worry. If she doesn't want to eat and is still sleepy and not her normal self, then I would recommend having her seen by a vet. Good luck with Rosy.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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