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My dog won't eat his food. Is he just picky or is something wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 5 years and 7 months old | 35 lbs

My dog does not want to eat from his metal bowl anymore, we bought him a plastic one and for a while he ate but now he stop again. We got him a porcelain and still not eating. And my husband has feed him his soft food with a fork but he would not eat his hard food.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on July 3rd, 2017

It may be that Milo is just being a picky eater. If he's receiving any people food or treats, it is best to stop those for a few days and only offer his food in his bowl. Dogs will not starve, and once hungry enough he should start eating again. However, if you are seeing any signs of illness in addition to his refusal to eat, such as vomiting or diarrhea, this may indicate an underlying issue instead which should be checked out by your vet.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 27th, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Louie. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian to determine the cause of his inappetance. He will especially need to be seen if he is lethargic or develops vomiting or diarrhea. Some small breed dogs can be picky with food, but you want to ensure that you are not overlooking a medical concern. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on April 27th, 2020
Poor guy. I would try another food brand to see if he is just being picky. You can try Hill's Science Diet, Eukanuba, or even Purina. If he is acting ill at all however you should get him seen by your vet to get him checked out to ensure he is ok.
I hope that your furry friend eats his food soon! Best of luck and take care. : )
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on December 16th, 2017
Dogs can be picky eaters, and if given the choice between treats and people food or his regular kibble, Bruno may be more interested in the treats. It would be best to stop all treats and people food completely, and only offer his food for several days. A dog won't starve, and leaving the food down for him to check out will encourage him to eat that instead.

If he still refuses to eat for several days even with only being offered his food, or shows any signs of illness, a checkup at the vet is always a good idea.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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