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Why is my old dog not eating, losing weight, and acting skittish?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered

my Pit turned 13 and he is okay. likes to rather sleep than do anything but if you say lets go in the car he becomes a puppy. what concerns me is that he is not eating well and has lost a bit of weight and just sleeps he has also for some reason become very skittish especially at food time. he runs and waits outside. i have never had to feed him outside but if he eats i will do that. please help me understand or am i being crazy

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

Veterinarian

Published on January 4th, 2018

Hi there and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

I am sorry to hear Milo is having some issues eating and is experiencing some weight loss. There can be many medical causes for these types of symptoms including dental disease and tooth pain, pain from osteoarthritis, organ dysfunction, or other causes. My best advice to you and Milo would be to have Milo evaluated by a veterinarian to help pinpoint a cause so he can be treated appropriately and hopefully made to feel better around meal times.

I hope this helps and best wishes to you and Milo!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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