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My pregnant dog won't eat her food. How can I increase her appetite?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | 1 year and 2 months old | 59 lbs

My dog is 40 days pregnant she is not eating properly I am offering her pedigree puppy food in that I putting some toffines like eggs chicken chicken gravy and she eates only chicken eggs not pedigree food so what should do for appetite increase

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 30th, 2018

Just keep offering a variety of things to see what she likes best. It may be a good idea to have her examined by a vet to see if she is sick, anemic, low blood pressure, or having any other medical issues with her pregnancy.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 13th, 2017
A dog’s appetite is strongly related to its sense of smell. If he is congested and can’t smell he is less likely to have a good appetite.
You can consider warming up canned food to increase the odor. Taking her into the bathroom when someone has showered to get humidified can be helpful as well. Also, if Cookies hasn’t been seen by a veterinarian then I would recommend an appointment to rule out other concerns such as pneumonia. Best of luck and I hope Cookies improves soon!
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Kristin DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 7th, 2018
If Angie doesn't even want bacon, she clearly is feeling poorly. If she has not been eating for more than 48 hours, I recommend taking her to your veterinarian. I'm glad she isn't vomiting, but I don't want her to become dehydrated, as it is common for dogs to stop drinking as well when they stop eating.

It is possible that drinking from a toilet with sanitizer has cause irritation of her stomach, but if that is the cause it should resolve within a day or so. If it has been longer, then it could be something else.

Other foods that can stimulate the appetite include tuna, canned salmon, or even warmed up baby food. Just make sure to get baby food without onions or garlic in the ingredients. I hope she is feeling better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on March 15th, 2017
If warm water with the food has not stimulated her appetite, try some low sodium chicken broth or a teaspoon of baby food (no garlic/onion) mixed in to her food. If she still does not eat, have Tink examined by your veterinarian to diagnose illness or injury.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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