Dog Not Eating Much

1 DancinQueen · ‎06-18-2021

Hi, All....Looking for some input. We have always had boxers, but rescued a "Heinz 57" puppy 2-1/2 years ago. Supposedly a boxer mix and cockapoo, but looks like a lot of terrior. Seems like she isn't interested in her food too much. We live in the Northeast and it has been warm. She doesn't like the heat. Groomer says she has a double coat of hair. I'm wondering if your dogs slow down on their food intake during the warm weather. She isn't showing any signs of illness.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

@1 DancinQueen Yes, my dogs definitely have a decreased appetite in the summer. Sometimes they'll completely skip a meal. I try to add cool enticements like a smashed up hard-boiled egg or big spoonful of yogurt mixed with their kibble to add variety.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

J Town Girl · ‎06-13-2011

Yes, it isn't unusual for some dogs to eat less during very warm weather but definitely keep an eye on her.

Foxxee · ‎10-03-2014

My dogs never turned down food except when they didn't feel well. Not eating is one of the first signs of an illness in dogs.

Could be as simple as a tummy ache. Are you able to take her temperature?

I need more information.

How old is your dog? How long has this been going on? If she's older, possibly, heat is bothering her, but if she's in AC most of the day, she shouldn't have problems. Others here may have dogs that don't eat when it's hot.

No doubt, thick hair can slow dogs down. My dogs with thick hair lay around even in AC when they don't get haircuts on time. Then, they are running around like nuts afterwards, so heavy coats can cause them to be uncomfortable.

Did this start uddenly, or over a period of time?

Did you recently change dog foods or treats? Is she drinking water?

Any other symptoms at all? Is she lying around doing nothing...sleeping a lot or is she alert and playing? Dogs often hide other symptoms, so you might only see disinterest in eating, but pay attention to lying around and sleeping a lot.

You said she's not eating much, but is eating something. So, it could be the heat, but I wouldn't let this go on for much longer than a few days without a checkup at the vet.

patbz · ‎03-10-2010

Call the Vet and ask. If it were my dog and he had a very thick coat of fur in Summer I'd get him a short cut ( even if it isn't his "best" look).

CamilleP · ‎03-09-2010

If she's a terrier mix then it isn't the heat that's affecting her appetite, you need to call your vet and have her examined, it could be a broken or rotten.abscessed tooth, or one of many different metabolic problems, such as liver damage or kidney failure. Only a thorough exam and comprenensive bloodwork will give you a clear picture.

FancyPhillyshopper · ‎05-02-2017

I have had multiple dogs with long, thick hair for decades, I live in the Northeast as well, and my house is not air conditioned.

If your dog is not eating regularly, the problem is likely not the heat.

My dogs will never turn down treats, even when they are hot.

Please follow up with a veterinarian.

1 DancinQueen · ‎06-18-2021

Thank you all for your input. Gingersnap just had a complete annual checkup last month and all was well. She's eating her snacks and does eat her food eventually, but not as enthused. She has been groomed short for the heat. We do add healthy incentives to her food also. Again, thank you.