Canine Appetite Loss: How to Get Older Dogs Eating Again

When an older dog loses its usual appetite, it could be a sign of underlying health issues like sore teeth or memory loss. A 2022 study published in Topics in Companion Animal Medicine revealed that reduced eating in older dogs can lead to muscle loss, fatigue and an increased susceptibility to illness. Understanding and managing an elderly dog’s appetite is crucial for their longevity and overall well-being.

 

Causes of Appetite Loss

According to the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, senior dogs often stop eating because they are sick or in pain. A wide variety of conditions can diminish their appetite.

 •   Dental issues, such as gum infections, decayed teeth or broken molars, can make chewing painful. Dogs experiencing oral discomfort may avoid eating altogether, especially if their food is hard or dry.

•   Kidney disease, a common condition in older dogs, often leads to nausea and a decreased appetite, prompting them to drink more water, lose weight and feel tired.

•   Liver disease can further reduce appetite by causing vomiting, jaundice and overall weakness.

•   Bloating, diarrhea or acid reflux may dissuade dogs from enjoying their usual meals.

•   Cognitive dysfunction syndrome, similar to dementia in humans, can cause confusion and behavioral changes, thereby disrupting their eating habits.

•   Joint pain from arthritis can make it difficult for a dog to bend down to eat, leading to reduced food intake.

•   Stress and anxiety trigger the release of cortisol and other hunger-suppressing hormones. According to holistic pet health coach and senior dog expert Sandy Reynolds, these hormones can create a vicious cycle where stress reduces appetite, which, in turn, negatively impacts gut health, further diminishing a dog’s interest in food.

 

Appetite Boosters

Enhancing the smell and taste of food can motivate a senior dog to eat. Reynolds suggests adding warm water, bone broth or other liquids to a dog’s meal to improve flavor and make chewing easier. Bone broth provides essential nutrients, while probiotic-rich goat’s milk or kefir supports digestion. Gut health is pivotal, as a healthy digestive system can improve appetite.

Reynolds also recommends green tripe because it has natural enzymes and good bacteria, as well as scrambled eggs for high-quality protein and healthy fats. Soothing herbs like slippery elm and marshmallow root can also alleviate digestive discomfort, making mealtimes more enjoyable.

 

Stress Reducers

For brain health, Reynolds suggests incorporating calming ingredients into a dog’s diet such as cannabidiol (CBD) oil, chamomile, valerian root or concentrated liquid extracts made from medicinal mushrooms like reishi and chaga. “Using a PEMF [pulsed electromagnetic field] mat can also work wonders in calming the senior dog and encouraging them to eat,” she adds.

Environmental factors also play a role in appetite. Maintaining a regular routine and feeding dogs in a calm, quiet setting can contribute to their sense of safety. Occasional hand feeding can reassure and encourage them to eat. Reynolds recommends trying white noise machines, calming essential oils or pheromone diffusers to reduce anxiety during mealtime.

 

Signs of Trouble

A brief loss of appetite is generally not cause for concern. However, pet parents should look for signs of a more serious issue, which would require immediate veterinary intervention. “If a senior dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24 to 48 hours, seems very sick or has eaten something harmful, don’t wait to get help,” Reynolds advises. Other concerning symptoms include rapid weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and dehydration.

“Whenever a senior dog is not eating or drinking, try offering water with a splash of goat’s milk or low-sodium chicken broth,” she suggests. Keeping a journal of eating patterns and symptoms can help veterinarians identify underlying issues and recommend suitable treatments.

 

Complementary Treatments

Holistic methods can complement traditional veterinary medicine and support recovery, but they cannot replace life-saving treatments. “When caring for a senior dog, it’s not about choosing one over the other—it’s about combining the strengths of both,” Reynolds explains.

A holistic approach might include a fresh, whole-food diet tailored to a senior dog’s needs, supplemented with medicinal mushrooms, CBD oil and herbal blends to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and support organ function. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids contribute to joint health, while probiotics aid digestion.

Pain management is another area where holistic care can be of assistance. “A mix of regular and holistic therapies helps keep senior dogs comfortable without just using medications,” Reynolds shares. While non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs can alleviate arthritis symptoms, undenatured type II collagen, turmeric and herbal supplements can support joint health over time.

 

Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.

Related Articles: