Instruction: what to do if a dog refuses to eat.

Understanding the Problem

1. Common Reasons for Loss of Appetite

Veterinary experience shows that a sudden decline in a dog’s willingness to eat often signals an underlying issue. Identifying the cause is the first step toward restoring normal intake.

Dental disease or oral pain: inflamed gums, broken teeth, or tartar buildup make chewing uncomfortable.
Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation reduce appetite.
Systemic illness: infections, kidney or liver dysfunction, heart disease, and endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism suppress hunger signals.
Pain unrelated to the mouth: arthritis, injuries, or post‑surgical discomfort can diminish interest in food.
Environmental stress: changes in routine, new household members, or travel may cause temporary refusal to eat.
Dietary factors: stale food, sudden brand changes, or low palatability deter consumption.
Medication side effects: certain antibiotics, steroids, or chemotherapy agents interfere with appetite.
Age‑related changes: senior dogs often experience reduced sense of smell and taste, leading to lower motivation to eat.

Each factor requires a specific assessment. A thorough physical exam, laboratory testing, and review of recent events help differentiate between benign causes and serious health concerns. Prompt veterinary consultation is essential when loss of appetite persists beyond 24-48 hours or is accompanied by other clinical signs.

2. Differentiating Between Pickiness and Illness

When a dog turns away from meals, the first step is to determine whether the reluctance stems from preference or an underlying health problem. Observing the animal’s overall condition provides the most reliable clues.

Signs that indicate a medical issue include:

Sudden loss of appetite lasting more than 24‑48 hours.
Lethargy, weakness, or difficulty moving.
Vomiting, diarrhea, or abnormal stool.
Excessive thirst or urination.
Weight loss detected on regular weighing.
Painful reactions when the mouth or throat is touched.
Fever, evident by warm ears or nose, or a change in body temperature.

Conversely, typical picky behavior often presents as:

Selective eating limited to certain flavors, textures, or brands.
Refusal of a particular food but willingness to eat alternatives.
Normal energy levels, regular bowel movements, and stable weight.
Quick return to normal intake after a brief change in routine or environment.
No accompanying gastrointestinal or systemic symptoms.

If any health‑related indicators appear, contact a veterinarian promptly. For isolated pickiness, consider rotating protein sources, adjusting feeding schedule, or eliminating strong odors that may deter the dog. Consistency in meal times and removing treats between meals can also reinforce regular eating patterns.

Initial Steps at Home

1. Observing Your Dog's Behavior

Observing a dog that stops eating provides the first clues to the underlying issue. An expert approach begins with a systematic assessment of physical signs, emotional state, and environmental factors.

First, examine the dog’s posture and movement. Look for stiffness, limping, or reluctance to rise from a lying position. Note any tremors, shaking, or abnormal gait. These indicators often point to pain or musculoskeletal discomfort that can suppress appetite.

Second, evaluate facial expressions and vocalizations. A tucked tail, flattened ears, or a withdrawn gaze may suggest anxiety or fear. Excessive whining, whimpering, or growling when approached by a bowl can reveal stress related to feeding.

Third, monitor oral health. Inspect the mouth for swollen gums, broken teeth, or foreign objects lodged in the teeth or throat. Check for excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, or signs of inflammation, all of which can deter chewing.

Fourth, record eating patterns and recent changes. Note the time elapsed since the last meal, the type of food offered, and any recent diet switches. A sudden shift to a new formula or texture often triggers a temporary refusal.

Fifth, assess the surrounding environment. Identify loud noises, new pets, or alterations in routine that could cause distraction or discomfort during meals. Verify that the feeding area is clean, well‑ventilated, and free from hazards.

By documenting these observations in a concise checklist, owners can pinpoint the most probable cause of a reduced appetite and determine whether a veterinary consultation is warranted. Accurate observation eliminates speculation and guides targeted intervention.

2. Checking for Physical Symptoms

When a dog declines food, the initial priority is a systematic health assessment. Observe the animal for signs that may indicate an underlying medical condition. Physical indicators fall into three categories: oral health, systemic illness, and gastrointestinal distress.

Oral health: swollen gums, broken teeth, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, or foul breath suggest dental disease or oral injury.
Systemic illness: lethargy, fever, rapid breathing, unexplained weight loss, or a noticeable change in coat quality can signal infection, organ dysfunction, or metabolic disorders.
Gastrointestinal distress: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, or a hard, painful abdomen point to digestive upset, obstruction, or pancreatitis.

A quick tactile examination can reveal tenderness, masses, or abnormal swelling. Record temperature; a reading above 102.5 °F (39.2 °C) warrants immediate veterinary attention. Check hydration by gently lifting the skin on the neck; slow return indicates dehydration.

If any of these symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian without delay. Early diagnosis prevents escalation and improves treatment outcomes. In the absence of physical abnormalities, proceed to evaluate environmental and behavioral factors.

3. Adjusting Feeding Habits

When a dog turns away from its usual meals, the first step is to examine the feeding routine itself. Consistency in timing, location, and presentation can influence a canine’s willingness to eat, and any deviation may create hesitation.

Maintain a strict schedule: offer food at the same two times each day, allowing a 15‑minute window before removing the bowl. This predictability signals that meals are not optional, encouraging the animal to develop a reliable appetite pattern.

Select a quiet, low‑traffic area for feeding. Remove distractions such as toys, loud noises, or other pets that compete for the dog’s attention. A calm environment reduces stress, which often suppresses hunger.

Vary the texture and temperature of the food within reasonable limits. Warmed, moist kibble or a small amount of low‑fat broth can enhance aroma and palatability without compromising nutritional balance. Avoid frequent changes that could confuse the dog’s expectations.

Limit treats and human food outside scheduled meals. Excessive supplemental calories diminish the desire for regular dog food and may mask underlying appetite issues.

If the dog still refuses to eat after these adjustments, monitor for additional signs of illness and consult a veterinarian. The feeding habit modifications described here are most effective when applied consistently and observed for changes in behavior.

3.1. Changing Food

When a dog consistently rejects meals, the first practical response is to evaluate the current diet. An unsuitable formula-too rich, too bland, or containing ingredients that provoke intolerance-can trigger refusal. Replacing the food eliminates the immediate barrier and provides an opportunity to identify a more acceptable option.

Select a new product that meets the dog’s nutritional requirements, matches its life stage, and aligns with any known sensitivities. Prefer formulas with limited ingredients, high digestibility, or specific protein sources if allergies are suspected. Consult a veterinarian to confirm that the replacement supplies essential nutrients and does not introduce new risks.

Implement the transition gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Follow a structured schedule:

Days 1‑2: 25 % new food, 75 % old food.
Days 3‑4: 50 % new, 50 % old.
Days 5‑6: 75 % new, 25 % old.
Day 7 onward: 100 % new food.

Observe the dog’s appetite, stool consistency, and overall behavior throughout the switch. If refusal persists after the full transition, reassess the chosen formula, consider alternative textures (wet vs. dry), or explore supplemental feeding methods such as warming the kibble or adding low‑salt broth.

Document the process, noting brand, ingredient list, and any reactions. This record assists future dietary decisions and provides valuable information for veterinary consultations.

3.2. Offering Tempting Treats

When a canine declines regular meals, introducing highly appealing morsels can stimulate appetite without compromising nutritional balance. Select treats that combine strong aroma, palatable texture, and minimal additives. Ideal options include:

Soft, meat‑based bites (chicken, turkey, or beef) warmed slightly to release scent.
Low‑fat canned dog food mixed with a teaspoon of plain pumpkin puree.
Freeze‑dried liver strips, broken into bite‑size pieces.
Homemade broth (vegetable or bone) cooled and drizzled over kibble.

Apply the following protocol: offer a single, small portion of the chosen treat at the usual feeding time; observe the dog’s reaction for 5-10 minutes; if the dog consumes the treat, gradually increase the proportion of regular food mixed with the treat over the next two to three days. Limit treat use to no more than 10 % of the daily caloric intake to prevent weight gain and maintain nutrient equilibrium. Avoid treats containing onions, garlic, chocolate, or excessive salt, as these substances are toxic to dogs. If appetite does not improve after several attempts, consult a veterinary professional for further assessment.

3.3. Reducing Distractions

As a veterinary behavior specialist, I advise eliminating environmental stimuli that compete with a meal. Begin by selecting a low‑traffic room where the dog cannot see other pets, passing traffic, or moving objects. Close doors, draw curtains, and silence televisions or radios. If the household uses a feeding schedule, remove all toys and chew items from the area at least ten minutes before the meal to prevent the dog from shifting focus.

Turn off or mute electronic devices within a five‑meter radius.
Place the bowl on a non‑slippery mat to keep it steady and visible.
Remove food from other animals during the feeding window.
Schedule feeding at the same time each day to create predictability.

Maintain a calm demeanor while the dog eats. Speak in a low, steady voice and avoid sudden movements. If the animal continues to glance away, pause feeding for a brief interval, then re‑present the food once the environment is quiet again. Consistent reduction of distractions typically restores interest in the bowl and encourages regular intake.

3.4. Warming Food

When a dog turns away from meals, warming the food can increase its aroma and palatability, encouraging the animal to eat. Heat releases volatile compounds that make the meal more enticing, especially for picky or ill canines.

To warm food safely, follow these steps:

Place the appropriate portion in a microwave‑safe bowl. Heat on low power (30 % to 50 %) for 5‑10 seconds. Stir thoroughly to eliminate hot spots.
Test the temperature with the back of your hand or a thermometer; the surface should feel warm, not hot-ideally around 100 °F (38 °C), close to body temperature.
If using a stovetop, add a small amount of warm water or low‑fat broth to canned or kibble meals. Heat gently, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches the target temperature.
For raw or homemade diets, warm the meat or broth in a saucepan over low heat, avoiding boiling. Remove from heat as soon as the desired warmth is achieved.

Key considerations:

Never exceed safe temperatures; overheating can degrade nutrients and cause oral burns.
Ensure the food is evenly warmed; uneven heating can create pockets that are too hot, deterring the dog.
Use only pet‑safe containers; metal bowls should not be placed in microwaves.
Allow the meal to sit for a minute after heating to stabilize temperature before offering it to the dog.

If the dog still refuses the warmed meal, re‑evaluate other factors such as dental health, underlying illness, or food preferences, and consult a veterinarian for a comprehensive assessment.

3.5. Hand-Feeding

When a dog consistently rejects food, direct hand-feeding can stimulate interest and reinforce positive eating behavior. The method involves offering small portions of a palatable, nutritionally appropriate diet directly from the owner’s hand, thereby creating a personal association with nourishment.

Key considerations for effective hand-feeding:

Choose a highly aromatic, soft food (e.g., warmed wet kibble, boiled chicken, or a commercial appetite stimulant) to enhance scent and texture.
Offer a bite‑size piece, holding it gently between thumb and forefinger to avoid accidental bites.
Maintain a calm demeanor; abrupt movements may startle the animal and hinder acceptance.
Limit each session to 2-3 minutes; prolonged attempts can increase stress and reduce willingness to eat.
Repeat the process 3-4 times daily, gradually extending the interval between hand-fed meals as the dog begins to eat from the bowl independently.
Monitor for signs of gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, or lethargy; any adverse reaction warrants immediate veterinary consultation.

Hand-feeding should complement, not replace, a balanced diet. If refusal persists beyond a few days despite consistent hand-feeding, professional evaluation is essential to rule out underlying medical conditions.

When to Contact the Veterinarian

1. Red Flag Symptoms

A dog that stops eating may be signaling an underlying health problem. Recognizing red‑flag symptoms enables timely veterinary intervention and prevents serious complications.

Persistent vomiting or diarrhea, especially with blood or mucus, indicates gastrointestinal upset that requires immediate assessment.
Lethargy, weakness, or collapse suggests systemic illness, dehydration, or metabolic imbalance.
Rapid, shallow breathing, coughing, or nasal discharge can reflect respiratory infection or cardiac distress.
Excessive thirst or frequent urination may point to kidney disease, diabetes, or hormonal disorders.
Pale gums, bruising, or unexplained bleeding reveal anemia, clotting defects, or toxic exposure.
Sudden weight loss, abdominal distension, or a palpable mass signals possible organ dysfunction or neoplasia.
Fever above 103 °F (39.5 °C) indicates infection or inflammation and should not be ignored.

If any of these signs accompany a loss of appetite, contact a veterinarian without delay. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes and reduce the risk of irreversible damage.

2. Duration of Anorexia

When a dog stops eating, the length of the fasting period is a critical diagnostic factor. Short‑term refusal, lasting up to 12 hours, often reflects temporary stress, minor gastrointestinal upset, or a temporary change in routine. In most healthy adult dogs, a brief pause does not threaten organ function, but it warrants observation to ensure food intake resumes spontaneously.

If the lack of appetite persists beyond 24 hours, the risk of hypoglycemia, hepatic lipidosis, and electrolyte imbalance rises sharply, especially in small breeds, senior dogs, and those with pre‑existing metabolic disorders. At this stage, a veterinary assessment should be initiated without delay. The clinician will evaluate hydration status, perform a physical exam, and may order blood work to detect early metabolic derangements.

A fasting period extending past 48 hours constitutes a medical emergency. Prolonged anorexia can precipitate severe complications, including:

Marked hypoglycemia leading to seizures or coma
Rapid development of fatty liver disease
Dehydration and acute kidney injury
Secondary infections due to compromised immunity

Immediate intervention is required, typically involving fluid therapy, caloric support (e.g., nasogastric feeding or intravenous dextrose), and treatment of the underlying cause.

Practical timeline for owners

0-12 hours: Monitor behavior, offer familiar foods, reduce environmental stressors.
12-24 hours: Contact a veterinarian if no improvement; consider mild appetite stimulants under professional guidance.
24-48 hours: Seek veterinary care; expect diagnostic testing and possible hospitalization.
>48 hours: Treat as an emergency; expect intensive supportive care and rapid diagnostic workup.

Understanding these intervals enables timely action, reduces the likelihood of irreversible damage, and improves the chances of a swift recovery.

3. Underlying Health Conditions

When a canine abruptly declines food, hidden medical problems frequently underlie the behavior. Recognizing these conditions enables prompt intervention and prevents deterioration.

Common health issues that suppress appetite include:

Dental disease: painful gums, broken teeth, or oral infections make chewing uncomfortable.
Gastrointestinal disorders: gastritis, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, or intestinal obstruction impede digestion and trigger nausea.
Metabolic abnormalities: diabetes, hypothyroidism, and adrenal insufficiency disrupt normal hunger signals.
Renal or hepatic failure: toxin buildup produces malaise and loss of interest in food.
Painful musculoskeletal conditions: arthritis or spinal injuries reduce overall activity and appetite.
Neurological problems: brain tumors, seizures, or vestibular disease can alter feeding behavior.
Infectious diseases: parvovirus, leptospirosis, or systemic bacterial infections often present with anorexia.

Veterinary assessment should involve a thorough physical examination, dental inspection, and targeted diagnostics such as complete blood count, chemistry panel, urinalysis, and imaging studies (radiographs, ultrasound, or CT). Identifying the specific disorder guides treatment-pain management for dental or orthopedic issues, antimicrobial therapy for infections, hormone replacement for endocrine disorders, or surgical intervention for obstructions.

Owners must report accompanying signs-vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, or changes in drinking patterns-to aid diagnosis. Early veterinary consultation, combined with accurate testing, restores normal eating patterns and supports the dog’s overall health.

Veterinary Examination and Treatment

1. Diagnostic Tests

When a canine stops eating, the first step is to identify any underlying medical condition. A systematic diagnostic approach begins with a comprehensive physical examination to assess body condition, temperature, heart and lung sounds, abdominal palpation, and oral health. Observation of mucous membrane color, capillary refill time, and hydration status provides immediate clues about systemic issues.

The following tests are commonly employed to pinpoint the cause of inappetence:

Complete blood count (CBC) - detects anemia, infection, or inflammation by evaluating red and white cell counts and platelet levels.
Serum biochemistry panel - measures organ function markers (liver enzymes, kidney values, electrolytes, glucose) to reveal metabolic disturbances.
Urinalysis - screens for urinary tract infection, renal impairment, or endocrine disorders such as diabetes.
Fecal examination - identifies parasites, bacterial overgrowth, or occult blood that may affect gastrointestinal comfort.
Dental assessment - includes oral inspection and radiographs to uncover pain from periodontal disease, tooth loss, or oral masses.
Imaging studies - abdominal radiographs or ultrasound evaluate organ size, presence of masses, foreign bodies, or intestinal obstruction; thoracic radiographs rule out lung pathology that could suppress appetite.
Endoscopic or exploratory procedures - reserved for cases where imaging suggests lesions not accessible by non‑invasive methods; allows direct visualization and biopsy.

Interpretation of these results guides targeted therapy. For example, elevated liver enzymes may prompt hepatoprotective medication, while detection of a dental abscess necessitates extraction or root canal treatment. Prompt identification of the underlying factor increases the likelihood of restoring normal intake and preventing secondary complications.

2. Prescribed Medications

When a canine ceases to eat, clinicians often consider pharmacologic support to stimulate appetite, address underlying disease, or manage associated discomfort. Prescription medication becomes appropriate after a thorough physical examination, laboratory testing, and exclusion of treatable medical conditions such as gastrointestinal obstruction or severe infection.

Medication is indicated when loss of appetite persists beyond 24-48 hours, when weight loss is evident, or when the underlying cause is identified as a condition amenable to drug therapy (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pain, or nausea). The decision to prescribe rests on the veterinarian’s assessment of risk versus benefit, taking into account the dog’s age, breed, and concurrent therapies.

Typical agents include:

Mirtazapine - oral tablet or transdermal gel; enhances appetite by antagonizing central histamine receptors.
Cerenia (maropitant) - injectable or oral; reduces nausea, indirectly improving food intake.
Metoclopramide - pro‑kinetic; accelerates gastric emptying and promotes hunger signals.
Prednisone - low‑dose glucocorticoid; stimulates appetite while providing anti‑inflammatory effects in select cases.
Cyproheptadine - antihistamine with strong orexigenic properties; useful in chronic anorexia.

Dosage must follow the veterinarian’s prescription precisely. For oral tablets, administer with a small amount of food or a treat to ensure ingestion. Transdermal preparations require application to a clean, hair‑free area of the inner ear flap, avoiding contact with the eyes. Injectable drugs should be given subcutaneously or intravenously as directed, using sterile technique.

Monitoring includes daily observation of food consumption, body weight, and behavior. Document any adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or signs of hypersensitivity. Adjustments to dosage or drug selection should be made promptly based on clinical response.

If appetite does not improve within the expected timeframe, if side effects emerge, or if the dog exhibits additional symptoms (e.g., persistent vomiting, severe lethargy, or abdominal pain), immediate veterinary reassessment is mandatory. Continuous communication with the clinician ensures optimal therapeutic outcomes and safeguards the animal’s health.

3. Dietary Recommendations

When a canine shows a sudden lack of appetite, adjusting the diet can stimulate intake and support recovery. Start by evaluating the current food composition; many dogs respond to higher moisture content and stronger aromas. Offer freshly boiled chicken breast, skin removed, shredded into small pieces, or a spoonful of low‑sodium broth warmed to body temperature. These options provide protein and palatable scent without excessive fat.

Consider temporary texture changes. Switching from dry kibble to a soft mash made from high‑quality canned food mixed with a small amount of cooked rice can make chewing easier and enhance flavor perception. Ensure the mixture remains nutritionally balanced by adding a measured supplement of omega‑3 oil, which also promotes gastrointestinal health.

If the dog tolerates it, introduce a limited‑time diet of easily digestible ingredients:

50 % boiled lean meat (chicken, turkey, or lean beef)
30 % cooked white rice or pumpkin puree
20 % cottage cheese or plain yogurt (unsweetened, low‑fat)

Feed small, frequent meals-four to six portions per day-to reduce pressure on the stomach and encourage consistent consumption. Monitor stool quality; firm, brown stools indicate adequate fiber, while loose stools may require reducing rice or pumpkin.

Should appetite remain poor after 24-48 hours, add a veterinary‑approved appetite stimulant such as mirtazapine or cyproheptadine under professional guidance. Combine medication with the dietary adjustments above to maximize effectiveness.

Finally, maintain hydration. Provide fresh water at all times and consider adding a splash of low‑salt broth to the food to increase fluid intake without diluting nutrients. Consistent observation and prompt veterinary consultation remain essential if refusal persists beyond two days or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or weight loss.

Preventing Future Issues

1. Maintaining a Consistent Feeding Schedule

A predictable feeding routine creates a clear signal that food will be available at specific moments, which encourages a dog to develop a reliable appetite. When meals occur at irregular intervals, the animal may become anxious or indifferent, leading to refusals.

Establish two to three fixed times each day, spaced evenly to match the dog’s metabolic needs. Serve food in the same location and use the same bowl to reinforce the association between the cue and the reward. Avoid leaving food out continuously; the presence of constant access diminishes hunger cues.

Choose exact times (e.g., 7 a.m., 12 p.m., 6 p.m.).
Place the bowl at the designated spot and present the measured portion.
Allow 15-20 minutes for eating; if the dog does not finish, remove the bowl.
Record whether the dog eats, the amount consumed, and any signs of distress.
Adjust portion size or timing only after reviewing several days of data.

Consistent documentation reveals patterns that indicate whether the schedule supports the dog’s health or requires modification. If refusals persist despite a stable routine, veterinary evaluation is warranted to rule out medical causes.

2. Providing a Balanced Diet

When a dog stops eating, the first diagnostic step is to examine the composition of the diet. An unbalanced formula can reduce appetite and mask underlying health issues.

A nutritionally complete regimen must contain high‑quality protein, appropriate fat levels, digestible carbohydrates, essential vitamins, minerals, and sufficient water. Protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish provide the amino acids needed for muscle maintenance. Fat supplies energy and supports skin health; sources like fish oil or animal fat should be measured to avoid excess calories. Carbohydrates from sweet potatoes, rice, or oatmeal offer easy‑to‑digest energy. Micronutrients are delivered through fortified kibble or targeted supplements, ensuring no deficiencies that could suppress hunger.

To improve intake, adjust the current diet as follows:

Verify that the food meets AAFCO or equivalent standards for complete and balanced nutrition.
Rotate protein types every few weeks to prevent palate fatigue.
Introduce a portion of wet food or warm the kibble slightly to enhance aroma.
Add a small amount of low‑sodium broth or plain yogurt to increase palatability without altering nutrient balance.
Monitor portion sizes; over‑feeding can lead to reduced interest in meals.
Keep fresh water available at all times and check bowl cleanliness.

If appetite does not improve within 24-48 hours despite dietary modifications, schedule a veterinary examination. Persistent refusal to eat may indicate pain, gastrointestinal upset, or systemic disease that requires medical intervention.

3. Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Regular veterinary examinations are essential when a dog stops eating, because persistent inappetence often signals underlying health issues that require professional diagnosis. A thorough assessment includes physical inspection, laboratory testing, and discussion of the dog’s diet and environment.

During the appointment the veterinarian will:

Measure weight and body condition to identify rapid loss or gain.
Palpate the abdomen and assess oral cavity for pain, masses, or dental problems.
Collect blood and urine samples to evaluate organ function, infection, metabolic disorders, and hormonal imbalances.
Recommend imaging studies, such as X‑rays or ultrasound, if internal abnormalities are suspected.
Review vaccination status, parasite control, and recent medication use that could affect appetite.

Based on findings, the clinician may prescribe targeted treatment, adjust nutrition plans, or suggest further specialist referral. Scheduling routine check-ups-at least annually for healthy adults and more frequently for senior or high‑risk dogs-provides early detection of conditions that could lead to refusal to eat, thereby preventing escalation and supporting long‑term wellness.

4. Managing Stress and Anxiety

When a dog stops eating, stress and anxiety often interfere with appetite. Identify triggers such as recent moves, loud environments, or changes in routine. Reduce exposure to these stressors by establishing a predictable schedule for meals, walks, and rest. Consistency signals safety, allowing the animal’s nervous system to settle.

Create a calm feeding area. Remove distractions, lower lighting, and keep the space quiet. Present the food in a shallow bowl to reduce perceived threat. Offer a small portion at a time; a quick success reinforces a positive association with eating.

Implement relaxation techniques:

Gentle massage of the neck and shoulders for two minutes before meals.
Slow, rhythmic breathing by the owner while the dog eats, mirroring a soothing cadence.
A short, low‑intensity walk 15 minutes prior to feeding to expend excess energy without overstimulation.

If anxiety persists, consult a veterinarian for possible short‑term anti‑anxiety medication or a dietary supplement containing L‑theanine or calming herbs. Monitoring progress daily and adjusting the environment accordingly will restore normal intake.