Why is my dog not eating his food but will eat treats, and why do cats always land on their feet?

blog 2025-01-10 0Browse 0
Why is my dog not eating his food but will eat treats, and why do cats always land on their feet?

Dogs are known for their love of food, but sometimes they can be quite picky eaters. If your dog is refusing to eat his regular food but will happily gobble up treats, there could be several reasons behind this behavior. In this article, we will explore the possible causes and offer some solutions to help your furry friend get back on track with his meals.

1. Health Issues

One of the first things to consider when your dog is not eating his food is his health. Dogs, like humans, can lose their appetite when they are feeling unwell. Dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, or even more serious conditions like kidney disease or cancer could be the culprit. If your dog is also showing other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s important to consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

2. Food Quality and Taste

Dogs have taste preferences just like humans do. If your dog is turning up his nose at his food, it might be because he simply doesn’t like the taste or texture. Some dogs are more sensitive to the quality of their food, and if the food is stale, expired, or of low quality, they may refuse to eat it. On the other hand, treats are often more flavorful and appealing, which is why your dog might still be willing to eat them.

3. Overfeeding on Treats

If your dog is eating treats but not his regular food, it’s possible that he’s filling up on the treats and doesn’t have room for his meal. Treats are often high in calories and can be quite satisfying, so if you’re giving your dog too many treats throughout the day, he may not feel hungry enough to eat his regular food. Try cutting back on the number of treats you give your dog and see if his appetite for his regular food improves.

4. Behavioral Issues

Sometimes, a dog’s refusal to eat his food can be related to behavioral issues. Dogs are intelligent animals, and they can quickly learn that if they hold out on eating their regular food, they might get something better, like a treat. If your dog has learned that he can get treats by refusing his food, he may continue this behavior. In this case, it’s important to establish a consistent feeding routine and avoid giving in to your dog’s demands for treats.

5. Environmental Factors

The environment in which your dog eats can also play a role in his appetite. If your dog is eating in a noisy, stressful, or unfamiliar environment, he may be too distracted or anxious to eat his food. On the other hand, treats are often given in a more relaxed and positive setting, which might explain why your dog is more willing to eat them. Try feeding your dog in a quiet, comfortable place where he feels safe and secure.

6. Change in Routine

Dogs are creatures of habit, and any change in their routine can affect their eating habits. If you’ve recently changed your dog’s feeding schedule, moved to a new home, or introduced a new pet or family member, your dog might be feeling stressed or unsettled, which could lead to a loss of appetite. In this case, it’s important to give your dog time to adjust and try to maintain a consistent routine as much as possible.

As dogs age, their nutritional needs and appetites can change. Older dogs may have a decreased sense of smell or taste, which can make their regular food less appealing. Additionally, older dogs may have dental issues or other health problems that make it difficult for them to eat their regular food. If your dog is getting older, it might be worth considering a senior-specific diet or consulting your veterinarian for advice on how to meet your dog’s changing nutritional needs.

8. Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Some dogs may have food allergies or sensitivities that make certain ingredients in their regular food unappealing or even harmful. If your dog is refusing to eat his food but will eat treats, it’s possible that the treats don’t contain the ingredients that are causing the issue. Common food allergens for dogs include beef, chicken, dairy, wheat, and soy. If you suspect that your dog has a food allergy, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to identify the allergen and find a suitable diet for your dog.

9. Boredom with the Same Food

Just like humans, dogs can get bored with eating the same food every day. If your dog has been eating the same type of food for a long time, he may simply be tired of it and looking for something more exciting. In this case, you might want to try rotating different types of food or adding some variety to your dog’s meals, such as mixing in some wet food or adding a topper to his kibble.

10. Attention-Seeking Behavior

Finally, some dogs may refuse to eat their food as a way to get attention from their owners. If your dog has learned that not eating his food will result in extra attention or concern from you, he may continue this behavior. In this case, it’s important to avoid giving your dog too much attention when he refuses to eat and instead focus on reinforcing positive eating behaviors.


Q: How can I encourage my dog to eat his regular food? A: Try mixing in some wet food or a topper to make the food more appealing. You can also try feeding your dog at the same time every day in a quiet, comfortable environment. Avoid giving too many treats, as this can reduce your dog’s appetite for his regular food.

Q: Should I be concerned if my dog skips a meal? A: It’s not uncommon for dogs to skip a meal occasionally, especially if they’re feeling stressed or unwell. However, if your dog consistently refuses to eat for more than 24 hours, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.

Q: Can I give my dog human food as a treat? A: Some human foods are safe for dogs in moderation, but others can be harmful. Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any human food, and avoid giving foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

Q: How do I know if my dog has a food allergy? A: Symptoms of food allergies in dogs can include itching, skin rashes, ear infections, and gastrointestinal issues. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, consult your veterinarian for testing and dietary recommendations.

Q: Is it normal for older dogs to eat less? A: Yes, it’s common for older dogs to have a decreased appetite due to changes in their metabolism, sense of smell, or dental health. However, if your older dog is losing weight or showing other signs of illness, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.

TAGS