My Shitzu Won't Eat: Understanding the Problem

If your Shih Tzu won't eat, it's essential to understand that this behavior can be a symptom of a larger issue. According to research, a lack of appetite in Shih Tzus can be caused by dental problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease.

A study found that 80% of dogs over the age of three will experience some form of dental disease. This can lead to pain while eating, making it uncomfortable for your Shih Tzu to consume food.

Some common signs of dental problems in Shih Tzus include bad breath, yellow or brown teeth, and bleeding gums. In severe cases, dental problems can lead to life-threatening infections.

If your Shih Tzu is experiencing a lack of appetite, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.

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If your Shih Tzu won't eat, it could be due to dental issues such as tooth decay or gum disease, which can make eating painful.

Some Shih Tzus may have a sensitive stomach, which can be caused by food sensitivities or allergies, as seen in Shih Tzus with food allergies.

Infections such as gastrointestinal foreign bodies or pancreatitis can also cause loss of appetite in Shih Tzus.

Older Shih Tzus may experience a decrease in appetite due to age-related changes in their digestive system.

Changes in environment or routine can also cause Shih Tzus to lose their appetite, as seen in Shih Tzus that experience changes in their living situation.

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If your Shitzu won't eat, it's possible their food has changed. They might be put off by a new brand or the words "new and improved" on their regular food.

Typically, dogs will only miss one or two meals before their hunger overcomes them and they try the new food, and usually adjust to it just fine.

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Stomach problems can be a real concern for our furry friends. Temporary digestive issues, like eating too fast, can cause an upset stomach or nausea.

Gastrointestinal diseases, internal parasites, and even just temporary digestion problems could be the cause of your dog's lack of appetite. Loud stomach noises may be another sign of these issues.

If your dog is experiencing stomach problems, it's essential to monitor their behavior and consult a veterinarian if the issue persists. Probiotics can help support your dog's gut health in the long term.

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Your pup's shift in eating habits might be due to a change in their regular dog food formula. This can happen when the manufacturer updates the formula, and your dog might not like the new version.

If your dog's regular food has been labeled as "new and improved", it's possible that your dog doesn't agree with the changes. Dr. Hohenhaus suggests having an alternative in case the new food doesn't work out.

Buying a new bag of dog food with a use-by or expiration date that's not far off can help prevent stale food. You can also check the food for any unusual smells, and if it's gone bad, it's time to get a fresh bag.

A good rule of thumb is to buy dog food in bags that match your dog's weight. For example, a five-pound dog should have a five-pound bag of food. This way, you can avoid buying too much food that might go bad before your dog eats it all.

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Some dogs can become picky eaters, meaning they're bored with their usual food and want something new. This can happen over time, just like with people.

You might notice that your Shih Tzu is acting normal, but not eating, because they've decided they no longer like the ingredients in their dog food. It's possible that something was added to the food they don't like.

Here are some behavioral factors to consider:

Adding a bit of warm water to your dog's kibble can make it more appealing and help stimulate their appetite.

Social issues can significantly impact a dog's behavior and appetite. Dogs can experience anxiety and changes in hunger due to upheavals in their life, just like humans.

Major life changes such as moving to a new city or a breakup can affect a dog's appetite, and it's not uncommon for them to stop eating altogether.

Dr. Hohenhaus has witnessed a canine patient stop eating after being re-homed following the death of her owner, which highlights the emotional impact of life changes on a dog's behavior.

Dogs may either overeat or undereat when their life is disrupted, much like humans.

Children can become picky eaters, just like dogs, and change their habits over time. This means they may refuse to eat certain foods or stick to a limited diet.

It's possible that something was added to their food that they don't like, just like how dogs can become picky eaters due to changes in their dog food.

A change in routine or location can be really tough on your dog. Dogs are creatures of habit, and when their surroundings change, it can throw off their appetite.

Dr. Hohenhaus has seen this happen with her canine patients, and she notes that some dogs will eat a lot when their life is all upset, while others will eat nothing because they're distracted by what's going on.

If you've recently moved or adopted a new pet, be patient and give your dog some time to adjust. They may need a few days to get back into their regular eating routine.

Here are some common reasons why your dog might be hesitant to eat due to a change in routine or location:

Just remember to give your dog some time to adjust, and try to maintain their regular routine as much as possible. With a little patience and understanding, they'll be back to their old self in no time.

Stimulating yourself can be just as challenging as stimulating your dog's appetite. Go to the doctor to rule out any underlying medical issues that might be affecting your appetite.

Change your environment and routine to see if that helps. Just like changing your dog's bowls or feeding location, try eating in a different room or at a different time of day.

Add some variety to your meals, just like you would with your dog's food. Try new flavors and textures to see what you enjoy.

Get moving, just like your dog needs a walk before mealtime. Exercise can help stimulate your appetite and make eating more enjoyable.

Consider talking to a doctor about medications that might help, such as meclizine or mirtazapine, which are used to help dogs with medical issues that affect their appetite.