Instructions
Write a log of your dog's eating habits. This will aid the veterinarian in determining the cause, and best treatment, for the food aversion.
Feed your dog a variety of different foods. There may be an association with a specific type of food that is causing the loss of appetite.
Change the location of where you feed your dog. Again, there may be a bad memory or smell in the place you normally feed him.
Reduce the temperature of the food before you feed it to him. Warming the food enhances the aroma of the food, and this can cause him to not eat it. If you typically warm the food in the microwave, then serve it to him at room temperature.
Make mealtimes a pleasant experience for your dog. Sit down and talk to him. Comforting your dog may help to assure him that it is okay to eat.
Provide smaller portions and feed him more often throughout the day. This will be easier on his digestive tract.
How to Help a Dog With a Food Aversion
Food aversion occurs when -- for some reason -- a dog loses interest in its food. The resulting nutritional deficiency can lead to weight loss, diarrhea or vomiting. A major cause of food aversion is cancer and cancer treatments, but digestive problems, medication, a sore tooth and poison are other common ailments. Frequently, aversion results when the dog associates a bad experience with food. If the dog has hurt his mouth, and it hurts every time he eats, then he will not want to eat. Do not try to force your dog to eat. This can often create more aversions.