Health Issues in Labradors That Won't Eat

When a dog stops eating, it can be terrifying to owners. Labs are especially prone to temporary bouts of anorexia. Their large size and active lifestyle make them particularly susceptible to food sensitivities. Fortunately, your dog will not starve itself, and a refusal to eat is typically a symptom of a problem rather than the problem itself.

  1. Temporary Hunger Strikes

    • In most cases when a dog stops eating, it's only temporary and there is no immediate cause for concern. Dogs tend to self-regulate their eating habits and may stop eating for brief periods of time, particularly if they are not getting enough exercise. If your dog is showing no other symptoms of health problems, a "wait and see" approach is advisable. Give your dog two to three days. If it still has not begun to eat, call your vet.

    Food Allergies

    • Food allergies are increasingly common in dogs, and labs are especially prone to allergies to wheat, corn and pork. If your dog periodically has mild diarrhea, skin itching or vomiting, you may be dealing with a food allergy. Choose a hypoallergenic food and consult with a vet who specializes in food allergies.

    Bloat

    • The most dangerous cause of anorexia in dogs is bloat. Bloat is an emergency condition that can be caused by dry kibble rapidly expanding in the stomach. Left untreated, it can be fatal. If your dog becomes suddenly ill, is vomiting green or yellow and is refusing food, take your dog to the vet immediately. If your dog is diagnosed with bloat, you should discuss your dog's diet with the vet. Most cases of bloat occur when a dog eats kibble too quickly. Feeding a high-quality kibble in smaller meals will usually prevent bloat from occurring again.

    Anxiety

    • Labs need lots of exercise and without it, they tend to become anxious. Anxiety frequently causes dogs to stop eating, particularly if there has been a recent change in the dog's routine. If your dog stops eating and has no other symptoms, your first line of defense should be to provide your dog with more exercise. Look carefully at your dog's lifestyle for any recent changes that could be contributing to anxiety. A new puppy or baby, moving and family stress are all common causes of anxiety in dogs.