Normally, when your dog is sick he won't have a desire to eat, which eventually makes him even worse. He needs nutrition to help strengthen his immune system so he can fight off the illness and get better faster. Your pet is depending on you to help him through this difficult time. If he doesn't eat on his own, you'll need to find ways for him to get the nutrition he needs even if this means hand feeding him.
Things You'll Need
- Soft Foods
- Baby Bottle
Instructions
Encourage your dog to eat by offering him special foods, such as canned dog food that has a different texture and smell.
Feed your dog broths and other liquid nutrition using a baby bottle. Prepare the bottle by filling it with broth. Make sure it will come out of the nipple easily but that it doesn't pour out. The bottle makes it easy to place the broth into the pouch within the mouth making it easier for your pet to swallow.
Place small pieces of soft easy digestible foods on the back part of the tongue and then gently stroke his throat to help him swallow it. Make sure the pieces are very small and soft to prevent choking.
Provide your dog with fresh water where he can sip on it regularly to help settle his stomach and prevent dehydration.
If your dog completely refuses to eat and using these methods does not prove to be beneficial, then call your veterinarian for advice. Your pet may need to be cared for by a professional until his condition improves.