Elderly dogs tend to slow down and eat less, as they are no longer as active as when they were pups or young dogs. While some loss of appetite is normal, certain contributing factors can help explain why an elderly dog isn't eating. Some causes can be easily remedied, while others may take the expertise of a veterinarian.
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Stress
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One of the most common causes of appetite loss in an older dog is stress. Any type of change in routine can put stress on dogs---especially elderly dogs, who do not do well with change. A new baby or new puppy added to the family can trigger this stress in an older dog.
Digestion
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Diarrhea and vomiting can lead an elderly dog to lose her appetite. If this is the case, do not force your dog to eat. If the food is running right through her or not going down at all, it's best to offer lots of water rather than extra food.
Infection
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Infections, either bacterial or viral, can cause a fever in an elderly dog that may cause appetite loss. This is another time to let your dog fast rather than forcing him to eat. Allowing him to go without food for a little while will help him use his energy to fight the infection rather than digest his food.
Other Health Problems
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Other health problems that can result in appetite loss include (but are not limited to) bad teeth or dental diseases, kidney failure, heart failure, urinary-tract infections, constipation and worms.
Solutions
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If your dog stops eating for more than 48 hours, call a veterinarian immediately. If your dog is otherwise healthy, and a veterinarian has ruled out other diseases, the solution to loss of appetite could be as simple as changing the dog food you use. As dogs age, they lose their sense of taste. Changing dog food may help entice a dog to eat again. Another option is to warm the food and add some water to it. The water will soften it and the heat may make it more palatable.
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