Why Has My Dog Stopped Eating Their Dry Food?

1. Why Won’t My Dog Eat Dry Food?

Dry food (kibble) is a staple in many households: it’s convenient, balanced, and often more affordable than wet or raw diets. But if your dog suddenly refuses it, there are several potential causes:

• Health-related issues: Dental pain, upset stomach, or illness can make chewing kibble uncomfortable or unappealing.

• Behavioural reasons: Some dogs simply get bored or hold out for tastier alternatives if they’ve been spoiled with table scraps or wet food.

• Environmental stressors: Routine changes, moving house, or even a new baby in the family can affect appetite.

Understanding which category your dog falls into is the first step in solving the problem.

2. Why Will My Dog Eat Treats or Wet Food, But Not Kibble?

This is another top-searched question. Many owners notice their dog happily accepts treats, scraps, or wet food but snubs kibble. Why?

• Texture and taste: Wet food smells stronger and feels softer, which can be easier on sensitive mouths. Treats are often higher in fat, making them more appealing.

• Dental discomfort: If chewing hurts, dogs may avoid hard kibble but still eat softer foods.

• Reinforced pickiness: If your dog knows turning their nose up at kibble earns them something tastier, they’ll repeat the behaviour.

This doesn’t always mean something serious is wrong—but it’s a signal to check both health and feeding habits.

3. Is My Dog Being Picky or Is Something More Serious Going On?

It can be tough to distinguish between fussiness and a health concern. Here are some indicators:

• Likely just picky: Your dog still has energy, drinks water, eats treats, and shows no other symptoms.

• Potential health issue: Your dog refuses all food, vomits, has diarrhea, loses weight, or seems lethargic.

If you’re in doubt, it’s always safest to consult your vet—especially if refusal is sudden, coupled with lethargy and restlessness and lasts longer than 24 hours.

4. Could There Be a Health Problem Causing Kibble Refusal?

Yes. Some of the most common medical reasons include:

• Dental disease or injury: Loose teeth, gum infections, or sore jaws make crunching painful.

• Gastrointestinal upset: Nausea, worms, or an upset stomach can kill appetite.

• Underlying illness: Conditions such as kidney disease or pancreatitis can suppress hunger.

Red flags include drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or refusing all types of food. In these cases, don’t wait—book a vet visit.

5. My Dog Stopped Eating Dry Food Suddenly. How Long Can They Go Without Eating?

Dogs can technically survive a few days without food, but that doesn’t mean they should. Puppies, seniors, and smaller breeds are especially vulnerable to low blood sugar. Again, try to understand if they are just being picky or if they are poorly. If they will eat treats and other foods, they are holding out for something better!

General guidelines:

• 12–24 hours: Skipping a single meal may not be cause for concern if your dog otherwise seems healthy.

• More than 24 hours: Call your vet, particularly if refusal is sudden.

• Puppies: Should never go more than a few hours without food.

The bottom line: don’t let kibble refusal drag on—address it quickly.

6. How Can I Make Dry Food More Appealing?

This is one of the most popular Google searches, and luckily, there are plenty of strategies you can try although I am a big believer in trying not to mix kibble with other things. If your dog is refusing their kibble on its own, it might be time to switch to another, beter quality brand:

• Mix wet and dry: Add a spoonful of wet food or broth to soften and flavour kibble.

• Warm it up: Briefly warming kibble (with water or broth) enhances aroma.

• Add toppers: Pumpkin powder, cooked chicken, or dog-safe yogurt can encourage eating.

• Use puzzle feeders: Make meals fun and mentally stimulating.

• Check freshness: Old or stale kibble loses its appeal.

• Try a different bowl: Some dogs don't like the sound of a metal bowl, or prefer to eat off a plate (or even the floor!)

Consistency is key—don’t keep switching foods too often, as this can create more pickiness.

7. Is It Okay If My Dog Only Eats Wet Food?

Many owners wonder if wet food alone is enough. The answer is: usually yes, but with caveats.

• Complete wet foods contain all the nutrients your dog needs. We love Forthglade for this.

• Dental health: Kibble helps reduce tartar, so if you switch to wet food, you may need extra dental care.

• Cost and convenience: Wet food can be pricier and spoils faster once opened.

8. Could Stress or Routine Changes Be Affecting Appetite?

Absolutely. Dogs are creatures of habit, and even small changes can affect their eating:

• Moving house or traveling

• Changes in household members or schedule

• Introduction of a new pet

• Loud noises or general anxiety

In these cases, maintaining a consistent feeding routine, offering a quiet eating space, and providing plenty of reassurance can help.

9. What If My Dog Is Just Bored of Their Food?

“Food fatigue” is real. Just as humans tire of eating the same meal every day, dogs can lose interest in repetitive flavours. Signs include sniffing kibble, eating a few bites, then walking away.

Solutions:

• Rotate between two or three flavour of high quality kibble (such as our Freshly Prepared or Gourmet Range (if you are sticking to one brand but different flavours, there is no need ot transition gradually).

• Add healthy toppers to keep things interesting.

• Reserve treats for training only, so your dog doesn’t learn to hold out for them.

10. When Should I See a Vet?

While many cases of kibble refusal are behavioural or preference-based, sometimes it points to something more serious. See your vet if:

• Refusal lasts longer than 24 hours (or a single missed meal in puppies) and they are not accepting other treats or food.

• Your dog shows other symptoms—vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss.

• There are signs of pain when chewing or drooling excessively.

• Sudden, dramatic changes in appetite occur without explanation.

Trust your instincts: you know your dog best.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie