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My rescue dog is skinny and won't eat unless I stand there. Help!

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 1 month old

My dog won't eat unless I stand around with him and coax him to eat? I don't have time to stand there for 1 hour,but I just rescued him & he's skinny

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Bette Isacoff

Dog Trainer

Published on June 9th, 2016

If you just rescued him, he is probably confused and scared. I would have him checked by a vet first, to be sure there is nothing physical that is causing him to be reluctant to eat. If he checks out okay, you need a little "tough love." Put his food in a bowl on the floor without fuss and leave it for 15 minutes. After that time, pick it up whether he has eaten or not. Do not give him anything--no treats, snacks or human food--until his next scheduled mealtime. Then repeat the process. It may take several times for him to realize that there will be no more entertainment from you, and that he must eat his food. Remember that you are not starving nim--he is choosing not to eat. When he is hungry enough, he will. Do not give in or "feel sorry" for him. It will only make it harder to correct. If you need additional help with this, click on the prompt to initiate a consult.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Offer a bland diet (1:1 ratio of plain boiled boneless chicken and plain white rice). Feed in small, frequent amounts. Serve it warm or mix in a teaspoon or two of baby food to stimulate the appetite. Once he's eating regularly, transition slowly to the regular diet. Don't stand there with him. You can crate him and leave the food in the crate with him. He will eat eventually.

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