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Dog wants to eat but yelps with dry food. Is it dental pain?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed

Our dog is acting strange. Wants to eat but yelps when she has 1 piece of dry dog food. She's conflicted. She LOVES to eat but acts like she cannot.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 25th, 2017

Poor Sammy! She could have dental pain causing her to yelp when eating. Dental pain in dogs could be caused by severe gingivitis, a tooth root abscess, or broken or loose teeth. I would have her seen by a vet first thing on Monday to have her mouth examined. In the meantime, you can try feeding Sammy wet food, or you can soak her dry food in gently warmed low sodium beef or chicken broth.

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    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    It is possible that Sammy has something causing pain in her mouth: possibilities would include a broken or infected tooth, or a wound or ulcer. I would recommend taking Sammy to your veterinarian for a complete oral examination. If your vet is not open tomorrow you can offer canned food and see if she eats. If she still will not eat or is vomiting you may want to see an emergency veterinarian.

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