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My male dog won't eat due to a female dog in heat. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 45 lbs

I have male dog, 18 months old. He is not eating food as there is a bitch in heat nearby our house. Its' been nearly 7-8 days he is eating very very less and too only some treats. Please suggest what to do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on May 15th, 2017

Unfortunately there is no easy solution, as long as there will be a bitch in heat just outside the door, this behaviour will not go away. The best solution is to take him to the vet and get him neutered, this will solve the problem permanently.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 2nd, 2018

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Male dogs often will not eat if a female is in heat. I do advise completely separating them as she should not be bred on her first heat. There is a much greater risk to her life and health and the health of the puppies if she becomes pregnant this young. If not planning to breed, I recommend spaying her and neutering Jesse. It may be best to move one of the dogs to an alternate location until she is out of heat if you do not plan to desex them. Be sure that he drinks plenty of water and you can try tempting him with canned dog food to encourage him to eat.

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