Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog won't eat or drink after moving. Is he stressed or sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 2 months old | 14 lbs

My dog isn't eating or drinking like normal. Recently he was separated from his sister since I moved out from my family. He still plays and greets me when I come in from work. His stool isn't as much as it used to be. Last night he only ate food if I fed it to him. He still likes ice though. I don't know what to think. It's all so confusing.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 29th, 2017

I'm glad to hear that Bentley is still playful and acting normally, even though he hasn't been eating and drinking normally. It is possible that both the stress of leaving his sister and your family, as well as moving to a new home may be contributing to his change in appetite. You can try tempting him to eat with a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken and white rice for a few days (1.5 cups per day, divided into smaller meals). After a few days, transition to his normal dog food by mixing the two foods together over another 5-7 days. It may also be worth looking into calming pheromone collars or diffusers (Adaptil is one example - https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-calming-aids/adaptil-adjustable-calming-dog-collar) to try to help Bentley's stress level. If he still refuses to eat in a few days, it is worth a trip to the vet to assure that there aren't bigger medical problems occurring. I hope this helps and that all goes well!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Rachel

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sorry to hear that Bentley isn't eating or drinking well. Dogs are affected by changes in their environment and being separated from his sister could be causing him some stress. Some small breed dogs tend to become more finicky about their food when stressed. Depending on how long this has been going on, it may just take a little more time for him to adjust to his new environment. There is a possibility that this could be due to an underlying illness. If he does not improve in the next several days I would encourage you to have him looked at by a veterinarian just to make sure there isn't something else going on.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 10th, 2017

    Moving can be stressful for a dog, but it is concerning that Caleb's suddenly stopped eating after being fine for a couple of days. Anorexia is a very general sign of illness, and it can be caused by systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. Feeling sick would cause him to be cranky as well. I would try to tempt him to eat by soaking his food in gently warmed low sodium beef or chicken broth, or offering him small amounts of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice. If he still refuses to eat that, then I would have Caleb seen by a vet for a health check.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored