Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my puppy a picky eater and only eats when I sit with her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature American Shepherd | Female | spayed | 2 months and 4 days old | 7 lbs

My puppy barley eats. And she only does when I sit beside her

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Susan England-Foster

Veterinarian

Published on July 19th, 2017

I am sorry Bella Is not eating well. IT is important to figure out if she is not eating well due to a medical issue or behavioral. I would recommend taking her to a vet due to being so young. A vet will be able to determine if she is healthy or possibly has an illness that is causing her not to want to eat. As a puppy she could have parasites, infection or possibly ate something she shouldn't. If she is medically healthy than most likely it is a behavioral issue. You can try adding warm water or even can food into the dry food. Also, you can try mixing two dry foods to see if it helps stimulate her to eat. I would recommend feeding her at least three times a day due to her size. if possible you could also try to feed her in the same room you are working in until she gets bigger and than try to change her feeding space. Hope that helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Some puppies tend to be picky eaters and many dogs like to have company while they're eating. If Bella seems thin, has any diarrhea or vomiting or has not seen a veterinarian yet I would recommend making an appointment to make sure there is nothing medically wrong that might cause a decrease in appetite. Otherwise I think it's okay to put her food down for 30 minutes or so and give her a chance to eat, then pull the food up and offer again in a couple hours. If you don't have other pets and don't mind her grazing through the day you could also leave her food out, although be aware that this can make house training a little more difficult since you won't know when she might need to go out.

    Vote icon

    0Pet 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
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
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
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