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My 4-month-old puppy won't eat food or treats, but is playful.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 27 days old

My 4 month old puppy doesn't wanna eat. I tried to give her some of her treats but she didn't also eat it. But she seems playful all the time.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 13th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If Chuchi is acting normally and isn't vomiting for having diarrhea I would try to add warm water to her food or 1 tablespoon of canned food mixed with water on her food. Sometimes dogs hold out for something better or tastier to come along, but most healthy dogs won't choose starvation. Try a few things then set a schedule for eating. Feed her in a quiet room, give her an hour of quiet time to eat then remove the food until the next meal. You didn't indicate how long she hasn't been eating. If it has been more than 2 days I would have her seen by a Vet to be sure nothing medical is going on. I hope this helps and I wish you and Chuchi the best!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 13th, 2017

    Hello, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Sorry to hear Chuchi isn't feeling well! I am quite worried whenever a pup her age doesn't want to eat for more than 24 hours, and this is definitely a reason to go immediately to the vet. Lethargy and inappetance are pretty nonspecific symptoms so it's impossible to suggest what might be wrong, but it is never normal for a young pup like her to stop eating and act lethargic. She could have intestinal parasites, a GI infection such as parvovirus, anemia, or any number of other issues. Based on their exam findings, your vet may suggest bloodwork, a fecal test, or x-rays to determine what's wrong and start the appropriate treatment. At the very least, Chuchi will likely need fluid therapy to make sure she's not getting dehydrated. I hope this helps and she feels better soon!

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