Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my senior dog not eating or hesitating to eat his food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 10 years and 4 months old | 100 lbs

Senior dog hesitate to eat food

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Captain. Not wanting to eat food can be caused by many different issues, including dental pain (we can have this even if you don't see any problems visually as some issues are below the gumline and require x-ray to see), gastrointestinal issues, and systemic illness. I would recommend bringing Captain in to the vet for an examination.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. If Captain is not wanting to eat his food, I would recommend having him examined by a veterinarian so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I would recommend having his blood tested to see if there are any abnormalities. I hope this helps guide you in the right direction. Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Sponsored