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My dog is refusing food and water. When should I call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | 40 lbs

My three year old Bassett has missed 2 meals and is being stubborn and drinking very lite water.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Tucker! If he is normally a good eater and there is no reason he wouldn't want the food offered (for example you didn't just open up a new bag that could be spoiled) then I would recommend bringing him in to your vet when they open tomorrow. We can have a wide variety of reasons for dogs not wanting to eat and drink, ranging from a mild gastritis to an obstruction of the intestinal tract. If he begins vomiting tonight, becomes weak, has pale gums or a painful or swollen abdoment those would be reasons to seek veterinary care tonight. Your vet will examine Tucker and may recommend testing such as an x-ray of the abdomen based on their findings. Treatment will depend on the exam and test results but may include things like injections for nausea/vomiting, antacids to help settle the stomach, or special diet.

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