Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog won't eat, has bad breath, and licks after flea/tick meds.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 11 months old | 55 lbs

My dog (55lb) shepherd mix hasnt eaten and all of a sudden has terrible breath. Noticed after I gave her chewable flea&tick and heartworm meds 2 days ago. No change in medicine so not sure why that would cause an issue. Temperament and personality seems fine. 3 years old. Has been licking a lot as well.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 12th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Lyla. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. She could have an infected tooth or a wound in her mouth contributing to the oral pain and bad odor. A thorough exam will be performed to attempt to identify her problem. From there, a treatment plan can be developed. In the meantime, you can soften her food with warm water or offer canned food to make it easier for her to eat. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello. Licking & loss of appetite are classic signs of nausea, but what may be causing the nausea is a more difficult issue. It may be the medications you gave 2 days ago. Depending on the products, the new recommendations are to separate giving oral flea & tick from oral heartworm meds by 2 weeks. They should never be given together due to the potentiation of side effects. If Lyla does not want to eat by tomorrow, or develops any vomiting or diarrhea, please see your veterinarian as soon as possible. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

    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
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