Puppies, just like babies, are very energetic and full of life, and as such, they are always very active for the time being. 

Regarding this, they, puppies, should have their fair share of what constitutes a good rest and healthy feeding. When a puppy is sleeping a lot and not eating as much as it should, then there is a problem. 

When babies are tender, they are required to feed and sleep well for their overall health and cognitive development. If these are not done, it may affect the overall health of children negatively. 

Therefore you are required to take your baby to the hospital for a quick check-up. The same can or should be said of puppies. Why is my puppy not eating much and sleeping a lot? These question has been an important concern of dog owners and caregivers. 

If your dog throws up what he eats and sleeps when it should and should not, like babies, it can and will affect the puppy’s growth and cognitive function. 

What, then, should you do? Well, the first option would be to obviously see a veterinarian. But as a dog owner, you should be able to tell when your puppy exhibits signs that show it is malnourished or sleeping like something is really wrong.

This article will break down the signs, symptoms, and reasons why your puppy may not be eating, having excessive sleeping habits or not having a good rest, as well as possible solutions to this problem. 

Let’s get you started.

Symptoms Of A Puppy Not Eating And Sleeping A Lot

Puppies are known for their enthusiasm and excitement, especially regarding their favourite treats or foods. 

However, one of the concerning symptoms of a puppy not eating enough is their sudden refusal to consume their favourite treats or foods.

Symptoms Of A Puppy Not Eating

Lack of Interest

Normally, puppies are eager to eat their treats or favourite meals with gusto.

If your puppy seems disinterested or unenthusiastic about their favourite treats or foods that were once irresistible, it could be a sign that something is amiss with their appetite.

Turning Away from Food

When presented with their favourite treats or regular meals, a puppy experiencing a loss of appetite may actively turn away from the food, sniff it hesitantly, or display little to no interest in consuming it.

Delaying Or Avoiding Eating

Puppies usually have a hearty appetite and tend to eat promptly when food is offered.

However, if your puppy consistently delays eating or avoids eating altogether, it might indicate that they are experiencing issues with their appetite.

Selective Eating

Picky eating can be normal for some dogs. Still, a sudden change in eating habits where your puppy becomes selective about what they eat, even among their favourite choices, could signal an underlying problem with their appetite.

Symptoms Of A Puppy Sleeping A Lot

Like human babies, puppies require significant sleep for their growth and development.

However, sudden and significant changes in their sleep patterns can cause concern, as it may indicate underlying health issues or other problems affecting their well-being.

Sleeping More Than Usual

Puppies have varying sleep needs depending on their age and breed. Still, if you observe that your puppy is sleeping excessively, more than their typical patterns, it might indicate an underlying problem.

Prolonged and frequent naps during the day or extended periods of nighttime sleep could suggest potential health issues or discomfort.

Frequent Waking During The Night

While puppies wake up during the night for bathroom breaks, they should generally sleep soundly.

If you notice your puppy waking up more frequently, whimpering, or showing signs of restlessness during the night, it could indicate that something is causing them discomfort or distress.

Unusual Sleep Positions

Puppies often have their favourite sleeping positions, and sudden changes in their sleep might be noteworthy.

For instance, if a puppy who used to sleep curled up comfortably suddenly stretches out and appears restless during sleep, it could be a sign of discomfort.

Unresponsiveness During Playtime

Puppies are typically lively and playful during their waking hours. If you observe that your puppy is uncharacteristically lethargic, unresponsive to stimuli, or lacks interest in playtime activities, it could be linked to excessive sleepiness or other underlying health issues.

Difficulty Waking Up

Puppies usually wake up relatively easily, especially when called or presented with food or treats.

If your puppy has difficulty waking up or seems groggy and disoriented upon waking, it might indicate a problem with their sleep quality or overall health.

Causes Of A Puppy Not Eating And Sleeping A Lot

Health-Related Causes

A puppy’s health is paramount, as it directly influences its overall well-being and quality of life.

When a puppy experiences changes in eating and sleeping habits, it may indicate underlying health issues that require attention and prompt veterinary care.

Several health-related causes can contribute to a puppy not eating and sleeping a lot, and understanding these potential reasons is crucial for responsible pet ownership.

Illness Or Infection

Like all young animals, puppies have developing immune systems that make them more vulnerable to illnesses and infections. 

Various health issues can affect puppies, including gastrointestinal infections, respiratory infections, viral diseases, and parasitic infestations.

These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, and lethargy in puppies, leading to a loss of appetite and increased sleeping.

When a puppy is unwell, it may show a lack of interest in food and exhibit reduced energy levels, preferring to rest and sleep more than usual.

Digestive problems

Puppies may experience digestive disturbances such as upset stomach, indigestion, or constipation.

These issues can arise from dietary changes, consuming inappropriate items, or food intolerances. 

When a puppy’s digestive system is not functioning optimally, they may avoid eating or exhibit reluctance to consume their regular meals.

The discomfort and pain associated with digestive problems can lead to decreased appetite and disrupted sleeping patterns.

Teething And Dental Discomfort

As puppies grow, they undergo a teething phase during which adult teeth replace their baby teeth. Teething can be uncomfortable for puppies, and they may experience sore gums and mouth pain.

Consequently, chewing on food or hard objects can become challenging, and the puppy may avoid eating altogether or prefer softer food options.

Dental discomfort can also affect their sleep, causing them to wake up at night or adopt uncomfortable sleep positions.

Emotional Causes

Puppies, like humans, have emotions, and their emotional well-being can significantly impact their eating and sleeping habits. Several emotional causes may lead to a puppy not eating and sleeping.

Understanding these factors is essential for providing our furry companions with a nurturing and supportive environment.

Stress Or Anxiety Due To Recent Changes

Puppies are highly sensitive to changes in their environment. Relocation to a new home, introduction to a new family member or pet, changes in household routines, or even a rearrangement of furniture can be stressful for a young puppy.

Such upheavals can trigger anxiety and emotional distress, causing a puppy to lose its appetite and seek comfort in sleep. 

They may feel overwhelmed or insecure in their new surroundings, leading them to withdraw from their regular eating and sleeping routines.

Separation From The Mother Or Littermates

Puppies form strong emotional bonds with their mother and littermates during the early stages of their lives. When separated from their mother and siblings, especially at a young age, they may experience separation anxiety.

This emotional upheaval can manifest in changes in their eating habits, as they might miss the comfort and security of their original pack. Additionally, the absence of familiar faces can lead to difficulty falling asleep or frequent waking at night.

Traumatic Experiences

Puppies can experience trauma from various events, such as accidents, harsh treatment, or exposure to frightening situations.

Traumatic experiences can have a lasting impact on a puppy’s emotional well-being, causing them to feel anxious or fearful.

Such emotional distress can affect their appetite, making them lose interest in food, and disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to restlessness or nightmares.

Loneliness And Lack Of Companionship

Puppies are social animals that thrive on companionship. A lack of social interaction and playtime with their human family or other pets can lead to loneliness and isolation.

Loneliness can induce stress and depression in puppies, resulting in a decreased appetite and excessive sleeping to cope with their emotional state.

Nutritional Causes

Proper nutrition is essential for a puppy’s growth, development, and overall health. An inadequate or inappropriate diet can significantly impact a puppy’s eating and sleeping habits. Several nutritional causes may lead to a puppy not eating and sleeping.

Inadequate Calorie Intake

Puppies have higher energy requirements than adult dogs due to their rapid growth and active lifestyle. If a puppy’s diet does not provide enough calories to support their energy needs, they may become lethargic and sleep more to conserve energy.

Inadequate calorie intake can also lead to a lack of interest in food, as the puppy may be trying to compensate for the lack of energy expenditure.

Unbalanced Diet

A well-balanced diet is vital for a puppy’s health, providing essential nutrients in the right proportions. If a puppy’s diet lacks essential nutrients like proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, it can lead to deficiencies that affect their overall health.

For example, a protein deficiency can result in muscle weakness and reduced appetite, while a lack of essential fatty acids can affect their skin and coat health.

Feeding Inappropriate Food

Puppies have specific dietary requirements based on age, breed, and size. Feeding them food intended for adult dogs or offering human food that may be unsuitable for their delicate digestive systems can cause gastrointestinal upset.

This discomfort can lead to a puppy refusing to eat or exhibiting picky eating habits, affecting their overall calorie intake.

Food Allergies Or Sensitivities

Some puppies may develop allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in their food. Common allergens can include grains, dairy, and specific protein sources.

Suppose a puppy is allergic or sensitive to an ingredient in their food. In that case, it can lead to gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, and a decreased appetite, impacting their overall nutrition and energy levels.

Overfeeding Or Free-Feeding

While providing a puppy with enough food to support their growth is essential, overfeeding can harm their health.

Excessive calorie intake can lead to obesity, which can cause joint problems and decreased activity levels. On the other hand, free-feeding, where food is constantly available to the puppy, can disrupt their eating patterns and lead to irregular sleep schedules.

Treatment For A Puppy Not Eating Much And Sleeping A Lot

Veterinary Evaluation

When a puppy is not eating much and sleeping a lot, seeking a comprehensive veterinary evaluation is the first step towards identifying the underlying cause and initiating appropriate treatment.

A veterinarian is trained to examine the puppy thoroughly, taking into account their medical history, conducting physical assessments, and performing necessary diagnostic tests.

The evaluation aims to pinpoint any health issues or potential factors contributing to the puppy’s changed behaviours.

Comprehensive Physical Examination

During the veterinary evaluation, the veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination of the puppy.

They will assess the puppy’s overall health, check for signs of discomfort or pain, examine the mouth and teeth, evaluate body condition, and palpate the abdomen to check for abnormalities.

The physical exam helps the veterinarian to detect any visible issues and form initial impressions about the puppy’s health.

Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, the veterinarian may recommend additional diagnostic tests to gain more insights into the puppy’s health. 

These tests may include bloodwork to assess organ function, detect infections, or identify any nutritional imbalances.

Faecal analysis can help identify parasites affecting the puppy’s appetite and overall well-being.

Depending on the specific symptoms and findings, tests, such as urine analysis or imaging studies, may be conducted to investigate potential health concerns further.

Once the veterinary evaluation is complete, the veterinarian will discuss the findings with the puppy’s owner and propose a treatment plan based on the diagnosis. 

The treatment plan may include addressing detected health issues, providing dietary recommendations, and offering environmental and emotional support.

Addressing Health Issues

Once a veterinary evaluation has been conducted and any health problems have been identified, addressing the underlying health issues becomes a critical aspect of treating a puppy not eating much and sleeping a lot.

The goal is to provide appropriate care and interventions to improve the puppy’s overall health and well-being, which will, in turn, help restore their appetite and sleep patterns.

Administering Prescribed Medications (If Necessary)

Depending on the diagnosis, the veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat specific health conditions.

For example, if the puppy has a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed to combat the infection.

Puppy owners must follow the veterinarian’s instructions carefully and administer the prescribed medications as directed. Completing the full course of medication is crucial to ensure the infection is fully treated and does not recur.

Following The Veterinarian’s Treatment Plan

In addition to medications, the veterinarian may recommend a specific treatment plan tailored to the puppy’s needs. This plan may include dietary changes, supplemental nutrition, or other forms of supportive care.

Following the treatment plan diligently will help address the health issues effectively and contribute to the puppy’s recovery.

Dietary Management

Proper dietary management is crucial when addressing a puppy not eating much and sleeping a lot. The right nutrition is essential for a puppy’s growth, development, and overall health.

Implementing appropriate dietary strategies can help address underlying causes and encourage the puppy to regain their appetite and improve their sleep patterns.

Providing A Balanced And Age-Appropriate Diet

Puppies’ specific nutritional needs vary based on age, breed, size, and activity level. It is essential to provide them with a balanced diet with the right mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

High-quality puppy food specifically formulated for their life stage is the best option. 

The food should meet the guidelines set by reputable organisations, ensuring that it provides all the essential nutrients needed for the puppy’s well-being.

Monitoring Feeding Schedules And Portion Sizes

A regular feeding schedule can help regulate the puppy’s appetite and digestive system. Puppies typically require more frequent meals than adult dogs due to their smaller stomach capacity and higher energy needs.

Dividing their daily food intake into several meals can encourage them to eat more consistently. Care should be taken to avoid free-feeding or leaving food out all the time, as it can lead to irregular eating habits and disrupted sleep patterns.

A Gradual Introduction Of New Foods Or Diet Changes

If dietary adjustments are necessary, it is crucial to introduce them gradually. Sudden changes in the puppy’s diet can cause gastrointestinal upset and further decrease appetite.

Slowly transitioning to new foods or making diet changes over several days allows the puppy’s digestive system to adjust, minimising the risk of adverse reactions.

Ensuring Palatability

Puppies are more likely to eat when their food is appealing and tasty. Ensuring that the food is palatable can help stimulate their appetite.

If the puppy seems disinterested in their food, offering a small amount of warm water or low-sodium chicken broth over the kibble can enhance the flavour and entice the meal.

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for a puppy’s overall health and appetite. Always provide fresh and clean water for the puppy to drink.

Dehydration can lead to lethargy and a decreased desire to eat. Encouraging the puppy to drink regularly is especially crucial during warm weather or after physical activity.

Environmental And Emotional Support

Environmental and emotional support are vital aspects of treating a puppy not eating much and sleeping a lot. Puppies are sensitive creatures, and their surroundings and emotional state can greatly influence their well-being.

Providing a nurturing and supportive environment can significantly contribute to the puppy’s emotional health, leading to improved eating habits and better sleep patterns.

Creating A Stress-Free And Comfortable Environment

Puppies thrive in environments that are safe, secure, and free from unnecessary stressors. Loud noises, sudden changes, and excessive activity can cause anxiety and lead to decreased appetite and increased sleep.

Designate a quiet and cosy area in the home where the puppy can rest undisturbed, away from high-traffic areas. Ensuring the puppy has a comfortable bed, toys, and access to fresh water will contribute to their emotional well-being.

Offering Companionship And Playtime

Puppies are social animals and crave companionship. Spending quality time with the puppy, engaging in play, and providing affectionate interactions can create a strong bond and alleviate feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Regular play sessions can stimulate the puppy mentally and physically, promoting a healthy appetite and better sleep.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement techniques to encourage the puppy to eat and sleep can be effective. Praising and offering treats for eating or displaying good sleep behaviour can reinforce positive associations with these activities.

Positive reinforcement fosters a positive emotional state and enhances the puppy’s overall mood and well-being.

Reducing Separation Anxiety

Puppies may experience separation anxiety when left alone. Gradually acclimating the puppy to short periods of alone time can help alleviate separation anxiety.

Leaving comforting items such as a piece of clothing with the puppy or playing calming music in the background can also help them feel secure when alone.

Minimising the time the puppy spends alone and arranging for a pet sitter or dog daycare when necessary can prevent feelings of anxiety and improve their eating and sleeping habits.

Calming Techniques

Implementing calming techniques, such as massage or gentle grooming, can help relax the puppy and reduce stress levels.

Calming scents, such as lavender, can also have a soothing effect on puppies. These techniques can create a positive and relaxing atmosphere, making it easier for the puppy to eat and sleep.

Encouraging Exercise And Activity

Regular exercise and physical activity are essential components of a puppy’s daily routine and overall well-being.

When a puppy is not eating much and sleeping a lot, encouraging exercise and activity can positively impact their appetite, energy levels, and sleep patterns.

Here are several ways to promote exercise and activity for a puppy:

Interactive Play

Engaging in interactive play sessions with the puppy is a great way to stimulate their physical and mental energy. Playtime can involve games like fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek.

Interactive toys that dispense treats or puzzle toys can also keep the puppy engaged and mentally stimulated, making mealtime more enjoyable and encouraging them to eat.

Regular Walks

Taking the puppy on regular walks outside is essential for their physical health and mental stimulation.

Walks provide exercise and expose the puppy to new sights, smells, and sounds, which can enrich their sensory experiences and reduce stress.

A tired and content puppy is likelier to have a healthy appetite and enjoy a restful sleep.

Socialisation With Other Dogs

Allowing the puppy to interact and socialise with other friendly and vaccinated dogs can benefit their emotional well-being.

Socialisation provides valuable learning experiences and helps build confidence. A confident and emotionally balanced puppy is likelier to have a healthy appetite and good sleeping habits.

Training Exercises

Training exercises in the puppy’s daily routine can provide physical and mental stimulation.

Basic obedience training, like sit, stay, and come, helps establish a bond between the puppy and its owner while encouraging mental focus and problem-solving skills.

Training sessions can also be an opportunity to reward the puppy with treats when they follow commands, positively reinforcing their good behaviour and appetite.

Supervised Off-Leash Play

In safe and controlled environments, allowing the puppy to have supervised off-leash play can be beneficial.

Off-leash play allows the puppy to run freely, burn off excess energy, and interact with their environment. Be sure to choose secure areas without potential hazards to ensure the puppy’s safety.

Swimming (If Appropriate)

Some puppies enjoy swimming, a low-impact exercise that is easy on their joints.

If the puppy is comfortable with water, introducing them to a shallow and safe swimming area can be a fun way to keep them active and cool during hot weather.

When To See A Vet

Due to a dog’s survival instinct, they normally behave in a way that might show that they are okay and fine. 

As a dog owner, being alert and aware of the subtlest changes is important. As a pet owner, you should know your dog better than anyone, so if something seems amiss, take him to the vet for a checkup.

If your dog is not eating or sleeping well, pay attention to the following symptoms and visit the vet immediately.

Unusual Eating Habits

It’s not unusual for your puppy to reject a meal or more, especially if the weather is not favourable, but otherwise, it should be a warning sign that something is wrong. 

Two days without food is a clear sign that your dog needs an examination by a veterinarian.

Some ailments can cause dogs to develop unusual eating habits or not eating entirely. If your dog is usually well-behaved but starts raiding the pantry or garbage, you should take your dog for a checkup.

Coarse Or Dry Fur

The dog’s coat should be thick, shiny and soft. A coat that is dull, rough, dry, or has bald spots can indicate that something is wrong. 

Probably the wrong kind of food, an allergy, or a skin or fur condition could be to blame. Either way, a trip to the vet is a must for questionable fur.

Sudden Weight Loss

Whether your dog is overweight or not, sudden weight loss should spur you to seek medical attention. Rapid and unexpected weight loss can mean a serious medical condition. 

If your dog drops 10%, notify your vet. For small dogs, it can be as little as 1 pound on the scale.

FAQ

Do Puppies Cry When Teething?

If you’ve ever experienced teething, it is a painful process. However, puppies may cry like a baby, and the symptoms are often not as obvious. “Due to gum and mouth discomfort, they may eat more slowly, drool and struggle to chew anything, including you,” said Dr Sieranski.

How Long Do Puppies Teeth And Chew On Things?

Like infants and toddlers, puppies explore their world by putting objects in their mouths. And like babies, they have teeth for about six months, which usually causes some discomfort. Chewing not only makes teething easier but also relieves sore gums.

Conclusion

Your concern on “why my puppy is not eating much and sleeping a lot” is well founded. It is far easier to understand human ailments than those of your pets because, for one thing, humans can complain when they should.

However, understanding your dog’s ailment is, in fact, important if you want your puppy to grow up active and with the best brain function. Most puppies reject food given to them because they dislike it, which is understandable. 

However, others have developed some allergies to almost every food because of some pending ailments. When this happens, do not always rely on your wit; consult a veterinarian immediately. 

This article has provided ways you can tell that your puppy is not feeding well and sleeping a lot, be mindful of these signs and act as soon as possible. 

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