Golden Retriever Not Eating: How Long Can They Go Without Food?

If your Golden Retriever isn't eating, the first step is to give them a suitable probiotic to regulate their gut health while observing for any other unusual symptoms. Afterward, take targeted measures based on what you find. There are many reasons why a dog might lose its appetite, primarily categorized as physiological and pathological. Identifying the root cause is crucial to address the issue effectively.

1. Physiological Anorexia

If your Golden Retriever is simply refusing food without any other signs of illness, it's likely due to physiological reasons. This can include pregnancy, teething, being in heat, disliking the food, excessive exercise, extreme fatigue, thirst, or hot weather. In these cases, the dog will generally not show any other abnormalities, with normal bowel movements and possibly some discomfort. Usually, offering high-quality, nutritious canned food or meat can solve this issue.

Note: When feeding your dog, it's essential to maintain a regular feeding schedule and avoid overfeeding to prevent gastrointestinal issues. Also, avoid giving too much raw meat or human food to prevent picky eating habits.

2. Pathological Anorexia

Illnesses can also cause loss of appetite in Golden Retrievers. These can include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, colds, gastroenteritis, and endocrine disorders. If your dog is anorexic along with other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or abnormal body temperature, it may indicate a pathological issue. It is crucial to take your dog to the vet for a checkup and treatment as soon as possible.

3. Mood-Related Anorexia

A dog's emotional state can also affect its appetite. For example, dogs that are deprived of affection, left alone for long periods, or are in a fearful environment may exhibit reduced appetite. In such cases, they may appear listless and withdrawn. Owners should show more care and spend time playing with their dog to help them regain their appetite.

How Long Can Dogs Go Without Food?

The maximum time a dog can go without food is about 15-20 days if they have access to water. However, if they are refusing both food and water, their limit shortens to 7-10 days. Dogs are very resilient when it comes to fasting. In good health, they can last a while, but if they have underlying health issues and are not eating or drinking, their condition can worsen quickly and accelerate death.


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