If your dog suddenly refuses to eat, you might wonder, “how long can a dog go without food?” The answer depends on several factors, but in general:

• Healthy adult dogs can survive 3 to 5 days without food, as long as they are drinking water.
• Puppies, senior dogs, and sick dogs shouldn’t go more than 24 hours without eating, as they are more vulnerable to weakness and illness.
• If a dog is not eating and drinking, dehydration can set in quickly, and they may become critically ill within 24 to 48 hours.

What’s the solution? If your dog skips one or two meals but is still drinking water and acting normal, monitor them closely. However, if they refuse food for more than 48 hours or are also not drinking, it’s time to see a vet immediately.

This article will cover:
How long a dog can survive without food and water.
Why dogs stop eating and when to worry.
How to get your dog eating again.

If your dog won’t eat dog food or seems unwell keep reading to learn what you should do next.

How Long Can Dogs Survive Without Food?

If your dog has stopped eating you might be wondering, how long will a dog survive without food? The answer depends on several factors, including their age, health condition and whether they are drinking water.

How Long Can an Adult Dog Go Without Eating?

A healthy adult dog can typically survive 3 to 5 days without food, as long as they are still drinking water. However, this doesn’t mean it’s safe for them to go that long without eating. A dog that refuses food for more than 48 hours should be checked by a vet.

How Long Can a Puppy Go Without Eating?

Puppies are much more fragile than adult dogs. A puppy should never go more than 24 hours without food. Because their bodies are still growing a lack of food can quickly lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), weakness, and serious health risks. If your puppy refuses to eat even one meal try encouraging them with wet food, chicken broth or hand-feeding.

How Long Can a Dog Live Without Water?

While dogs can survive several days without food, they can only go 2 to 3 days without water before becoming dangerously dehydrated. If your dog is not eating and drinking it’s an emergency. Dehydration sets in fast and can cause organ failure.

Here are some signs that your dog is dehydrated:
✅ Dry gums and nose
✅ Sunken eyes
✅ Loss of skin elasticity (skin stays in place when pinched)
✅ Lethargy and extreme weakness

If you notice these symptoms and your dog won’t drink water take them to a vet immediately. How long a dog can live without water is very limited, and dehydration can be fatal.

What If My Dog Won’t Eat Dog Food But Drinks Water?

If your dog is not eating dog food but still drinking water this could mean:

• They are bored of their food or dislike the brand.
• The food is spoiled or expired.
• They have dental pain or an upset stomach.

In these cases, try offering boiled chicken, rice or a small amount of wet food to see if they regain interest in eating. If your dog won’t eat dog food for more than two days, consult a vet to rule out any underlying health issues.

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When Should You Worry If Your Dog Stops Eating?

It’s normal for dogs to skip a meal now and then, but if your dog is not eating and drinking for an extended period, it’s time to be concerned. Knowing when to worry and when to wait can help you take the right action.

Warning Signs That Indicate a Serious Problem

If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 24-48 hours watch for these signs:

✅ Lethargy: If your dog is weak, low on energy, or sleeping excessively.
✅ Dehydration: Check if their gums are dry, their skin doesn’t bounce back when pinched, or they refuse to drink. How long can a dog survive without water? Only about 2 to 3 days before serious health risks develop.
✅ Vomiting or Diarrhea: If your dog is also sick, they may be unable to keep food down.
✅ Weight Loss or Muscle Weakness: A noticeable drop in weight within a few days is concerning.
✅ Signs of Pain or Discomfort: Whining, excessive drooling, pawing at their mouth, or acting restless could indicate pain.

If your dog refuses food but still drinks water, it may not be an emergency yet. However, if they stop drinking as well, you need to see a vet immediately.

When to Contact a Veterinarian

Call your vet if:

• Your puppy hasn’t eaten for more than 12-24 hours.
• Your adult dog refuses food for over 48 hours.
• Your dog is not eating and drinking for 24 hours or more.
• They show any severe symptoms like vomiting, weakness, or dehydration.

Waiting too long can lead to serious complications so it’s better to seek help early rather than later.

If your dog won’t eat dog food but drinks water you can try offering boiled chicken, rice or plain broth to see if they regain interest in eating. However, if the refusal continues a vet visit is necessary.

Common Reasons Dogs Stop Eating

If your dog won’t eat dog food or suddenly loses interest in meals, there’s always a reason behind it. Some causes are harmless like being picky while others could signal an underlying health issue. Let’s explore why dogs refuse to eat and when to take action.

Food Related Issues

• Picky Eating Habits – Some dogs simply get bored of their food or prefer variety. If your dog refuses kibble but eats treats or table scraps, they may be holding out for something tastier.
• Spoiled or Expired Food – Check the food’s smell, texture, and expiration date. If it’s stale or rancid, your dog may instinctively avoid it for safety reasons.
• Sudden Diet Changes – If you recently switched dog food brands, your pup may be hesitant to eat. A gradual transition over 5-7 days can help.

Environmental and Emotional Causes

• Stress and Anxiety – Just like humans, dogs can lose their appetite when stressed. A move to a new home, loud noises, or changes in their routine can cause them to refuse food for a day or two.
• Loss of a Companion – If your dog recently lost an owner or another pet in the household, they may stop eating as a response to grief.
• New Surroundings – Travel, boarding, or staying in an unfamiliar place can make dogs anxious, affecting their eating habits.

Health Problems That Can Cause a Dog to Stop Eating

If your dog is not eating and drinking, health issues could be the reason. Some common medical conditions include:

• Dental Pain – Broken teeth, gum infections, or mouth ulcers can make eating painful.
• Digestive Issues – Nausea, bloating, or an upset stomach may cause your dog to avoid food.
• Infections or Illnesses – Viral or bacterial infections can cause loss of appetite, weakness and dehydration.
• Kidney or Liver Disease – If your dog refuses food and shows signs of excessive thirst, vomiting or weight loss, seek veterinary help immediately.

If your dog won’t eat dog food but drinks water try offering boiled chicken rice or bone broth. If they still refuse to eat after 48 hours, it’s time to visit the vet.

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How to Get Your Dog Eating Again

If your dog refuses to eat, it can be frustrating and worrying. The good news? There are simple ways to encourage your dog to eat again. If your dog won’t eat dog food but drinks water or has skipped a meal or two try these solutions before heading to the vet.

Try a Different Type of Food

• Switch to Wet Food – Some dogs find canned food more appealing than dry kibble.
• Warm the Food – Slightly warming your dog’s food can enhance its smell and make it more appetizing.
• Add Broth or Toppers – Pouring low-sodium chicken broth or mixing in cooked chicken, rice, or pumpkin can encourage them to eat.

Make Mealtime More Appealing

• Hand-Feed Them – Some dogs respond better when fed by hand, especially if they’re feeling anxious.
• Stick to a Routine – Serve food at the same time each day to establish a consistent eating habit.
• Create a Calm Environment – Remove distractions and ensure your dog eats in a quiet, stress-free space.

Address Possible Health Issues

• Check Their Teeth – If your dog shows discomfort while eating, check for gum inflammation, broken teeth, or mouth pain.
• Watch for Other Symptoms – If your dog is not eating and drinking, vomiting, or acting lethargic they could be sick and need vet attention.
• Rule Out Stomach Upset – A dog with mild digestive issues may benefit from a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice for a day or two.

Encourage Hydration First

A dog can survive days without food, but how long can a dog survive without water? Only 2 to 3 days before dehydration becomes dangerous. If your dog refuses food, ensure they’re still drinking water. You can:

• Offer ice cubes or a pet safe electrolyte solution.
• Try a water fountain some dogs prefer running water.
• Add a small amount of low sodium broth to their water bowl to encourage drinking.

When to See a Vet

If your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 48 hours or if they are not eating and drinking it’s time for a vet visit. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with existing health issues need immediate attention if they refuse food.

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Conclusion

If you’re wondering, how long can a dog go without food?, the answer depends on their age, health, and whether they are still drinking water. A healthy adult dog can survive 3 to 5 days without eating, but this doesn’t mean they should. Puppies senior dogs and sick dogs shouldn’t go more than 24 hours without food because their bodies are more fragile.

More importantly, how long can a dog survive without water? Only about 2 to 3 days before dehydration becomes life-threatening. If your dog is not eating and drinking it’s a medical emergency and requires immediate vet attention.

The best way to help a dog regain their appetite is to:
✅ Check for spoiled food or dental pain.
✅ Try wet food, warm meals, or add broth to encourage eating.
✅ Ensure they stay hydrated, even if they refuse food.
✅ Monitor their behavior and seek vet help if they don’t eat for 48 hours.

Most dogs skip meals occasionally but if your dog won’t eat dog food for more than two days, loses weight or acts sick, don’t wait get them checked by a vet. The sooner you identify the cause the faster your pup can return to their happy, healthy self.

FAQs

How long is it OK for a dog not to eat?

A healthy adult dog can go up to 3 to 5 days without food as long as they are drinking water. However, if your dog refuses to eat for more than 48 hours it’s best to consult a vet. Puppies, senior dogs and sick dogs should not go more than 24 hours without eating.

What happens when a dog doesn’t eat for 3 days?

If a dog doesn’t eat for 3 days, they will start experiencing weakness, fatigue, and possible weight loss. If they are drinking water they may survive longer, but prolonged starvation weakens their immune system and can lead to serious health problems. If your dog refuses food for 3 days a vet visit is necessary to find the cause.

Can a dog go 7 days without eating?

While some dogs can survive up to a week without food, it is extremely dangerous for their health. How long a dog can live without food depends on their hydration levels. If they are also not drinking water, survival time drops drastically to just 2-3 days. A dog not eating for 7 days is a medical emergency and they need immediate veterinary care.

How long can a dog live once they stop eating?

Once a dog completely stops eating their survival time depends on their hydration and overall health. A dog that still drinks water may survive for a few weeks but without both food and water they may only live for a few days. Dogs nearing the end of life may naturally refuse food in which case hospice care and comfort should be the priority.