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Why is My Havanese Not Eating? (Explained for Owners!)

My Havanese is not a keen eater and likes to follow me around during its mealtime. Recently it had completely stopped eating for 2 days and would refuse to play as well.

That’s when I knew something was wrong. If you are in a similar situation, you must figure out why your Havanese is not eating!

Why is my Havanese not eating?

Your Havanese is probably not eating because this breed is usually a quirky eater and only eats a small amount at a time. Still, if your pet has stopped eating completely, it could be due to illness, separation anxiety, or dental problems. They might also stop eating if they don’t like the food.

Why is my dog not eating his food anymore?

There are several reasons your dog might have a loss of appetite. Some of the most common causes are:

Your dog is ill:

Just like us, humans, dogs will suffer from a loss of appetite when they are under the weather. Many times, your dog might have caused food poisoning or stomach upset, either from overeating or from eating something they shouldn’t have.

When your dog is not eating, it is not wise to assume that the appetite loss is due to any serious disease. A common cause that makes your Havanese feel repelled from meals is general pain or discomfort in its teeth or gum.

A simple fever, cold or allergic reaction can also make your pup seal its mouth. However, if you notice that they are vomiting and having diarrhea, it’s always advisable to let your Vet know immediately.

Sometimes, though, your dog might not be eating for more grave sickness like the growth of tumor or issues with certain organs. The health-related problem when it comes to dogs stopping regular food intake is best detected by Vets.

Your dog is upset:

When a dog stops eating due to behavioral or emotional changes it is going through, it is usually because they are upset about a situation.

Havanese dogs in particular may give up food if their owners aren’t around for a while. These dogs suffer from serious separation anxiety, causing them to go through depression as well.

Many dogs, like the Havanese, often show their disapproval or sadness over a change of situation through a reluctance to eat. If you take away a favorite toy or move houses, this may be a probable reaction.

Your dog doesn’t like the meal:

If you have recently changed their diet, or the recipe you usually give them, it is most likely that your dog will reject their new meals.

Moreover, another issue that we constantly notice when people complain about their dogs not eating is bad food. If the meal served to your pet is stale, or funny-smelling, they will surely run away from that food, even if they are hungry.

Your dog got vaccinated recently:

Your pup, especially when they are younger has many vaccination dates.These vaccines are important to prevent serious diseases, but once injected they can cause the dogs to feel unwell for some time. 

This includes your Havanese not wanting to eat as well.

Are Havanese picky eaters?

Although some people label Havanese dogs are picky eater, they are in fact, quirky eaters. Now, what does that exactly means?

Being quirky eaters means they don’t finish their bowl of food all at once and nibble some at a time just to be with their owner!

If you are in the room, whether it’s the kitchen, dining, or living room, they’ll probably eat a couple of bites at a stretch. If you leave them and go to another room, they will surely take a bite and go follow you to another room.

While some are nibblers, others are wanderers when it comes to food. They are more interested in cozying up with you, than finishing their meals.

Moreover, because they are a petit size, Havanese dogs are not expected to finish their meals. They could eat bits and bites from their bowl all day as well.

How many times a day should a Havanese eat?

Generally, it is recommended that a Havanese should eat two meals in one day. With the right amount of food, feeding your Havanese twice a day is considered to be optimum in terms of the dog’s health as well.

However, the feeding intervals can vary depending on the age of your Havanese. For puppies that are less than 3 months, it is recommended that you feed them 3 times a day with smaller portion meals.

It is also important to remember that Havanese breeds are a small sized pets, and they should not overeat. Healthy meals twice a day is enough but you could also give them treats in small amounts.

How much food should a Havanese eat per day?

For Havanese canines that are more than 3 months and eating twice a day at least, half cups to 1 cup of dry food should be enough. However, if your Havanese is only a few weeks old, you can feed it only 1/8 cups of dry food per meal, broken down to 3 meals a day.

If you want an estimate on the number of calories that a Havanese can have per day, whether it is an adult or baby Havanese, they would need about 400 to 460 calories per day. Puppies need slightly more in some cases as they are growing and need more nutrition.

When should I worry about my dog not eating?

Your dog hasn’t eaten for 2 days:

Keeping in mind that Havanese dogs are quirky eaters and will probably roam around you with every bite, there is nothing to worry about if they skip a meal or two.

Nevertheless, if you notice that your dog has not eaten anything at all for 48 hours or more, there is something to be bothered about. It could be ill with stomach issues.

Your pup is not themselves:

Nobody knows your pet better than you do. If your dog is not eating but seems active and playful like it always is, it’s probably just not hungry. Remember, Havanese are usually dynamic and love to stay active.

Or it wants to spend time with you and not eat at that moment. But if you notice that your pet is silent and lethargic, and mostly not being themselves, you should know there is something to be looked into.

Your dog is vomiting or having diarrhea:

One of the more serious and visible signs that you need to take your pet to the doctor is when the loss of appetite is followed by throwing up or diarrhea.

If your dog has overeaten or eaten something like garlic or onion, they might have upset their digestive systems. It can also come from food allergies.

Your pet refuses to treat:

Your Havanese will always be up for tasty treats, even when they are not up for their regular dry food. Sometimes when our pet friend is not eating, we’d let them have treats and they happily accept it.

If your Havanese is not eating, and they are not having the treat you offered either, surely your pup is suffering from some kind of discomfort or pain.

How can I get my dog’s appetite back?

Tastier food and treats:

One way to get your pet to eat its regular meals is by including better quality food and treats. Try to offer them what they like the most.

Warm and wet food:

Although wet food is more costly, you could give them wet food for a change. Add meat chunks to the meal if necessary. Also, make sure the food is warm and fresh.

Exercise before the meal:

You can have a little playtime or go out for a walk before your pet is going to eat. This stimulates hunger and the will to eat.

Stay with them:

If your Havanese refuses to eat, spend time with them during mealtime. You can also change the room, bowls, or situation around them to make things interesting.

Do dogs get bored of eating the same food?

Mostly, dogs don’t get bored of the same food, even if they are eating it every day. If your dog is eating something every day, it means they like the food.

It could be risky if you change the recipe or brand, as that might lead to your pet rejecting the food. If you wish to bring changes, it’s best to make small changes only.

What is the best appetite stimulant for dogs?

Here are some great prescription appetite stimulants for dogs. Remember to only give your dog what has been prescribed by the VET:

  • Mirtazapine: This safely enhances the dog’s appetite, while overcoming nausea.
  • Entyce: Entyce is new but works effectively within hours.
  • Vitamin B: This would also improve your dog’s overall health.

Your Havanese may not be eating for many reasons. You don’t have to worry if it’s still playing around and being active. Yet, you know your dog best. If you notice behavioral changes and a dog that is refusing treats, go to the VET without losing time.

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