What to do if your adopted dog isn’t eating

When it comes to a new dog, it’s best to expect the unexpected. Adjusting to a new environment is a huge life change — especially for a rescue pup. For example, it’s not uncommon for an adopted dog to refuse meals, which is stressful for a pet parent. But don’t panic: we’ll walk you through what to do if your adopted dog isn’t eating when you bring them home, why it happens and how you can help get them on track.

Why is my new dog not eating?

Imagine being in a completely new place with unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells. It’s a lot to take in, right? That’s exactly how a rescue dog often feels. Their world has been turned upside down, and they’re likely feeling overwhelmed, stressed or even scared. This sensory overload can trigger a “fight or flight” response, flooding their body with stress hormones like cortisol that suppress appetite. For them, eating is a non-essential activity when their brain is focused on staying safe.

Your pup may also be experiencing a form of grief from leaving their previous caregivers at the shelter or in a foster home. This abrupt change can cause insecurity that dampens their desire for food. It’s not about being stubborn or picky — it’s an emotional and physiological response to a massive life change.

The 3-3-3 rule: a timeline for adjustment

When it comes to a new dog settling in, patience is everything. A helpful guideline to remember is the 3-3-3 rule, which outlines a general timeline for a dog’s adjustment period.

The first 3 days: Your dog is likely overwhelmed and scared. They’re in survival mode, so don’t be surprised if they aren’t interested in food or play. They’re observing their new surroundings and figuring things out.

The first 3 weeks: Your dog is starting to learn your routine and settle in. Their true personality will begin to emerge as they feel more comfortable. This is often when regular eating habits start to form.

The first 3 months: By now, your dog should feel at home. They’ve built a bond of trust with you and feel secure in their new life. This is when they truly become a member of the family.

Remember, this is a flexible framework, not a strict deadline. Every dog is unique, and their past experiences can influence how long it takes them to feel safe.

How to create a safe feeding routine

One of the best ways to reduce your dog’s mealtime anxiety is to create a predictable and calm routine. Consistency helps them understand that they’re in a safe place where their needs will be met.

First, designate a quiet feeding location away from the high-traffic areas of your home. A laundry room or a quiet corner of the kitchen can work well. If your dog is crate-trained, feeding them in their crate (with the door open) can create a private, den-like space that feels extra secure.

Next, establish a consistent schedule. Feed your dog at the same times each day, even on weekends. This predictability is incredibly comforting.

When you put the food down, give them space. Hovering can feel intimidating and add pressure. Walk away and let them eat in peace. Finally, leave the food out for about 15 to 20 minutes. If they don’t eat, calmly remove the bowl and try again at their next scheduled meal. This reinforces the routine and discourages grazing.

Making food more tempting

While you’re building a routine, there are a few simple tricks to make your dog’s food more appealing. Gently warming wet food or adding a splash of warm, low-sodium chicken broth to kibble can enhance its smell, which is a powerful appetite stimulant for dogs.

You can also try adding a small amount of a high-value topper. A spoonful of plain canned pumpkin, a little plain yogurt or some boiled, unseasoned chicken mixed into their kibble can make all the difference. Just be sure that any additions make up no more than 10% of their total daily calories to keep their diet balanced.

It’s also crucial to start with the same food they were eating at the shelter or foster home. An abrupt diet change can cause stomach upset, adding another layer of stress. If you plan to switch foods, do it gradually over a week by slowly mixing the new food in with the old.

When to call the vet

While an adopted dog not eating for a day or two is often due to stress, there are times when it signals a medical issue that needs immediate attention. Puppies and senior dogs have fewer energy reserves, so a missed meal is more concerning for them.

“While stress is a very common reason for a new dog to skip a meal, we always want to rule out a medical issue first,” Dr. Aliya McCullough, Fetch’s Chief Veterinary Officer, says. “If the lack of appetite is paired with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, call your vet right away.”

A newly adopted dog not drinking is a more urgent concern. Refusing water is a much more immediate health threat than refusing food, as dehydration can set in within 24 hours. Other red flags include signs of pain, like a hunched posture, or unusual weakness.

Patience with your pup is key

Seeing your new companion refuse food can be disheartening, but it’s usually a temporary phase. The most important thing you can offer your new dog is patience. By creating a safe environment, establishing a predictable routine and giving them time to decompress, you're building a foundation of trust.