Blog
Lately, many dog owners have been struggling with a common issue: their pups are turning up their noses at food. As temperatures soar, dogs often lose their appetite—and if this lasts, it can take a toll on their health. Don’t worry—we’ve rounded up practical solutions to get your dog eating again. Read on and save these tips!
🌡️ High Body Temperature = Slower Metabolism → Adjust Feeding Times
Dogs regulate their body temperature by panting, and in extreme heat, their bodies prioritize cooling down over digesting food. This means a midday meal might sit untouched. Instead, shift feeding to cooler parts of the day: try early mornings (around 6 AM) or evenings (8 PM), when the air is milder. Your dog will have more energy to eat and digest without the stress of overheating.
👅 Dry Mouth = Discomfort Swallowing → Prioritize Hydration
Dehydration dries out a dog’s mouth, making chewing and swallowing tough—no wonder they’re not hungry! Keep their water bowl fresh and enticing:
- Add ice cubes to make it cold and fun to lap at.
- Stir in a splash of unsweetened coconut water (natural electrolytes, no added sugars) to make hydration more appealing.
- Place multiple water bowls around the house—easy access encourages sipping, which revs up their appetite.
🥀 Food Spoils Faster → Upgrade Food Storage
Summer heat and humidity turn dog food into a breeding ground for bacteria. Wet food, in particular, can go bad in as little as 15 minutes—scoop up leftovers promptly to avoid upset tummies. For dry kibble, use an airtight container to lock out moisture and pests. Swap greasy, perishable treats for dried meat jerky (low-sodium, no additives) to keep snacks safe and tasty.
🐕🦺 Less Exercise = Less Hunger → Boost Activity (Safely)
Hot weather often means shorter walks, and with less energy burned, your dog simply won’t feel hungry. Combat this by:
- Scheduling walks during cooler hours (early morning or after sunset) to avoid heatstroke. Even 20–30 minutes of play or a brisk walk can stoke their appetite.
- Using puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys indoors. These turn mealtime into a game, making them work for their food—and building hunger in the process.
🤮 Sluggish Digestion → Optimize Their Diet
Heat slows down gut motility, leaving dogs feeling bloated or full. Lighten their load with these tweaks:
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals (3–4 times a day instead of 1–2) to ease digestion.
- Switch to a easily digestible food—look for formulas with probiotics or prebiotics to support gut health. Adding a spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt (if your dog tolerates dairy) can also soothe their stomach.
🐶 Just Being Picky → Spruce Up Their Meals
Dogs’ taste buds are more sensitive in the heat, and boring kibble might feel unappealing. Try these tricks to make food irresistible:
- Microwave their food for 5 seconds (let it cool!)—this releases aromas that trigger their hunger.
- Mix in a few freeze-dried treats or a drizzle of low-sodium bone broth (no onions/garlic!) to add flavor.
- Swap their regular kibble for a high-palatability option, like freeze-dried or air-dried formulas, which often smell more enticing.
⚠️ Red Flags to Watch For
A temporary loss of appetite is normal in heat, but contact your vet immediately if your dog:
- Refuses food for more than 24 hours.
- Vomits, has diarrhea, or shows signs of lethargy (e.g., excessive sleeping, weakness).
- Panting heavily, drooling excessively, or has a dry nose—signs of heatstroke or dehydration.
Summer heat can turn mealtime into a struggle, but with a little adjustment, you can help your dog stay nourished and happy. Remember: keep them cool, hydrate well, and make meals feel like a treat—not a chore. Soon enough, your pup will be chowing down like their usual hungry self! 🐾
