“Dogs find that meals are more fun with others,” Semel tells
Separation anxiety or depression
Separation anxiety and depression are two of the most common reasons dogs refuse food when their humans are away. Think about it — when you're feeling down or anxious, you probably don't have the biggest appetite either.
If it seems like your dog doesn't eat or drink when you're gone, but scarfs down their food when you arrive home, know that it's probably not just your imagination. “Dogs are pack animals. When you're gone, their pack is not at home. They're waiting for the pack to be there to eat,” says Hohenhaus.
Much like wolves, dogs are pack animals, which means they like to eat with their family unit. A dog not eating when you are away at work or on vacation is usually normal. It's likely they'll eventually eat when they get hungry enough.
This is because the dog sees that just one person if correcting them, enforcing the commands, doing all the pack leadership things that are built into the training, etc. So, the dog simply learns, “I have to listen to and respect this person; however, not so much this other person.”
“Like with separation anxiety, other causes of fear or stress can lead to a dog eating only when in the safe presence of an owner,” Stelow explains. “These may include loud noises (perhaps a neighbor started construction), unfamiliar people in the home, a new setting and countless others.”
Like their human counterparts, dogs develop favorite people over time based on positive experiences and positive associations with that person. Some people use tasty treats and other rewards to create strong bonds with pets, but the best way to build a healthy relationship with your dog is through play.
It may be tempting to call the vet the second your pooch refuses dinner, but it's perfectly natural and ordinary for some dogs to skip a meal or two on occasion. She may have simply filled up on a few too many treats that day, or she might be feeling a bit bored with her kibble.
A puppy goes through two major phases in its life, which can sometimes lead to it eating less or refusing food completely. The first phase concerns the change of teeth, which takes place approximately between 3 and 7 months.
Dogs need food and water to survive. However, if they are otherwise well, they can survive for around 5 days without food, as long as they are drinking. It's true that dogs have survived for much longer periods without food, but there is a great risk of irreversible damage to their organs and tissues, or death.
Most dogs are enthusiastic eaters and enjoy mealtimes. However, when a dog is depressed, they may show marked changes in their appetite and desire to eat. If your dog seems less enthusiastic about eating, eats less, or refuses to eat entirely, they may be depressed.
Sometimes, a dog will prefer a certain scent or taste than others. Perhaps, the dog is also trying to seek more attention from you or is more in love with you; which could mean that it is trying to impress you. If these are not the answers, then it may be just a funny coincidence.
Medical conditions such as infections or cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases can cause a reduction in or lack of appetite. If your dog has a tooth or gum injury, it may be painful for them to eat their food, causing them to refuse food.
They Don't Eat While You're Away
Dogs, just like humans, might lose their appetite due to distraction or depression. You will know this is true if their appetite returns as soon as you are back in the picture.
“In my experience, the four most common breeds of dogs that exhibit signs of separation anxiety are typically Labrador Retrievers, Chihuahuas (both mixed breeds and standards), German Shepherds and Cocker Spaniels”, says Dr.
Giving your dog a puzzle/food toy to work on.
One way to help manage your dog's separation anxiety is by encouraging independent behaviors. Give your dog something fun to do on their own such as a long lasting chew toy, puzzle toy or stuffed Kong.
When it comes to fussy eating, remember that dogs will not normally starve themselves just because they are a bit choosy about their food (although if your dog goes 24 hours without eating anything, consult your vet).
For example, grey hounds, Shiba Inus, Cairn terriers, and Basenjis often bond strongly with one person, while Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, poodles, and beagles like to spread the love more equally.
Cuddles & Sleepy Snuggles ?
Dogs choose to sleep where they feel most comfortable and at ease, so if your dog enjoys sleeping in your bed, or likes to snuggle up to you for a nap, they feel trust in you that they will be safe to do so.
Dogs Prefer Adults — Particularly Women
A dog's preference for one person — or type of person — over another has a great deal to do with socialization. Dogs don't, as a rule, dislike men, but most dogs are cared for by women, and are thus more comfortable around them.
Often, this is simply a case of access, or lack of it. If one person spends more time at home with the dog, naturally the dog will want to see and spend time with the other partner, too. When the absent partner rewards that behavior by handing out treats upon return, reinforcement and hardwiring occurs.
Dogs are pack animals, so they instinctively enjoy companionship. It's expected that your canine craves some level of closeness with you—dogs are man's best friend, after all—but he shouldn't be sticking to your side at all times.
But there may be days when we wonder, “Why does my dog follow me everywhere?” The answer has to do with your dog's animal instinct, pack mentality, and a few other variables. Canine companions that follow their humans everywhere are often referred to as “velcro dogs” because of their desire to be attached to your side.