How to Help a Dog With a Lack of Energy & Appetite

A dog's environment can cause it to loose energy, it's appetite or even create depression.

Many aspects of a dog's environment can cause it to become lethargic and loose its appetite. Inadequate time outdoors or a loss of a companion can cause depression in a dog.

Things You'll Need

• New dog toy
• Toy that dispense food treats
• Different brand of dog food
• Dog biscuit
• Shredded cheese
• Wet dog food
• Hot water

Instructions

Encouraging exercise

1. Walk your dog at least once a day for 45 minutes. Take different routes to excite his senses with new surroundings. Visit a new park or stroll down a different street. New sights and scents naturally cause dogs to become more active.

2. Buy your dog a new toy to play with if her old toys appear mundane. A toy that dispenses food treats when played with will give her a puzzle to solve. Try freezing a Kong toy stuffed with peanut butter and oatmeal. This will prolong the reward and challenge your dog to get at the treat.

3. Schedule play dates with other dogs. Try meeting on neutral territory to avoid dominance issues. Go to a dog park to introduce your dog to other friendly canines.

4. Try taking your dog hiking or to a dog-friendly beach. These environments offer many stimulating elements that will interest your dog. Do not allow your dog to run wild. Always keep your dog within reach of your voice.

Encouraging eating

1. Change dog food brands. Most dog food is packed with ingredients dogs don't need. Look for grain-free foods that are rich in protein and vegetables. A dog's natural diet does not include grain. These ingredients are fillers and don't add real nutritional value. Transition foods slowly. Mix a little of the new food with the current food. Gradually mix in more of the new food over one week. An abrupt change in diet can cause digestion problems, such as diarrhea.

2. Heat your dog's wet food or add a little warm water to his dry food. The heat will enhance the scent of the dog food and make it easier to digest.

3. Exercise your dog before meals. Your dog will be hungry after burning calories.

4. Add a nutritional enhancement to the dog food. Fish oil encourages healthy skin, coat and brain function. It also tastes like fish, which many dogs love.

Tips & Warnings

• Spend a little extra time with your dog if you believe he is depressed. Sit with him on the floor, pet him and talk soothingly. Your dog will respond to interaction with his best friend.

References

• dogtime:Dog Depression
• PetPlace.com:Finicky Dogs: How to Encourage Your Picky Dog to Eat