How much to feed
My dog is eating less because of stress or a change at home, what should I do?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
A short term dip in appetite around a stressful change, such as moving house, a new pet, or a household disruption, is common and often resolves within a few days as your dog adjusts. Keep offering normal measured meals at consistent times, avoid switching foods during this period, and see your vet if reduced eating continues beyond two to three days.
Why stress affects appetite
Significant changes in routine or environment can genuinely suppress appetite in dogs, similar to how stress affects appetite in people, and this is a normal, usually temporary response rather than something requiring immediate intervention.
Common triggers include moving house, a new pet or family member, loud events like fireworks or building work, or even a change in the owner's own routine or schedule.
What to do in the short term
Continue offering the normal measured amount at consistent meal times rather than switching to a different food to tempt eating, since a food change on top of the existing stress can add further disruption and is harder to interpret later.
Avoid adding a lot of extra treats or toppers to compensate, since this can create a pattern where a dog learns that eating less leads to more appealing food being offered.
When reduced eating needs a vet check
If your dog is not eating close to normal amounts within two to three days, is also showing other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea, or is a young puppy or a dog with an existing health condition, see your vet sooner rather than waiting.
Otherwise, once the stressful change settles and becomes more familiar, appetite typically returns to normal on its own within a week or so.
Key takeaways
- A short term appetite dip around a stressful change or disruption is common and usually temporary.
- Keep offering normal measured meals at consistent times rather than switching foods to tempt eating.
- Avoid compensating with a lot of extra treats, which can reinforce reduced eating.
- See your vet if reduced eating lasts beyond two to three days or comes with other symptoms.