I have a 6 month old westie who has decided for whatever reason that she will not eat.This all started a few weeks ago where we were in the position that she didn't particularly like eating the meat but would happily eat the dry food but now she doesn't want to know that. She seems to be healthy in every other way. I have read that changing the make of food will just turn her into a fussy eater. Does anyone have any suggestions?

when did she stop eating? Is she drinking normally?
It may be due to the weather it is so hot at the moment that i think a lot of our pets just want to find somewhere cool to sleep.
Try feeding her a little at a time, or if she has not eaten after 10mins take away what it left then re offer it at her next fee. My vet always told me they will eat when they are hungry, a dog willnot starve itself but make sure they drink.
This may not have been any help but may be helpfull

I agree that normally pups and dogs will not ever starve themselves; it may well be the heatwave. My dog as a teenager was very disinterested in food but is now very keen on her dinner.

I believe there is a very rare condition in some breeds, the Dachsie is one, where the dog actually doesn't have an appetite and finds it very hard to eat. I met the owner of a Dachsie a few years ago who claimed her dog was like this, and her vet had told her about it. But this is the only case i have ever heard of; in your situation I doubt if there is much wrong, although lack of appetite can sometimes be caused by a medical problem.

Maybe take a visit to the vet if you are at all concerned.

I must say i like to feed my dog a foood she likes and she does get a varied diet - but as long as your Westie does like the food you provide, it should eventually be eaten.

Hope you get it sorted :)

Lindsay

Hi, I bet she is coming into season, they can go off their food just before a first season, just persevere with her and dont keep changing the food or, you will have an upset tummy. Mine have come into season at either 6/7 months. Also remember its hot just now make sure she has plenty of fresh water, I have been keeping a bottle of water in the fridge for the dogs so its nice and cool for them. If you need anymore advice e mail me and I will help all I can. Irene-Westyholm Westies.

Thanks to all of you who have given me a bit of reassurance. I can't get my head around why she has stopped eating because I know that she is hungry because she is being sick (it is only phlem) but I understand that this happens with Westies when they have empty stomachs. When should I really start worrying i.e, after how many days of little or no food?

As you have a small breed I assume the complete food is in small pieces. If so, try feeding it as a treat from your hand, make her do sits, and recalls that sort of thing. I found that worked with mine, it suddenly became acceptable as a reward or treat. At least I knew she was getting some food down. Training went up a gear too. :)

Hi,
I have a 7 month old bedlington terrier puppy who you could be describing.
We have been feeding her late in the evening during the hot weather we are having and this seems to suit her better at the moment.
She has never been a great eater, seems she can take it or leave it.
But she is very lively and healthy.
How we worry about our babies :-)
Regards,
Linda