My Dog Won't Eat. Is this Normal?

Question:
My three year old schnauzer occasionally will not eat his food. He will push the dish across the floor. He will eat only if you coax him during these times. What causes this behavior?

A:  Sometimes dogs won't eat if they are not hungry.

Some dogs, especially the smaller breeds, will not eat every meal.  That is OK.  Go ahead and pick the food up if your dog tries to push it away.  Do not force your dog to eat if he/she does not act hungry.  If your dog skips every meal, I would recommend having a veterinarian examine your dog for any dental disease, or other illness. But, an occasional missed meal is not a concern.

~Dr. Page Wages

Oberlin Animal Hospital