How to Fix Picky Eating in Small Breed Dogs (Shih Tzu, Yorkie, Pomeranian) | AI Pets Lab
Symptom Checker
Sniffs food then walks away [mild]
Dog approaches bowl, smells it, then turns and leaves without eating.
Eats only treats, ignores regular meals [moderate]
Dog gladly takes biscuits, dental chews, or human food but refuses kibble.
Begs for human food but refuses own bowl [mild]
Dog follows you at dinner, whines, puts paws on your leg, but walks away from their kibble.
Loses interest in bowl after a few bites [moderate]
Dog eats a couple of kibbles, then walks away, sometimes comes back later.
Vomiting after eating [severe]
Dog eats a small amount, then vomits undigested food shortly after.
Weight loss with food refusal [severe]
You can feel ribs, spine, or hip bones more prominently. Dog looks thinner overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
My dog hasn't eaten in two days. Should I panic?
I get it — seeing your dog ignore food is nerve-wracking. Toy breeds can be stubborn. If they're drinking water, acting normal, and you've checked for other symptoms, they're probably fine. But if day three rolls around with no food, call your vet to rule out medical issues.
What do I do if my dog refuses food AND water?
That's different. If they're not drinking either, that's a red flag. Small dogs can dehydrate fast. Try offering ice cubes or a little unflavored Pedialyte. If they still refuse within 6 hours, see a vet immediately.
How do I know if picky eating is a medical problem?
Look for other signs: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, hiding, drooling, or bad breath. If you see any of those alongside food refusal, it's likely medical. If they're otherwise playful and begging for treats, it's behavioral.
How long should I wait before my dog eats the same food?
Most toy breeds will break within 2–3 days if you're consistent. Some stubborn ones may hold out 4–5 days. As long as they're drinking and acting normal, you can wait. But after 3 days, a vet check is wise.
Will buying expensive toppers solve picky eating?
Temporarily, yes. But you're creating a long-term problem. Your dog learns that toppers are the baseline. Then you're stuck buying them forever. Better to spend that money on a high-quality kibble and stick with it.
What if my puppy refuses to eat? Won't they starve?
I know it's scary, but puppies are resilient. A healthy puppy won't starve themselves. They may hold out, but they'll eventually eat. If your puppy is under 4 months, don't let them go more than 12 hours without eating. If they do, call your vet.