AboutPatti Expertise To date, I've owned 7 dogs, all of which have lived into old age.
Having cared for them in all stages of life, I feel I can offer sound advice to other pet owners, and people considering getting a dog.
I am knowledgeable about the AKC (American Kennel Club) dog breeds, training and exercise, caring for sick and elderly pets, feeding, as well as many holistic treatments pets can benefit from.
My only request is that you write me using standard English and punctuation.
Experience My life experience in this field is more like "on the job training" rather than an actual degree in animal welfare. You may benefit from my experiences over the past 30 years.
Aside from the dogs I've owned, I'm also involved in "breed rescue" and have fostered several dogs, all of which have been adopted to wonderful "forever homes".
I find helping people who want a dog very rewarding.
Question Hi,we have had a lab for about 5 yrs and just got a new puppy about 6 months ago,since then our lab has not been eating,after about three days he may eat a bowl of food, I do catch him eating the puppy food if we leave it down,but that's only every couple days or so,I don't know if he might be jelouse other that that he plays with the puppy,and acts normal?just won't eat his food
Answer
Hi Amie,
The arrival of the puppy into your home is a stressful thing to your original dog, that's why he's gone off his food. Dogs thrive on routine, and his routine has been disrupted. It may take a few weeks for him to adjust to the new living situation.
To help him adjust, spend some on-on-one time with just him every day. An extra leashed walk, ride in the car, grooming him, or some obedience training would be examples of things to do. This will help reassure him, that he's still loved.
Giving your older dog extra exercise will also help increase his appetite, so he'll be more inclined to eat his food. Cut out between meal snacks, and supervise your older dog so he doesn't have access to the puppy's food.
As he adjusts to the puppy, he'll get back on track with eating.
