A 2-month-old Japanese Tosa puppy refusing to eat can be concerning, and it could stem from various reasons such as pickiness, gastrointestinal issues, parasites, or underlying illness. Owners can try different approaches like fasting, administering probiotics, regular deworming, or seeking veterinary care to address this issue.
Picky Eating Habits
If your puppy is being picky, preferring meat over dog food, try a short fast of about a day. Ensure they stay hydrated and encourage physical activity to increase calorie expenditure. When they are both tired and hungry, they will be less likely to turn their nose up at their kibble. Later, make sure the diet is well-balanced, including dog food and some fruits and vegetables, and not just meat.
Gastrointestinal Problems
If your puppy still refuses to eat after a day or two of fasting, digestive issues may be at play. Consider administering digestive aids like enzymatic supplements with probiotics. Pairing this with some plain yogurt might make it more appealing to your puppy and easier to accept. If their appetite does not improve, you need to explore other potential causes such as parasites.
Internal Parasites
Puppies need regular deworming every one to three months. If deworming is neglected due to a busy schedule, your puppy could suffer from a parasitic infestation, leading to reduced appetite. Use an appropriate deworming product to address this. If diarrhea occurs after deworming, you can try to give it a gut supplement to help with the recovery of the intestinal flora.
Underlying Illnesses
Loss of appetite is a common sign of various health issues, some of them severe like canine distemper or cancer. If your puppy seems lethargic, is losing weight, has a fever, or is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, consult a vet immediately, as any delay might worsen their condition.