As temperatures rise, you might notice your dog turning their nose up at meals they’d usually devour. So do dogs eat less in summer? The answer is often yes.
Just like humans, dogs can experience shifts in appetite when it gets hot. But what’s normal, and when should you worry? Here’s everything you need to know about summer eating habits in dogs, how to help them stay nourished, and when to talk to your vet.
Why Dogs Eat Less in Summer
Many pet parents notice a dip in their dog’s appetite during the warmer months. This behavior isn’t unusual and can be explained by a few key factors:
- Lower Energy Demand: Dogs often slow down during summer. With shorter walks, fewer high-energy activities, and more lounging in the shade, they simply don’t need as many calories.
- Heat and Discomfort: Just like us, dogs may feel sluggish or slightly nauseous when it’s very hot. Elevated body temperatures can affect appetite, especially after exercise or sun exposure.
- Time of Day: If your dog’s meals coincide with peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), they might be too uncomfortable to eat. Offering food in the cooler parts of the day can help.
When It’s Normal and When It’s Not
It’s important to differentiate between seasonal appetite changes and signs of illness. During summer, it’s common for dogs to eat a little less than usual, especially on hotter days. Occasional skipped meals or smaller portions may be completely normal, as long as your pup still seems energetic, hydrated, and otherwise healthy.
However, keep an eye out for red flags that suggest something more serious might be going on:
- Rapid or sustained weight loss: A slightly slimmer waistline from lower intake and increased panting may be expected, but noticeable weight loss over a short period is not normal and should be checked by a vet.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of dehydration: A reduced appetite paired with digestive symptoms can be a sign of illness, overheating, or poor food tolerance.
- Lethargy beyond typical warm-weather laziness: It’s one thing for dogs to nap more during the heat. But if your pup refuses to get up, avoids interaction, or seems abnormally tired, that’s cause for concern.
- Refusal to eat for more than 24–48 hours: Skipping one meal might be no big deal. Skipping two in a row? That’s your cue to call the vet.
- Changes in behavior or temperament: Irritability, clinginess, or withdrawal can sometimes accompany appetite issues and may point to discomfort or pain.
If something feels off or you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s always wise to check in with your vet. This is especially important for puppies, senior dogs, or pets with existing health conditions, since heat can worsen underlying issues quickly. Acting early can make all the difference in keeping your dog safe and comfortable.
Tips to Encourage Healthy Eating in Summer
Want to help your dog stay well-fed and hydrated even when the heat is on? Try these vet-approved strategies:
1. Offer Meals During Cooler Hours
Feed your dog in the early morning or late evening when their body temperature is more regulated and they’re more likely to feel hungry.
2. Keep Water Readily Available
Hydration affects appetite. Make sure your dog has access to fresh, cool water throughout the day, indoors and out. You can even add ice cubes or try a pet water fountain to encourage drinking.
3. Serve Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Instead of one or two big meals, offer smaller portions throughout the day. This prevents bloating and makes food feel less overwhelming in the heat.
4. Choose Fresh, Moist Foods
Kibble can feel dry and unappealing for dogs during hot spells, especially when their appetite dips. Moist foods, on the other hand, not only taste better but also help support hydration. Meals with higher water content can make a big difference in keeping your pup comfortable and nourished when the weather is warm.
Support Hydration with Fresh Food
When the temperature rises, dogs can lose hydration faster, especially if they’re panting more or less interested in drinking water. Choosing meals with naturally higher moisture levels, like fresh food, can help balance this out. At The Pets Table, our gently cooked, vet-developed recipes combine high-quality proteins with fresh veggies, providing both nutrition and extra hydration support. This makes them a great option for keeping your pup comfortable and energized during hot weather. Try your first box at 50% off and see how fresh food can help your dog thrive through the summer.
Final Thoughts: Trust Your Pup, But Stay Alert
In most cases, dogs eat less in summer because they’re warm, tired, or simply not burning as many calories. Let them adjust naturally, but monitor their overall health and hydration. A small shift in behavior is likely nothing to worry about, just part of adapting to the season.
If you’re looking for more warm-weather tips, check out the rest of our summer series:
- How Hot Is Too Hot for Dogs?
- How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer
- How to Protect Dog Paws from Hot Pavement