Most dogs anticipate mealtime, devouring whatever is placed before them enthusiastically. Therefore, when a male dog suddenly loses his appetite, it is quite a cause for concern for dog owners. Such an issue is especially prevalent for those who have an intact female dog or have one residing nearby.
When a female dog is in heat, the odor of her pheromones can have a significant impact on nearby male dogs and even lead them to forego food. While a temporary loss of appetite will not result in harm, the continuous failure to eat throughout the heat cycle may result in weight loss and illness. An understanding of the heat cycle and awareness of useful remedies can ensure that a male dog eats properly throughout the cycle.
Understanding the Female Heat Cycle
A dog heat cycle is the period when a female dog is ready to breed. She releases pheromones that are appealing to male dogs, typically causing them to change their behavior. The cycle typically occurs twice yearly but may vary with the size and breed of the dog. Small dogs can experience up to four heat cycles yearly, while bigger dogs experience only one.
Heat cycles can take anywhere from two to four weeks, so it is important to deal with the impact on male dogs to avoid extended food refusal.
Why Won't Male Dogs Eat?
The main explanation for why male dogs won't eat when there is a female in heat is the overwhelming impact of pheromones. These chemical communicators are so potent that males are utterly distracted, placing their urge to mate above all else, including their normal activities, such as eating.
Additional behavioral changes may join the decrease in appetite, such as:
Restlessness and agitation grow
Destructive attempts to reach the female
Symptoms mimicking illness, such as vomiting or aggression
If symptoms persist longer than a female being on heat, a veterinarian needs to be consulted to rule out underlying medical issues.
How to Get a Male Dog to Eat When a Female is in Heat
1. Physical Separation
One of the easiest remedies is to keep the male and female dogs apart as much as possible. Placing them in different rooms or parts of the house can help minimize distractions. If there is room, try feeding the male dog outside while the female is kept inside safely.
2. Remove Scent Traces
Pheromones can also remain on clothing, furniture, and accessories. To reduce exposure:
Wash clothes and shower after being around the female dog.
Wash blankets, bedding, and toys that may have her scent on them.
Keep leashes and collars stored away separately.
3. Mask the Scent
Use sprays or essential oils (such as peppermint or lavender) to mask the female's pheromone scent. Consult with a veterinarian beforehand to ensure products are pet-safe to use.
4. Offer High-Value Treats
If the male dog refuses to eat his regular food, attempt to entice him with high-impact treats. These may be:
Cooked chicken or turkey
Lean beef or fish
Protein-rich dog treats Combine these with his regular food in order to encourage his appetite again.
5. Temporary Relocation
If there is a female in the area who is in heat and causing stress to the male dog, board him in a pet-friendly facility or in a friend's house until the heat cycle passes.
6. More Physical Activity
Exercise can dissipate stress and distract a male dog. A vigorous play session or extended walk before meal time will burn off excess energy, and he will be more likely to eat afterward.
7. Spaying and Neutering
As a permanent solution, consider spaying and neutering. Neutering a male dog will significantly reduce the urge to pursue females in heat, and spaying eliminates heat cycles altogether. Not only does this improve behavior, but it also controls the population of pets.
Conclusion
A dog's reaction to a bitch in heat can be intense, to the extent of loss of appetite. As much as this is normal, it can be hazardous to the health if it lasts for an extended period. Physical separation, scent control, dietary change, and exercise are a few methods that can be employed to make sure that a healthy feeding habit is maintained. Where these fail, a veterinarian visit or spaying and neutering can provide a more permanent solution.
