It’s always a little concerning when your Maltese refuses to eat. With their petite size and fast metabolism, even skipping one or two meals can make a noticeable difference. So, what could be causing your Maltese to turn up their nose at food—and when should you worry?

This guide covers the most common reasons why Maltese dogs stop eating, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call your vet.

Common Reasons Your Maltese May Not Be Eating

1. Dental Problems

Maltese dogs are prone to dental issues, especially as they age. Sore gums, loose teeth, or infected roots can make chewing painful, causing them to avoid food entirely.

Solution: Gently check for signs like bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or bleeding gums. If you suspect dental pain, book a vet appointment right away.

Learn more about dental care in small breeds

2. Picky Eating Habits

Some Maltese develop picky preferences, especially if they’ve been given lots of treats or human food. They may hold out hoping for something better.

Solution: Stick to a consistent feeding schedule. Avoid feeding table scraps and limit treats. Warm up their food slightly to increase aroma, or mix in a small amount of plain chicken or broth to encourage eating.

3. Stress or Environmental Changes

Maltese dogs are sensitive to changes in their environment. Moving house, a new pet, loud noises, or even a change in routine can disrupt their appetite.

Solution: Provide a calm, predictable routine. Feed in a quiet area and offer comfort through play and attention. Most dogs resume normal eating once they feel secure again.

Is your Maltese happy or sad? Interesting read

4. Gastrointestinal Upset

Mild tummy troubles from eating something they shouldn’t (like grass, garbage, or spoiled food) can make your dog skip meals.

Solution: Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Offer plain boiled chicken and rice for a day or two. If symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours, contact your vet.

5. Age-Related Changes

Older Maltese dogs may eat less due to a slower metabolism, reduced smell or taste, or underlying health issues.

Solution: Switch to a senior-specific food with softer kibble or add water/broth for easier chewing. Regular vet checkups are especially important as your dog ages.

Tips on feeding senior dogs

6. Medical Conditions

A sudden or prolonged loss of appetite can be a sign of illness, such as liver disease, pancreatitis, kidney issues, or infection.

Solution: If your Maltese refuses food for more than 24 hours or shows other symptoms like vomiting, weight loss, or lethargy, consult your vet immediately.

Practical Tips to Encourage Your Maltese to Eat Again

If your vet has ruled out any serious medical issues, here are a few actionable steps you can take to help get your Maltese eating normally again:

Warm up their food: Heating wet food or adding warm water to dry kibble can make it smell more appetizing.

Stick to set mealtimes: Put the food down for 15–20 minutes, then take it away. Repeat at the next scheduled mealtime. This creates structure and encourages appetite.

Use a puzzle feeder: Sometimes making eating a bit more fun can reignite their interest. Try a snuffle mat or a treat-dispensing toy.

Avoid free-feeding: Leaving food out all day can make picky eaters worse. Scheduled meals are more effective.

Mix in healthy toppers: Add a spoonful of plain boiled chicken, a splash of low-sodium broth, or a bit of scrambled egg to entice your dog.

Limit treats between meals: Too many snacks can spoil their appetite. Keep treats small and reward-based.

Try a different bowl or location: Sometimes something as simple as a quieter space or a new feeding dish can reduce anxiety or boredom around meals.

These steps aren’t just for getting your dog to eat once—they can help reset their routine and build healthier, more consistent eating habits.

A Reader’s Story

Carlos, a Maltese owner in New York, noticed his pup Luna wasn’t touching her food for two days. He first thought she was being picky, but then saw her pawing at her face. A quick vet visit revealed a cracked molar that was causing serious pain. After a simple dental procedure and some soft food for a week, Luna was back to her normal, bouncy self.

Carlos now checks Luna’s teeth regularly and sticks to a feeding routine to avoid issues.

Final Thoughts

Maltese dogs may skip meals occasionally, but consistent food refusal should never be ignored. Whether it’s due to stress, dental pain, or an underlying health condition, early action can make a big difference.

Stick to a regular feeding routine, monitor for other symptoms, and don’t hesitate to involve your vet if things don’t improve.

🧠 Don’t Forget Mental Stimulation

Sometimes food avoidance can also be a result of boredom or a lack of stimulation. Keeping your Maltese mentally engaged helps improve their overall well-being—including appetite! Try puzzle feeders or check out Brain Training for Dogs for a structured enrichment program.