Watching your aging Pekingese turn away from their food bowl is one of the most worrying moments for any owner. You know that little face, those big eyes, and suddenly the kibble sits untouched. It is easy to panic, but most of the time there is a real, fixable reason. Let us walk through the seven most common reasons why a senior Pekingese stops eating, and what you can do to help them feel like eating again. Always remember: if your dog has not eaten for more than 24 hours or shows other signs like vomiting or lethargy, call your vet.
1. Dental Pain and Sore Gums
Pekingese are brachycephalic, meaning they have flat faces and crowded teeth. This makes them prone to dental disease, gum infections, and even loose teeth. As they age, tartar buildup can cause painful chewing. Your dog may walk up to the bowl, sniff the food, then walk away. They are hungry, but it hurts to eat. Check for bad breath, drooling, or pawing at the mouth. Try switching to soft food or soaking their kibble in warm water until it is mushy. If they still refuse, a vet dental cleaning may be needed. For more on keeping their mouth healthy, see our guide on Pekingese dental care tips.
2. Loss of Smell and Taste
Dogs rely heavily on their sense of smell to trigger appetite. As Pekingese age, their olfactory senses can weaken, just like in humans. Food that once smelled exciting now seems bland. Warm up their food slightly (never hot) to release more aroma. You can also add a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin, low-sodium chicken broth, or a topper like freeze-dried liver. Avoid using garlic or onion, as those are toxic. A little bit of stinky fish oil can also do the trick. If your dog has other signs of cognitive decline, like confusion or pacing, check our guide on senior dog cognitive dysfunction.
A Pekingese’s nose has about 300 million scent receptors, compared to a human’s 5 million. Even a small decline in smell can make food seem unappealing. Warming food gently can make a big difference.
3. Medication Side Effects
Many senior Pekingese take medications for arthritis, heart disease, or thyroid issues. Common drugs like NSAIDs, antibiotics, or thyroid supplements can cause nausea, stomach upset, or a metallic taste in the mouth. Check the timing of their meds. If they eat right after a pill, they may associate the food with feeling sick. Try giving medication with a small treat or a spoonful of yogurt (if your dog tolerates dairy) and wait 30 minutes before offering their meal. Never stop a medication without talking to your vet first. They may be able to switch to a different drug or add an anti-nausea option.
4. Arthritis Pain and Difficulty Reaching the Bowl
Pekingese are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and arthritis in their legs and spine. If their food bowl is on the floor, bending down can hurt. Your dog may stand at the bowl, look at the food, and then lie down. Raise their bowl using a stand so they do not have to lower their head. Also, make sure the bowl is non-slip so it does not slide away. If they have trouble standing for long, offer smaller, more frequent meals. For more help with mobility, see our guide on Pekingese arthritis support.
5. Nausea or Digestive Issues
As dogs age, their digestive system slows down. They may produce less stomach acid or have a sensitive gut. Your Pekingese might lick their lips, swallow a lot, or have a gurgling stomach. Offer a bland diet of boiled chicken (no skin, no bones) and white rice in small amounts. If they eat that but not their regular food, the issue is likely the food itself or a temporary upset. Avoid rich treats or table scraps during this time. If vomiting or diarrhea occurs, see your vet right away.
“Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is stop trying to force them to eat and instead figure out why they don’t want to.”
6. Cognitive Decline and Confusion
Older Pekingese can develop canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), similar to dementia in humans. They may forget that the bowl is food, or they may wander away mid-meal. Create a calm, consistent routine. Feed them in the same spot at the same time every day. Use a visual cue, like tapping the bowl or showing them the food. You can also try hand-feeding a few pieces to jump-start their brain. If they seem lost or anxious, talk to your vet about supplements or medications that support brain health. For more on this, read our guide on senior dog cognitive dysfunction.
7. Underlying Illness or Pain
Sometimes, not eating is a sign of something more serious like kidney disease, pancreatitis, or cancer. If your Pekingese also has increased thirst, weight loss, vomiting, or a hunched posture, do not wait. Call your vet immediately. A simple blood test can rule out many common issues. The earlier you catch it, the better the outcome. Remember: you know your dog best. If something feels off, trust your gut.
If your senior Pekingese has not eaten for 24 hours, has a dry nose, sunken eyes, or seems lethargic, they may be dehydrated. Also call if they are vomiting, have diarrhea, or show signs of pain like whining or trembling. A vet can help with appetite stimulants, fluids, or a proper diagnosis.
Your aging Pekingese has given you years of loyal companionship. Now it is your turn to be patient and observant. Small changes in how you serve their food, when you feed them, and what you offer can make a world of difference. And when in doubt, your vet is your best partner in keeping them comfortable and happy.