Will a Dog Eat Itself to Death?

It’s highly unusual for a dog to eat themselves to death, but some dogs will definitely overeat if given the opportunity. Free feeding—leaving food out all day—is a common practice for some pet parents, and it can work for dogs who naturally stop eating when they’re full. However, other dogs will keep eating until they make themselves sick. While fatalities from overeating are extremely rare, canine bloat is a serious condition where eating too much or too quickly can significantly raise the risk. Left untreated, bloat can be fatal, making it crucial to address it immediately.

Problems with overeating

While your dog isn’t likely to eat themself to death in one sitting, long-term overeating can certainly shorten their life. As is the case with humans, ensuring your dog eats a proper balanced diet is important to their good health. If your dog tends to overeat, then free feeding is not the way to go. Instead, you’ll want to put out measured amounts of food two or three times a day. Overeating in dogs can lead to or worsen several medical conditions, including:

• Obesity

• Diabetes

• Heart Disease

• Arthritis

• Pancreatitis

• Liver or Kidney Issues

Why do some dogs overeat?

Like humans, some dogs tend to eat until satisfied, while others overeat anytime they have the chance. Recent scientific studies have shed light on a genetic factor that contributes to overeating in Labrador Retrievers. A specific gene known as POMC plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and satiety. A mutation in this gene can lead to an increased appetite. But there are other reasons why some dogs overeat, including:

• Breed

• Boredom

• Anxiety

• Former food deprivation

• Hormone imbalances

No matter the reason, curbing your pet’s overeating is important in order to help them maintain optimal health. Free feeding may be convenient, but if your dog doesn’t know when to stop, then it’s detrimental to their health.

Even though your dog isn’t likely to eat themself to death in one sitting, long-term overeating could lead to serious health consequences. If you’re not sure how much or how often your pet should be eating, talk to your vet for advice specific to your dog.