Not Eating to the Point of Causing Issues
While the previous advice will apply to the typical fussy eater, if your Maltipoo puppy is not gaining weight or if your adult is losing weight, this points to a much more serious issue. A dog refusing food goes against his canine instincts to survive, so this must not be ignored.
In addition, there is always the chance that a short-lived stomach bug or other intestinal distress is causing a temporary lack of appetite, however if a puppy does not eat for 24 hours or an adult Maltipoo does not eat for 48 hours, it is a clear sign that the dog needs to be taken to the veterinarian.
Red Flags and Health Conditions
There are host of health issues that will cause decreased appetite in canines, in fact if you look at just about any condition, illness or disease, it is among the signs and symptoms. Parasites are always a concern, though issues ranging from dental infection to kidney disease can be to blame.
The most common issues seen alongside refusal to eat include vomiting, diarrhea and/or lethargy.
Acute cases of mild to moderate upset stomach can often be treated at home by withholding food for 12 hours and then transitioning to a bland diet. Pumpkin (the real type, not the pie filling) can sometimes calm down both diarrhea and intestinal upset. And you may want to speak to your vet about offering Pepto Bismol, as this can help in some cases.
If things do not improve within 24 hours for a puppy or 48 hours for an adult dog or if symptoms become worse, you will want to bring your Maltipoo to the vet clinic, as dehydration is a top concern and of course, diagnosis of the root cause must be determined.