My dog suddenly started refusing to eat his food - should I be worried?

As a vet tech with 10 years experience, here's how I'd approach this: **Not immediately alarming signs:** - Still drinking water normally - Still active and playful - No vomiting or diarrhea - Only been 3 days **When to definitely see a vet:** - If he stops drinking water - Lethargy or behavior changes - Vomiting or diarrhea - Goes more than 4-5 days without eating - Weight loss **Possible causes (non-emergency):** - Food fatigue (yes, dogs can get bored) - Stress from changes in routine - Dental discomfort - Stomach upset that resolved itself - Hot weather reducing appetite **Things to try:** 1. Add warm water or low-sodium chicken broth to kibble 2. Mix in a small amount of wet food 3. Try hand-feeding 4. Make sure food hasn't gone stale (check date, smell it) 5. Rule out dental issues - check for red gums or bad breath If he's truly acting normal otherwise, give it another day or two with the tips above. But trust your gut - you know your dog best. If something feels off, a vet visit never hurts.