A car trip, new sleeping place and changed routine can affect appetite. Motion sickness or illness can too. Do not assume the problem is simply fussiness, especially if your dog also refuses water, vomits, seems weak or has a health condition. Contact your vet for advice on a missed meal, and urgently if your dog seems unwell. Puppies and dogs with medical needs may need a faster plan.
Before the next trip, ask your vet what amount of missed food is safe for this dog and whether nausea prevention or travel adjustments would help. Bring their usual food and water, and offer meals in a quiet familiar-feeling space. Avoid continually adding rich extras or switching foods while trying to work out what changed. If your dog drools or vomits in the car, the car-sickness article explains what to record for the vet. If they also struggle when left alone in the new place, assess that separately rather than treating appetite change as a diagnosis.
Notice whether your dog eats when the car stops, after a rest, or once they reach a settled room. Give the vet that timeline and any vomiting or stool changes. If the dog will not drink, cannot keep food down or acts ill, seek veterinary care rather than continuing the journey as planned.
Today, offer the usual food in a calm place and check their drinking. The goal is safe nourishment, not winning a negotiation over a bowl.
Sources: VCA on appetite loss and medical assessment, VCA on motion sickness signs, Dogs Trust on planning a dog-friendly trip.