3 year Lab sudden lose of appetite

Question
I have a three year old black lab who has never been one to eat alot of food but he would eat what is put down for him.  He was never picky before.  Suddenly, within the past two weeks he won't eat the dry food put down for him.  I've put turkey gravey on it and he ate it good for a few days now he is fighting me on eating that.  I've tried buying a different brand of food and he won't even touch it.  I have an appointment set with the vet in the next week, but what can I do now.  I'm frustrated and worried about him not eatting.  His personality has not changed any, just the eating.  Any advice you can provide would be wonderful.

Thank you.

Answer
This is more typical for a Shepherd than a Lab.  Dogs are individuals, and many years ago I had a Lab that was a picky eater.  I am guessing you are feeding him more than he needs.  The charts on dog chow packages are only starting points.  Each dog needs to have its food adjusted to its individual needs.  The best way to determine how much a dogs should be eating is to check its ribs.  Here is a link to an illustrated guide, http://www.puppychow.com/products/popup_body_condition.aspx

Go ahead with the vet visit.  It is very unusual for a healthy dog not to eat all it needs.  My guess is that the vet won't find much wrong, but will confirm it is at least slightly over weight.  If you find excessive fat, go back to the old chow, and feed less of it.