Symptom · Dogs
Dog lethargic: what it means and when to call the vet
A dog who is more tired than usual for a day after a big walk is usually fine. Lethargy lasting more than a day, or with not eating, vomiting, pain, pale gums or fast breathing, needs a vet.
By Maya HartCommon causes
- Tiredness after unusual exercise
- Infections and fever
- Pain
- Anaemia
- Heart disease
- Hypothyroidism in middle-aged dogs
- Poisoning
- Side effects of medicines or vaccines (usually brief)
What you can do at home
- Check gum colour, breathing rate and temperature
- Offer water and a small favourite meal
- Rest and note how long it lasts
- Look out for other signs — vomiting, limping, coughing
What the vet may do
- Full examination and temperature
- Blood tests and urine tests
- X-rays or ultrasound
- Treat the underlying cause
Prevention
- Yearly check-ups, twice yearly for older dogs
- Keep vaccinations and parasite control up to date
The details
Lethargy is one of the vaguest signs a dog can show and one of the most common reasons owners phone a vet. Because dogs can’t tell us how they feel, a change in energy is often the first clue that something is wrong — from a simple infection to heart disease or internal bleeding.
Gradual slowing down is often put down to age, but conditions such as hypothyroidism, arthritis and heart disease are treatable. If your older dog seems to be “slowing down”, it is worth a check.
Questions owners ask
Is dog lethargic an emergency?
Usually it is not an emergency, but your pet should see a vet within 24 hours. Go now if you see: pale, white or yellow gums; swollen belly or unproductive retching; fast or difficult breathing at rest; collapse or unable to stand; possible poisoning.
What causes dog lethargic?
Tiredness after unusual exercise; Infections and fever; Pain; Anaemia; Heart disease; Hypothyroidism in middle-aged dogs; Poisoning; Side effects of medicines or vaccines (usually brief).
What can I do at home?
Check gum colour, breathing rate and temperature. Offer water and a small favourite meal. Rest and note how long it lasts. Look out for other signs — vomiting, limping, coughing.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts