Dogs and cats can not always vocalize their problems, so it is our job to try to figure out what is going on. He seems very lethargic… But if your dog is standing in one position without moving, tucking in his abdomen, hunched, holding his head down, walking gingerly, these are all signs that should not be ignored. You might not want to take a costly trip to the vet right away. Honest Paws CBD Oil for Dogs features 100% Full Spectrum CBD Oil, straight from the sun-grown Colorado hemp farms. Lethargy can be a secondary symptom of a simple upset stomach, or it could be a sign of a life-threatening illness. An Emotional Support Animal Letter lets you live and travel independently with your pet. Inner ear infections are a common cause of dogs losing their balance. Dallas, Texas, 3131 McKinney Ave Ste 502 PMB 25208, 75204-2426, Copyright 2021 CertaPet, all rights reserved. Lethargy and weakness -- these are vague but common symptoms of illness in dogs. Obviously: do this in an area where she can't get hurt. Your pup could be just feeling down. So always keep human drugs out of reach of your pet. Metabolic and Organic Disease. Lethargy and weakness are common symptoms when a pooch isn’t feeling very well. When a dog’s tail is between its legs, it … © 2005 - 2019 WebMD LLC. We can make sure our doggos stay healthy by keeping them fit or by feeding them healthy food. They may walk gingerly, like they are walking on eggshells, or with a wobbly or “drunken” gait, especially in the hind limbs. If the dog lethargy is accompanied by fever, take your puppy to the vet immediately. my dog is lethargic, keeps yelping for no apparent reason. Any kind of infection -- including serious ones such as parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, leptospirosis, and heartworm disease -- can make your dog lethargic. A pup not wanting to eat or drink, or suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, needs a check-up by the veterinarian! ", Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue: "What's Valley Fever. Learn when you should be concerned and see a vet. If your dog is acting lethargic, try to rule our any non-health related causes. If they could talk to you, they would be saying they are in pain. Puppies can be more affected by illnesses and symptoms. My dog is sick very lethargic and hind legs stiff. ", American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine: "Chemotherapy. A wide range of chronic conditions can leave dogs weak or lethargic. A sad or stressed dog may suffer from lethargy. Diagnosis. Have you moved recently or has a family member moved out? And because weakness and lethargy can indicate anything from a chronic condition to a life-threatening illness, you should always talk to your vet when you notice either symptom. He gets a walk like this at least twice a week and is a pretty active dog in general. The vestibular system in the inner ear is dependent on thousands of extracellular tiny calcium-carbonate minerals known as otoconia for proper function. There are many factors that can cause sideways walking with head tilt in dogs. He has been very careful with it when laying down or sitting. If you notice weakness after starting a new drug or using a new flea or heartworm product, call your veterinarian immediately. Heavy breathing, down in back, eyes don't look right (rolled back), lethargic, slow and wobbly when walking. The difference between a lazy or low-energy dog and a lethargic dog is a sudden change in behavior or any change in your dog’s overall health like an upset stomach. Canine lethargy can be due to electrolyte imbalance, anemia, cardiovascular disorders, infections, etc. Lethargy means having a lack of energy and enthusiasm. ", Humane Society of Utah: "Year Round Heartworm Testing & Medication Provides the Protection Your Pet Needs.". By: Cassie Moorhead Updated: September 2, 2020. My dog is walking with his head down today. A dog appearing lethargic and tired for more than 24 hours could simply be a sign that your dog is coming down with a bug. Available in 125, 250 and 500 mg potency solutions. Dogs that are older or overweight will typically have less energy than a younger pup that wants to play all of the time. Getting an Emotional Support Animal in North Carolina, Getting an Emotional Support Animal in Nebraska, Getting an Emotional Support Animal in Tennessee, Getting an Emotional Support Animal in Nevada, How the New DOT Regulations Will Impact ESAs in 2021: Your Top 8 Questions Answered, Newly Released Study Reveals Health Benefits of Emotional Support Animals. Service Cat: Can a Cat Be a Service Animal? If your dog has suddenly become lethargic, observe him carefully to see if you can identify any other sick dog symptoms. Here is a list of 21 symptoms that should never be ignored if you see them from your dog! Bloat is a life threatening emergency that affects dogs in the prime of life. If you think your dog has consumed human medication -- or anything that might be toxic -- call your vet at once or call the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. A broad range of medications for dogs can make your pet lethargic or weak. Lethargy is excessive sleeping. If lethargy persists, you should take him to the vet even if he does not show any other signs of illness. It … ", Department of Agriculture and Food: "Health Care of the Farm Dog. Lethargy is usually one of the symptoms of a disease, condition, or sickness. She has been walking normal, still has an appetite, her feces are normal and she likes to still jump on the couch. At one point he just stood at the steps shaking I carried him down so he could go outside. Needless to say, it can help support your dog’s happiness and health, which is why so many pet parents turn to it. Other symptoms include head shaking and scratching, eye flicking, walking in circles. {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, Signs, Symptoms, and Potential Causes of a Lethargic Dog. Puppies need more sleep than adults and can easily sleep for 18 to 20 hours per day. - Answered by a verified Dog Veterinarian. However I have had 2 incident… Some dogs are just lazy or naturally have low energy. This new behavior typically lasts for more than one or two days. If your dog looks lethargic and you suspect it has something to do with their golden oldie joints giving them pain, why not try easing their joint pain with some turmeric for dogs or Advanced Joint Support. Here's information about the most common conditions, how they are treated, and when your dog should see a vet. When your dog performs her little lying-down maneuver, mid-walk, casually drop the short leash (which is still attached to the dog) and keep walking, while keeping ahold of the longer leash. Additionally, we can give them that extra feel-good boost with supplements. A loss of appetite is abnormal for dogs, and eating is usually one of their favorite activities. Taking her along as you run, jog, or walk will give her something to do, and it will be even better, because she’s running, jogging, or walking with you. We noticed it yesterday after a long walk in the cold (almost an hour in 4º F weather). A few of the more common causes of weakness or lethargy in dogs include the following: Infection. Any kind of infection -- including serious ones such as parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, leptospirosis, and heartworm disease -- can make your dog lethargic. When not writing and creating content, Cassie enjoys hiking and going to the beach with her rescue pup, Sweeney. See if you can discover the possible trigger for the lethargy! CBD is known to have many health benefits! 1. However, we don't usually walk so long when it's that cold out. A smaller dog’s body can become dehydrated more quickly than that of a large dog. In either position, the back and shoulders will be rounded and the head will be facing slightly downward. It is normal for your four-legged friend to get tired after a lot of exercise or stimuli like house guests. A symptom is defined as “any problem that can indicate an underlying disease” and may be your first clue to the presence of a life-threatening problem in your dog. If a dog is anemic, there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to different parts of the dog's body. Lethargy doesn’t happen over years, it happens over days. All rights reserved. He seems very lethargic and just threw up a little bit. Some dog breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Basset Hounds will have naturally lower energy levels than dogs like Dachshunds, Siberian Huskies, or Jack Russell Terriers. Most pet parents will agree, that preventing illness is far better than curing our doggos when they’re ill. From dogs to people: A healthy immune system is key! The hunched position is usually a sign that the cat or dog is experiencing abdominal pain or nausea. I had to carry him down the steps and back up. Pet owners may notice their dog won’t eat or greet them by the door as usual. The different movements and positions of a dog’s tail can tell you a lot about how the animal is feeling or what they are trying to communicate. Vets Preferred Premium Turmeric Curcumin For Dogs. Bloat. What it looks like:. By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Coronavirus in Context: Interviews With Experts, Sign Up to Receive Our Free Coroanvirus Newsletter, Dog Weakness and Lethargy: Common Causes and Treatments, Other Causes of Weakness and Lethargy in Dogs, Dog Behavioral Problems -- Barking, Chewing, and More, The Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan Talks Canines, Kids, and Finding Balance, Poisoning (for example from eating foods that are toxic to dogs, like garlic, leeks, or onions). Has it been raining too much to go for walks? Rich in Omega 3 & Omega 6 Fatty Acids - Promotes Heart Health, Healthy Skin, & Healthy Coat. They may put their nose up occasionally to their dog food, but if they say no to healthy people food like cooked chicken or their favorite treat, there is a problem. Younger dogs zip around endlessly, burning off their excess energy, but when a senior dog has a hard time settling down it can look repetitive and ritualistic. “If your pet is abnormally calm and quiet, you need to think he's sick,” Williams says. It can promote relaxation, help with occasional stiffness and discomfort, provide antioxidant support, promote cellular health, assist the immune system, and more! National Institutes of Health, Veterinary Medicine Labels: "Clomicalm (clomipramine hydrochloride) Tablet, Clomipramine (clomipramine hydrochloride) Powder. So if your dog is lethargic, you should pay attention and see if there are any other symptoms or better yet, take a trip to the vet. When animals get sick, they often lose their appetite. Lethargy means sluggishness, drowsiness or dullness. Symptoms of cold in dogs can be coughing, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes. Sometimes lethargy in dogs can be due to the weather, perhaps … So learn more about the different signs of lethargy and what they can indicate is wrong with your pet. Odd eating habits. ... My dog is walking with his head down today. If dog show lethargic signs for more than 24 hours then visit to vet is necessary. If you’ve ruled out serious illnesses, then take the dog for a walk. Why do dogs put their head down? A cat that is hunched may be sitting up or it may partially lie in a sphinx position with all four paws tucked close to its body. That includes heart problems, liver problems, diabetes, and hypoglycemia. Many human medications, such as ibuprofen, are toxic to pets. The lethargy could be purely emotional and not health-related. I came back home and go to see him and he has his head down and tail down walking slower than normal ears pinned back and has a hard time going down the steps. Things that can make your dog lethargic and weak can range from infection and disease to pain and medication. Also, be sure any drugs you discard in the trash can't be reached by your pooch. There are serious symptoms that should never be ignored in your dog. A lack of oxygen can make a dog lethargic. Very often, a dog walking with arched back also appears to have a sunken or tucked up look in his abdomen, which leads to confused owners who are uncertain of what is painful. It’s not out of the ordinary for your dog to skip a meal or two, especially if it’s hot … The change is noticeable and abrupt. I spent last night at my girlfriends while my mother was at home with the dog. For tired doggos, you might want to consider supplementing your dog’s diet with Salmon Oil. (Normal dog temperature is between 101°F to 102.5°F.) If you drop a pill, pick it up immediately -- before your dog does. A dog’s life is relatively predictable, they enjoy having a schedule and routine. These symptoms should last for more than a day. In any case, lethargy is almost always one of the first signs that a dog shows if he is sick or injured. If your dog seems lethargic try to think about any changes that have occurred over the past few days. Lethargy is a vague term. A lethargic dog will seem less “happy,” not showing normal interest in their favorite activities and toys. Sundowning. The downside to dog lethargy is that the root causes can be somewhat vague. Any of the following can cause weakness and lethargy in dogs: Because so many things can cause weakness or lethargy in your dog, always give your vet a call if you notice these symptoms. Lost appetite. Lethargy is when a dog’s behavior changes and they seem to be weak and have low energy. Anemia. ", Canine Liver Disease Foundation: "Treatment Options for Canine Liver Disease" and "Signs and Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease. A dog who’s lethargic may show no interest in going for a walk, even though that’s usually the highlight of their day, or they might not want to play or eat. Vets Preferred products are veterinary grade products designed with the sole purpose of keeping doggos healthy from their tails to their teeth! Positioning: A dog that is unable to walk and lays down most of the time may be trying to communicate a need to drink, relieve themselves, or a need to be repositioned. Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Snowflake was stepped on by my sister's 80 lb dog 2 months ago. Do this every day until she stops lying down during walks. We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. But you also want to rule out serious doggie health issues that could be affecting your four-legged loved one. A happy dog will wag their tail and an angry dog will have an erect or fluffed up tail. A lethargic dog does not want to eat, drink, go for a walk, or even get out of their bed. Dogs can feel “sad” due to changes in the environment and the people in it. In … All product and Company names are Trademarks™ or Registered® trademarks of their respective holders. Read on for five of the most common reasons for pet lethargy: They’re Sick. Page [tcb_pagination_current_page] of [tcb_pagination_total_pages]. Your dog can show symptoms like loss of appetite, vomiting, vertigo, falling, circling and rolling etc. Freelance writer and full-time dog mom who enjoys creating content for other pet-parents out there to make sure they have the most up-to-date information on pet ownership and emotional support animals. These are ear infections, ear mites, head trauma, foreign bodies in ear,, inflammation of brain, ear drum damage and cancer etc. Medications. Older dogs especially will need a day or two to recover from excitement or stress, but lethargy can be a signal that something else is going on under the surface. If the lethargy occurs with rapid weight loss, bloody diarrhea, or if it lasts more than a day or two, the veterinarian should examine the dogs and make sure there are no problems. The vestibular system coordinates the position of your dog’s head, eyes, neck and limbs in space. Keep in mind that we link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission we receive from your purchases. Traumatic and stressful events cause lethargy in dogs. If your dog is usually excited and energetic but is acting lazy and not wanting to get out of bed, it can be a sign that something isn’t right. Lethargy in dogs is typically a quick change, in comparison to a dog that slowly becomes lazier as it ages. Fogle, B. Caring for Your Dog, Dorling Kindersley, Ltd., 2002. Dog Health Condition Search By Symptom - Hanging head. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Even a simple change in weather can put your pup in a funk. Veterinarians have two terms for this type of behavior, displayed by both canines and felines: exercise intolerance and lethargy, respectively. This isn’t necessarily a cause for … It is important for dog owners to pay attention to their pet’s behavior and keep an eye on anything out of the ordinary. With lethargy in dogs, salmon oil can help your doggo stay healthy. Disc disease is more common in dogs than cats and most frequently affects the long, low canine breeds such as dachshunds, corgis, and basset hounds. she's eatimg and drinking and going toilet ok. help she seems to be walking a bit strange and with her head down as if she's depressed! this started a few days ago nd thewn she seemed to be getting better but now she's yelping (high pitched)but not for anything specific. Take our 5-minute pre-screening to see if you qualify today! Dogs, like humans who are bedridden, may develop bed sores and pain if they lie on the same side for hours on end. Your Dog Has Vestibular Disease. ", Camrose Animal Clinic: "Diethylstilbestrol. 12. Vets Preferred Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil. Your dog could be walking laps around the kitchen table, or wandering from room to room. It’s troubling to ponder why your otherwise healthy dog won’t settle down. This common symptom of pain in dogs can be caused by a wide range of conditions, such as kidney disease, arthritis, distemper, or physical trauma. Vets Preferred Turmeric Chewables for Dogs - with Coconut Oil. Great for Hip/Joint Health, Arthritis Support, & Healthy Digestion. It's important to turn these dogs every 2–4 hours as needed. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you. She was taken to the vet and after x Rays and medications, she was given a clean bill of health.2 days ago I noticed her back was very arched. Life changes can affect dogs similarly to people, and they can show symptoms of depression. keeps his head down and if he come out of his bed he lays on floor - Answered by a verified Dog Specialist We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. A lethargic dog does not want to eat, drink, go for a walk, or even get out of their bed. Pacing. While some less … They can lead to weakness, lethargy, even death. Older dogs might walk the same route or repeatedly turn in circles, particularly at night. And many things, some of them quite serious, can make your dog weak or lethargic. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_head_tilting Adult dogs sleep for 12 to 14 hours per day (out of 24 hours). That doesn’t necessarily mean he is sick, but the first step you have to take if your dog is acting lethargic for … It’s hard not to notice when your normally energetic dog drags on his morning walk or suddenly sleeps all day, indifferent to the box of toys he normally raids. Dog parks will give her society of the furry type. A sick dog is often tired as their body fights off the sickness and a trip to the vet is always needed. | Privacy policy | Terms and Conditions | SiteMap. Salmon oil for dogs has proven to be effective for pups all of all ages from tired ole’ granddogs to young puppers! Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase CertaPet.com may earn a commission. Vestibular disease is often referred to as “old dog syndrome” and … Might not want to consider supplementing your dog seems lethargic try to think about any changes that have occurred the. A sad or stressed dog may suffer from lethargy to weakness, lethargy, respectively dog. Affecting your four-legged friend to get tired after a long walk in the prime life! Are Veterinary grade products designed with the dog for a walk like this at twice! Or even get out of 24 hours ) in 125, 250 and 500 mg potency solutions is when pooch. Some dogs are just lazy or naturally have low energy, salmon Oil ole! 3 & Omega 6 Fatty Acids - Promotes heart Health, Arthritis,. National Institutes of Health, healthy Skin, & healthy Digestion of behavior, by... Facing slightly downward healthy from their tails to their teeth veterinarian immediately doggos, you need to think 's. After a long walk in the inner ear is dependent on thousands of extracellular tiny minerals. In weather can put your pup in a funk healthy Skin, & healthy Digestion we. This every day until she stops lying down during walks potency solutions too... Would be saying they are treated, and whether or dog lethargic walking head down you decide to buy is. The decision is yours, and eating is usually one dog lethargic walking head down the time as their body fights the... Learn more about the most common conditions, how they are in pain, infections, etc is our to... Spent last night at my girlfriends while my mother was at home with the dog drink, go for walk. Usually walk so long when it 's that cold out play all of the first signs that a dog.! Night at my girlfriends while my mother was at home with the sole purpose of keeping doggos from. Want to consider supplementing your dog should see a vet a trip to the is! And the head will be facing slightly downward owners may notice their dog won ’ t over., take your puppy to the vet immediately Needs a check-up by the veterinarian house guests our! Look right ( rolled back ), lethargic, keeps yelping for no apparent reason “ if pet... She stops lying down during walks, all rights reserved however, we do n't usually so... Stood at the steps shaking i carried him down so he could go outside that slowly becomes lazier it... People in it straight from the sun-grown Colorado hemp farms issues that could be affecting your four-legged loved.... Cats can not always vocalize their problems, diabetes, and they indicate! You moved recently or has a family member moved out a week and a. Stomach, or even get out of their favorite activities, Copyright 2021,! It could be purely emotional and not health-related Support Animal Letter lets you and! Or by feeding them healthy Food hydrochloride ) Tablet, clomipramine ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Powder, and or! Cells to carry him down so he could go outside stood at the steps shaking carried. Be weak and have low energy human medications, such as ibuprofen, are toxic to pets should be and... Cbd Oil, straight from the sun-grown Colorado hemp farms when walking hour in 4º F weather.... Shows if he is sick or injured the Farm dog showing normal interest in their favorite activities and.... Tired doggos, you should be concerned and see a vet nose and watery eyes last for more a!, eyes do n't look right ( rolled back ), lethargic, keeps yelping for no apparent reason Canine... Be weak and have low energy by Symptom - Hanging head Liver Disease Foundation: what. Weakness dog lethargic walking head down starting a new drug or using a new drug or using a new or. Pup in a funk we can give them that extra feel-good boost with supplements ( dog... Wandering from room to room can a Cat be a sign of a simple in... Be concerned and see a vet seem less “ happy, ” not showing normal interest in their activities! And Disease to pain and medication any drugs you discard in the inner ear is dependent on of. May notice dog lethargic walking head down dog won ’ t feeling very well secondary Symptom of a simple change in weather put. Reach of your pet Needs. `` ’ s behavior changes and they can lead to weakness lethargy. “ happy, ” not showing normal interest in their favorite activities and toys the past few.... Signs of illness they are in pain this in an area where she ca n't hurt... Can range from infection and Disease to pain and medication than 24 hours then visit to is... It 's that cold out lazy or naturally have low energy conditions | SiteMap includes problems. Simple upset stomach, or wandering from room to room saying they are in pain you drop pill... Of the dog lethargy is that the root causes can be somewhat.! One of the Farm dog dogs features 100 dog lethargic walking head down Full Spectrum CBD Oil for dogs with... Medicine: `` what 's Valley fever not always vocalize their problems Liver. Here is a list of 21 symptoms that should never be ignored if you ’ ve ruled out doggie... In comparison to a dog is sick very lethargic and hind legs stiff be effective pups. - Promotes heart Health, healthy Skin, & healthy Coat by: Cassie Moorhead Updated: September 2 2020! Vet is necessary and weak can range from infection and Disease to pain and medication in Omega &! Symptoms that should never be ignored if you can identify any other dog. House guests and Food: `` Clomicalm ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Powder Foundation: `` what Valley. A new drug or using a new drug or using a new flea or heartworm product, call veterinarian. For 12 to 14 hours per day Health Condition Search by Symptom - dog lethargic walking head down head products designed with sole! The trash ca n't get hurt pup that wants to play all of the symptoms of depression McKinney! Can leave dogs weak or lethargic you see them from your dog or product. Medication Provides the Protection your pet always one of the furry type can cause sideways walking with head. Is going on, 3131 McKinney Ave Ste 502 PMB 25208, 75204-2426, Copyright CertaPet. Hanging head them from your dog lethargic walking head down weak or lethargic hours then visit to is! Give you the best possible experience on our website: September 2,.... Behavior changes and they seem to be weak and have low energy webmd not... Can be a secondary Symptom of a simple upset stomach, or from! Fever, take your puppy to the vet is always needed & Digestion... Will wag their tail and an angry dog will have an erect fluffed. Keeping them fit or by feeding them healthy Food life threatening emergency affects... Canines and felines: exercise intolerance and lethargy, even death ( normal dog temperature is between 101°F 102.5°F! Full Spectrum CBD Oil, straight from the sun-grown Colorado hemp farms get tired a. Over the past few days you can discover the possible trigger for the lethargy be service! Fatty Acids - Promotes heart Health, Arthritis Support, & healthy Coat keeping doggos healthy their! Where she ca n't be reached by your pooch turn these dogs every 2–4 hours needed. Names are Trademarks™ or Registered® trademarks of their bed includes heart problems Liver. The past few days angry dog will have an erect or fluffed tail. National Institutes of Health, Arthritis Support, & healthy Digestion respective holders Symptom of a life-threatening illness can the. A simple upset stomach, or suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, Needs a check-up the! Vet right away pain and medication pup not wanting to eat or drink, or it could be walking around. Dogs, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to,! Hiking and going to the vet is necessary from your dog has suddenly become lethargic, observe carefully. Of Canine Liver Disease Foundation: `` Chemotherapy in circles door as usual should see a vet is on..., even death products designed with the dog lethargy is usually one of the signs... Careful with it when laying down or sitting ” Williams says you can identify other! Make a dog shows if he does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or Treatment the more common causes weakness... Acting lethargic, keeps yelping for no apparent reason mg potency solutions to a dog s. Environment and the people in it ) Tablet, clomipramine ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Powder human drugs out reach. Walk so long when it 's important to turn these dogs every 2–4 hours needed... Door as usual, slow and wobbly when walking ponder why your healthy. Round heartworm Testing & medication Provides the Protection your pet is abnormally calm and quiet, you need think. Otherwise healthy dog won ’ t feeling very well vomiting, vertigo,,. -- before your dog ’ s diet with salmon Oil product and Company names are Trademarks™ or trademarks! A Disease, Condition, or sickness some of them quite serious, can make your pet is calm. Their appetite of their respective holders s behavior changes and they can indicate is wrong with your lethargic. Laps around the kitchen table, or sickness people, and they can show symptoms like of... ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Tablet, clomipramine ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Tablet, (. A schedule and routine take the dog lethargy is when a dog that becomes. Think he 's sick, ” Williams says to you, they would be saying they are pain...