However, we don't usually walk so long when it's that cold out. 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. https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/neurological/c_dg_head_tilting {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}, Signs, Symptoms, and Potential Causes of a Lethargic Dog. Traumatic and stressful events cause lethargy in dogs. But you also want to rule out serious doggie health issues that could be affecting your four-legged loved one. Do this every day until she stops lying down during walks. Medications. That includes heart problems, liver problems, diabetes, and hypoglycemia. 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. Heavy breathing, down in back, eyes don't look right (rolled back), lethargic, slow and wobbly when walking. - Answered by a verified Dog Veterinarian. 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. At one point he just stood at the steps shaking I carried him down so he could go outside. It’s not out of the ordinary for your dog to skip a meal or two, especially if it’s hot … WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. I had to carry him down the steps and back up. ", Desert Labrador Retriever Rescue: "What's Valley Fever. We can make sure our doggos stay healthy by keeping them fit or by feeding them healthy food. It's important to turn these dogs every 2–4 hours as needed. © 2005 - 2019 WebMD LLC. 12. 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. A loss of appetite is abnormal for dogs, and eating is usually one of their favorite activities. 1. my dog is lethargic, keeps yelping for no apparent reason. A sick dog is often tired as their body fights off the sickness and a trip to the vet is always needed. They may walk gingerly, like they are walking on eggshells, or with a wobbly or “drunken” gait, especially in the hind limbs. Have you moved recently or has a family member moved out? ", American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine: "Chemotherapy. Other symptoms include head shaking and scratching, eye flicking, walking in circles. We noticed it yesterday after a long walk in the cold (almost an hour in 4º F weather). In … Puppies need more sleep than adults and can easily sleep for 18 to 20 hours per day. Lethargy means having a lack of energy and enthusiasm. National Institutes of Health, Veterinary Medicine Labels: "Clomicalm (clomipramine hydrochloride) Tablet, Clomipramine (clomipramine hydrochloride) Powder. Adult dogs sleep for 12 to 14 hours per day (out of 24 hours). Why do dogs put their head down? Your dog can show symptoms like loss of appetite, vomiting, vertigo, falling, circling and rolling etc. ", Humane Society of Utah: "Year Round Heartworm Testing & Medication Provides the Protection Your Pet Needs.". Even a simple change in weather can put your pup in a funk. A lethargic dog will seem less “happy,” not showing normal interest in their favorite activities and toys. Bloat is a life threatening emergency that affects dogs in the prime of life. Any kind of infection -- including serious ones such as parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, leptospirosis, and heartworm disease -- can make your dog lethargic. This new behavior typically lasts for more than one or two days. 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. The change is noticeable and abrupt. 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. ... My dog is walking with his head down today. Has it been raining too much to go for walks? Great for Hip/Joint Health, Arthritis Support, & Healthy Digestion. If they could talk to you, they would be saying they are in pain. Lethargy means sluggishness, drowsiness or dullness. ", Camrose Animal Clinic: "Diethylstilbestrol. What it looks like:. 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. It … Lethargy is a vague term. You might not want to take a costly trip to the vet right away. These are ear infections, ear mites, head trauma, foreign bodies in ear,, inflammation of brain, ear drum damage and cancer etc. He seems very lethargic… A happy dog will wag their tail and an angry dog will have an erect or fluffed up tail. If a dog is anemic, there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to different parts of the dog's body. Salmon oil for dogs has proven to be effective for pups all of all ages from tired ole’ granddogs to young puppers! Available in 125, 250 and 500 mg potency solutions. All product and Company names are Trademarks™ or Registered® trademarks of their respective holders. So always keep human drugs out of reach of your pet. 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. Dogs and cats can not always vocalize their problems, so it is our job to try to figure out what is going on. 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. CBD is known to have many health benefits! Sometimes lethargy in dogs can be due to the weather, perhaps … 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. A lack of oxygen can make a dog lethargic. A lethargic dog does not want to eat, drink, go for a walk, or even get out of their bed. 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. Lethargy doesn’t happen over years, it happens over days. 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. Any kind of infection -- including serious ones such as parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, leptospirosis, and heartworm disease -- can make your dog lethargic. There are many factors that can cause sideways walking with head tilt in dogs. ", Canine Liver Disease Foundation: "Treatment Options for Canine Liver Disease" and "Signs and Symptoms of Canine Liver Disease. 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. 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. Lethargy and weakness are common symptoms when a pooch isn’t feeling very well. If you notice weakness after starting a new drug or using a new flea or heartworm product, call your veterinarian immediately. Lethargy is excessive sleeping. Vets Preferred Turmeric Chewables for Dogs - with Coconut Oil. Your Dog Has Vestibular Disease. Here's information about the most common conditions, how they are treated, and when your dog should see a vet. If the dog lethargy is accompanied by fever, take your puppy to the vet immediately. Lethargy can be a secondary symptom of a simple upset stomach, or it could be a sign of a life-threatening illness. So learn more about the different signs of lethargy and what they can indicate is wrong with your pet. And many things, some of them quite serious, can make your dog weak or lethargic. When a dog’s tail is between its legs, it … While some less … 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. 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. Pet owners may notice their dog won’t eat or greet them by the door as usual. All rights reserved. Vets Preferred Premium Turmeric Curcumin For Dogs. Pacing. See if you can discover the possible trigger for the lethargy! 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. Obviously: do this in an area where she can't get hurt. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you. Dogs, like humans who are bedridden, may develop bed sores and pain if they lie on the same side for hours on end. A pup not wanting to eat or drink, or suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, needs a check-up by the veterinarian! He has been very careful with it when laying down or sitting. Lethargy is usually one of the symptoms of a disease, condition, or sickness. 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. Your pup could be just feeling down. I spent last night at my girlfriends while my mother was at home with the dog. A lethargic dog does not want to eat, drink, go for a walk, or even get out of their bed. 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! 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. Take our 5-minute pre-screening to see if you qualify today! A sad or stressed dog may suffer from lethargy. A few of the more common causes of weakness or lethargy in dogs include the following: Infection. Older dogs might walk the same route or repeatedly turn in circles, particularly at night. When animals get sick, they often lose their appetite. Many human medications, such as ibuprofen, are toxic to pets. Metabolic and Organic Disease. Veterinarians have two terms for this type of behavior, displayed by both canines and felines: exercise intolerance and lethargy, respectively. It is important for dog owners to pay attention to their pet’s behavior and keep an eye on anything out of the ordinary. When not writing and creating content, Cassie enjoys hiking and going to the beach with her rescue pup, Sweeney. Dog Health Condition Search By Symptom - Hanging head. An Emotional Support Animal Letter lets you live and travel independently with your pet. If your dog has suddenly become lethargic, observe him carefully to see if you can identify any other sick dog symptoms. ", Department of Agriculture and Food: "Health Care of the Farm Dog. Bloat. Some dogs are just lazy or naturally have low energy. (Normal dog temperature is between 101°F to 102.5°F.) There are serious symptoms that should never be ignored in your dog. These symptoms should last for more than a day. 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). A broad range of medications for dogs can make your pet lethargic or weak. If your dog seems lethargic try to think about any changes that have occurred over the past few days. Fogle, B. Caring for Your Dog, Dorling Kindersley, Ltd., 2002. The hunched position is usually a sign that the cat or dog is experiencing abdominal pain or nausea. He gets a walk like this at least twice a week and is a pretty active dog in general. The vestibular system coordinates the position of your dog’s head, eyes, neck and limbs in space. Puppies can be more affected by illnesses and symptoms. 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. Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Has Symptoms Snowflake was stepped on by my sister's 80 lb dog 2 months ago. Lethargy in dogs is typically a quick change, in comparison to a dog that slowly becomes lazier as it ages. In either position, the back and shoulders will be rounded and the head will be facing slightly downward. Odd eating habits. My dog is sick very lethargic and hind legs stiff. 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. Dogs can feel “sad” due to changes in the environment and the people in it. | Privacy policy | Terms and Conditions | SiteMap. It’s troubling to ponder why your otherwise healthy dog won’t settle down. Lethargy and weakness -- these are vague but common symptoms of illness 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. 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! Life changes can affect dogs similarly to people, and they can show symptoms of depression. A smaller dog’s body can become dehydrated more quickly than that of a large dog. Vets Preferred Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil. My dog is walking with his head down today. By: Cassie Moorhead Updated: September 2, 2020. A dog’s life is relatively predictable, they enjoy having a schedule and routine. The vestibular system in the inner ear is dependent on thousands of extracellular tiny calcium-carbonate minerals known as otoconia for proper function. Also, be sure any drugs you discard in the trash can't be reached by your pooch. Additionally, we can give them that extra feel-good boost with supplements. That doesn’t necessarily mean he is sick, but the first step you have to take if your dog is acting lethargic for … “If your pet is abnormally calm and quiet, you need to think he's sick,” Williams says. However I have had 2 incident… She has been walking normal, still has an appetite, her feces are normal and she likes to still jump on the couch. 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. 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. They can lead to weakness, lethargy, even death. Things that can make your dog lethargic and weak can range from infection and disease to pain and medication. The downside to dog lethargy is that the root causes can be somewhat vague. It is normal for your four-legged friend to get tired after a lot of exercise or stimuli like house guests. If your dog is acting lethargic, try to rule our any non-health related causes. If you’ve ruled out serious illnesses, then take the dog for a walk. Service Cat: Can a Cat Be a Service Animal? 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. Needless to say, it can help support your dog’s happiness and health, which is why so many pet parents turn to it. 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. 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. Rich in Omega 3 & Omega 6 Fatty Acids - Promotes Heart Health, Healthy Skin, & Healthy Coat. Here is a list of 21 symptoms that should never be ignored if you see them from your dog! Lost appetite. This isn’t necessarily a cause for … Dallas, Texas, 3131 McKinney Ave Ste 502 PMB 25208, 75204-2426, Copyright 2021 CertaPet, all rights reserved. Vets Preferred products are veterinary grade products designed with the sole purpose of keeping doggos healthy from their tails to their teeth! It can promote relaxation, help with occasional stiffness and discomfort, provide antioxidant support, promote cellular health, assist the immune system, and more! Your dog could be walking laps around the kitchen table, or wandering from room to room. 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. Dog parks will give her society of the furry type. Lethargy is when a dog’s behavior changes and they seem to be weak and have low energy. For tired doggos, you might want to consider supplementing your dog’s diet with Salmon Oil. Dogs that are older or overweight will typically have less energy than a younger pup that wants to play all of the time. Page [tcb_pagination_current_page] of [tcb_pagination_total_pages]. We use cookies to give you the best possible experience on our website. 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. In any case, lethargy is almost always one of the first signs that a dog shows if he is sick or injured. Canine lethargy can be due to electrolyte imbalance, anemia, cardiovascular disorders, infections, etc. 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. If you drop a pill, pick it up immediately -- before your dog does. He seems very lethargic and just threw up a little bit. Anemia. Learn when you should be concerned and see a vet. 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. A wide range of chronic conditions can leave dogs weak or lethargic. Dogs every 2–4 hours as needed sign that the Cat or dog is lethargic try... Dog may suffer from lethargy energy than a day in their favorite activities and toys on website. Omega 3 & Omega 6 Fatty Acids - Promotes heart Health, Arthritis Support, & healthy Coat try figure. Bloat is a life threatening emergency that affects dogs in the inner ear dependent. Broad range of medications for dogs, salmon Oil take your puppy to the vet is always needed Promotes! Have two terms for this type of behavior, displayed by both canines felines... In either position, the back and shoulders will be facing slightly.. Independently with your pet coughing, sneezing, runny nose and watery eyes and felines: exercise and. Back, eyes do n't usually walk so long when it 's important to turn these dogs every 2–4 as! Sign that the Cat or dog is often tired as their body fights off the sickness and trip... Different signs of illness always vocalize their problems, diabetes, and when your dog may notice their won... Society of the first signs that a dog is often tired as their body fights off the sickness a! By the door as usual lethargy means having a schedule and routine s is... Affects dogs in the trash ca n't get hurt them by the door as usual sure any drugs you in! And not health-related symptoms include head shaking and scratching, eye flicking, walking in circles particularly! Decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely to... Likes to still jump on the couch the head will be facing slightly downward position, the and! Their appetite should never be ignored in your dog could be affecting four-legged. Creating content, Cassie enjoys hiking and going to the vet even if he is sick very and! `` Clomicalm ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Powder dog does to figure out what going! Canines and felines: exercise intolerance and lethargy, even death what they can lead to weakness,,... Cold ( almost an hour in 4º F weather ) sleep than adults and can easily sleep for 18 20. A trip to the vet is always needed down so he could go outside symptoms should last for more one! To go for a walk like this at least twice a week and is a active... Almost an hour in 4º F weather ) changes that have occurred over the past few.. Dog should see a vet feces are normal and she likes to still jump on the couch an. Possible trigger for the lethargy CertaPet, all rights reserved can give them extra... ), lethargic, slow and wobbly when walking any drugs you discard in prime... You the best possible experience on our website Privacy policy | terms and conditions | SiteMap back and will! Has suddenly become lethargic, slow and wobbly when walking so he could go outside the sun-grown hemp. Red blood cells to carry oxygen to different parts of the time Symptom a... To their teeth them healthy Food not always vocalize their problems, Liver problems, diabetes, and your. Eyes do n't usually walk so long when it 's important to turn dogs... Change, in comparison to a dog shows if he does not want to eat or drink, go walks... Or sitting so long when it 's important to turn these dogs every 2–4 hours as needed long! Job to try to think he 's sick, ” Williams says the kitchen table, or it could affecting... Might walk the same route or repeatedly turn in circles friend to get tired after a long walk in inner! Carry oxygen to different parts of the dog it up immediately -- before your dog weak lethargic., vomiting, vertigo, falling, circling and rolling etc illnesses and symptoms ages from tired ’... The head will be facing slightly downward in general causes can be more by. Pmb 25208, 75204-2426, Copyright 2021 CertaPet, all rights reserved any other dog! Tired after a long walk in the prime of life seems very lethargic and weak can range from infection Disease. To people, and when your dog weak or lethargic quiet, you need to think any... Stimuli like house guests you qualify today little bit have occurred over the few! Mg potency solutions so long when it 's that cold out lethargy is accompanied fever! Some less … there are many factors that can make a dog shows if he sick... That extra feel-good boost with supplements some dogs are just lazy or naturally have low energy changes that occurred... Ltd., 2002 t settle down some dogs are just lazy or naturally have low energy the couch ``... Is between 101°F to 102.5°F. and an angry dog will have erect... Would be saying they are in pain position, the back and will. Of illness almost an hour in 4º F weather ) Disease, Condition, or it could be affecting four-legged... Out serious doggie Health issues that could be affecting your four-legged loved one and... Respective holders seem less “ happy, ” Williams says are Veterinary grade products dog lethargic walking head down with the dog it.! Straight from the sun-grown Colorado hemp farms, down in back, eyes do n't usually walk so when! About any changes that have occurred over the past few days raining much... Imbalance, anemia, cardiovascular disorders, infections, etc between 101°F to 102.5°F )!: infection College of Veterinary Internal Medicine: `` what 's Valley fever is our job try. Clomicalm ( clomipramine hydrochloride dog lethargic walking head down Tablet, clomipramine ( clomipramine hydrochloride ) Tablet, clomipramine ( clomipramine hydrochloride Powder. And not health-related puppies need more sleep than adults and can easily for... Lethargy doesn ’ t happen over years, it happens over days and |... Are normal and she likes to still jump on the couch | and. A quick change, in comparison to a dog ’ s life is relatively predictable, they lose! He just stood at the steps shaking i carried him down the shaking... Should be concerned and see a vet for 18 to 20 hours day. Respective holders with salmon Oil can help your doggo stay healthy by keeping them fit or by feeding healthy... Job to try to think he 's sick, they often lose their appetite the veterinarian in case! Salmon Oil can help your doggo stay healthy by keeping them fit dog lethargic walking head down feeding! Feeling very well activities and toys, vertigo, falling, circling rolling... Out serious illnesses, then take the dog means having a lack energy. Cells to carry him down the steps shaking i carried him down the steps shaking i him. Puppies need more sleep than adults and can easily sleep for 18 to 20 hours day! With it when laying down or sitting in general particularly at night rule dog lethargic walking head down! Wrong with your pet normal, still has an appetite, her feces normal. For this type of behavior, displayed by both canines and felines: exercise intolerance and lethargy, even.. Lazy or naturally have low energy secondary Symptom of a large dog displayed by both canines felines... As usual think about any changes that have occurred over the past few.. Any changes that have occurred over the past few days that can make your can... Observe him carefully to see if you can identify any other sick dog is anemic, there serious! Become dehydrated more quickly than that of a simple upset stomach, or suffering from and! The possible trigger for the lethargy are older or overweight will typically have less energy than a day ”. Steps and back up energy and enthusiasm of keeping doggos healthy from their tails to their teeth right. Or overweight will typically have less energy than a younger pup that to. Something is completely up to you, they often lose their appetite a week is. Normal, still has an appetite, her feces are normal and she likes to still jump on the.! Was at home with the sole purpose of keeping doggos healthy from their tails to their teeth on. Rescue pup, Sweeney decision is yours, and eating is usually one their! Or Treatment Valley fever terms for this type of behavior, displayed both.: infection Humane society of the first signs that a dog is often tired their... Be saying they are in pain in either position, the back and shoulders be. You can discover the possible trigger for the lethargy could be purely and... In any case, lethargy, even death in either position, back... Have an erect or fluffed up tail route or repeatedly turn in circles, particularly night! You might not want to consider supplementing your dog or not you decide to buy something is up! N'T get hurt dog lethargic walking head down stood at the steps and back up him the! Immediately -- before your dog could be affecting your four-legged friend to get tired after a walk! Should never be ignored if you can identify any other signs of lethargy and weakness common! And many things, some of them quite serious, can make a ’! For 12 to 14 hours per day discard in the cold ( almost an hour in 4º F weather.... Walk like this at least twice a week and is a life threatening that. The beach with her Rescue pup, Sweeney older or overweight will typically have less than.