Too much sleep can signal pain, infection, or other illness. Learn the warning signs of lethargy in dogs and when to call your vet.
Dogs are known for their playful energy and love of a good nap. However, pups that are too tired to enjoy walks, playtime, or food may be showing signs of lethargy. This can happen with infections, injuries, poisoning, or health problems, like metabolic disorder. If your dog is unusually worn out, contact your vet to identify the cause and get your pup’s energy back on track.
Canine lethargy is prolonged fatigue that makes it difficult for your dog to get up and go about their everyday activities, like neighborhood walks or playing with toys. This energy depletion is typically a symptom of a health issue your dog may be experiencing rather than a condition in and of itself. If your fur baby is disinterested in their usual stimulants like a ringing doorbell or their food bowl getting refilled, it may be time to make a vet appointment.
Like humans, dogs can feel drained after a long day of physical activity or stress. If you’ve just gotten back from a camping trip or playing outside on a hot summer day, then your dog will likely enter couch potato mode upon returning.
On the other hand, if your dog hasn’t done anything too mentally or physically exerting and is lounging more than usual, then they may be experiencing lethargy. Even low-energy breeds like to get their daily dose of exercise and playtime, so owners should be concerned if all their dog wants to do is lay around.
Canine lethargy is typically emblematic of another health condition your dog may be experiencing. Here are some common causes of a pup’s sudden energy depletion:
Age is certainly a consideration when it comes to determining if your pooch is lethargic, and potential causes. Dogs have different energy expectations at different life stages, so you’ll have to take that into account when they’re snoozing the day away.
Here’s how to spot lethargy in dogs of all ages:
While not all signs of lethargy in dogs are cause for alarm, there are a handful of additional symptoms to watch out for. When lethargy is accompanied by these symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care:
Nobody wants to think about potentially losing a family member, but in severe cases, lethargy can be a sign that a dog is about to die or has a poor quality of life. Consult your veterinarian regarding end-of-life care for a painless transition.
Because lethargy is usually a symptom of something else, your vet will need to start by performing a physical examination to determine the root cause of your pet’s fatigue. Diagnostic testing like x-rays, blood work, and other tests may be necessary for further evaluation.
Upon finding the source of your dog’s lethargy, your vet will put together a treatment plan. This could include medication such as antibiotics or antiemetics, fluid administration, or other supportive care. Depending on the condition that is diagnosed, more invasive treatment may be necessary, such as surgery in the event of a tumor.
They say “a tired dog is a good dog,” but a lethargic dog warrants concern. At the end of the day, you know your dog best. If they’re lethargic for more than 24 hours or show any other symptoms, it’s best to call your vet or visit an animal hospital.
Dogs whose lethargy is accompanied by other symptoms like loss of appetite or shaking should be brought to the veterinarian for a check-up. Even if there are no other symptoms, you should make an appointment if the lethargy lasts over 24 hours.
There are several causes of canine lethargy, including injuries, infections, systemic disease, and poisoning. If your dog also has pale gums, labored breathing, or is vomiting, go to your nearest ER vet immediately,
Consult your vet before trying to treat your dog’s lethargy on your own because it may be a sign of an underlying condition that hasn’t been properly diagnosed.
While tiredness can be expected after a long hike or time spent in the sun, dogs with prolonged fatigue may have lethargy. A tired dog will likely still get up when it’s time for dinner or the doorbell rings, while a lethargic dog may be reluctant to move even when stimulants are present.
Certain symptoms that don’t go away on their own, like lethargy or trouble breathing, should warrant concern from owners. Consult your vet if your dog has symptoms that persist more than a day.
