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My dog is lethargic, eating slowly, and has a swollen gland. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 40 lbs

My 1 year old lab Roo, has been pretty lethargic since Wednesday. We just noticed her glands are swollen under her right ear. She's eating, but eats very slowly. Her ears have been really warm so I assumed she had fever. Is this an ear infection or something more serious?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 3rd, 2017

I certainly see what you mean about the swelling around Roo's ear! It could be a swollen lymph node, which is an indication of infection. Given that it's on one side and she is eating slowly, it could be that she has a tooth root abscess on that right side leading to the swollen lymph node and slow eating. The warm ears could be due to a fever but also an ear infection. Given her multitude of symptoms, it would be best that Roo is seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose what is causing all her symptoms and can treat her accordingly. Because she has been lethargic since Wednesday, it's best that she is seen by a vet tomorrow.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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