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My dog is suddenly lethargic, limping, and very thirsty. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Male | neutered | 5 years and 10 months old | 100 lbs

My dog has a moveable mass on his chest. He is a 6 year old goldendoodle... he is on phenobarbital for seizures and Prozac for seperation anxiety... this past weekend he has had excessive thirst, lethargic & now is limping on his front left leg. He is still eating, and has great appetite. Any idea what could be wrong ?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2016

Excessive thirst can be a sign of many different diseases including liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, infections, Cushing's Addison's, etc. Have your vet take a look at him to determine the cause. Your vet can run lab-work to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. The limping may be unrelated and your vet can examine his leg to try to figure out the cause. Hope Hunter feels better soon!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 16th, 2018
I am so sorry to hear about Joe. He is a cutie. I would recommend an exam by his vet as soon as possible with these symptoms. Increased thirst along with lethargy (+/- appetite changes) can be a sign of many different problems in dogs, including kidney and liver disease, diabetes, endocrine disorders, liver shunts, and more. The vet can do a good physical examination of him and will likely recommend bloodwork and urinalysis to help diagnose the cause of his symptoms which will guide the treatment. Best of luck to you and Joe!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 31st, 2017
Poor Petey! That is concerning and he could have an infection, kidney disease, liver disease, endocrine disease (diabetes, cushings, addisons), mass, heart disease, etc. He really should be examined by a vet for a workup. Your vet can run blood work and a urinalysis to help diagnose and then prescribe medications to treat, depending on the cause. Hope he feels better soon.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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