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My dog is refusing to eat, hunched over, and panting. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 7 years and 6 months old | 80 lbs

He's been refusing to eat for 3 days now, and refusing to drink for 2.I've tried both wet and dry food.His stool looked normal on the first day, but i havent seen him poop since.He walks with his tail between his legs, he hunches over when he walks, and he won't let me pet his hips or ribs.He also pants like crazy indoors, where we keep it 68° F. Marley is my best friend and I'm worried for him...

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Catherine Stecyk

Veterinarian

Published on July 3rd, 2018

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It sounds like Marley is pretty sick, and I'm worried about him as well. Not eating or drinking can be signs of a systemic illness that is causing him to feel ill. Examples are liver disease, kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, and even cancer. Walking hunched is an indication of back pain and/or abdominal pain. He may be panting despite the normal room temperature because of this pain or discomfort. For all of these reasons, I would recommend having Marley evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. They will likely recommend blood work, a urinalysis and abdominal x-rays to look for evidence of underlying disease that could make him unwilling to eat or drink. These tests may also give some insight into why he is walking hunched over and sensitive to you touching him. They will also allow your veterinarian to develop the most appropriate treatment plan to get him feeling better as quickly as possible. I hope this is helpful, and best of luck to you and Marley.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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