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Why is my 9-year-old Golden Retriever not eating and lethargic?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | spayed | 90 lbs

Recently, my dog hasn't been eating her food or treats, for the past 3 days. It was small at first but continued to get worse. She's also been more lethargic and won't get up as often, or go upstairs. My dog is a Golden retriever and she's nine years old.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on June 24th, 2018

Poor Mazy! It definitely sounds like something isn't right. There are many different things that could cause decreased appetite and lethargy, so it's hard to say what might be wrong without being able to examine her and run some tests. She could have anything from liver or kidney disease, to heart disease, arthritis pain, a GI problem of some kind, or even some type of cancer.

I would recommend taking Mazy to the vet for an exam when you are able to. He/she can do blood work and x-rays if needed to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment depending on what is found.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 7th, 2019
I am sorry to hear about Missy. I would recommend a visit to her veterinarian for an exam and some diagnostics such as bloodwork to check for an underlying cause. There are many different possible causes for these symptoms, and the vet's examination as well as your dog's history will help them narrow down the possiblities and guide the testing reocmmendations they may make.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on April 6th, 2019
Poor Buddy! It definitely sounds like he isn't feeling well. Lethargy and not eating are very vague symptoms that could be caused by almost any type of illness, so it's hard to say what might be wrong without being able to examine him and run some tests. Because of this, I would recommend taking him to the vet for an exam. He/she can do blood work, x-rays, or other testing if needed to help diagnose the problem and get him started on appropriate treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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