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My high-energy dog is suddenly tired and not playing. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 8 months and 14 days old | 30 lbs

We have a 9month old portuguese water dog / wheaten terrier mix. She's been very high energy, playful, etc. since we got her at 2M old. But over the past week, her energy has been noticably lower; she sleeps all the time, doesn't play like she did, and generally seems uninterested in things. She eats every meal, though, and is drinking water. Should we be worried?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on December 15th, 2016

I'm very sorry Sadie isn't feeling well! I can understand they you might be worried, but it is a good sign that she is eating every meal and drinking water. Lethargy is a very general sign of illness, and it can be caused by many different things such as systemic illness, infection, injury, or inflammation. I would monitor her for now, and if she is still lethargic in 24-48 hours, I would take her into the vet for a health check.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 22nd, 2018
Hi there!
Good work on helping Dolly with her aggression and getting her on some good supplements for her health!
Dogs can be lethargic for many different reasons. She may have something minor, like an upper respiratory infection, or something more serious, like kidney disease.
It would be helpful to know if she was eating less or experiencing any vomiting, diarrhea, changes in urination, coughing, or sneezing. If you're concerned about her lack of energy, I would recommend taking her into a vet to be seen. They may give you peace of mind and tell you she looks fine or they might recommend things like bloodwork and x-rays to investigate what the cause of the problem is.
I hope this helps!
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on January 25th, 2020
It can be a sign of disease. I recommend to have Nikita examined by the veterinarian. Have her blood work checked and the vet may also want to check her for hypothyroidism which can cause lethargy. Since she can't talk and tell you what she is feeling so it's best to play it safe. I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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