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Is it normal for my dog to feel tired and low energy after vaccines?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 20 lbs

Is it normal for a dog to seem kind of "down" 1 or 2 days after taking some vaccines? My dog took some shots and I noticed that he seemed a little down a day and a half later, he ate and drank but didn't seem to have as much energy (although he was stil playing). Is it also normal for a dog to sometimes wake up more energetic?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 12th, 2019

The answer to both your questions is yes. Some animals, just like people, are more sore and have more of a reaction to vaccines than others. It would be OK for him to be "down" for a couple days as long as he is eating and drinking. If he was down and not eating/drinking then that would be a more severe reaction and he would need some treatment by your vet to counteract the reaction.

Again, just like people, some dogs will wake up more energetic than others!

Great questions!
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