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Why is my 1-year-old German Shepherd lethargic after first heat?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed

My one year old German Shepherd female has went from a hyper playful dog to a lethargic one who just lays about or sleeps. She finished what I believe to be her first heat stage about two weeks ago, maybe more and during that stage she was lethargic, however she became herself again, and now she's back to being sleepy and almost depressed looking. I need to add that we have had warm weather recently like 20 degrees max, and she still eats and drinks and wants to go on walks. Please help. Thanks.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 29th, 2018

I can understand your concerns here. If Harley isn't showing any signs of stomach upset such as vomiting or loose stool along with her supposed lethargy, then she may be just fine. However, if you are truly concerned a brief exam by your vet is the next best step toward determining if she truly is ill or not. Lethargy is not a very specific symptom in and of itself; however some bloodwork analysis may help reveal if she has any underlying conditions that are causing this.
I hope that your pet Harley is going to be ok. Best case scenario is that she is just maturing into an adult dog (often this is the time that large breed dogs mature and stop growing) and that she is going to be just fine. Best wishes and take care!
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