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Why is my puppy lethargic, not eating, and has dark poop after a trip?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 5 lbs

Took my 4 and 1/2 month puppy on a two day trip with me, It was her first time staying elsewhere since I got her from the breeder. Since we got home she's done absolutely nothing but sleep and won't eat and I'm having to force her to drink. She won't come when I call her and she's not at all chipper. She pooped once earlier and it was dark and runny and I'm really beginning to worry about her, she generally acts like she's in pain

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Keay, DVM

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 15th, 2017

I am sorry to hear about Sheena. These symptoms are concerning especially in a young dog. Lethargy and inappetance make us concerned about ingestion of a foreign object and parvovirus if your dog hasn't had all her vaccines. Certain parasites can also cause these symptoms. Combined with dark runny stool (a dark tarry color can indicate bleeding in the upper GI tract), these signs indicate that she needs to see a vet today for an examination. They will likely check the stool for parasites (bring a sample of you Gabe one) and do a parvotest and may recommend an X-ray.
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