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Why is my puppy lethargic, shaking head, gagging, and acting strange?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 28 days old | 5 lbs

My puppy is about 5-6 months old and today he started acting funny, his bark sounds like a cry his head is shaking ( like a bobble head toy) he's lethargic while sleeping his tounge hangs out ( not normally) ,gagging won't go down stairs, white foamy stuff in urine, completely different behavior.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 20th, 2018

All these signs are very concerning and point to a possible viral infection or metabolic disease. You need to take your dog to a veterinarian or PetER right away as he may be having a serious infection that needs to be tended to. Distemper comes to mind, a liver shunt and/or meningitis.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Debi Matlack

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on September 26th, 2018

    Your dog could have an upper respiratory infection, a neurological condition, could have reacted badly to something she has come into contact with, such as a cleaner, she may have contracted something from contact with another dog, there are a number of possibilities. These symptoms are serious enough that she should be seen by your vet right away. They will do an exam, labwork, possibly x-rays, and based on these results, your vet will have a better idea what is wrong with her and how best to treat it.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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