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Why is my Yorkie puppy shaking, lethargic, stiff, and can't walk?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 26 days old | 2 lbs

My 6 month old Yorkie puppy was shaking and very lethargic. Her limbs seem stiff and that she can't walk right or drunk in a way. She is not even raising her head when we call her name. What could be wrong with her?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on June 27th, 2018

These are certainly scary and concerning symptoms. I'm sure you are very worried about Bella as am I. I would recommend that Bella be seen by a veterinarian right away as the symptoms you report could be signs of something serious like low blood sugar. She is a tiny little dog and a Yorkie as well so there are some breed related issues that can cause similar signs. Seeing a veterinarian right away will help to rule out many things and hopefully get her feeling better as soon as possible. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on January 8th, 2018
Oh dear! I'm sorry to hear that your pup is having this problem. I'm afraid this sounds quite serious - it's impossible to say what might be causing these symptoms without being able to examine her and run some tests, but some possible causes could include a neurologic disease like meningitis, a serious systemic infection of some kind, or ingestion of something toxic.

This may be a life-threatening problem, so I would recommend taking her to an emergency vet immediately. The vet can do a complete neurologic exam as well as blood work or other testing if needed to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on July 2nd, 2018
I recommend an urgent vet visit to assess and treat her as soon as possible. Lethargy and weakness are very vague signs and it is impossible for us to guess what may be causing them. Drooling can be from fever, nausea, dental pain or medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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