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Why is my dog panting, withdrawn, not eating, and acting unlike himself?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 60 lbs

My 6 year old Heller mix has become withdrawn and panting heavily all day. He doesn't want to eat but has drank water. He is usually energetic and loves to go for walks. He didn't even jump and run to the door as he usually does when I ask him to go for a walk. His breathing seems to tighten up his back legs and he seems shaky. He is not his usual self.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 4th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for reaching out to Pet Coach about Indy. Based on your description I am quite worried about him and how he has declined throughout the day. His heavy breathing and trembling of his back legs may be related to pain in his hind end, abdominal pain, or some other internal cause. He is certainly letting you know that something his wrong. Although his signs at home are a bit vague and not specific for one disease, something his certainly wrong. If your regular veterinarian is not available at these hours, I would recommend to take him to an emergency veterinarian that can perform an exam and let you know that body system(s) he is having difficulty with and how urgent the problem is. That veterinarian will also be able to provide Indy with medication to give him some relief right away. Best of luck to Indy. I hope he is feeling better soon.

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