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My dog is lethargic, shaking, vomiting, and won't eat. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years and 7 months old | 14 lbs

my dog is very lathargic, shakes, hangs her head down either while walking or lying down, vomiting, not eating or drinking, and not active and wants to be alone. I dont know whats wrong with her or what to do. Please help!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 6th, 2017

Hi there. I am sorry to hear that Chloe is not feeling well. The lethargy, shaking or trembling, being withdrawn, and hanging her head down certainly can indicate that she is in pain or discomfort somewhere. Not eating or drinking can also by a sign of pain or that there is a problem with her intestinal tract or other systems in her body. All of these signs do not point to one specific problem, however, they do tell us that Chloe is definitely ill. A good physical exam and most likely some tests from Chloe's veterinarian will help sort out the problem for her and hopefully get her feeling better soon. Best of luck to Chloe!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Chloe. Her symptoms fit the description for many diseases unfortunately so she needs bloodwork analysis and possible radiographs to determine what is wrong with her. Some possible causes are a spinal injury in her neck, an infection (meningitis), and pancreatitis just to name a few. I would highly recommend getting her seen as soon as possible by your local vetZ she needs care that is beyond what you can provide for her at home, and testing to find out her underlying illness so we know just what she needs to get well again. I do hope that your sweet girl Chloe gets well soon!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 11th, 2017

    Poor Bananay! I would take her into a vet immediately. She sounds extremely ill, and she needs veterinary attention right away. She could have gotten into some toxic, she could have a severe systemic illness, or she could have a pyometra if she isn't spayed causing her symptoms. The vet can diagnose what is causing her to be so ill, and can treat her for it.

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