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My dog is lethargic, not eating, and moving slowly. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 9 months old

My dog is not eating and is moving very slowly and being very sullen. He is an 8 year old mixed breed and this is his first day being like this.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 24th, 2017

Poor Patch! It sounds like he has a couple of things going on at the moment. He may not be eating because he has dental problems, a systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. He could be moving slowly because he's injured or is suffering from a musculoskeletal problem such as arthritis. I would have him rest today, and offer him some boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in his normal diet. Should he refuse to eat this diet and/or he's still moving very slowly in the morning, have him seen by a vet for a health check.

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