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Is my puppy's crying, yelping, and sleeping after shots normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 6 days old

My 9 week old puppy has it first injections today and since bring her home has been very wingy crying randomly and yelps like in pain when picked up she has also slept a lot since and has just not been herself at all. Throughout the day she has played eaten and drank normally. Just wanted to establish if this yelping crying is normal and if there's anything I can do thanks for your help

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 30th, 2017

Some puppies can have some mild pain from the injections. You could call your vet and see if he/she could prescribe an anti-inflammatory to help with the discomfort. It usually only lasts for 24-48 hours.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The trip to the vets for first vaccines is stressful, and sometimes the vaccine can make the puppy a little drowsy or sick. I imagine a combination of both of these is making Koko feel a little poorly. As long as she is eating and drinking well I would just keep her really warm and comfy. Let her have some peace and quiet to rest. If she deteriorates call your vet.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    First of all be assured, this is a common reaction after a vaccination, this usually resolves withing 24 hours but unfortunately there is nothing that you can or need to do regarding this, this will go on it's own.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 14th, 2017

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor baby! I don't think what Pacer is doing at home is normal. They can sleep a lot after vaccines but crying in pain when he is picked up it not normal. Vaccines can cause pain in some animals after the shot. I recommend you call your vet and ask to pick up a dog safe pain medication. Do not give him any human pain medications as they can interfere with what your Vet may prescribe. I hope Pacer is back to himself soon!

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