My dog is lethargic, vomiting, shivering, won't eat. Should I worry?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 12 lbs
My dog is sick. I'm so worried about him. My mom and the rest of my family is on vacation and he normally acts odd the first day or so they are gone but this is different. He has been very sluggish and doesn't wanna play or interact. He doesn't want to each much at all. He is drinking lots of water. He shivers constantly. He did get sick and vomit twice. I'm so worried about him.
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 20th, 2017
Hi there. While it is not abnormal for Charlie to be lethargic and behave differently when everyone leaves-this is a bit much. I would recommend taking him in to your veterinarian in case something else is going on. Pancreatitis, intoxication, and a few other diseases can start with this presentation. Shivering in dogs is often a pain response (can also be nervousness, cold, etc). If these behaviors continue I recommend taking him in as soon as you can to try to prevent it from getting worse. I hope this helps and I hope Charlie feels better soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on May 19th, 2017
Please arrange to have Charlie seen by an emergency vet as soon as possible - it sounds like he has severe discomfort and likely a fever also. Lying out on the floor may be due to fever or pain and is common with pancreatitis which can cause vomiting and reduced bowel movement
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on February 24th, 2019
Hi, and thanks for your question. These signs could be compatible with an inflammation infection of the gastrointestinal system and surrounding organs (like pancreas and liver). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is immediately essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics and possibly further investigations (like abdominal imaging as ultrasound or radiographs) may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 19th, 2017
Hello, sorry to hear about Charlie. I would recommend having him evaluated by your veterinarian tonight, especially if you think there is a chance he could have gotten into anything (rat poison, gum, grapes, raisins, antifreeze, marijuana, or any other medications). Alternatively, if you do not think he could have gotten into anything and is otherwise eating and drinking well then you may continue to watch him at home until the morning and then contact you regular veterinarian for a same day appointment if he continues to have lethargy. Look for any signs of vomiting, diarrhea, collapsing, and have him evaluated immediately if you note any of these. Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 24th, 2017
Is there any chance Charlie could be painful- the shivering and shaking make me wonder if he is having belly or even back pain. If he is hesitant to jump up on furniture, walk up stairs etc. I would worry about back pain. If he is not obviously painful, but is off his normal food and is shivering perhaps it is belly pain. If it is not from pain, sometimes shivering can indicate a fever. If you're not doing so already, I would offer him only a bland diet (boiled chicken breast and white rice for example). Finally, I'm not sure why he was prescribed the antibiotic so there may be more going on than I can tell from the information I have. You could always place a call in to your veterinary office with an update on what is going on with Charlie and for advice even if you can't bring Charlie back in. They may be able to give you additional suggestions over the phone. Or post further questions here of course as they come up. Hope Charlie starts feeling better soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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