Can my highly active dog be tired and need a break like an athlete?

Question

Black Lab; 17 months. Spayed; all shots. Seems a little tired, but eats and drinks. Still begs for food. Been playing hard all summer. River, ocean, dog park. Almost everyday. Could she just need a break? No fever. Stomach isn't tender. She hasn't had a break all summer. Can dogs want to take a break? Sort of like athletes? It's possible she could've ate something, but she has an appetite and still drinks water regularly. Her stools seem fine. She just seems slightly pooped. Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 5 months old | 75 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Yes she may need a rest. With agility dogs and other canine athletes we recommend one day off a week for rest with only short walks and no heavy activity. These dogs also get a month off during the year to just relax and be a dog. This helps them recover from long bouts of strenuous physical activity. If you give Belle a week or two of reduced activity and plenty of rest and she doesn't get her energy back then I would bring her in for an exam. They will check her for joint pain and run a blood panel to rule out metabolic issues. She's probably fine from your description so let her be lazy for a while and see how she does. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Belle.

Can my highly active dog be tired and need a break like an athlete?

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