Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

Why is my 4-month-old puppy not eating, lethargic, and has diarrhea?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | unneutered | 32.5 lbs

My German shepherd puppy is about 4 months old and for 2 days now he doesn't want to play or eat he just will lay down all day. He drinks water but I'm worried about why he's not eating. He's had a little bit of diarrhea as well.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on October 11th, 2017

It sounds like your poor pup has a touch of gastroenteritis which is basically an upset tummy. It is pretty common in puppies and can be caused due to eating something yucky, bacteria, worms or viruses. Make sure the pup is wormed firstly. Then I would try starving the pup for 12 hours, followed by plain rice and chicken and gradually reintroduce his own food. If he starts to vomit or stops drinking go to the vet asap in case something more serious like a blockage is occuring. Likewise if he doesn't start to improve go to the vet as he may need an antibiotic.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored