Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is it normal for my puppy to be tired and sore after vaccine?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 2 months old

My puppy was vaccined with the 8 in 1 today. Since the vaccination, he is so tired and cries when he gets carried..is that normal?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on January 1st, 2018

It's normal for puppies to be more tired than normal for a couple of days after getting a vaccine, just like human kids. They may also be sore when petted or picked up, and can even run a low grade fever. This is usually not a cause for concern - most pups are back to normal within a few days. Signs of a more serious problem would include repeated episodes of vomiting, not eating, facial swelling, or hives (bumps all over the body). These can be signs of an allergic reaction to the vaccine, so if you see any of these issues, take your pup back to the vet right away to be checked.

Vote icon

7Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 18th, 2018

    Hi there. It's normal for puppies to be more tired than normal after getting vaccines, and to have some soreness at the vaccination site - just like human kids :) What you're describing sounds very normal. The lethargy and soreness should resolve within the next few days. Serious vaccine reactions are rare, but can occur. Signs of a more serious vaccine reaction would include vomiting, bloody diarrhea, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or pale/white gums. If you see any of these symptoms, then you should take Blue to the vet immediately to be checked. But as long as he's just tired and a bit sore, this shouldn't be anything to worry about. He should be back to normal in a few days.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My 4-week-old chick is sick and sleeps standing. What should I do?
Is your 4-week-old chick ill, sleeping standing? A Licensed Vet Tech offers expert advice on immediate care, feeding, and why a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored