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Is it normal for my puppy to cry in pain after vaccinations?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 13 days old | 10 lbs

My boyfriends 19 week old chihuahua mix puppy got shots today and tonight when ever you try to pick him up he cries in pain. Is this normal??

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on February 1st, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Possible side effects after vaccines include pain at the injection site, lethargy, inappetence and general discomfort. This should subside within 1-2 days. If it does not improve or it worsens, have Lucifer evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Otherwise, Lucifer will likely start feeling better shortly. Good luck and best wishes!

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28Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 23rd, 2016

    Poor Scott. Yes this normal for Scott to be a bit sore, especially in the area where he received his shot. Over the next few days his soreness should improve drastically. Just use care not to touch his ouchy area and he should recover just fine. As long as he doesn't have any excessive vomiting, diarrhea or facial swelling, you don't have anything to worry about.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on December 16th, 2016

    It's normal for a puppy to have some soreness for 24-48 hours after being vaccinated. Chip may also act a bit tired and not eat as much as normal for the next day or so, but should be back to normal after that. If he's still acting very sore by Monday, or if he develops any other symptoms such as vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or facial swelling, I would recommend having him examined by a vet since these can be signs of a more serious vaccine reaction.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 1st, 2017

    Poor Sully. Some pups may become painful or run a fever after vaccines. Do Not give any aspirin or otc medications. If he will eat and drink and settle down to sleep comfortably then I would give it some time and reassess him in the morning. If he refuses to eat, can't get comfortable, has any vomiting or swelling then I would recommend contacting an after hours veterinarian tonight to get him some relief. Be sure to let his regular veterinarian know so they can make a note in his chart, and they may give him medication prior to subsequent vaccines to help prevent this from happening again. I hope silly is feeling better soon. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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