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My dog is shaking, not eating, and lethargic. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 7 lbs

My little dog started acting different last night after i bathed him he is been shaking and laying around not eating or drinking. his nose is wet and cold. what can we do for him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2017

Poor Brownie! The good news is that his nose being cold and wet is not a sign of illness in dogs. A dog's nose can go from cold and wet to warm and dry simply by lying in the sun or next to a heat source. It is concerning, however, that he is not eating or drinking, and is shaking and laying around. It is serious when a dog won't drink water, and I would have Brownie seen by a vet right away. This not eating and drinking could be caused by a systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. He could be shaking because he has a fever. The vet can diagnose what is causing his symptoms, and can treat him for them. I would take him into a vet right away.

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