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My dog is lethargic, drooling, and has a runny nose. Is it urgent?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 2 years and 7 months old | 80 lbs

My dog is very lethargic today. She is drooling a little and her nose is running. Could this potentially be an urgent situation? Thank you!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 10th, 2017

I'm sorry Pebbles isn't feeling well! I am concerned by your description that she is very lethargic. Lethargy is a very general sign of illness, and it can be caused by systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury among many other causes. The drooling and runny nose could be due to a respiratory infection. As long as Pebbles is eating and drinking normally, and going to the bathroom normally, then you can wait until the morning to have her seen by a vet. If she, however, isn't eating or drinking normally, then I would have her seen by a vet now.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 17th, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Bentley. Poor boy. Drooling can be a sign of nausea, pain, or a dental problem, while the runny nose is a sign of a respiratory infection. As long as he is eating and drinking, isn't lethargic, and isn't constantly scratching at his ear, you can wait until the morning to have him seen by a vet. Feed him a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days to see if that helps with the drooling. Then slowly add back in his normal diet. I hope this helps!

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