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My dog is lethargic and not pooping. When should I worry or see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Staffordshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 1 year and 10 months old | 60 lbs

My dog seems kind of lethargic, she is eating and drinking as normal, she just seems down and wants to sleep. I haven’t seen her have a BM for about a day. Do you think this is cause for concern or a vet visit? She is also urinating as usual, she doesn’t seem to have a fever to the touch, and her nose is wet if that means anything? Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 10th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Winnie. You can try taking her temperature to check for a fever. A thermometer (I don't recommend glass for risk of breakage) can be lubricated with vaseline or other lubricant and inserted rectally 1 to 2 inches. A normal temperature is 100 to 102.5. Above this would be a fever and cause for concern. Taking a rectal temperature may also help stimulate a bowel movement. You can also give a few teaspoons of canned pumpkin added to her food to help relieve constipation in case that is part of her issue. If she has a fever, constipation continues, lethargy continues, or she develops vomiting, decreased appetite, pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or has pale gums then a visit to the vet is recommended.

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