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My dog won't eat or drink and is very tired. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | unspayed | 10 lbs

I think my shitz u Maltese mixed Lucy don't want to eat drink she just got up for a few minutes and went back to her bed which is not like her at all. Lucy had been like this for last 4-5 hours. The last thing I seen her do was chew on a rawhide like she normally does. I am lost for words and I am worried

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 13th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lucy! It is always alarming when our pets do not follow the normal routine! It would be helpful to know her age. There could be many many reasons for why she is more lethargic and won't eat, some are: an infected uterus since she isn't spayed and if she is older, tummy upset from the raw hide, pain, fever. You can try to take her temperature rectally with a digital thermometer. Anything 103 F or higher is a fever. If this behavior persists when your Vet opens have her seen today for an exam. I wish Lucy the best!

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    Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I’m sorry Lucy isn’t acting herself. It sounds like you are describing that she’s restless, and laying down and getting back up, walking around rather than resting. Is she salivating excessively and or acting like she’s trying to swallow? Since the last thing you saw her do we chew on a rawhide, it’s possible the rawhide is stuck in her esophagus. It’s also possible that she’s feeling nauseous and just hasn’t vomited yet. Is she asking to go outside? If she’s wanting to go out frequently, she may have a urinary tract infection or other urinary tract issue. Or she maybe having diarrhea if she’s wanting to go out. If she is salivating excessively and or hard swallowing, or vomiting, or straining to urinate and nothing is vomiting out, or seems weak or lethargic, seek an emergency vet. If none of those things are going on, you can reassure her, make sure lights are off, and try playing some soothing music. Then call your vet in the morning if she’s not back to herself. I hope that helps you! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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