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My puppy is less playful and mischievous. Is he sick or growing up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 4 months and 17 days old | 6 lbs

Austin is becoming less naughty everyday. He seems to be less mischievous compared to last 10 days! Is it good? He eats well, trains well, drinks water, sometimes barks alot too. But now when he’s idle he sits in one place. Is he sick? Or a sign that he’s growing up?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2018

It is possible that Austin is starting to mellow, or that he could be becoming more used to his life in your home now and is settling down a bit. I would monitor him for changes in appetite, vomiting, diarreah, water intake. If any of these change he should be seen by the vet. You can take his temperature rectally with a lubricated thermometer to be sure he has no fever- normal temperature is 100 to 102.5. Also check his gums to be sure they are moist and pink.

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