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Why is my 8-week puppy lethargic with soft stool and eye boogers?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 8.6 lbs

This afternoon our 8-9 week puppy took a nap that has lasted through now, making it almost 6 hrs straight with a brief groggy moment of movement to try and eat/relieve himself. He ate a small amount of his food, drank a little water and rushed outside to do his business. It was shiny and while still not liquid, it was softer than normal. He then returned to sleep. He is very lethargic and has eye boogars that keep reforming. We have had him for a week and none of these symptoms are standard

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lisa Mausbach, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2018

Good Evening...thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I can tell you are worried about Rio. It can be challenging with these little guys, especially when they are so young because they are more susceptible to disease. The eye discharge, while it looks quite gross, is not of urgent or immediate concern, but does warrant a trip to the veterinarian in the next 24-48 hours if possible. Something relatively easy you can perform is a temperature. If you have a regular digital thermometer (or can purchase one @ a local pharmacy/convenience store) you can take Rio's temperature. You can place the thermometer rectally (ideal) while using vasoline, lubricant, or mild dishwashing or hand soap - be sure the silver part of the tip of the thermometer is completely inserted (insert ~1/2 inch) into the anus. Alternatively, you can take the temperature by laying the thermometer deep under the axillary area (arpit of the front leg) on the skin and laying the leg back down over the thermometer while it is reading the temperature. If it is >102.5, it is indicates he has a fever, which is more concerning in a puppy and requires more urgent attention (either urgent care or a visit to your veterinarian in the morning). If the stools continue to become more loose, please collect a sample and bring the sample to the veterinarian when you schedule an appointment. I hope this helps...

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