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My dog is lethargic, not eating, but drinking. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 54 lbs

My dog was very slow and low energy this morning and this is rather unusual for him. This afternoon when i got home and let him into the house i noticed that he did not eat any of his food but he continues to drink water. This entire day he has been very slow moving and not as energetic as he usually is. Should i take him in to see his regular vet or is this perhaps just a stomach problem that could be bypassed in a day or two?

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 23rd, 2018

I'm sorry to hear that Twinkle hasn't been feeling well today. I would recommend that he is seen by his veterinarian. There may be something on the physical exam that will point to a diagnosis such as joint pain. He may also need laboratory work to determine the cause of this sudden change in him. Encourage him to continue drinking water so he does not become dehydrated. You can offer him food, but stay with his normal diet. Good luck!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    Thanks for contacting PetCoach! As you are located in San Diego, you may be interested to know what we now offer housecall services to pets in the greater San Diego area. Visit https://www.petcoach.co/house-call-veterinarians/ or email us at housecalls@petcoach.co for more information!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 14th, 2020

    Poor Taylor. Lethargy and not eating are both signs of many illnesses including dental disease, systemic illness, infection, or injury. Without seeing her in person, I can't say what is going on. Monitor her tonight, and offer her some boiled white meat chicken (no bones or skin) and white rice. If she doesn't eat this or is still lethargic in the morning, have her seen by a vet. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 29th, 2019

    Poor Cheddar! These are non-specific signs, but it sounds like Cheddar is unwell. These signs could be caused by parasites, change in diet, toxin ingestion, infectious viral diseases, a mass/growth, trauma, or other problems. I recommend you have Cheddar seen by a vet to help figure out whats going on. In the mean time, if he is not eating well, you can try boiling boneless skinless chicken in water, shredding the chicken, and feeding him small amounts of the resulting chicken broth and cooked chicken with some plain boiled white rice once it has cooled.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on April 24th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite and lethargy can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Lillie evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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