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Why is my dog limping, lethargic, and acting unlike herself lately?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | BullBoxer | Female | 3 years old | 50 lbs

We noticed Frankie hasn't quite been herself for.about A week. After laying down, she limps for a minute or two.. Also she seems to lack energy and seems distant or depressed. Example: She usually jumps up on the couch between my wife and me, and lately she prefers to be by herself either on the floor or on "her" chair. Also, we took her to the park today and she didn't have much interest in running much, and was pretty tired on the way home, despite only having been at the park for around 35min

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2020

Hello. I would recommend taking Frankie to your vet to first of all do a test for tick diseases. Sometimes they can get quite sick quickly, other times they can have a smoldering disease with no specific symptoms & mild lameness., very similar to what you are describing with Frankie. Even if you have not seen a tick on her, this is a very good place to start. The test requires a few drops of blood & your vet probably can run it in her office. Hopefully, you will get some answers & get her back to feeling her old self quickly. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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