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Why is my chihuahua sleeping more, sad, and avoiding stairs?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 8 years and 5 months old | 9 lbs

my chihuahua suzy has been sad for the past three days. she eats & drinks normally as she would but, has slept so much or taken more naps than usual ... she barks at people still once they come through the door & runs a little to them so that makes me happy but, while going up & down the stairs she hesitates

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 18th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Suzy. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian. I worry that she is actually quite painful. Small breed dogs are prone to neck and/or back pain which can be quite excruciating for them. Based your description of her sleeping more than normal, not wanting to do stairs and not running as much, this is a possibility. The veterinarian will examine her and determine if she is in fact painful. If so, x-rays may be taken. Based on these results, treatment can be started to help her feel better. In the meantime, keep her quiet and carry her as much as possible. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications as these can be toxic to dogs. They can also interfere with veterinary medications that may be needed for her. I hope this information helps!

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