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My dog's unsteady, lethargic, no appetite. Tests clear. MRI next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered

My dog who's 4 years old has suddenly become very unsteady on his feet. He hasn't had a bowel movement in 3 days and has no appetite. He seems depressed and lethargic. He's usually very excited about everything but he's not been himself. He's had blood tests done and an x-ray. Nothing was found on those to indicate what was wrong. The vet I took him to suggested it might be neurological and recommended an MRI. Do you agree with this assessment or could it be something else?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 17th, 2021

Hello, I'm sorry to hear that Riley is having this problem. I suggest you take him for a second opinion with a board certified veterinary internal medicine specialist. An MRI is not a bad idea but I think there are other less expensive tests that may be more applicable to run first like more extensive bloodwork to check for endocrine diseases, tick borne diseases, etc. Also, if he only had plain film X-rays, a contrast study might be a good idea. I suggest you ask your vet for a referral to a specialist in your area. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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