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Why is my active lab limping, not eating, and losing weight suddenly?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 55 lbs

My 1 year old very active and healthy lab has begun to limp (front leg) and has stopped eating. She’s lost some weight as well. She still tries to go everywhere and run her marathons (lol). She’s stayed incredibly active but I’m wondering if she has overdone it. I tried giving her a hot dog instead of her regular food but she just laid it down. What do you think? Thanks.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 25th, 2019

Hello. Limping & a lack of appetite may be a sign of some metabolic problem or an infectious disease. Tick fever is one thing that comes to mind that can cause lameness & illness at the same time. The weight loss is concerning because this indicates that this may be a chronic problem. Before things get any worse for your sweet girl, it would be best to have her evaluated by your veterinarian at your earliest convenience. The sooner you can find out what is causing her symptoms, the sooner you can get her back to feeling better. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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