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My dog has an ear infection, is lethargic, panting, not eating. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 11 months and 14 days old | 96 lbs

11 month old lab retriever has ear infection on last two days of antibiotics but has significantly decreased appetite, excessive panting, excessive sleeping, lethargic. Can this be attributed to ear infection or is something else going on?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 12th, 2020

Antibiotics can cause an upset stomach leading to a decreased appetite, but I'm concerned that it's excessive and Simba has other symptoms going on. If the ear infection is severe, it could cause these symptoms but I can't say for certain without seeing him in person. I'd take him into a vet immediately to get checked out.

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog has been panting for the past hour, calm panting though. It's not hot and she has water so why? She does have an ear infection so maybe that?
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