Lethargy In Dogs

We’ve all experienced that lethargic feeling, right? That sluggish heaviness. That lack of motivation. The reluctance to engage with our day-to-day routine…  

But we also know it differs from feeling tired – it’s a mood shift, not just an energetic drain. So, does lethargy in dogs differ? What does dog lethargy mean in canine terms?…

Lethargy In Dogs 

Dog lethargy can indicate many different things in dogs, but it’s important to know what’s not normal for your dog first.  

For example, a slow-paced senior (aged 7+) Labrador with joint discomfort who likes to lie down a lot, perhaps would be considered by their owners as “normal”. But, if this behavior was happening in a usually spritely 3-year-old Springer Spaniel, then this may be a cause for concern for their pet parent.  

 

Signs 

If your dog’s normal, everyday functioning seems off and they are also: 

• Very tired 
• Slow-paced  
• Hiding out in their bed or crate 
• Reluctant to play 
• Disinterested in food 
• Unresponsive to treats or fuss 

This may suggest their lethargy is a sign of them feeling under the weather, and they may require a once-over from their veterinarian.  

If your dog is simply tired, a treat or someone arriving home can usually still distract them from their fatigue. If they’re lethargic, these things won’t rouse them as much. Also, if they’re still not themselves after having slept, then this is also indicative that something’s not quite right.  

 

Causes 

Lethargy can point to so many different things health-wise in canines ranging from minor to major. Only a veterinarian will be able to determine what’s up with your pup, but causes for lethargy can include: 

• Bodily discomfort 
• Infection (viral or bacterial) 
• The body’s response and processing of a recent vaccination shot 
• Poor mental health (boredom or depression) 
• Medicinal side effects 
• Disease 

Dog Lethargy  

Dog lethargy is considered to be a very non-specific sign of a health problem, so any other signs your pup is showing can be useful for your vet to know.  

If your dog is showing no other signs of having a health issue, it may be worth waiting a few hours to see if the lethargy resolves itself. If they’ve been consistently lethargic for a 24-hour period, then you should absolutely contact your vet for advice.  

Sources

Author Maharaj, Nandini “Lethargy In Dogs: What You Need To Know” American Kennel Club, Dec 30. 2022 https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/lethargy-in-dogs-what-you-need-to-know/