Sudden lethargy in a dog can indicate a health emergency.
When a usually vibrant dog suddenly seems sapped of energy, a devoted pet owner can become frightened. There are many reasons why dogs suddenly act lethargic. Some problems that cause sudden lethargy are easily remedied at home. Yet sudden lethargy also can indicate a life-threatening emergency. When it's accompanied by other noticeable symptoms, or lasts longer than a day or two, it's best to visit a veterinarian for advice.
Mental Distress
Some dogs are sensitive to changes in their environment or family situation. A bored or depressed dog will often act lethargic. Divorce and death or departure of a family member can trigger canine depression. A dog often acts lethargic when children in its family begin school or move away to college. A new job, or job travel that takes a family member away from home for long hours, can cause a lonely dog to act lethargic.
Infection
Sudden lethargy in unspayed female dogs is cause for alarm. It can be a symptom of pyometra, which is an often deadly uterine infection. A heartworm infection can also cause a dog to appear listless. If you suspect your dog's lethargic behavior stems from an infection, take the dog's temperature to determine if it's running a fever. An adult dog's normal rectal temperature is between 100 and 102.5 degrees.
Dehydration & Heatstroke
Excessive vomiting or diarrhea, or overheating in hot weather, can cause sudden lethargy in dogs. A dog's body consists of up to 80 percent water. It aids numerous body functions including digestion, circulation and helping to remove bodily wastes. A dog will become lethargic if the fluid levels in its body drops. If heatstroke occurs and a dog's body temperature becomes abnormally high, it can appear weak and depressed.
Poor Nutrition
The saying, "You are what you eat," is as true for dogs as it is for people. Dogs on a nutritious, balanced diet will appear strong and full of vitality. Dogs eating an unbalanced, poor diet can develop nutritional deficiencies that cause lethargy. For optimum canine energy, make sure your dog's food contains a proper balance of proteins, carbohydrates and vitamins. Check food labels, if feeding commercial food, and consult a veterinarian for guidance.
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