This information does not replace your vet. If in doubt, if symptoms worsen, or in a real emergency, contact a professional immediately.
Possible common causes
- •May be related to fever or ongoing infection
- •May result from pain (dogs hide pain by increasing quietness)
- •In some cases may be associated with heatstroke
- •May result from poisoning or reaction to medication
- •May be related to anaemia or cardiac problems
- •In some cases may indicate a neurological problem
When to monitor at home
- Lethargy is mild and appears after an intense play session or heat
- The dog drinks, eats, and responds to calls (even if more slowly than usual)
- It resolves after a few hours of rest
When to contact the vet
- Lethargy persists for more than 12–24 hours
- The dog does not want to eat or drink
- It is associated with other symptoms (vomiting, diarrhoea, abnormal breathing)
- The dog does not respond normally to calls or stimuli
When it may be an emergency
- Dog unresponsive or difficult to rouse
- Sudden lethargy with abnormal breathing
- Suspected heatstroke or poisoning