9-week old adopted puppy is lethargic

by Carol Cleary
(Walkertown, NC, USA)

I adopted a puppy recently - it has not had any shots yet - that was planned for this upcoming week. He has been playful but today acts like he does not feel well.

No vomiting, bowel movements are normal, and he is drinking and eating. Just laying around and sleeping most of the day. I have plans to take him to the vet mid-week. Does this sound "normal"?



Hi Carol
I'd definitely recommend having your pup examined by your vet as soon as you can. Lethargy is often one of the symptoms of common, contagious dog illnesses and should be taken seriously.

The fact that he's not vomiting or having diarrhea is a good sign, but doesn't mean that the lethargy should be ignored.

Until he's had all 3 sets of puppy shots he will be at risk of getting sick. Have your vet take a look at him asap as the sooner a condition is recognized, diagnosed and treated (if in fact he is sick) the better his chances of making a full recovery.

Best of luck with him, hope he's doing better soon.