what's wrong with my puppies?

by Gladys
(Sacramento)

The puppy is a month and a old and it is very calm and quiet and it has just been lying down all day.She looks almost sad looking.

We had to hand feed her and gave her a little bit of pediatric electrolyte.She is usually running all over the place and biting everything, and we don't know whats wrong.

could it be sick?



Hi Gladys
It certainly sounds as though your little girl isn't feeling too well. Lethargy, or extreme tiredness, plus being unable (or not wanting) to eat/drink and disinterest in food, treats, play, surroundings etc. may indicate illness

If this is a puppy you've had since birth, and this is new or different behavior for her, then I would definitely suggest that you take her to the vet as soon as possible. Little puppies can get very sick, very fast and it's always better to be safe than sorry.

However, if you've only just got this puppy (and she's way too young to be away from her mom, so I'm guessing this isn't the case, but want to cover all eventualities) it could be just a sign of stress from leaving her mom and littermates.

For the first few days to a week or so after going into their new home, many puppies lose their appetite and seem 'sad or depressed'. As long as this isn't accompanied by diarrhea and/or vomiting, and the puppy will eat/drink some and play for short periods it's not necessarily cause for concern in that instance.

It's difficult to tell for sure what is going on though, and if you've any doubts or concerns, talk to your vet. Best of luck!