dog + health?
Susan W asked:
My dog does not need as much excercise as she used to. She’s inside from 7 a.m to 4:30 p.m and she used to need at least two hours, not continously, of walking before she would go to sleep at 8 p.m. Now all she needs is two thrity minute walks and she’s ready for sleep. She’s been like this for about a month and she’s nearly 7 years old. She is a mixed breed, stocky build but usually high energy dog about 60 pounds. Is this something I should be worried about?
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My dog does not need as much excercise as she used to. She’s inside from 7 a.m to 4:30 p.m and she used to need at least two hours, not continously, of walking before she would go to sleep at 8 p.m. Now all she needs is two thrity minute walks and she’s ready for sleep. She’s been like this for about a month and she’s nearly 7 years old. She is a mixed breed, stocky build but usually high energy dog about 60 pounds. Is this something I should be worried about?
January 22nd, 2009 at 12:55 pm
Has your dog been gaining weight? Weight gain can slow down a dog, as can age. As this is a sudden decrease in activity level, you should definately take your dog to the vet. There could be an underlying medical reason she suddenly has less energy.
Other common symptoms to watch for:
- loss of appetite
- external injuries (sprained muscles, sore spots)
- changes in elimination patterns/consistency
- changes in her stool
- changes in her general mood
January 23rd, 2009 at 3:21 pm
I wouldn’t be too concerned with it. 7 years is approaching middle age for a larger type dog. As long as he is eating and drinking well and acting happy it is probably just him getting a little bit older.