Lethargic Pups: Reasons Your Dog Has Low Energy Levels
Has your pooch gone from a ball of energy to a couch potato? You’re not alone in your worries, as many pet owners experience this. As an animal lover, I’ve compiled a list of answers to help y’all understand this behavioral change. It can occur for many reasons, ranging from a lack of exercise to old age. Check out the information below to learn about why your dog has low energy levels.
Lack of Exercise
A lack of regular exercise can wreak havoc on a dog’s energy levels. A lack of physical enrichment can lead to a dog becoming depressed and disinterested in activities it once enjoyed. Plus, inactive dogs are more likely to develop health problems, such as joint pain and obesity, making it even harder to move. Exercise helps your dog manage stress while releasing endorphins to boost its mood and keep it alert and active.
Owner Tip
When exercise levels are too low, your pooch is more inclined to act out negative behaviors, such as excessive barking or destructive chewing.
Inadequate Diet
Poor nutrition could be another reason why your dog has low energy levels. When a pup’s diet lacks adequate amounts of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, it may not have enough energy or nutrition to fuel normal activities.
Talk to the vet about how many calories your dog needs; this tells y’all how many cups of food to give your pup. Additionally, avoid any kibble that lists “meat byproduct” as a first ingredient, as these are fillers and don’t provide the nutrients a dog needs.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions can significantly affect a dog’s energy and activity levels. For instance, one of the warning signs of diabetes in dogs is lethargy. Other health problems, such as heart disease and cancer, can also rob your pup of its energy. Keep in mind that this is just one symptom of an underlying condition, and a diagnosis often requires several. Nevertheless, y’all should take note of sudden changes in your pup’s energy levels and contact the vet if it persists for several days.
Age
Older dogs often experience a decrease in energy levels as they age. This is due to a combination of factors, including physical and cognitive changes, that occur naturally. Older dogs may suffer from joint stiffness or other mobility issues that make it more difficult for them to move around.
Cognitively, aging in dogs can cause changes in their mental capacity, leading to confusion or decreased awareness of their environment. Like their human companions, senior dogs may become less interested in activities they previously enjoyed, such as long walks or playing fetch.
Owner Tip
Always consult a veterinarian if your pet experiences an abrupt change in activity levels or excessive lethargy. Keeping an eye on this behavioral shift allows you to best care for your pup!
