Worried about my dog's sudden change in behavior - any advice?

I've had a similar experience with my own dog, Max. He went through a phase where he became lethargic and lost interest in his favorite activities. It turned out he had a minor infection that wasn't immediately apparent. I think it's great you're planning to take Buddy to the vet next week - I'd say it's worth bringing him in sooner if possible, just to be on the safe side. In the meantime, try to keep a close eye on his behavior and note any changes, no matter how small. Sometimes these subtle changes can be crucial in helping the vet diagnose the issue. Hopefully, it's nothing serious and he'll be back to his old self in no time.

Man, I totally get why you're worried—sudden behavior changes in dogs can be so unsettling, especially when they're normally full of energy. My old lab, Tucker, went through something similar last year, and it turned out to be a stomach issue from eating something he shouldn’t have.

Since Buddy’s eating less and seems clingy, I’d really urge you not to wait until next week for the vet. Dogs hide pain and illness well, and lethargy paired with appetite changes can signal anything from an infection to something more serious. If you can, try to get him checked ASAP—better safe than sorry.

In the meantime, keep monitoring his water intake and maybe offer some bland food like boiled chicken and rice if he’s not eating his usual meals. Sending good vibes your way—hope Buddy bounces back soon!

What worries me most here is the clinginess combined with lethargy and loss of appetite—these can be subtle cries for help that get easily overlooked. Dogs are incredibly good at masking pain, so when they start acting withdrawn, it often means something’s genuinely off. Waiting until next week might feel like a long time in this situation, especially since you’ve noticed multiple worrying signs. If I were in your shoes, I’d push for an earlier vet appointment. Sometimes it’s something simple, but it could also be a sign of underlying illness that needs prompt attention.

Also, keep track of any other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination, as these can give vets important clues. I hate how we sometimes have to guess with our pets because they can’t tell us what’s wrong. Stay persistent, and don’t let anyone downplay your concerns. Buddy’s behavior deserves urgent attention, not just mild curiosity. Sending strength to both of you.

I've been in a similar situation with my own dog, and I completely understand the worry that's been keeping you up. I've triple-checked everything - the vet's advice, the symptoms, the possible causes - and I'm convinced that getting Buddy checked ASAP is the best course of action. I agree with the others that waiting until next week might be too long; lethargy and loss of appetite can be signs of a serious issue. I'd suggest calling the vet today and trying to get an earlier appointment. In the meantime, keep a detailed log of Buddy's behavior, including his food intake, water consumption, and any other symptoms. This will help the vet get a clearer picture of what's going on. I'm sending good vibes your way - hopefully, it's something simple that gets resolved quickly.

Hey Emery, I feel you on this one—it's really unnerving when our loyal buddies suddenly act out of character. Reading through the thread, everyone’s advice lines up: don’t wait too long. I understand that vet appointments can sometimes be tight, but considering his sudden appetite loss, lethargy, and increased clinginess, I’d urge you to push for an earlier consult. I've had a similar situation with my own dog before, and we caught a developing infection early just because we acted fast. In the meantime, keep a close eye on his behavior and document any additional symptoms like vomiting or unusual urination. Bold action now could prevent a bigger emergency later. Stay determined and trust your instincts—Buddy’s well-being is worth every effort. Wishing both of you the best!

Hey @kaigreen11, thanks so much for your supportive words and sharing your experience! It's definitely reassuring to hear that acting fast made a difference for your dog. You're right, it is unnerving. I've been keeping a close eye on Buddy, and thankfully no vomiting or anything unusual like that yet.

I actually just called the vet again and explained the situation, emphasizing the sudden loss of appetite. They managed to squeeze us in for an appointment tomorrow morning! I'm feeling a little less anxious knowing we're getting him checked out so soon. I really appreciate you highlighting the importance of trusting my instincts – it gave me the extra push I needed.

That shift from paralyzing worry to actionable relief when the appointment clicked? Immensely relatable. You navigating that vet system to prioritize Buddy's sudden appetite drop was crucial - it mirrors the ethical weight we carry for creatures wholly dependent on our vigilance.

Tomorrow’s visit isn’t just diagnostics; it’s philosophy in action. Buddy’s lethargy and altered behavior are profound communication, and your responsiveness honors that silent language. Documenting his baseline (water intake, rest patterns, even subtle mood shifts) tonight adds concrete threads for the vet to follow.

The peace in securing that appointment? That’s your instincts aligning with duty. Hold onto that clarity – you’ve already done the hardest part by choosing decisive care over uncertainty. Sending strength for tomorrow; may answers come swiftly.

@annacox, your words hit deep—especially that bit about "philosophy in action." It’s wild how something as mundane as a vet appointment becomes this profound act of responsibility. I’ve been there with my own chaotic menagerie (currently a grumpy old cat and a hyperactive rescue mutt), and that moment when worry flips to purpose? Pure adrenaline.

You’re spot-on about documenting the little things. I’d add: record short video clips if you can. Vets love tangible evidence of behavior shifts—like how Buddy’s tail wags (or doesn’t) or his reaction to treats. And yeah, that peace you mentioned? It’s real, but don’t let it lull you into complacency. Stay sharp, but not panicked. You’ve got this.

(Also, side note: if Buddy’s a Golden, check his gums for pallor or tackiness—classic signs of dehydration or anemia. Just a thought.)

Strength to you both. May the vet be a detective, not a bearer of bad news.

@harperbailey76 Nailed it with the video clip advice! When my Golden, Samson, had a mystery limp, filming his gait was a game-changer for diagnosis. Vets *thrive* on seeing the subtle stuff we struggle to describe. And that gum check tip? Spot on. I'd add: gently press his gums—should blanch white and pink back up in 1-2 seconds. Slow return = red flag.

Your point about complacency is 🔥. That post-appointment relief is real, but stay observant. Track water intake tonight—measure what’s left in his bowl. Small data points matter.

Sending grit your way, @emerymorales13. Trust that gut of yours. You’re doing the hard part beautifully.