Your dog can exhibit a lack of energy for three basic reasons: normal tiredness, a deficit in basic nutritional needs, or a more serious illness. When a dog is tired, it needs to rest. An anorexic dog is not getting adequate nutrition, and a dehydrated dog is lacking adequate fluids; both conditions are likely signs of a deeper disorder. If your dog is suffering from an illness, it’s energy is depleted from fighting the illness.
Anorexia and Dehydration
Partial anorexia, or hyporexia, is a condition in which the dog does not eat enough to maintain its weight, while a dog experiencing complete anorexia has not eaten in three or more days. Anorexia is not a disease in itself, but is a sign of a deeper emotional or physical disorder, such as a digestive disorder, dental problems, or kidney failure. A dog who is panting or drooling excessively, has dry and sticky gums, does not have normal physical coordination, and whose skin does not spring back into shape when pulled, may be dehydrated. A dehydrated dog may be less interested in water than a normal dog. Lack of food or water will fatigue your dog.
Anemia
Anemia happens when the protein hemoglobin can not release oxygen to bodily tissues. Besides lack of energy, a dog suffering from anemia can exhibit seizures, vomiting, excessive panting, and abdominal pain. Anemia results from either a genetic disorder or eating an analgesic, such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Cancer
Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. It can happen in many different parts of a dog’s body. While it is more likely to occur in older dogs, it can happen to dogs of any age. Besides lethargy, cancer symptoms are multifarious, and can include decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, great thirst, and frequent urination, among many other possible symptoms.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is usually spread by the bite of an infected tick. It occurs all over the United States. Besides a lack of energy, typical symptoms include high fever, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea.