If your dog is lethargic not eating and shivering, something is clearly wrong.
While shivering alone might be caused by cold or mild anxiety, when it’s paired with low energy and loss of appetite, it could be a sign of illness, pain, poisoning, or even a neurological issue.
These three symptoms together should never be ignored.
We outline what might be causing your dog to feel this way, what you can do at home, and when it’s time to call your vet.
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Dog Lethargic, Not Eating and Shivering: Why It Happens
When your dog is lethargic not eating shivering, it may be due to causes such as fever, pain, anxiety, poisoning, pancreatitis, infections, or internal inflammation. These symptoms often go hand-in-hand because the body is reacting to distress, discomfort, or disease.
Dog Lethargic, Not Eating and Shivering: Common Causes
Fever or Infection
A fever can cause your dog to feel cold internally, even if their body temperature is high.
This internal chill often leads to shivering. Dogs with fever from infection will also typically feel weak and refuse to eat.
Signs of fever-related issues:
Warm ears or nose
Glazed eyes
Loss of interest in play or food
Fast breathing or panting
Infections like urinary tract infections, tick-borne diseases, or respiratory illnesses can all cause these symptoms.
A vet visit and bloodwork may be necessary to identify the source.
Related: My dog is lethargic and not eating (Causes and when to worry)
Pain or Discomfort
Dogs in pain often shiver as a response to internal or external discomfort.
Whether it’s abdominal pain from pancreatitis or musculoskeletal pain from arthritis or injury, pain affects a dog’s energy and appetite.
Look for:
Tucked tail or hunched posture
Sensitivity to touch
Reluctance to move or go outside
Whining or groaning
Shivering may worsen during movement or when lying down.
Pain relief and a proper diagnosis are essential for recovery.
Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Toxin ingestion is a critical emergency that can cause shivering, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Dogs can get poisoned from:
Chocolate
Grapes or raisins
Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
Rodent bait or pesticides
Human medications
Other symptoms of poisoning may include diarrhea, drooling, tremors, or seizures.
If you suspect poisoning, call your vet or a pet poison hotline immediately.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and is known for causing intense abdominal pain. One of the most telling signs is shivering, especially after meals, due to internal pain and discomfort.
Other signs of pancreatitis:
Vomiting
Abdominal bloating
Lethargy
Refusal to eat
This condition requires immediate veterinary care, including fluids, pain management, and a specialized low-fat diet during recovery.
Anxiety or Stress
Shivering can also be a physical response to fear or anxiety. Loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or recent trauma can cause a dog to become anxious—leading to trembling, hiding, and skipping meals.
While anxiety-related symptoms are often short-lived, prolonged behavioral changes warrant investigation to rule out underlying illness or pain.
Anti-anxiety treatment may be needed if behavioral stress is persistent.
Cold Temperature or Hypothermia
While it may sound obvious, being cold can cause shivering—especially in short-haired or small-breed dogs. However, when paired with lethargy and refusal to eat, hypothermia might be setting in.
Causes of hypothermia include:
Prolonged exposure to cold weather
Getting wet outdoors in winter
Being left in unheated spaces
Warming your dog gradually and contacting your vet is essential, especially if they remain sluggish even after being warmed up.
Neurological Issues
In rare cases, shivering along with lethargy and appetite loss may point to neurological disease, such as distemper in unvaccinated dogs or degenerative nerve conditions.
Symptoms to watch for:
Head tilt
Seizures
Uncoordinated walking
Eye flicking (nystagmus)
These conditions need immediate veterinary attention and may require supportive or long-term care.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Lethargic, Not Eating, and Shivering
Here are a few immediate steps to take:
Keep your dog warm and comfortable – Use blankets and ensure they’re in a quiet, safe space.
Offer water – Hydration is important, especially if they’ve also been vomiting.
Observe carefully – Monitor for additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in breathing.
Avoid giving human medications – Many are toxic to dogs and can worsen the situation.
Don’t delay – If symptoms persist or worsen, call your vet.
While minor causes may resolve with rest, serious conditions need medical attention quickly.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek immediate veterinary care if:
Shivering lasts longer than a few hours
Your dog refuses food and water entirely
There is vomiting, diarrhea, or disorientation
You suspect they ate something toxic
Their body feels very cold or very hot
These signs could indicate a critical underlying issue. The sooner you act, the better your dog’s chances of full recovery.
Related: My dog is drooling and lethargic (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
A dog that is lethargic not eating shivering may be experiencing pain, illness, or even a life-threatening condition.
While minor stress or a cold draft might cause brief shivering, when these symptoms persist together, they need to be taken seriously.
Monitor your dog closely, provide comfort, and most importantly, don’t hesitate to involve your vet.
Your fast action could make all the difference in helping your furry friend feel better again.