Lethargic, smelly dog

Question
I have a dog that seems to be growing weaker i.e. unable to jump up on his doghouse like he used to. His hair is stiff and matted and he smells. Not sure if he has become to lazy to go outside of his house to pee or not. Just doesn't seem to have the energy he used to, hangs out in his doghouse most of the time.

Answer
Chris -

You should have your dog examined by a veterinarian as son as possible.  He is obviously not feeling well and there are many, many reasons why he is not able to get up to urinate or jump up on his doghouse.  His lethargy may be attributed to something as simple as intestinal parasite infestation or arthritis or something more complex such as heartworm disease.  

Dogs do not just become "lazy" because they want to; they are unable to do the things they used to do because of a physical ailment. Your veterinarian can help you determine why your pup is not feeling well.  Often your vet can give ways to make your dog feel comfortable; everybody, even our pets deserve to be comfortable.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM