Dogs are susceptible to illness, just like humans. The sole distinction is that your pet is unable to communicate with you when they are ill, so it's critical that you are able to identify typical signs of dog disease so that you can assist your pet in feeling better. Dogs are adept at concealing any aches or problems, so pay attention to the minor clues.
The best method to identify any potential sickness symptoms as soon as possible is to get your pet checked by a veterinarian. For senior dogs, who should get routine examinations every three to six months, this is especially crucial.
These are a few signs that your dog may be having issues. Remember that this list isn't all-inclusive, and if you have any concerns about your pet's health, you should always consult your veterinarian.
General lethargy, depression, listlessness and sleeping more
If your dog isn't acting like their typical energetic, energetic selves, it's important to think about whether there may be a more serious cause than just tiredness. A visit to the veterinarian is necessary if your dog is generally ill or appears much more lethargic than usual (without any particular complaints).
Reduction in appetite or complete refusal to eat
Most dogs enjoy their food and will happily chow down on anything offered to them, but a noticeable increase in appetite can also indicate conditions in dogs such as diabetes or other hormonal problems, so speak to your vet if your dog is munching more than usual.
Increase in appetite
Talk to your veterinarian if your dog is eating more than usual because most dogs love to eat and will gladly gobble up whatever that is served to them. However, a noteworthy increase in appetite can also be a sign of illnesses like diabetes or other hormonal issues in dogs.
Weight loss
Your dog should be examined by a veterinarian if they begin to lose weight for no apparent cause. This could be a sign of an underlying illness. This is especially crucial if your dog exhibits other symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or an increase or reduction in appetite.
Vomiting
Vomiting in dogs it's normal for your dog to eat filthy food or scavenge the trash, but if the illness is severe, your dog throws up blood, has swallowing issues, or is gagging or retching, you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian. Intestinal issues, kidney disease, liver disease, and other conditions can all be indicated by vomiting. Consult your veterinarian right away if you notice your dog is ill and exhibit symptoms like lethargy, sadness, diarrhoea, or appetite loss. These symptoms could be signs of an underlying issue.
Diarrhoea
Even though occasional diarrhoea is usually not a serious problem and could just be the result of eating something bad in the garden, you should see your veterinarian if the diarrhoea is persistent, accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, appetite loss, or weight loss, or if your dog's faeces are black in colour or contain fresh blood or mucus. If at all possible, bring a stool sample.
Progressive weight gain
If your dog gains too much weight, they may develop mobility problems, so keep an eye out for symptoms of growing obesity. Check your dog's ribs; you should be able to feel them almost dog's body condition if you're not sure, use our chart, and then ask your veterinarian for guidance on handling the problem. If your dog's stomach appears to have gotten bigger, it could just be bloating, but it could also be a sign of hormone issues or abdominal fluid. However, if the swelling persists quickly, call your veterinarian right away because this is a veterinary emergency that might be lethal.
Excessive thirst or urination
Diabetes or renal issues may occasionally be indicated by excessive drinking or increased urination. Get in touch with your veterinarian if you observe that your dog urinates more frequently than usual, takes a long time to urinate, or the water bowl is regularly empty.
Difficulty urinating
Never make your dog strain to urinate. Additionally, you should call your veterinarian if they squat or cock their leg and don't make any urine, produce very little, or have blood in their urine.
Difficulty defecating
Similar to issues with urine, schedule a check-up if you observe your dog struggling to pass excrement or if they haven't done so in a few days. Additionally, you should monitor your dog's stools for any changes in consistency or colour.
Change in behaviour
Although your dog cannot tell you when something is amiss, you can infer it from their behaviour. There may be a concern if they start to withdraw and interact with the family less. Conversely, see your veterinarian if your typically amiable dog exhibits any strange behaviour (such as twitching or hostility) or if they object to being picked up. Go to the veterinarian as soon as you can since seizures should be treated as a medical emergency. Ask your veterinarian for assistance on how to carry a seizure-prone dog. You can record an event to show your veterinarian if the strange activity is sporadic.
Skin complaints – hair loss, itching and redness
The state of your dog's skin is an excellent indicator of their health; it should be smooth, shiny, and either pink or black, depending on their pigmentation. There can be a problem if your dog pulls at their fur, scratches a lot, or exhibits redness, irritation, or scabbing. An underlying sickness in your dog may also be indicated by a poor coat of hair that is dull or scurfy. Your veterinarian should also look into any redness or brownish discharge in the ears, as well as any shaking of the head.
Red or swollen gums
Oral illness is indicated by red or swollen gums and plaque (brown debris) on the teeth, especially when it is combined with foul breath. Dogs who are affected may also lose weight, eat with only one side of their mouth, drop food while eating, or have a decreased appetite. Consult your veterinarian as soon as you observe any signs because this can cause severe pain and even tooth loss.
Rapid or difficult breathing and coughing
Get in touch with your veterinarian right away if you observe your dog panting excessively, gasping, breathing rapidly, coughing or making noises while they breathe. These symptoms could point to a chest issue or be signs of a common illness like kennel cough.
Runny eyes or nose
Runny eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing could indicate that your dog's upper respiratory system is ill. On the other hand, a health issue may be indicated by a prolonged mucus-like discharge, nose bleeding, or a change in the colour of the nasal planum, which is the normally black area at the end of the nose. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if your dog's eyes appear uncomfortable or if they blink a lot and have redness around their eyes.
Lameness/stiffness
You should speak with your veterinarian if your dog is limping, is sluggish to get up or lie down, or has difficulty climbing and descending stairs, even if some mild stiffness may be a normal part of ageing. Your veterinarian can assist confirm whether these symptoms indicate a bone or joint problem.
For more guidance, speak with your veterinarian if you observe any other symptoms of your dog's sickness or if you have any worries about their well-being. Then, learn what to watch out for if your dog is suffering from a loss of appetite.
