Sick Dog Symptoms - Know The Signs

All dog owners beware! Your dog might be showing unusual signs that are easy to ignore because of their slight variation from the norm.

These signs can be indicators of a more serious underlying issue and should not be brushed off. Here are some of the most common, yet important symptoms that you should be wary of.

1. Problem With Urination

It is very rare for house-trained dogs to urinate in random places in your house so you should look deeper into the issue if your dog suddenly starts doing so.

Similarly, if your dog is urinating more or less than normal or has blood in its urine, you should immediately visit a vet because this can be an indicator of a bigger problem such as a urinary tract infection, blood problems, bladder stones, or even cancer.

Another thing to keep in mind is the careful use of diapers because when dogs have issues with urination; their owners often resort to using diapers which often cause diaper rashes. Incase this occurs, using a dog diaper rash home remedy can greatly decrease the discomfort.

2. Loss Of Appetite

Most dogs have their own eating pattern which may fluctuate from time to time but if your dog is actively having trouble finishing a meal, there might be a problem.

A loss of appetite is a prevalent issue that can be an indicator of a variety of diseases such as Hepatitis or Anorexia. If your dog continues to have this issue for over two days, you should consult your veterinarian.

When it comes to a loss of appetite it must also be noted that there is a possibility your dog is just uncomfortable and is having trouble eating but a loss of appetite should not be ignored in the case of any dog, big or small. Even the smallest dogs such as Goldendoodles need to be treated if this issue persists.

The first thing you can do is change your dog’s location because there is a possibility that the temperature of the area is unsuitable for your dog. Secondly, you can change its meal. You can take help from guides online to find a good mix for your dog.

3. Diarrhea And Vomiting

Diarrhea and vomiting are amongst the most common symptoms that dogs develop whenever there is a problem. They can be indicators of a harmless issue and even of a life-threatening one so you must keep a check. There are several aspects that can cause this problem.

A change in your dog’s diet can cause this. It is a possibility that the food being fed doesn’t suit your dog. In this case, it is recommended to go for healthier options. This includes home-cooked meals or dog food which is made from very few ingredients and doesn’t contain any additives.

Apart from the food being suitable there is a possibility that your dog is ingesting items that it should not be eating including its own poop. To avoid this issue many dog owners end up using diapers which cause diaper rashes.

In order to avoid diaper rash from poop, resort to other solutions. This may include changes in your dog’s routine or its food.

If your dog continues to vomit or has diarrhea for over 24 hours, you must get professional help because your dog might have an infection or some other health issue. There have been cases where dogs have swallowed inedible objects which cause diarrhea and vomiting and so visiting a vet is preferred.

4. Difficulty Breathing

If your dog is having trouble breathing, you must immediately take it to a vet. Breathing issues include wheezing, excessive coughing, shortness of breath, and even gagging.

Breathing issues can be an indicator of Influenza or Heartworm disease but can also be a sign of a fatal condition such as heart failure.

5. Itchy Coat Or Hair Loss

If your dog is suffering from a skin infection or has fleas, its coat might itch and an excessive amount of hair might start falling. Other problems such as allergies and conditions such as Alopecia can have a similar effect on your dog.

6. Changes In Behaviour

It is common for dogs to show changes in their behavior when they aren’t feeling too well. They might become lethargic or even more aggressive. If they start showing extreme signs for example if they barely move all day or start growling unusually, consult a doctor.

Simultaneously, you should monitor your dog to check if a specific behavioral change is accompanied by other symptoms. This can help in investigating the problem.

7. Unusual Changes In Weight

It can take time to notice any extreme changes in weight but this is an important sign to be noticed. If your dog has lost or gained an unusual amount of weight, you must consult a doctor because a variety of health issues can be related to this.

While it can also be a seasonal problem, changes in weight can be a symptom of diseases such as Heartworm disease so be vary if you notice this sign.

8. Discolored Gums

Dogs usually have pink gums that remain moist. Upon checking, if you notice that the gums are pale, it is a possibility that your dog is anemic or in shock. If your dog is lethargic or has difficulty breathing alongside the discolored gums, you must rush it to a doctor because this can be an emergency.

9. Eye Trouble

If your dog’s eyes are runny or red and if it is squinting or rubbing its eyes you must call a vet because the eyes might be infected. If left untreated the eyes can get seriously damaged.

10. Sleep Trouble

Certain dogs such as the large or older ones usually require more sleep but dogs also remain active for a good chunk of the day. If your dog's sleeping pattern has dramatically changed, you might want to consult a doctor because diseases such as diabetes and Hypothyroidism also cause such alterations.

Conclusion

It is very easy for most dog owners to ignore the above-mentioned issues but it is imperative that if such irregularities are observed, action must be taken. Most of these signs may seem very normal at first but if they are not given proper attention, the consequences can be grave. Be aware of your pets and make sure to take the right steps at the right time to protect your dog’s life!