Have a dog and want to keep them as happy and healthy as you can? Of course you do, and generally speaking, it’s entirely possible if you have been helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dogs can be very expressive animals, so spotting signs that something might be causing them distress can be easier than with a cat, for instance, but you’ll still need to be aware of the most common issues – not all are as obvious as others, and some could be signs of something more serious developing.
Early detection is key in preventing those minor issues from escalating into serious health problems, so to help, below are a few common symptoms to look out for and when to visit the vet. For most owners, their dog will live a long happy life, but this shouldn’t be taken for granted. So, what should you be looking out for?
Recognising Early Signs of Illness
Changes in Appetite or Drinking Habits – A sudden loss of appetite or drinking more water can indicate conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. An increase in appetite or weight gain might signal thyroid issues too. Of course, if it’s a hot day or they’ve just had a long walk, they may drink more, so it’s seeing whether this is unusual for them.
Unusual Behaviour – If your usually energetic dog appears tired, lethargic or withdrawn, or shows less interest in going for walks or playing with their favourite toy, it could be a sign of illness. If they begin to be more stressed or show an increase in aggression or anxiety, this can also be a symptom of underlying health problems you’ll want to check.
Digestive Issues – Vomiting or diarrhoea can indicate gastrointestinal problems. If your dog is suffering from constipation or any changes in bowel movements, you’ll want to speak to your vet as it could be a sign of poisoning or something else. It is normal for dogs to vomit or have loose bowels sometimes, but if it becomes frequent or a result of eating something they shouldn’t have, you’ll want to visit your vet.
Respiratory Symptoms – Persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, or excessive panting can all indicate respiratory conditions, such as kennel cough or in some cases, heart problems.
Skin and Coat Changes – If you notice that your dog is scratching more than usual, has bald patches or a dull coat, it can suggest allergies, skin infections, or other health issues. As well as a change in the skin or fur, look out for any lumps, bumps, or wounds that are new or appear to not be healing.
Mobility Issues – These can be a bit easier to spot such as difficulty standing up, limping, or not wanting to climb stairs or struggling to do so. Getting in and out of the car if they normally jump in is another one and can be a common sign of joint problems or arthritis. It can also signal a sprain or injury, so it’s best to speak to your vet.
Common Canine Health Issues
Dental Disease – Issues with teeth and gums are quite common across dogs. According to The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), 18 breeds including Toy Poodle, King Charles Spaniel and Greyhound have an increased risk of dental disease compared to crossbred dogs. The best prevention is regular teeth cleaning as well as dental check-ups with your vet. Look for symptoms such as bad breath, difficulty eating, and red or swollen gums, as these could be signs of gingivitis or plaque and tartar build-up.
Ear Infections – Especially common in dogs with larger, floppy ears, ear infections can cause a great deal of discomfort just like they do for us humans. Signs of this can include head shaking, scratching or rubbing the ear or head, and odour or discharge. Regular cleaning and keeping the ears dry can help prevent infections from developing.
Obesity – A growing concern for pets generally, obesity can lead to serious health problems if their diet is not controlled. Regularly giving your dog table scraps at dinner or high-calorie treats can quickly cause them to gain weight, which can lead to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and joint issues. Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is important to avoid this. Your vet will be able to offer advice on what to feed them and healthy snack options – whether your dog likes them is another matter!
Arthritis – Often seen in older dogs, arthritis causes pain in the joints and reduces your dog’s mobility. They will struggle to move in the same way they once did as a pup, and early signs you can spot include limping and difficulty moving. To relieve the strain on their joints, you’ll want your dog to maintain a healthy weight for its size and breed, not over-exercise them, and speak to your vet. Treatment can be provided to help relieve pain and hydrotherapy can help them exercise without too much strain.
Skin Allergies – Allergies in dogs can lead to itchy skin, rashes, and bald patches. Everything from fleas to food allergies, and over-grooming can lead to skin issues, so identifying and removing the allergen is the best prevention. Once you know the trigger, you’ll be able to avoid this, and your vet will be able to advise any antihistamines or medication that may help.
Parasitic Infections – Fleas, ticks, and worms are common parasites that can cause various health issues for your dog, from mild irritation to severe diseases. Regular flea and worming treatments are generally the best defence against these little critters, and your vet will be able to help advise suitable treatment.
Gum disease (12.5%), ear infections (7.3%), and obesity (7.1%) are the three most commonly diagnosed disorders for dogs in the UK, according to research by The Kennel Club. To avoid these from becoming a problem for your dog, you’ll want to be vigilant with what you feed them, how much exercise they are getting, and ensure they have a good grooming routine. Whilst these are just 3 common issues, much of your dog’s health will come down to their diet and lifestyle.
When You Should Visit the Vet
There will of course be some situations in which you just need some advice, so contacting your vet in the first instance is best. Calling them directly and checking symptoms if you are concerned will soon indicate if you need to bring them in. However, there are some urgent symptoms where you will want to take them to your vet immediately, including:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea – especially if they have eaten anything poisonous.
- Difficulty breathing, or any signs of pain like whining or reluctance to move.
- Physical issues or open wounds.
- Unexplained and sudden weight loss.
- General lethargy that is out of character.
- Blood in urine or faeces.
If you notice more subtle changes such as a decrease in appetite, increased thirst, a dull coat, or unusual lethargy, scheduling a check-up is wise. Always be mindful of your dog’s normal behaviour and physical state, as changes can often be subtle indicators of underlying issues.
Why Pet Insurance Can Help In Times of Need
If you don’t already have pet insurance for your dog, you’ll want to think about the potential costs involved if your dog suddenly becomes ill or injured. Vet visits can be expensive, especially if you are going more than once a year due to any issues. If you would struggle otherwise to pay for treatment, look for a good pet insurance policy that covers vet fees in an emergency, along with additional benefits from being able to cover dental accidents, behavioural treatment and complementary therapy such as hydrotherapy or acupuncture.
When it comes to your dog’s health, you don’t want to be in a position where you cannot help them. Having a good insurance policy will provide you with financial security, so be sure to compare options before going ahead.
If you can proactively manage your dog’s health by being aware of early signs of illness and understanding when to seek the help of your vet, you’ll be able to help them live a long, healthy life.
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