No pet owner wants to see their dog sick. Unfortunately, dogs can fall ill, just like humans can. Thankfully, if you know which dog illness symptoms you should be watching out for, you’ll be able to make sure your pet receives treatment as quickly as possible.
Vomiting, Gagging, and Diarrhea
Many pet owners assume that these symptoms mean that their pet ate something it shouldn’t have. While this can be the case, it can also be an indicator of a more serious health problem. If you see blood in your dog’s stool or mucous, you should take them to a vet immediately.
Refusal to Eat
If your dog has refused to eat for more than 24 hours, they need to see a vet. While irregular eating habits aren’t abnormal, refusing food for an extended period of all time indicates that something is seriously wrong.
Irritated Gums
Many dog health issues are related to dental care. Brush your dog’s teeth regularly and keep an eye on its gums. If you notice that they seem red or irritated, you’ll want to bring this up with your vet. If the condition worsens, you should schedule an appointment.
Painful Urination
If your dog is yelping or showing other signs of discomfort when urinating, they could be suffering from a bladder condition or another health problem. You should also look out for blood in your dog’s urine.
Significant Weight Changes
Your dog’s weight is likely to fluctuate over time. However, if your dog sees a significant weight increase or decrease in a period of just a few weeks, it’s likely that there’s a problem.
Chronic Fatigue
It’s normal for your pet to feel worn out after a busy day. However, if it seems like your dog is always tired, they may be suffering from a health condition. This symptom is especially concerning in younger dogs.
Flaking Skin
Pay attention to the condition of your dog’s skin when you are grooming them. If your patches of skin are red, irritated, or flaking, that could indicate a condition like dermatitis or the presence of fleas.
Sneezing and Coughing
Coughing, sneezing, and similar symptoms are a common illness sign for both humans and dogs. Runny noses and watery eyes are another warning sign. These symptoms don’t necessarily mean that your pet is sick; they can also be indicators of allergies.
Excessive Thirst
It’s normal for your dog to drink more water when the weather is hot. However, if your pet’s thirst levels seem unusually high, it could be a red flag. Excessive urination can also be a sign of a problem. Pay attention to how much your pet normally eats and drinks so that you can be aware of changes.
If you know what dog illness symptoms you should watch out for, you’ll be able to do more to prevent your dog from falling seriously ill. Monitor your pet’s health closely. If you suspect that there is something wrong with your dog, you’ll want to schedule a vet appointment sooner rather than later.
