Dogs and unconditional love are synonymous. Yes, dogs are our best friends, cuddle partners and loyal companions, showering lots of love and laughter without asking for anything in return. Therefore, as responsible pet parents, looking after their overall health and well-being is paramount.

Dogs do not express pain like we do; in fact, they are expert at hiding their discomfort. So, how do you recognize when your companion needs attention? Don’t worry! In this blog post, we will learn the subtle signs that indicate something is wrong with your four-legged friend and needs veterinary attention.

Let’s begin!

Warning signs of dog illness that need a vet visit

Here are some common signs that indicate your dog’s need for a vet visit:

Vomiting or diarrhea

If you notice your dog vomiting or experiencing diarrhea occasionally, then there is no need to worry. But if it becomes persistent and is accompanied by blood, call the vet immediately to avoid any potential diseases later.

Weight fluctuations

Sudden weight loss or gain is a clear indication of an underlying health condition, such as gastrointestinal issues, Lyme disease, etc., unless intentional. If your dog’s body weight is changing due to their diet, then it is not a cause for concern. But if you observe your canine dropping or gaining pounds out of the blue, seek veterinary help as soon as possible.

Breathing difficulty

Constant coughing, weakness, lethargy or breathing difficulty are all signs of a health condition. In the beginning, all these symptoms might be confused with the flu and common cold, but they indicate respiratory problems. So, if you notice any of these signs, do not wait and seek veterinary attention quickly.

Odd water habits

Drinking too much or too little water shows that your dog is sick and might be suffering from fever, viral infections, diabetes or kidney disease. Observe closely and keep a track of your dog’s everyday water intake. If you find significant changes, take your dog to the vet.

Skin or coat issues

Your furry friend’s skin and coat are supposed to be glossy, thick and healthy, but if you notice bald patches, dryness, itching or scratching on the skin, it might be due to food allergies, skin diseases or flea and tick infestations. Focus on your dog’s skin and coat health and if you notice anything different, schedule a vet visit immediately. Consider using year-round flea and tick preventives to keep your little one safe and healthy.

Frequent urination

If your pooch is running to urinate every now and then and accidents in the house are becoming more frequent, it might be due to health conditions, such as liver disease, diabetes, etc., which require immediate veterinary assistance.. You can also use Dorwest Cod Liver Oil Capsules for Dogs, Ecovet Eco-Liver Liquid for keeping your dog’s liver health in check.

Dental problems

Pale gums, difficulty chewing or bad breath indicate poor oral health. Ignoring dental problems for a prolonged period may lead to periodontal disease, tooth decay, plaque buildup and can lead to damage to other organs too. Therefore, keep an eye on your canine’s oral health and consult the vet immediately in case you notice anything unusual.

Trouble moving or walking 

As dogs age, they develop various conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, joint problems, etc., compromising their ability to walk or rise. If your dog shows signs such as limping, stiffness, lameness or reluctance to walk continuously, it is a clear indication of an underlying health problem that needs a quick vet visit. Arthritis Care Tablets, Mobiflex Mobility Joint Supplement, Glucon-M, GCS Joint Care Advanced Powder, etc., are some of the popular and effective joint care supplements that ensure your canine’s mobility and vitality in the long run.

Extreme tiredness or fatigue

Feeling tired or lazy after a good run or an intense exercise session is normal, but if your canine is finding it difficult to move or stay active throughout the day, it might indicate an underlying health condition, such as anemia, neurological disorders, flea and tick infestations, etc., that requires immediate veterinary help. Hence, if you see your little one being a couch potato all the time, do not dismiss it as cuteness and seek professional help as soon as possible.

Behavioral changes

Your pet’s behavior is a clear reflection of what and how they are feeling from inside. So, whenever you notice your pooch behaving differently and displaying signs such as anxiety, oversleeping, aggression, stress, reduced social engagement, etc., stay calm and consider taking them to the vet.

Decreased appetite

Denying a meal or two is normal, but if your dog is not eating at all, then it might be a cause for concern. Additionally, if your canine is showing signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, etc., along with skipping meals, make sure you keep an eye on their symptoms and take them to the vet as and when needed.

Persistent cough

Occasional coughing might be due to a regular flu or an allergy, but if your dog is coughing continuously, it might indicate a serious problem, such as a lung disease or a heart problem that requires veterinary attention.

Conclusion

The best way to deal with your pet’s illness is to stay calm and recognize the signs of a health condition. Be vigilant and watch out for the warning signs they exhibit when suffering from a serious illness. We have mentioned the most common signs of a sick dog in this blog so that you can educate yourself and know when to take the dog to the vet for proper treatment before it gets too late.