There are a number of reasons your dog can become sick. While the average, well-cared-for dog doesn’t tend to get sick very often, there are still some health issues that can occur. Taking steps to keep your dog healthy can minimize the incidence of issues like these. In addition, feeding healthy foods and seeing your vet for routine wellness exams can help you discover health problems before they get out of control. Always watch your dog for any signs of illness, and take them to the vet if you have any concerns, especially if your dog is vomiting, not eating or showing signs of pain or respiratory distress.. There are many health issues that can affect dogs. The following are among the most common.
Skin Issues
Many dogs experience a variety of skin issues. Itching and scratching are typical signs of skin issues in dogs. The skin may also appear red, inflamed, flaky, scaly or otherwise abnormal. There are several reasons a dog may develop skin problems, including allergies, parasites and more. If your dog is constantly scratching or chewing, or if the skin appears abnormal, see your vet before your dog becomes downright miserable.
Ear Infections
Ear infections often cause dogs to shake their heads and scratch their ears. Often, there is ear discharge or debris. Ear infections may be itchy or even painful. When left untreated, they can cause serious damage. If your dog is exhibiting signs of an ear infection for more than a day or two, go to your vet. Ear infections sometimes accompany skin issues. In addition, they may be related to allergies. At home, you can prevent ear infections by routinely cleaning your dog’s ears.
Vomiting
There are so many reasons a dog can develop vomiting. While you don’t need to rush to the vet every time your dog throws up, it’s also not something to ignore. Vomiting can be a sign of toxicity, gastrointestinal blockage or other serious diseases like canine pancreatitis. The cause can also be as simple as a dietary indiscretion. Don’t try to guess; if your dog keeps vomiting, you should get your vet involved.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea may accompany vomiting or simply occur on its own. The potential causes of diarrhea are similar to those of vomiting and may indicate many different health issues, from colitis in dogs to parvovirus – which can be deadly. While one or two episodes of diarrhea is no emergency, ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. See your vet if diarrhea persists, or if it accompanies vomiting and/or lethargy.
Obesity
Obesity is one of the fastest growing health problems seen in dogs. It’s also one of the most preventable. Obesity can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and orthopedic problems. Fortunately, obesity can be prevented (and can usually be reversed) through proper diet and exercise.
Dental Disease
Dental disease, more accurately known as periodontal disease, is a serious and often overlooked health concern for dogs. Bad breath is not normal in dogs but is a sign of dental disease. Plaque and tartar in your dog’s mouth harbour dangerous bacteria, causing damage to the teeth and gums. Learn more about preventing and treating canine dental disease here.