How to Tell When Your Dog is Sick: Guide to Spotting Problems Early

Sometimes, furry best friends feel like they are under the weather. Pet parents want their dogs to be happy and healthy. However, canine companions do not speak human language and hence do not tell when something’s wrong. That’s where dog parents need to become detectives, learning to recognize the subtle signs of illness in dogs. Early detection is key. It allows one to seek veterinary care promptly, increasing the chances of a quick recovery and preventing potential complications.

This guide explores common physical symptoms and behavioral changes that indicate a dog is sick. Discussions include when to seek veterinary care and tips for monitoring a dog’s health. Learn how to be proactive in protecting furry friends!

Physical Symptoms of a Sick Dog

While dogs do not speak, their bodies often give clues when they’re not feeling their best. These signs are subtle, so it’s important to be observant and know what to look for. Some common physical symptoms that indicate a furry friend needs a trip to the vet are discussed below.

Changes in Appetite

Has a dog’s appetite suddenly changed? Perhaps they’re less interested in their food, leaving kibble in their bowl or even skipping meals entirely. A decreased appetite is a sign of various health issues, from a simple upset stomach to more serious conditions like infections or organ problems. “Dogs with cancer often lose their appetite, leading to weight loss and affecting their general health,” (Anthony, R., et al., 2023). On the other hand, a sudden increase in appetite is also a red flag, potentially indicating conditions like hyperadrenocorticism which causes polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, obesity, and other clinical signs (Cayzer, J., & Jones, B., 1993). 

Changes in Eating Habits

Observe the dog while they eat. Are they struggling to chew or swallow their food? Do they seem to be in pain or discomfort while eating? Difficulty eating is due to dental problems, such as a broken tooth or gum disease. It also indicates mouth pain caused by an injury or infection. “Periodontal disease in dogs and cats is often caused by bacteria that thrive in the gums and bone tissues, leading to bad breath and difficulty eating,” (Hennet, P.,1992). In some cases, difficulty eating is a sign of neurological issues affecting their ability to coordinate chewing and swallowing.

Digestive Issues

It’s not unusual for dogs to vomit occasionally, especially if they’ve gotten into something they shouldn’t have. However, frequent vomiting is cause for concern. When a dog vomits, pay close attention to the frequency and the appearance of the vomit. 

Diarrhea, characterized by loose or watery stools, is a sign of various issues, including dietary indiscretion, infections, parasites, or inflammatory bowel disease. A prevalence study showed that “Diarrheic dogs have a higher prevalence of pathogen infections, with the most prevalent being Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin (38.5%), canine parvovirus type 2  (36.6%), and Giardia spp. (14/104 dogs, 13.5%),” (Gizzi, A., et al., 2014). 

On the other end of the spectrum, constipation is also a problem for dogs. If a dog is straining to defecate, producing small, hard stools, or hasn’t had a bowel movement in a while, they are constipated. This is caused by dehydration, lack of fiber in their diet, or even blockages in the digestive tract.

Urination and Defecation

Keep an eye on a dog’s bathroom habits. Are they urinating more frequently than usual? Are they having accidents in the house even though they’re potty trained? Changes in urination frequency are a sign of several health issues, including urinary tract infections, diabetes, kidney disease, or even Cushing’s disease, a hormonal disorder.

Straining indicates problems like bladder stones, urinary blockage, or other issues affecting the urinary or digestive tract. It’s essential to address these symptoms promptly to prevent more serious complications.

The presence of blood in a dog’s urine or stool is always a serious sign and requires immediate veterinary attention. Blood in the urine (hematuria) is caused by infections, bladder stones, tumors, or kidney problems.

If a normally house-trained dog starts having accidents in the house, it’s a definite cause for concern. While this is sometimes due to behavioral issues or stress, it’s important to rule out any underlying medical conditions causing the accidents.

Respiratory Problems

Just like humans, dogs cough for various reasons. Pay attention to the type of cough a dog has. Is it a dry, hacking cough? A productive cough that brings up phlegm? Or a honking cough that sounds like a goose? The characteristics of the cough, along with its frequency and other accompanying symptoms, help a veterinarian narrow down the possible causes, which include kennel cough, allergies, heart disease, or even a collapsing trachea. “Respiratory problems in dogs include nasal discharge, sneezing, facial deformity, stertor, lethargy, and inappetence, with upper respiratory tract diseases involving nasal discharge, sneezing, and facial deformity,” (Kaur, J., & Singh, S., 2022).

Occasional sneezing is perfectly normal for dogs, but frequent sneezing, especially when accompanied by nasal discharge, is a sign of allergies or an infection. 

If a dog is having trouble breathing, it’s a serious situation that requires immediate veterinary attention. Observe the dog’s breathing pattern. Difficulty breathing is a sign of respiratory distress, which is caused by various issues, including allergies, pneumonia, heart failure, or even an obstruction in the airway.

Skin and Coat Changes

A dog’s skin and coat are a window into their overall health. Pay close attention to any changes observed signaling an underlying issue. For instance, if a dog is shedding more than usual or notices bald patches developing, it’s worth investigating further. Is the hair loss symmetrical on both sides of the body, or is it concentrated in certain areas? This helps pinpoint the cause, which ranges from allergies and parasites like fleas or mites to hormonal imbalances like hypothyroidism. “Noninflammatory alopecia in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including hereditary factors, impaired postnatal regeneration, and acquired causes,” (Welle, M., 2023). Even stress causes hair loss in dogs! 

Similarly, if a dog is constantly scratching, licking, or chewing at their skin, it’s a sign that something’s irritating them. Itchy skin is incredibly uncomfortable for dogs and leads to secondary infections if not addressed. Common culprits behind itchy skin include allergies (to food or environmental allergens like pollen or dust), parasites like fleas and mites, and bacterial or fungal skin infections. Regularly examine a dog’s skin for any other abnormalities, such as dry or flaky patches, lumps, bumps, or sores. These changes indicate various skin conditions, allergies, or even tumors. It’s always best to have any unusual skin changes checked by a veterinarian to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Eye Issues

A healthy dog’s eyes are bright, clear, and free of discharge. If there is any redness, swelling, or discharge from the dog’s eyes, it is a sign of an infection, such as conjunctivitis. Other eye problems to watch for include squinting, excessive tearing, cloudiness, changes in pupil size, or a visible third eyelid (the nictitating membrane). “Cataracts and corneal ulcers are the most common eye diseases in dogs, with higher incidence in males (70.49%) and non-descript dogs aged 6-10 years,” (Pandey, P., et al., 2018). If a dog is pawing or rubbing at their eyes, it suggests discomfort and the need for veterinary attention.

Ear Problems

Healthy dog ears have clean ears, free of foul odor or discharge. If there is redness, swelling, excessive wax buildup, or discharge from a dog’s ears, it indicates an ear infection. Other signs of ear problems include head shaking, scratching at the ears, or tilting their head to one side. “Common ear diseases in dogs include external otitis, ear hematoma, otitis media, otitis interna, or ear hematoma,” (Li, J., et al., 2023).

Mobility Problems

Is a dog limping or favoring a leg? Are they stiff or reluctant to move, especially after rest? These signs indicate an injury, such as a sprain or strain, or a more chronic condition like arthritis. Arthritis is common in older dogs and causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It is worthy to note that “One in four of 77.2 million pet dogs in the United States are diagnosed with some form of arthritis, with osteoarthritis being more common than rheumatoid arthritis,” (Bland, S., 2015).

Other Physical Signs

Lethargy and Weakness: Lethargy is a general term for a lack of energy or enthusiasm. If a dog is unusually tired, sleeping more than usual, or showing less interest in their favorite activities, it is a sign that they’re not feeling well. Weakness, on the other hand, refers to a lack of physical strength or coordination.

Weight Changes: Unexplained weight loss or gain is a symptom of various health problems. If there is a fluctuation in a dog’s weight without any changes in their diet or exercise routine, it’s important to consult the dog’s veterinarian.

Gum Color: A healthy dog’s gum is color pink. Pale gums indicate anemia, which is a deficiency of red blood cells. Anemia is caused by various factors, including blood loss, parasites, or underlying diseases.

Bad Breath: While dog breath isn’t always the freshest, persistent bad breath is a sign of dental disease, which is common in dogs. Other causes of bad breath include kidney disease or gastrointestinal problems.

Behavioral Changes in a Sick Dog

While physical symptoms are often the most obvious indicators of illness, behavioral changes are also telltale signs that something’s not right with a furry friend. Dogs are not able to tell if they’re feeling sick, but their behavior often speak volumes.

Changes in Energy Levels

Has a typically energetic dog become a couch potato? Are they less interested in playing fetch or going for walks? Lethargy, a general lack of energy and enthusiasm, is a common sign of illness in dogs. It’s important to differentiate between normal tiredness after exercise or a long day and a persistent lack of energy that indicates an underlying health problem.

Restlessness and Pacing

While lethargy is a common sign of illness, some dogs exhibit restlessness or pacing when they’re not feeling well. This is a sign of discomfort, pain, or anxiety. If your dog is pacing excessively, seems unable to settle down, or is exhibiting other unusual behaviors, it’s worth investigating further.

Changes in Sleep Patterns

 Is a dog sleeping more than usual, or are they having trouble sleeping? Changes in sleep patterns are also signs of illness. Some dogs sleep more when they’re not feeling well, while others experience insomnia or restlessness due to discomfort or pain.

Mood and Temperament

Has a usually friendly dog become grumpy or irritable? Are they snapping or growling more often? Changes in mood and temperament are subtle indicators of illness. Dogs in pain or discomfort become more sensitive to touch or handling, leading to increased irritability or even aggression. 

Anxiety and Fearfulness

Is a dog suddenly more anxious or fearful? Are they hiding more often or exhibiting signs of nervousness? Anxiety and fearfulness are triggered by underlying health issues, especially those that cause pain or discomfort.

Increased Clinginess

While some dogs withdraw when they’re sick, others become more clingy and seek more attention from their owners. This is a way for them to seek comfort or reassurance when they’re feeling vulnerable.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Knowing when to seek veterinary care for a dog is crucial. While some symptoms warrant a watchful waiting approach, others require immediate action. Here’s a guide to help you determine when it’s time to call the dog’s vet.

Emergency Situations

Some situations require immediate veterinary attention. If a dog exhibits any of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek emergency care:

• Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing, rapid breathing, or bluish gums are signs of respiratory distress.
• Seizures: Seizures involve uncontrolled muscle activity and are caused by various underlying conditions.
• Loss of consciousness: If a dog becomes unconscious or unresponsive, seek immediate help.
• Uncontrollable bleeding: Significant blood loss requires urgent veterinary intervention.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea: Severe or persistent vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and require prompt treatment.

Non-Emergency but Urgent

Other symptoms may not be life-threatening but still require prompt veterinary attention. These include:

• Sudden or significant changes: Any sudden or dramatic change in a dog’s behavior or physical condition warrants a vet visit.
• Persistent or worsening symptoms: If symptoms persist for more than a day or two or worsen over time, it’s time to see the dog’s vet.
• Multiple symptoms: If a dog exhibits multiple symptoms together, it’s important to seek professional advice.

Importance of Professional Diagnosis

Dog parents know their dogs best and often detect subtle changes in their behavior or health, however, it’s important to remember that a veterinarian’s role is irreplaceable. Professional diagnosis is crucial to determine the underlying cause of a dog’s symptoms and provide appropriate treatment. Veterinarians have the knowledge, experience, and diagnostic tools to accurately assess a dog’s condition and recommend the best course of action.

Tips for Monitoring A Dog’s Health

Being proactive in monitoring your dog’s health helps dog parents detect potential problems early on. Here are some tips to keep a furry friend in tip-top shape:

Regular Veterinary Checkups

Just like humans, dogs benefit from regular checkups. Annual wellness exams allow the dog’s veterinarian to assess the dog’s overall health, detect any potential issues early on, and provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and parasite prevention.

At-Home Health Checks

In between vet visits, pet parents perform simple health checks at home. This includes regularly checking the dog’s eyes, ears, skin, and coat for any abnormalities. Monitor their eating and drinking habits, as well as their urination and defecation patterns.

Keeping a Pet Health Journal

Consider keeping a journal to track the dog’s normal behavior, eating habits, and other health-related information. This helps dog parents identify any subtle changes that indicate a problem.

Conclusion

Learning how to tell when a dog is sick is an essential part of being a responsible pet parent. By paying close attention to the dog’s physical symptoms and behavioral changes, dog parents detect potential health problems early on and seek veterinary care promptly. Remember, early intervention often leads to better outcomes and a faster recovery for a furry friend. So, be proactive, be observant, and don’t hesitate to contact the dog’s veterinarian if there are any concerns about a dog’s health.

References

• Anthony, R., Amundson, M., Brejda, J., & Bečvářová, I. (2023). Acceptance of a Novel, Highly Palatable, Calorically Dense, and Nutritionally Complete Diet in Dogs with Benign and Malignant Tumors. Veterinary Sciences, 10. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci10020148.
• Bland, S. (2015). Canine Osteoarthritis and Treatments: A Review. Veterinary Science Development, 5. https://doi.org/10.4081/VSD.2015.5931.
• Cayzer, J., & Jones, B. (1993). Canine hyperadrenocorticism.. New Zealand veterinary journal, 41 2, 53-68 . https://doi.org/10.1080/00480169.1993.35736.
• Gizzi, A., Oliveira, S., Leutenegger, C., Estrada, M., Kozemjakin, D., Stedile, R., Marcondes, M., & Biondo, A. (2014). Presence of infectious agents and co-infections in diarrheic dogs determined with a real-time polymerase chain reaction-based panel. BMC Veterinary Research, 10, 23 – 23. https://doi.org/10.1186/1746-6148-10-23.
• Hennet, P. (1992). Periodontal disease in dogs and cats.. Tijdschrift voor diergeneeskunde, 117 Suppl 1, 38S-39S .
• Kaur, J., & Singh, S. (2022). Respiratory Diseases and Their Diagnosis in Dogs: A Review. Indian Journal of Animal Research. https://doi.org/10.18805/ijar.b-4994.
• Li, J., Li, L., T, F., & Lu, D. (2023). The epidemiology of canine ear diseases in Northwest China: Analysis of data on 221 dogs from 2012 to 2016. Veterinary World, 16, 2382 – 2388. https://doi.org/10.14202/vetworld.2023.2382-2388.
• Pandey, P., Shahi, A., Kumar, D., & Shukla, M. (2018). Incidence of Eye Affections in Dogs. The Indian Journal of Veterinary Sciences and Biotechnology, 13, 68-71. https://doi.org/10.21887/IJVSBT.V13I04.319.
• Welle, M. (2023). Canine noninflammatory alopecia: An approach to its classification and a diagnostic aid. Veterinary Pathology, 60, 748 – 769. https://doi.org/10.1177/03009858231170295.