Dogs can’t tell when they’re sick, but they always give some kind of signal. In this article, the Petz blog explains some symptoms of illness in dogs that may indicate that something is wrong.
Below, you will learn about the different signs of illness in dogs so you can learn how to identify them. Did you know that dogs can display different behaviors when they are sick? Check it out!
1. Search for hiding place
In general, when dogs are sick, they choose a place in the house to hide, moving away from humans because they don’t feel well. It’s important to pay attention to this, as it’s not a joke.
2. Urinating in unexpected places
Urine in unusual places and in larger or smaller quantities than usual can also indicate diseases in dogs. It does not only represent diseases related to the urinary tract, but also some of the musculoskeletal system, which make it difficult for the pet to move around.
Many older dogs suffer from urinary incontinence. However, in some cases, urination outside the designated area can be a symptom of diabetes, hormonal changes, and some kidney problems.
3. Fatigue and prostration
Lethargy and a lack of desire to play or walk can be signs of illness in dogs. Just like humans, dogs lose energy to interact when they are not feeling well. In addition, a grumpy animal becomes sleepier and sadder for much of the day.
4. Vomiting
It is common for animals to vomit from time to time due to something they have eaten. However, continuous vomiting generally indicates that the liver, pancreas or stomach have a problem.
This symptom is related to most diseases that affect dogs, such as kidney and heart disease, distemper, parvovirus, tick-borne disease, hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome. Since it can indicate any problem, it is important that the owner is aware of other signs.
5. Diarrhea
This is a serious problem that can indicate a series of diseases in dogs. In addition, it is one of the main causes of dehydration in animals. Diarrhea can indicate infections caused by parasites, poisoning and gastrointestinal problems.
Since many dogs are curious, they tend to eat everything they see. Therefore, ingesting foreign objects can trigger diarrhea. Attention! If there is blood in your pet’s feces, take him to the vet immediately.
6. Lack of appetite!
A dog with no appetite could have several illnesses. The lack of desire to eat is a symptom of several diseases. Therefore, it is not possible to say, without the help of a veterinarian, whether it is something serious or temporary.
If you notice that your dog is not eating, take him to a specialist immediately. After all, a lack of appetite can easily lead to other, more serious symptoms.
7. Cough
A chronic cough that lasts for weeks can indicate illnesses such as heart problems, lung complications or respiratory infections. In puppies, you can never be too careful: a dog with a runny nose can quickly get worse, developing pneumonia.
The one that appears suddenly, called acute, is very common in dogs with colds, especially kennel cough . It is dry (i.e., it has no phlegm), is very noisy and is transmitted to another animal very easily. The pet may even vomit white foam from coughing so much!
8. Change in coat
Skin diseases in dogs have several causes. They may indicate endocrine problems or the presence of fungi and bacteria in an imbalance on the skin surface. In addition, it is worth remembering that fleas, ticks and mange are responsible for many canine dermatological problems.
Depending on the veterinarian’s assessment, a dog that is shedding a lot of hair may need to undergo a hormone test to help assess the condition. Therefore, don’t be surprised if the professional requests additional blood tests.
9. Different body movements
Dogs have their own way of walking, running and jumping. When something is wrong, they change these movements a little. They may start to roll around, throw their paws out while walking or limp, for example.
If they have difficulty walking, jumping, or even standing up, they may have hip and spine problems. Torn ligaments, especially in the knees, or herniated discs are also very common.
Very obese dogs tend to suffer from joint pain due to their excess weight. Arthritis and osteoarthritis, diseases of older dogs , can cause a lot of pain in older animals.
10. Gastric torsion: how to find out?
Gastric torsion is a very common disease in large animals. Symptoms include nausea, restlessness, increased volume and sensitivity in the abdomen, excessive salivation and pale gums.
First, the stomach dilates, followed by the organ twisting on itself. This leads to an increase in volume due to the trapping of gas and food inside.
Attention! If the animal is not treated quickly, it can die within a short period of time (6 to 12 hours). The ideal is to always offer the pet small portions of food, at least two to three times a day (never just once), and avoid exercise after eating to prevent gastric torsion.