Just like humans, dogs also go through health issues with age or for many more reasons, and you can tell when something’s wrong with them. If you have a dog, you know their body language is very expressive, and because you know your dog, you can tell the early signs of an illness when they start to behave differently. These subtle changes in their behavior might be a warning sign for some health issues. The key to helping your dog recover quickly is by identifying the warning signs as soon as possible and taking precautionary measures.
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You Will Notice A Change In Behavior
When dogs are in pain or don’t feel good, you can see slight behavioral changes in them. As you know your dog, you will immediately notice them because these changes take place suddenly. You may see that your social dog doesn’t want to meet people or spend time with you; in short, your dog starts withdrawing itself. Or you might notice that your playful pet is becoming extremely lazy, aggressive, angry, or lethargic.
Another thing that should raise a red flag is if your pup starts growling when you touch a particular area in its body. Dogs even snap when you get close to the area of their discomfort. It’s important to see that not all dogs show aggression; some also show the neediness and that they need help. If you notice any of these signs or anything unusual, it’s time to see a doctor.
Your Dog Will Have Trouble Breathing Or Other Respiratory Issues
Wheezing, coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge are all signs of respiratory issues. These signs can range from obvious to subtle. This could be a simple cold or canine flu. But you can tell if your dog has a typical cold, as their eyes turn red and nose runny. If you hear a honking noise, this could be a sign of a tracheal issue. This respiratory disease is common among some breeds of dogs.
To be extra sure, you can check the color of your dog’s tongue and gums if he’s having trouble breathing. If you see a bluish tint, you immediately need to take your dog to a vet.
You Notice A Loss Of Appetite Or Excessive Thirst
Another troubling sign is when your dog loses interest in eating and drinking. Some dogs have their own eating habits, and they may eat more food on some days, but if your dog suddenly starts walking around the food or no longer finishes it, you should see a vet.
You should also monitor a change in drinking habits. Drinking more or less water than usual indicates that your dog is ill. Drinking more water than usual means your dog has a fever, kidney issues, or hormonal changes.
Change In Appearance
Physical changes get noticed very quickly and if you notice something unusual, immediately see a doc. These changes include new bumps or lumps on the body, oozing or bloody sores and lumps, extreme rashes, sudden hair loss, or if your dog continuously scratches his head or ears or any part of the body. If you notice anything like this, your dog might be facing some severe issue.
Noticeable Pain
Sadly, dogs can’t speak when they’re in pain. You can tell your dog is in pain if you see them yelping when touched at a particular area of the body. This may be a sore back or injured paws. Even if you’re sure your dog is in pain, never give them any pain killers without consulting the vet, not even human pain killers, as they are toxic to dogs. Here are some signs your dog may be getting hurt :
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- If you see joint swelling that feels warm to touch
- If your dog becomes reluctant to move, walk, or jump
- If your dog is guarding a particular body part and growls when you try to touch it
- If your dog is having trouble chewing
The Bottom Line
Regardless of your dog’s age, you play a crucial role in helping them combat illness and remain healthy. Dogs can’t explain their illness, but they indeed give you signs that they need attention. You must be aware of the symptoms of some disease to help your pet as soon as possible. The best way to prevent your dog from getting affected by these diseases is preventive care screening. Preventative care screening often includes ECG to screen abnormal heart rhythm, signifying heart disease, urine tests, electrolyte tests, thyroid tests, and many more. For more information about preventive care screening, you can consult your vet for the best knowledge of your pet’s health and well being.
