Dog Illness Symptoms

Just like in humans, dog will exhibit certain dog illness symptoms when sick. Most dog illnesses are minor, but as ever, observing the symptoms early is good. As the saying goes, however, better late than never!

Unfortunately, instinct thousands of years old means dogs with illnesses do everything they can to convince you that they are well. When dogs were in the wild, they were easy prey if they were sick so they made sure they didn't show it. Obviously, they don't have to worry about predators any more, but old habits die hard.

Although many of the symptoms will be subtle, don't forget the obvious. Vomiting is a fairly clear sign that something is wrong. However, vomiting is a far more normal experience for dogs than it is for humans, and they may well just be clearing out last night's dinner. If they vomit more than once in a day, or if it is bloody vomit, you should call the vet to be sure. It should be fairly obvious to you when it is a mild vomit to clear their stomach and when it is a bloody and forced vomit brought on by illness.

All dog owners know that their dog wouldn't miss their food for the world. Food + walks = dog heaven. Therefore, it should be clear if your dog has lost their appetite, being such a dramatic change. Loss of appetite is a common one of the dog illness symptoms and fortunately one of the more easy ones to spot. Contact your veterinarian if your dog shies away from more than two meals or is unwilling to eat for two days on the bounce. It isn't unheard of for dogs to skip a meal every now and then, however.

On the other end of the scale, a dog drinking plenty of water may not be as healthy as you might think. This could be a symptom of diabetes or kidney disease. Look out for increased urination or watery faeces.

Everyone knows their dog's moods and it is normally obvious if they are not acting themselves. Look out for restlessness, or on the other end of the scale, lethargy (tiredness and, for example, unwillingness to go out on walks). On a physical side, weight loss or weight gain with little change to the diet could be a sign that something is up.

Finally, we recommend that you examine your dog's faeces. As disgusting as that sounds, it is often a telltale sign of disease or illness. Healthy faeces is moist, firm and small. Dry and hard faeces are the result of either dehydration or a dietary problem. Although healthy faeces can vary, if the faeces becomes bloody or watery for an extended period you should see a vet.

There are many dog illness symptoms and with a bit of detective work you can identify them all. However, common sense never goes amiss: don't overlook the obvious!