Here is a list of the symptoms of some canine diseases expected to be witnessed more often.
Diseases that are caught early always have a better prognosis. One way to identify any brewing illnesses in your dog is to be able to identify symptoms and be on the lookout for them. Being able to decipher your furry friend’s illness early means being able to get it treated promptly.
Here is a list of some common canine issues and their symptoms.
1. Ear infections
Ear infections are quite common in dogs. They tend to be more frequent in canines with floppy and long ears as compared to those with upright ears.
Symptoms: The affected animal will be seen head shaking and scratching its ears. There will also be visible redness and discharge.
Treatment: Generally involves cleaning the ears along with antibiotic administration.
2. Urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections are seen frequently in dogs and stats show that females are more vulnerable to being affected.
Symptoms: Frequent urination, straining to urinate, and blood in the urine.
Treatment: Antibiotics and sometimes pain medication.
3. Dental disease
Dental diseases have a significant prevalence in dogs and can exacerbate if timely treatment is not initiated, resulting in serious health problems. Dogs over the age of three are more prone to dental issues and over 80% of them develop active dental conditions.
Symptoms: Bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, and loose or missing teeth.
Treatment: Professional dental cleaning and, in severe cases, extractions.
4. Fleas and ticks
Fleas and ticks not only create an annoying situation for the dogs and their owners, but they also act as vectors of various diseases for both the canine and its humans. They are more to be seen during the warmer months, but can also survive the winter. It is important to take preventative measures to keep your furry friend safe from them.
Symptoms: Scratching, biting, and hair loss.
Treatment: Topical treatments or oral medications.
5. Allergies
Dogs often get allergies with varied symptoms. Once a pup crosses the age of 6 months, it is more likely to develop an allergy and most affected canines are in the age bracket of 1 to 2 years.
Symptoms: Itching, redness, and discharge from the eyes or nose.
Treatment: Typically involves identifying and avoiding the allergen, as well as administering antihistamines or steroids.
6. Obesity
Obesity is common in dogs and if unchecked it can contribute to developing serious health problems such as diabetes and joint issues. According to a report by The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50% of canines are overweight.
Symptoms: Excessive weight gain, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.
Treatment: Combination of diet changes and increased exercise.
7. Diabetes
Dog diabetes is more commonly seen in middle-aged and older canines, but it is also reported in young ones. Reports suggest that the disease is becoming increasingly common.
Symptoms: Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and lethargy.
Treatment: Insulin injections and dietary changes.
8. Arthritis
Studies reveal that one in five dogs suffer from arthritis. This condition of the joints is more common in older dogs
Symptoms: Stiffness, pain, difficulty moving, and limping. An older dog who has slowed down on walks and is experiencing difficulty getting up and down the stairs is likely suffering from arthritis.
Treatment: Pain management and joint supplements.
Being up to speed on at least the common illnesses of your furry companion and their symptoms can translate to a healthy and happy life for the animal. So as soon as you notice any problems, contact your veterinarian.
AUTHOR PROFILE
Dr. Omer Rashid earned his veterinary degree in 2002 from University of Agriculture Faisalabad, and quickly followed that with a Master’s degree in Parasitology. He worked for several years in veterinary practice with small animals, as well as horses and livestock. He studied advanced pharmacology at Charles Darwin University in Australia, and discovered his love for writing while working as a science writer for a research company with clients such as Harvard, Stanford and Cambridge universities. Along the way, Dr. Rashid developed an interest in integrative veterinary health, and he joined Redstone Media Group as Associate Editor of IVC Journal and veterinary content developer in 2022.
