Similar to their owners, dogs can become ill with anything from a minor virus to something more dangerous.Since your pet can't tell you what's wrong, you should keep an eye out for certain symptoms.If you suspect your dog may be sick, consult with your vet.
Step 1: It's a good idea to watch for drooling or bad breath.
If your dog is drooling or has bad breath, it may be time to have some teeth removed.If you want to prevent dental problems, you should train your dog to brush their teeth.If your dog is eating less, you should watch to see if there is a dental problem.If your dog is sensitive to touching their muzzle, notice.Your dog may be having trouble chewing.
Step 2: Listen for excessive coughing.
It's not a reason to worry if your dog is coughing.It might be something more serious if coughing lasts for more than twenty-four hours.If your dog has a lot of coughing, it's a good idea to have it checked out by your vet.Your dog's sleep can be disrupted by cough problems.If your dog coughs, you should have a professional examine him.
Step 3: Pay attention to the behavior of your dog.
If your dog is not feeling well, you may notice a change in its behavior.Changes can include, but are not limited to, increase or decrease in appetite, thirst or energy levels.If you notice a change in your dog's behavior, go to the vet.If the irritation seems to relate to petting a specific spot, it may be where your dog is sick or injured.
Step 4: Keep an eye out for any sores or lump.
Not every small lump or bump is an immediate cause for concern because dogs can develop ingrown hairs, cysts, and other skin blemish.The following symptoms can be seen by a professional.The lump is growing in size.There are lumpes attached to tissues.Bleeding or oozing wounds.
Step 5: Take your dog temperature.
Humans and canines can run the same diseases.If your dog has a high temperature and other symptoms, you should visit your vet as soon as possible.A temperature of 103 F is high.Your dog should be taken to the vet as soon as possible.Immediate medical attention is needed for a temperature of 104.5 F.
Step 6: It's a good idea to watch for excessive drinking.
The amount of water your dog drinks should be monitored.Take note of any changes in this amount.A problem that requires veterinary attention can be caused by drinking too much or too little.Don't allow everyday reasons such as strenuous play or a hot day.If you notice your dog drinking more than usual, you should see your vet.
Step 7: Track your dog's appetite.
Changes in appetite, especially those that lead to weight loss or gain, can indicate illness and should always be reported to the vet.In the short term, loss of appetite for your dog can be a sign of many things.If the loss of appetite is combined with other symptoms, you should see a vet.
Step 8: Stomach upsets should be paid special attention.
There are reasons for concern with your dog.These symptoms can be a sign of anything from a sharp object to parasites.There are single instances of vomiting or diarrhea that are not a cause for concern.A vet is required for repeated instances that last more than twenty-four hours.Blood can be a serious symptom and needs treatment as soon as possible.
Step 9: Evaluate your pet's energy levels.
It is a strong sign that your dog is not feeling well.While you don't need to worry about a tired dog after active play, keep an eye out for other signs such as decreased exercise tolerance or general weakness combined with the lethargy.Unusually low energy levels should be checked out by a vet.Lethargy and other symptoms require the attention of your vet.It can be a problem with high levels of energy.
Step 10: Don't pay attention to scratching.
All dogs scratch.A health problem can be caused by excessive scratching.Don't ignore the scratching if it is excessive.It's a good idea to look for these possible causes or ask your vet more about them.Your dog can have problems if you scratch.Humans and dogs suffer from allergies, which can lead to itching.Go to the vet with your dog.Most vets try to reach a diagnosis or suggest tests for the animal.After testing, your vet can prescribe a course of treatment to correct the underlying problem or make the dog more comfortable.
Step 11: Mobility issues can be looked for.
If your dog starts showing signs of being stiff, it's time to have him examined.This symptom can be a result of a variety of diseases.If you notice a certain symptom in a dog, you should see a vet as the earlier the disease is treated, the better the outcome.
Step 12: You should watch for labored breathing.
There is a problem with your dog's respiratory system.It can be difficult to identify the cause.If your dog has breathing problems, bring him to the vet.Labored breathing needs immediate attention.Immediate care is needed for your dog's bluish tint.
Step 13: Track accidents.
Unless there is a problem, house-trained pets don't have accidents.If your dog begins to have accidents in the house, your vet will want to schedule some tests to find out the problem.Accidents for a few days in a row is a good sign of a problem.
Step 14: There are changes in urination.
Changes in your dog's urination can be an indication of a problem.Your dog's urine should be checked for blood or discolored urine.If your dog's urine or urination habits aren't normal, contact your vet.An increase or decrease in urination is an indication of an illness.Problems with urinating may be related to the kidneys or bladder stones.
Step 15: Non-productive retching is something to watch for.
The life-threatening condition, bloat, can be associated with your dog trying to vomit.Ensure the best outcome by getting your dog to the vet.
Step 16: Non-productive urination can be monitored.
Take your dog to the vet if he is unable to urinate.It can be quite serious if you are unable to urinate.
Step 17: Look for weakness.
If your dog is swaying, is having trouble standing, or has collapsed, you need to get help as soon as possible.Your dog will be able to stand and move even if it is tired.There is a sign that your dog needs medical attention.