Do you have a dog with a high temperature, lethargy, decreased appetite, drinking more water than usual, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or coughing up foamy mucous?
Then you could be looking at a canine influenza pandemic. If so, you must get your dog checked out by their vet as soon as possible.
What are the signs of a sick dog? This article looks at the most common signs of a sick dog and how to tell if your dog might be sick. Also, discover how to tell the difference between illness and old age in dogs and try not to jump to conclusions.
Read on!
1. Loss of Appetite
One of the biggest signs of a sick dog is a loss of appetite. Dogs that are normally eager to eat may suddenly not be interested in their food. Poor or lack of appetite can indicate a wide variety of illnesses ranging from something as simple as a stomach bug to something more serious like cancer.
If your dog’s loss of appetite persists for more than a day, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian for evaluation. Blood tests and imaging may be necessary to diagnose properly and ensure your dog receives the necessary treatment.
2. Unusual Behavior
Some signs to watch out for include withdrawal from family and friends, sleep disturbances, difficulty breathing, trembling, and changes in vocalization. Pay attention to sudden or gradual changes in your dog’s physical appearance or attitude.
Additionally, look for any signs of pain, including favoring a paw or side, licking or chewing at a certain body part, or going to an unusual place and hiding.
You might also wonder why are dogs noses wet, but this is not something to be worried about. In some cases, increased aggression may indicate a sick dog, so pay attention to any signs of agitation.
3. Weight Loss
If your dog regularly eats but continues to lose weight, this can be a sign of an underlying health issue, as sudden weight loss is not normal for a healthy dog.
Take your furry friend to the vet if you notice any sudden changes or if your dog is losing weight without explanation; this could indicate an underlying health issue.
4. Lethargy
A dog may be less active than usual or have difficulty staying motivated. Other less common signs may be coughing, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and changes in behavior like increased aggression or anxiety.
If your dog appears lethargic or exhibits any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to a vet as soon as possible to rule out any underlying illness.
5. Frequent Vomiting
If your dog frequently vomits, it is likely a sign they are sick. Other symptoms of an illness may differ depending on the underlying cause, but the frequent vomiting alone can cause concern. Vomiting can mean digestive upset, a parasitic infection, food allergies, or an underlying disease.
Additionally, note the vomit’s color and consistency, as this may give clues in determining the issue. Seek professional help if the vomiting persists, and take preventative measures to ensure health and pet wellness.
Learning the Signs of a Sick Dog
If you suspect your dog is sick, take action to receive a diagnosis and treatment. Your dog may need medication and other treatment to get healthy again.
Don’t wait – if your dog isn’t doing well, get help immediately.
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