Just like us hoo-mans, dogs can suffer from a variety of health problems. From digestive issues to skin conditions, our furry friends can experience a range of different ailments. However, there are some health problems that are more common in dogs than others.
For example, many dogs suffer from allergies, which can lead to itching and scratching. Other common problems include arthritis, obesity, and dental disease. Of course, these problems can be easily prevented with proper care and the right diet. But if your dog does happen to suffer from one of these ailments, don’t worry - there are plenty of treatment options available.
With the help of your vet, you’ll be sure to get your furry friend back on track in no time. Here are some common problems that every dog parent probably knows about.
- Vomiting
Every dog is gonna puke at some point, just like we do. Maybe something didn’t agree with the digestive system, or maybe your pooch was just plain nauseous.
When your dog vomits, you shouldn't ignore it, but you might not need to rush him to the vet either. While there can be serious medical problems associated with vomitings, such as toxicity and gastrointestinal blockages, a more common cause can also be as simple as a dietary indiscretion.
Many dogs vomit but don’t exhibit any other symptoms and remain as active and playful as ever. However, if your dog exhibits other symptoms like lethargy or weakness, then you might want to think about a trip to the vet.
- Poisoning
Curiosity and the desire for food drive dogs. This makes it no surprise they are at risk of poisoning or toxicity because they are so vulnerable to these things. There are many types of toxins and they can be ingested (but not always). There are a vast number of plants, medications, household items, and foods that can cause poisoning in your dog
- Obesity
There are numerous health problems associated with obesity in pets. A dog that is overweight has similar health problems as a person. Among dogs that are overweight, there is a greater risk of arthritis, diabetes, and liver disease.
It might seem obvious, but you should regularly weigh your dog in order to keep track of their weight changes over time. To give your dog the best chance possible for remedy, you should recognize his weight gain early on.
Keeping your overweight dog healthy means eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly and increasing the calorie output. Feed high-quality, hypoallergenic dog food like our sustainably-harvested fish!
- Arthritis
Senior doggies are often affected by this condition. Eventually, your dog will take longer to get up from a sitting or lying position and move around less.
As your dog ages, its joint pain cannot be cured, however, you can manage the symptoms by feeding a top-quality diet, giving supplements like glucosamine and fish oil, and getting an orthopedic bed for your pooch to alleviate the stress on the joints.
- Teeth problems
Periodontal disease affects more than 80% of dogs above the age of three.
Dentists recommend that dogs undergo periodic dental exams to screen for diseases of the gums and teeth. While doggy breath is normal, excessively bad breath can indicate dental disease, which is not normal. Plaque and tartar in your dog's mouth provide a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, damaging the gums and teeth.
There is also the possibility that the bacteria entered the bloodstream, leading to other serious health problems that may result in heart failure and kidney failure. Preventive measures are essential in protecting your dog.
To preven most commons dental diseases like plaque and tartar we recommend to give our little doggos dental sticks that keeps their teeths healthy and clean.
- Ear Infection
Shaking their heads and scratching their ears are common symptoms of ear infections in dogs. A bad smell or discharge can often be present in the ears as well as debris.
In some cases, pain or itching can accompany ear infections. These infections can be dangerous if left untreated, so consult your vet if you’re in doubt.
In addition, your dog’s ear infection may be associated with a skin condition or allergy.
- Skin problems
Infections, parasites, and allergies are the most common causes of skin problems in dogs. A mite that lives in the hair follicles causes demodectic mange, the most common skin condition in dogs. Scabies is caused by sarcoptic mange mites, which are common parasites that can affect the skin.
Infections of the skin such as ringworm or scaly patches are highly contagious, and they can cause hair loss or short hair. Dust mites, pollen, and mold are all allergens that can cause rashes and itching.
The ingredients in dog food that cause skin problems include soy, corn, wheat, beef, and chicken, among others. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, switch out to hypoallergenic food.
- Urinary Tract Infection
Dogs are prone to urinary issues. There is nothing more frustrating than having a dog that pees in the house.
A lack of training or behavioral problems is often blamed, but the problem could also be medical. There are several symptoms of UTIs, including bloody urine, excessive urination, and increased thirst. You should bring your dog to the vet if your dog appears to be showing these symptoms, as they could also indicate other medical conditions like kidney disease and diabetes.
- Cancer
Dogs suffer from cancer, one of the most deadly and expensive diseases in the world, but no one wants to think about it. If abnormal lumps, swelling, sores, lameness, weight loss that is gradual and not drastic, or long-term changes in behavior should be observed, be careful.
Dogs that are detected early have the best chances of recovering. Chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy are some of the possible treatments. Other times, your dog's pain can be relieved with medication. As with humans, cancer treatment outcomes can depend on its type and stage.
Keeping your dog in top condition is possible through regular vet visits and preventive health care. Any unusual behavior or symptom that you observe should be reported to your veterinarian quickly to ensure a speedy recovery.
- Diarrhea
Diarrhea may occur in conjunction with vomiting or independently. Usually, diarrhea is caused by the same factors as vomiting. An occasional episode of diarrhea is not an emergency, but prolonged diarrhea can cause dehydration. In case of persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy, consult your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Our pooches rely on us to provide the best care possible, so while many of these ailments are common and will happen many times in a dog’s life, excessive or dramatic changes should always warrant a vet visit.
Good luck, and may you and your pooch be in the best of health!
