As a dog parent, you want your furry companion to live a long, happy, and healthy life. But dogs, just like humans, are prone to certain health issues. Knowing the signs early can help you act fast — and possibly save your dog from pain or serious complications.
Here’s a helpful guide to the 10 most common dog health issues, what to watch for, and how you can help prevent them.
1. Ear Infections
Symptoms: Head shaking, scratching at ears, redness, odor, discharge, pain when touched.
Causes: Bacteria, yeast, allergies, moisture buildup, or ear mites.
What to do: Your vet may prescribe medicated ear drops and cleaning solutions. Recheck exams are essential. Regular ear cleaning and drying ears after baths or swims can help prevent infections.
2. Dental Disease
Symptoms: Bad breath, yellow or brown teeth, red gums, drooling, difficulty eating.
Causes: Plaque and tartar buildup, lack of dental care.
What to do: Regular dental cleanings under anesthesia, daily tooth brushing, and dental chews can help keep your dog’s mouth healthy.
3. Skin Allergies (Atopic Dermatitis)
Symptoms: Itchy skin, licking paws, hair loss, redness, rashes, ear infections.
Causes: Flea bites, food allergies, environmental allergens (like pollen or dust).
What to do: Identify the cause with your vet, use flea preventives, and consider prescription medications or special diets.
Learn more about dog allergies
4. Obesity
Symptoms: Excess weight, low energy, difficulty exercising, trouble breathing.
Causes: Overfeeding, lack of exercise, genetics.
What to do: Talk to your vet about a weight-loss plan with portion control and increased activity. Maintaining a healthy weight can prevent many other health issues.
5. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Symptoms: Frequent urination, straining, accidents in the house, bloody urine, licking at genitals.
Causes: Bacterial infection, bladder stones, underlying disease.
What to do: Your vet will diagnose a UTI with a urine test and may prescribe antibiotics. Always provide fresh water and encourage regular potty breaks.
6. Vomiting and Diarrhea
Symptoms: Upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, lethargy.
Causes: Dietary indiscretion, infections, toxins, pancreatitis, or chronic disease.
What to do: Mild cases may resolve with a bland diet, but if symptoms persist or worsen, contact your vet — especially if there’s blood, dehydration, or weakness.
7. Arthritis / Joint Problems
Symptoms: Stiffness, limping, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs.
Causes: Age-related joint wear, hip dysplasia, injuries.
What to do: Weight management, joint supplements, prescription medications, and physical therapy can help ease discomfort.
8. Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Worms, Heartworms)
Symptoms: Itching, hair loss, scooting, weight loss, coughing (heartworm).
Causes: Exposure to other animals, outdoor environments.
What to do: Use year-round parasite prevention recommended by your vet. Regular deworming and flea/tick control are essential.
9. Diabetes
Symptoms: Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, increased appetite, lethargy.
Causes: Insulin resistance, often linked to obesity.
What to do: Your vet may recommend insulin injections and a special diet. Early diagnosis and management are key.
10. Cancers / Tumors
Symptoms: Lumps, weight loss, lethargy, coughing, wounds that won’t heal.
Causes: Various, often related to age or breed predisposition.
What to do: Regular wellness checks can catch cancer early. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, or palliative care.
Preventive Care Tips
- Schedule annual wellness exams
- Keep up with vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Maintain a healthy diet and weight
- Brush your dog’s teeth daily
- Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation
When to See Your Veterinarian
If you notice sudden changes in your dog’s behavior, appetite, urination, mobility, or appearance, call your veterinarian. Early intervention can make a big difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that my dog is sick?
Look for changes in appetite, drinking more or less, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, lethargy, limping, excessive scratching, or changes in urination or bowel habits. If your dog shows any of these signs for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian.
How can I prevent common health problems in dogs?
Regular wellness exams, vaccinations, parasite prevention, a balanced diet, dental care, weight management, exercise, and grooming can help prevent many common dog health issues. Your veterinarian can help you create a personalized care plan.
How often should I take my dog to the vet?
Most adult dogs should see the vet once a year for a checkup. Puppies and senior dogs may need more frequent visits. Dogs with chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis may also require regular monitoring.
Are some dog breeds more prone to health problems?
Yes — certain breeds are predisposed to specific issues. For example, Bulldogs and Pugs often have breathing problems, Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer, Dachshunds may have back issues, and small breeds often have dental problems. Your vet can explain breed-specific risks.
When should I call the vet for vomiting or diarrhea?
Call your vet if your dog has repeated vomiting or diarrhea, blood in the stool or vomit, signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes), lethargy, or if your dog's symptoms last more than 24 hours. These could indicate a more serious problem.