Common Dog Sicknesses: Symptoms, Causes & Prevention

Dogs are loyal companions, bringing joy and warmth to our lives. However, they can also fall ill, suffering from common dog sicknesses that affect their health and well-being. As a responsible pet owner, understanding dog disease symptoms, knowing effective dog treatment options, and preventing common dog illnesses is crucial.

At Goel Vet Pharma, we specialize in homeopathic veterinary medicines to ensure safe and natural healing for your pets. This blog will explore the most common dog sicknesses, their symptoms, causes, and prevention methods to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

1. Cancer

It can be challenging to wrap your head around your pup's diagnosis. But cancer is a disease that both genetics and environmental factors can cause - and dogs can get various types of cancer, as people do. Some cancers can be cured, and some that, unfortunately, are incurable.

Some symptoms of cancer include lumps, swelling, persistent sores, lethargy, black stools, difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating, loss of appetite, and bad breath.

2. Diabetes

Diabetes is the most common disease in dogs. It can be caused by either insulin deficiency or impaired insulin production combined with an inadequate insulin response. Many factors contribute to diabetes, such as obesity, autoimmune diseases, genetics, chronic pancreatitis, and abnormal protein deposits. The good news is that diabetes is manageable with reasonable care and treatment.

Some symptoms of diabetes include weight loss, increased urination, change in appetite, lethargy, dehydration, excessive water consumption, vomiting, urinary tract infections, and chronic skin infections.

3. Heartworm

Heartworm is a disease transmitted from animal to animal by mosquitoes. When a carrier mosquito bites a dog, the “heartworm” travels through the bloodstream, harming vital organs. The parasitic worm lives in the heart and pulmonary arteries, and several hundred heartworms can live in one dog for years.

Heartworm is a preventable disease. To prevent it, the vet can prescribe chewable tablets, pills, and other topical medications. Normally, your vet performs a heartworm screening during checkups to ensure your dog is heartworm-negative.

Heartworm is a fatal disease, so it’s essential to know the symptoms. Some symptoms of heartworm include difficulty breathing, coughing, vomiting, fatigue after moderate exercise, and weight loss. Some dogs don’t show symptoms, so ensure you give them their heartworm medication every month, as your veterinarian prescribes.

4.Kennel Cough

Kennel Cough is a contagious respiratory infection that can be transmitted airborne, via direct contact (bumping noses), or through contaminated surfaces (sharing food or water bowls). It is highly treatable, but the symptoms are similar to infections such as canine distemper or canine influenza virus. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms, you must talk to your veterinarian immediately to treat them and rule out other serious diseases.

Some symptoms of kennel cough include a strong cough (persistent dry cough that sounds like “honking”), low fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, sneezing, and runny nose.

5. Parvovirus

Canine Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that can be spread through direct contact (infected dog) or indirect contact (contaminated surface). It’s a disease that severely damages the stomach, small intestines, and, in some cases, the heart. Puppies are the most vulnerable to the disease and remain susceptible until they get vaccinated, starting at 6 weeks of age. It’s vital to ensure that your pup gets their vaccinations at the proper intervals to avoid parvo and such severe diseases.

Some symptoms of parvovirus include lethargy, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloody or foul-smelling diarrhea, weakness, fever, and dehydration.

6. Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease transmitted by an infected dog's bite. People commonly fear it because it is fatal once symptoms start. The virus affects the brain and spinal cord. However, it is preventable with vaccination; now, rabies vaccination is required everywhere.

The vaccination not only protects your dog from getting rabies, but it also protects your dog if they bite someone. If you don’t have proof of rabies vaccination, some places may place your dog in a lengthy quarantine or even euthanize them.

Some symptoms of rabies include hypersensitivity, changes in behavior (aggression, irritability), fever, seizures, loss of appetite, disorientation, constant licking/itching of the bite, and weakness.

7. Ringworm

Ringworm is a contagious disease that results in patchy spots or hair loss. It is a fungus that infects the skin, nails, and hair and can be transmitted to humans and other animals. It sometimes spreads rapidly to different parts of the dog’s body, so you must notify your veterinarian immediately if it shows any symptoms.

If your veterinarian confirms your dog has ringworms, they will also recommend necessary steps to prevent other pets or people from contracting the disease. If your dog has ringworm, disinfect all surfaces (bed, carpet, floor) and vacuum frequently if your dog sheds a lot.

Some symptoms of ringworm include patchy, circular bald spots, skin lesions near the hair, paw, ears, forelimbs, and broken hair.

Some Preventative Measures

Preventing common dog illnesses is easier than treating them. A proactive approach to your dog’s health can help them live a long, happy life. Here are some key preventative measures every pet owner should follow:

• Regular Vaccination: Vaccinate your dog against deadly diseases like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Timely vaccinations reduce the risk of severe infections.
• Hygiene and Clean Environment: Keep your dog’s living area clean and sanitized. Regularly wash its bedding, bowls, and toys to prevent bacterial infections.
• Proper Nutrition and Hydration: Feed a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and nutrients. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
• Routine Vet Check-Ups: Regular veterinary visits help detect health issues early. Consider homeopathic veterinary medicines from Goel Vet Pharma for natural, side-effect-free treatment.
• Deworming and Parasite Control: Internal parasites like worms can cause digestive issues, while fleas and ticks can lead to skin infections. Goel Vet Pharma's homeopathic dewormers are safe and effective for parasite control.
• Joint and Skin Care: Aging dogs often suffer joint pain and skin problems. Goel Vet Pharma offers natural supplements to improve mobility and skin health.
• Strengthening Immunity: A strong immune system helps fight infections. Goel Vet Pharma’s immunity-boosting products support overall well-being.

Conclusion

Caring for your dog’s health requires awareness, timely action, and preventive measures. You can ensure your pet stays happy and active by understanding common dog sicknesses, recognizing dog disease symptoms, and using effective dog treatment options. Regular vet visits, a nutritious diet, and proper hygiene are crucial in preventing common dog illnesses. For safe and natural solutions, trust Goel Vet Pharma. Experts recommend our homeopathic veterinary medicines and provide side-effect-free care. Give your furry friend the best protection—choose Goel Vet Pharma today!