How to Know if Your Dog is Sick?
First Signs to Watch For
Just like humans, dogs show physical and behavioral signs when they are not feeling well. What are the most common symptoms?
- Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
- Increased or decreased water consumption
- Behavior change: apathy, aggressiveness
- Cough, sneezing, difficulty breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Presence of fever (temperature above 39 °C)
- Limping or pain during movement
Behavioral Changes
A suffering dog may become distant or, on the contrary, seek more attention. Observe if your companion shows signs of nervousness, whimpering, or seems depressed.
Physical Anomalies to Examine
When you inspect your dog, pay attention to the following points:
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Skin and coat: presence of redness, dandruff, patches, or hair loss.
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Eyes: abnormal secretions, redness, dull eyes.
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Ears: unpleasant odor, presence of dark earwax, excessive scratching.
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Mouth: strong breath, swollen or bleeding gums.
10 Situations Where You Need to React Quickly
- Repeated vomiting: If your dog vomits several times in a short period and seems weak, it may be suffering from poisoning or a digestive obstruction.
- Persistent diarrhea: Diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours, especially if it contains blood, should be treated immediately.
- Difficulty breathing: Panting, noisy, or labored breathing can indicate a respiratory emergency.
- Convulsions: If your dog has a seizure, even a brief one, consult a veterinarian immediately.
- Abdominal bloating: A swollen, hard, and painful belly can be a sign of stomach torsion, a fatal condition.
- Sudden paralysis: If your dog loses the use of its hind legs, it may be related to a herniated disc or another neurological condition.
- Significant bleeding: A wound that bleeds profusely should be stopped by pressure and examined by a professional.
- Abnormal body temperature: A temperature above 39.5 °C or below 37 °C is an emergency.
- Sudden behavior change: Sudden aggressiveness, confusion, or total apathy can indicate a neurological problem.
- Inability to urinate: If your dog tries to relieve itself without success, it may be a very serious urinary blockage.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If a symptom persists for more than 48 hours or if your dog shows severe signs (convulsions, fainting, bleeding), consult a professional immediately.
Prevention to Keep Your Dog Healthy
- Balanced diet and sufficient hydration
- Regular physical activity
- Parasite control (fleas, ticks)
- Vaccinations and routine veterinary visits
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