We have a house full of dogs and absolutely adore them! We dog owners are naturally very protective of our pets, so if something is going on with their health, we want to know about it. And we want to know sooner, rather than later. That being the case, below are some common signs that all may not be well with your pooch, so you can take them to the vet and hopefully get them on the mend again, as soon as possible. So here are 12 signs your dog could be sick:
1. Limping: More Than Just a Bad Dance Move
Limping is a clear sign something’s amiss. It could be something as simple as a thorn in their paw, but it can also be a symptom of arthritis – especially in older dogs. If your pooch is moving like they’ve just come out of a mosh pit rather than their usual prance, it’s time to call the vet. Arthritis in dogs is more common than you might think, so it is really important you see someone sooner, rather than later, especially if you notice other signs like excessive licking or a reluctance to walk.
2. Excessive Licking: It’s Not Just for Cleaning
Dogs lick themselves for many reasons, and we’ve all watched in horror as they lick themselves with wild abandon, right? But, the thing is, excessive licking, especially of a particular area, can be a sign of pain or discomfort. It’s like when you have an itch you can’t scratch, but with less decorum and more slobber.
3. Change in Appetite: When Dinner Time Loses Its Sparkle
A sudden change in appetite is a big red flag that something is wrong because what dog doesn’t like his dinner? If your once food-obsessed furball is suddenly indifferent to their meals, it’s a cause for concern. It’s as alarming as a Brit refusing a cup of tea – just not right.
4. The Grumpy Old Dog Syndrome
Just like us, dogs can get a bit grouchy when they’re not feeling well. If your usually sociable pup is now more ‘Grumpy Cat’ than ‘Man’s Best Friend’, it might be a sign they’re not feeling great. It’s like they’re channelling their inner moody teenager.
5. The Bathroom Blues: It’s Not Just a Human Thing
Keep an eye on their bathroom habits if you want to monitor your dog’s health closely. Changes in frequency, colour, or consistency can indicate various health issues. Let’s face it, no one likes to talk about poo, but in the dog world, it’s a key health indicator.
6. Coughing and Wheezing: Not Just a Smoker’s Problem
Persistent coughing or wheezing is not to be ignored. It could be a sign of respiratory issues or something more serious. It’s like the doggy version of needing a cough drop, but with a need for a vet’s expertise. A persistent cough is an important sign your dog could be sick.
7. Energy Levels: More Than Just a Lazy Sunday
A noticeable drop in energy can be worrying. If your dog is more ‘let’s lie in bed all day’ and less ‘let’s chase squirrels’, it’s worth investigating. It’s like they’ve lost their zest for life, and nobody wants a sad pupper.
8. Weight Changes: The Scales Don’t Lie
Sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of underlying health problems. It’s more serious than the aftermath of Christmas indulgences – it’s a sign that their health needs a closer look. It’s one of the biggest signs your dog could be sick.
9. Changes in Drinking Habits: Not the Pub Kind
Monitor how much they drink. Too much or too little can both be indicators of health issues, like kidney problems or diabetes. It’s like tracking your own water intake, but with more fur and enthusiasm.
10. The Coat Tale: Shiny or Shabby?
A healthy dog has a shiny, thick coat. If your dog’s coat starts to look dull, dry, or they’re losing more fur than usual, it could be a sign of nutritional deficiencies or illness. It’s like they need a trip to the hairdresser, but to the vet instead.
11. Breath That Could Knock Out a Rhino
Sure, dog breath is never minty fresh, but if it suddenly turns foul, it might be more than just the remnants of their fishy breakfast. Dental issues can lead to serious health problems if left unchecked. Bad breath is an often missed sign that a dog can be sick.
12. The Not-So-Sneaky Scratch
All dogs scratch, but if it turns into a fur-flying frenzy, it’s a problem. It could be fleas, allergies, or skin infections. It’s like they’re trying to break a scratching world record – and trust me, nobody wants that medal.
These signs that your dog might be paw-ly can often be pretty harmless in a lot of cases, but as a responsible dog owner, you do not want to take the risk. So if they start exhibiting any of the above signs, and it is out of character for them to do so, then it is definitely a good idea to get the advice of a vet you trust. After all, when your dog is healthy and happy, so are you!
Can you offer any follow-up advice? Please let us know in the comments below of any other signs your dog may be sick.
