Here Are 14 Common Dog Health Problems to Watch For As a Pet Parent

Skin Issues

Many dogs experience a variety of skin issues. Itching and scratching are typical signs of skin issues in dogs. The skin may appear red, inflamed, flaky, scaly, or otherwise abnormal. They may also lose patches of hair. A dog may develop skin problems for several reasons, including allergies, parasites, and skin infections. If your dog is constantly scratching or chewing, or the skin appears abnormal, see your veterinarian before your dog becomes downright miserable.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are often caused by the overgrowth of yeast or bacteria and make dogs shake their heads and scratch their ears. Often, there is ear discharge or debris, and the ears can have a bad odor. Ear infections may be itchy or even painful. When left untreated, they can cause serious damage. If your dog is exhibiting signs of an ear infection for more than a day or two, go to your vet. Ear infections sometimes accompany skin issues. In addition, they may be related to allergies.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough, or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a common upper respiratory infection caused by contagious bacteria or viruses. As the name implies, it's often spread through dog kennels, animal shelters, and other places where many dogs gather. Kennel cough causes tracheal inflammation that leads to a loud, honking cough. Bordetella is a common bacterial cause of kennel cough, and there's a vaccine that can prevent the spread of this particular microbe.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are common in dogs. Signs of UTI include inappropriate urination, frequent urination, increased thirst, bloody urine, and lethargy. These symptoms can also be associated with other medical conditions, such as kidney disease and diabetes. If you notice any abnormal urination habits, bring your dog to the veterinarian so they can check the urine.

Parvo

Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that most commonly affects puppies, but unvaccinated adult dogs are at risk, too, especially those with compromised immune systems. The virus attacks the rapidly dividing cells in the bone marrow and intestines, leading to severe diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. If left untreated, parvo is usually fatal, and even some pups don't survive despite aggressive treatment.

Prevention is key to protecting your dog. Complete all puppy vaccinations as your veterinarian recommends, and keep your puppy away from unknown dogs and public places until they're fully vaccinated. Adult dogs need vaccines every one to three years to keep them protected.

Parasites

Parasites are everywhere in your dog's world. They may be external parasites, like fleas and ticks, which should be treated with a preventative like a flea collar or chemical, or internal parasites like heartworms and intestinal worms, which typically require medication. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent parasites from attacking your dog, usually with monthly preventive treatments. Educate yourself about canine parasites so you can protect your dog.

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease that is transmitted via the saliva of an infected mammal, often through bites or scratches. It causes neurological dysfunction that leads to death, and there is no treatment for dogs. Although you may not often hear about rabies cases, the risk to pets and humans is very real. Fortunately, rabies can be prevented by vaccinating dogs every one to three years (depending on the vaccine). Most states require rabies vaccines to keep the public safe.

Dental Disease

Dental disease is a serious and often overlooked health concern for dogs. Bad breath is not normal in dogs and can be a sign of dental disease. Plaque and tartar in your dog's mouth harbor dangerous bacteria, causing damage to the teeth and gums. Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, potentially damaging the heart and kidneys. The key to protecting your dog is prevention.

Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is a viral disease that is very contagious among dogs. It causes significant illness and can affect several systems in the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, brain, and spinal cord. Fortunately, the DA2PP vaccine protects dogs against canine distemper. Puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk.

Obesity

Obesity is a common health problem seen in dogs. It's also one of the most preventable. Excess body weight can lead to serious health issues like diabetes, heart disease, and orthopedic problems. Fortunately, obesity can be prevented (and often reversed) through proper diet and exercise.

Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint or multiple joints in the body. In dogs, the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis most often occurs in seniors, and it may be a result of old injuries or congenital disorders like hip dysplasia. The good news is that it can typically be managed. If you suspect your dog has osteoarthritis, talk to your veterinarian about the options.

Canine Influenza

Canine influenza, also called dog flu, is a contagious virus that causes respiratory illness in dogs. Any dog can become infected with this virus, but dogs in close contact with other dogs are particularly at risk. Canine influenza causes symptoms similar to the human flu, but the virus that affects dogs does not affect people. Most dogs recover with supportive care. A canine influenza vaccine is recommended for dogs that frequently come into contact with other dogs at places, such as daycare, boarding, dog shows, and dog parks.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by Leptospira bacteria, which can be found in water, soil, and damp grass. It is usually spread through the urine of infected wildlife in water or soil and enters a dog through the mouth, nose, or eyes. Leptospirosis can cause kidney failure, liver failure, and lung disease in dogs. Humans can contract leptospirosis through contact with contaminated urine. An annual vaccine is available to protect dogs against Leptospirosis.

Toxicity/Poisoning

Dogs are curious and often food-driven. So, it comes as no surprise that they are susceptible to poisoning or toxicity. Toxins come in many forms and are usually but not always) ingested. Plants, medications, household items, and some foods can poison your dog.