How to Know If Your Dog Might Be Sick

Dogs can't talk like us when they are sick like humans do. That is why it is vital to look for signs that might signify that your dog is sick. Learn how to spot these signs that might indicate your dog is sick.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. First, look for any changes in behavior that your dog might display. If you spend a lot of time with your dog, this will be easy to spot. Look for any changes in eating behaviors and changes in sleeping behaviors. The key lies in knowing your dog's habits.

2. Next, another important key that might suggest that your dog is sick is a change in weight. If you can, check the weight of your dog on a monthly basis and write it down on a notebook. Any significant downward change in your dog's body weight she be a red flag.

3. Does your dog have any bowel or bladder changes? These can be a subtle sign that your dog might be sick. An increase in urinating might be a sign of diabetes. Loose stools can be because of infections or even infestations of parasites. Check for any mucus or blood in your dog's stool.

4. Does your dog pant or cough a lot? Panting in the absence of exercise or in cool temperatures might be a sign of illness. It can even be a sign of heart problems as well as lung disease. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

5. Does your dog have an unusual dry nose? Although this is common from time to time, it could also be a symptom of a cold or fever. If your dog's temperature is over 102 degrees Farenheit, contact your local vet.

6. Any changes in gaits in your dog should be properly inspected and be brought to the attention of your vet. Spinal problems can result from this. It might also a sudden tear in a ligament.

7. Do you notice any abnormal lumps or bumps on your dog? Once a month, try to carefully inspect your dog by feeling around its body for abnormal lumps and sores. Sometimes, it's easy to miss an abnormal growth on your dog because of the fur. If you spot an abnormal lump, take it to your vet to get it examined. You want to rule out the possibility of it being cancer.

[pepper0617]

on 2/1/2009 Good tips. My dog like a kid, I would hate to lose her. Thanks.

[LissaK]

on 1/31/2009 I've got a dog and it nearly scares me to death sometimes not knowing is something is wrong with her or not when she whines. Brilliant and helpful article, thanks. 5*