How to Diagnos Symptoms of Illness in Dogs

Keep your dog healthy.

When your dog is sick, he cannot tell you what is wrong. In fact, because a dog cannot speak and is often extremely driven by "the moment," he may even do things to contradict the fact that he is sick either because he is excited or because he is trying to please you. As a result, you must observe your pet diligently in order to diagnose symptoms of illness and begin treating them as quickly as possible.

Instructions

1. Listen for unexpected noises. Sudden, cut-off growls, snarls or yelps may indicate a painful spot. Many breed dogs have joint problems that cause their hips to slip in and out of joint or their knee caps to wobble. This can be extremely, and briefly, painful even in puppies. However, because these joints usually slip back into place immediately, many owners overlook the issue until years later when it becomes a chronic problem. With proper diet and care, that problem could have been avoided.

2. 

   Look into her eyes. A dog's eyes will literally appear duller than usual, and may be filmy or "gooey" around the edges if she is not feeling well. This can indicate a respiratory illness or some type of infection. A dog often appears this way when fatigued due to stress or illness. It can be hard to distinguish between fatigue from playing hard and illness-related fatigue, so looking at the eyes is a good way to judge the seriousness of the animal's weariness.

3. Feel his nose. A dog's nose should be wet and cool. If it is dry, hot, or scratchy, this is a sure sign that something is wrong. It can indicate dehydration, fever or stress.

4. Keep an eye out for dizziness and disorientation. Many nutritional deficiencies, poisonings and ear, nose and throat infections lead to a general inability to walk in a straight line or sit upright. If your dog is having trouble walking, playing or sitting, contact your veterinarian immediately.

5. Watch your dog's eating habits. Excessive eating or refusal to eat are both a problem. Related symptoms include sudden weight loss and weight gain. These things may not accompany their logical companions. A dog may actually lose weight while eating excessively, or gain while refusing food. This can be a symptom of canine diabetes, urinary tract infections or cardiovascular and liver difficulties.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure that you do not attribute your pet's "quirks" to personality if they have to do with your pet's health. For example, excessive sneezing from a young age can be a simple allergy or just a dog's reaction to exercise, but it can also indicate future heart problems. Just because your dog has always done something does not mean that that habit is OK.

• If you suspect any health problem with your dog, take him to a veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.

Resources

• About dog illnesses and breed-specific infections