How to Recognize Dog Health Problems and Symptoms

Being able to recognize dog health problems and symptoms right away can prevent your dog's condition from worsening, and also protect their current health status. Keep reading to see how you can recognize subtle changes in your dog's behavior that could indicate certain health problems or issues.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pay attention to how much your dog indicates the need to urinate or have a bowel movement. The need for frequent urination in the absence of excess fluid consumption can indicate a urinary tract infection or problem. Constant bowel movements can signal a problem with your dog's stomach or digestive tract. Make sure to look closely at your dog's stool for any irregularities, signs of worms, or strange features.

2. Watch closely to see if your dog is drinking excessive amounts of water or refuses to drink at all. Excessive thirst could point to a number of conditions such as diabetes, and refusal to drink can signal a potentially serious condition.

3. Observe your dog's breathing to check for a disproportionate amount of panting. Dog's generally pant when they are hot or trying to cool down, and if your dog is panting without any obvious reason it could be an indication of a fever.

4. Take a close look at any joint or leg that your dog appears to be having trouble with or limping on. Since dogs don't fake or exaggerate injuries you need to be concerned any time you see a problem with their mobility. Many dog breeds are prone to hip, joint, and other musculoskeletal problems, especially if the dog is older.

5. Look for any lethargy or confusion that is apparent in your dog's behavior. This could indicate a multitude of systemic diseases and conditions, so any obvious changes in your dog's cognition or comprehension should be promptly cared for.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you consult a certified veterinarian about any health problems related to your dog in order to receive the proper diagnosis. This article is merely the thoughts and viewpoints of the author, and is not a substitute or replacement for a skilled veterinarian.

[femwriter]

on 9/4/2009 These are very good tips, thanks. 5*