It is certainly a fact that dogs are unable to talk to us and to tell us about any dog health problems, symptoms, and other aches and pains. They are not able to tell us what they are feeling, or where something is hurting them. In fact, most dogs are pretty good at covering up their aches and pains.
Your dog may have an injury for several days before you realize that something is wrong. That is, unless you are paying close attention, and on the look out for behavior outside of her normal routine.
Look For Dog Health Problems, Symptoms, And Signs
Learn your dog’s daily routines.
Pay attention to what your dog does every day. When your dog does something that is outside her normal daily actions, that is one of the first signs something may be wrong. Look at these things daily:
- Did she eat all her food?
- Did she go potty like she usually does?
- How much water is she drinking? More or less than usual?
These may seem trivial at first, but they can all tell you important information about your dog’s health.
Look at her overall condition.
- Does her weight seem about the same?
- Does she look like she has lost or gained weight?
- Is her coat shiny and radiant? Or is it dull and unhealthy looking?
Her overall appearance is a good indicator of a change in her health. Observe her closely. It can be easy to overlook changes in your dog’s weight since it usually happens gradually. However, if your dog starts to lose her hair or appears to be having other skin problems, then these are pretty good signs that something is wrong. They can indicate thyroid problems, allergies, or other conditions.
Consider her energy level.
- Is she being as active as she normally is?
- Does she appear sluggish or lethargic?
- Is she hyperactive?
A change in your dog’s energy level can indicate a negative change in her health. Lethargy can be a sign of problems like hypothyroidism or heart failure.
Check her ears.
- Is your dog sensitive when you touch her ears?
Ear problems are a very common issue among dogs. They are even more problematic in dog breeds with long ears, and dogs with long hair. The ears can develop yeast infections and bacterial infections. If these problems are not treated, they can lead to permanent hearing loss, or require surgery to address the issue.
Other Less Obvious Dog Health Problems, Symptoms, And Signs
While the signs above tend to be easily observable, there are also some other things you want to be on the look out for.
The Gums
Check your dog’s gums regularly. Make sure that they appear healthy and pink. If the gums are too pale, it can be a sign that your dog is not processing oxygen as well as she should. This can indicate hemolytic anemia or a cardiovascular problem.
Limps
If your dog is limping for more than a few hours you need to take them to your vet. Much like us, dogs can sprain or twist a limb. However, if your dog is limping for more than just a few days, it could mean that she has a bony growth. It can also be a sign of arthritis.
Your vet will be able to make a diagnosis and recommend any treatment you need give your dog.
In Conclusion
Just like us, there are various health conditions and diseases that can affect your dog. Although it is difficult to understand what might be wrong with your dog just by looking at her, if you take the time to understand dog health problems, signs, and symptoms, then you will be in a good position to know that something is wrong with your dog just by observing her.
As your dog’s owner you are the best person to know and understand your dog. If you feel that something is wrong, trust your gut instinct and take her to the vet. Either way, the vet will be able to diagnose and help your dog, or at least provide you with the peace of mind that she is fine.
Also see: How to Keep Your Dog Healthy
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