Dog Health Guide
Comprehensive information about 25 health conditions, symptoms, and preventive care
⚠️Emergency Signs - Seek Immediate Veterinary Care
•Difficulty breathing or blue gums
•Severe bleeding that won't stop
•Loss of consciousness or collapse
•Seizures lasting more than 2 minutes
•Suspected poisoning
•Severe abdominal pain or bloating
•Inability to urinate or defecate
•Eye injuries or sudden blindness
•Severe trauma or car accident
•Heatstroke symptoms
Keep your emergency vet's phone number and the nearest 24-hour animal hospital address readily available at all times.
Showing 25 of 25 health conditions
Hip Dysplasia
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Difficulty rising or jumping
- •Decreased activity or exercise
- •Limping or lameness in hind legs
- •Bunny-hopping gait
- •Loss of muscle mass in hind legs
Common Causes:
- •Genetic predisposition
- •Rapid growth during puppyhood
- •Excessive exercise in young dogs
- •Obesity adding stress to joints
Treatment:
- •Weight management
- •Physical therapy and controlled exercise
- •Anti-inflammatory medications
- •Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin)
- •Surgery in severe cases
Prevention:
- •Choose breeders who screen for hip dysplasia
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Avoid over-exercising puppies
- •Provide joint-friendly flooring
Commonly Affected Breeds: German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Rottweiler
When to See a Vet:
If you notice persistent limping, difficulty standing, or decreased activity
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
Life-threateningEmergency
Symptoms:
- •Distended, swollen abdomen
- •Unsuccessful attempts to vomit
- •Excessive drooling
- •Restlessness and pacing
- •Rapid heart rate
- •Pale gums
- •Weakness or collapse
Common Causes:
- •Large meals eaten quickly
- •Exercise immediately after eating
- •Drinking large amounts of water rapidly
- •Stress or anxiety
- •Genetics
Treatment:
- •IMMEDIATE EMERGENCY VET CARE
- •Stomach decompression
- •Surgery to untwist stomach
- •IV fluids and medications
- •Preventive gastropexy may be recommended
Prevention:
- •Feed smaller meals multiple times daily
- •Use slow-feed bowls
- •Limit water intake before and after meals
- •Avoid exercise 1 hour before and after eating
- •Consider preventive surgery for high-risk breeds
Commonly Affected Breeds: Great Dane, German Shepherd, Doberman Pinscher, Boxer
When to See a Vet:
IMMEDIATELY - Bloat is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care
Ear Infections
MildCommon
Symptoms:
- •Head shaking or tilting
- •Scratching at ears
- •Redness or swelling in ear canal
- •Discharge or odor from ears
- •Loss of balance
- •Pain when ears are touched
Common Causes:
- •Bacteria or yeast overgrowth
- •Allergies
- •Ear mites
- •Excessive moisture in ears
- •Foreign objects
Treatment:
- •Veterinary examination and ear cleaning
- •Prescribed ear drops or medications
- •Oral antibiotics if severe
- •Treatment of underlying allergies
Prevention:
- •Regular ear cleaning
- •Dry ears after swimming or bathing
- •Pluck or trim ear hair if needed
- •Address allergies promptly
Commonly Affected Breeds: Cocker Spaniel, Basset Hound, Poodle
When to See a Vet:
If symptoms persist more than 24-48 hours or if there is severe pain
Parvovirus
Life-threateningEmergency
Symptoms:
- •Severe, bloody diarrhea
- •Vomiting
- •Loss of appetite
- •Lethargy and weakness
- •Fever
- •Dehydration
Common Causes:
- •Highly contagious virus
- •Contact with infected dogs or feces
- •Unvaccinated puppies most at risk
Treatment:
- •IMMEDIATE VET CARE REQUIRED
- •IV fluids for hydration
- •Anti-nausea medications
- •Antibiotics for secondary infections
- •Hospitalization usually required
Prevention:
- •Complete vaccination series (critical!)
- •Avoid dog parks until fully vaccinated
- •Clean contaminated areas with bleach solution
- •Isolate infected dogs
When to See a Vet:
IMMEDIATELY if puppy shows any symptoms
Dental Disease
ModerateCommon
Symptoms:
- •Bad breath
- •Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
- •Red, swollen gums
- •Difficulty eating
- •Loose or missing teeth
- •Drooling
Common Causes:
- •Plaque and tartar buildup
- •Poor dental hygiene
- •Genetics
- •Age
Treatment:
- •Professional dental cleaning
- •Tooth extraction if needed
- •Antibiotics for infection
- •Home dental care
Prevention:
- •Daily teeth brushing
- •Dental chews and toys
- •Regular vet dental checks
- •Professional cleanings as recommended
Commonly Affected Breeds: Yorkshire Terrier, Chihuahua, Pomeranian
When to See a Vet:
Annual dental checkups; immediately if you notice pain or loose teeth
Arthritis
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Stiffness, especially after rest
- •Limping or favoring limbs
- •Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- •Decreased activity
- •Irritability or changes in behavior
Common Causes:
- •Age-related wear and tear
- •Previous injuries
- •Obesity
- •Genetic predisposition
Treatment:
- •Weight management
- •Pain medications and anti-inflammatories
- •Joint supplements
- •Physical therapy
- •Low-impact exercise
- •Comfortable bedding
Prevention:
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Provide regular, moderate exercise
- •Joint supplements for at-risk breeds
- •Avoid high-impact activities
When to See a Vet:
When you first notice stiffness or mobility issues
Allergies
MildCommon
Symptoms:
- •Itching and scratching
- •Red, inflamed skin
- •Hair loss
- •Ear infections
- •Paw licking or chewing
- •Sneezing or runny eyes
Common Causes:
- •Environmental allergens (pollen, dust, mold)
- •Food allergies
- •Flea allergies
- •Contact allergies
Treatment:
- •Identify and avoid allergens
- •Antihistamines or immunotherapy
- •Medicated shampoos
- •Food trials for food allergies
- •Flea prevention
Prevention:
- •Regular flea prevention
- •Quality diet
- •Frequent bathing with hypoallergenic shampoo
- •Air purifiers in home
When to See a Vet:
If symptoms are severe or don't improve with home care
Kennel Cough
MildCommon
Symptoms:
- •Dry, honking cough
- •Retching or gagging
- •Nasal discharge
- •Normal energy and appetite usually maintained
Common Causes:
- •Bordetella bacteria
- •Viral infections
- •Exposure to infected dogs
- •Stress or crowded conditions
Treatment:
- •Rest and isolation from other dogs
- •Cough suppressants if needed
- •Antibiotics if bacterial
- •Usually resolves in 1-3 weeks
Prevention:
- •Bordetella vaccination
- •Avoid crowded dog areas during outbreaks
- •Good hygiene and ventilation
When to See a Vet:
If cough persists over 3 weeks, if puppy, or if breathing difficulty develops
Chocolate Toxicity
Life-threateningEmergency
Symptoms:
- •Vomiting and diarrhea
- •Increased heart rate
- •Restlessness
- •Excessive thirst and urination
- •Tremors or seizures
- •Collapse
Common Causes:
- •Ingestion of chocolate (theobromine toxicity)
- •Dark chocolate more dangerous than milk chocolate
Treatment:
- •IMMEDIATE VET CARE
- •Induce vomiting if recent ingestion
- •Activated charcoal
- •IV fluids
- •Medications to control symptoms
Prevention:
- •Keep chocolate completely out of reach
- •Educate family members
- •Be extra careful during holidays
- •Have emergency vet number ready
When to See a Vet:
IMMEDIATELY after any chocolate ingestion
Obesity
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Weight above breed standard
- •No visible waist
- •Ribs not easily felt
- •Decreased activity
- •Difficulty breathing
Common Causes:
- •Overfeeding
- •Lack of exercise
- •Age-related metabolism changes
- •Medical conditions
Treatment:
- •Veterinary weight loss plan
- •Measured, portion-controlled feeding
- •Increased exercise
- •Low-calorie treats
- •Regular weigh-ins
Prevention:
- •Feed appropriate portions
- •Regular exercise
- •Limit treats to 10% of daily calories
- •Monitor weight regularly
When to See a Vet:
For a proper weight loss plan and to rule out medical causes
Canine Diabetes
SevereChronic
Symptoms:
- •Excessive thirst and urination
- •Increased appetite with weight loss
- •Lethargy and weakness
- •Cloudy eyes (cataracts)
- •Recurrent infections
Common Causes:
- •Genetics and breed predisposition
- •Obesity
- •Pancreatitis
- •Autoimmune disease
- •Hormonal imbalances
Treatment:
- •Daily insulin injections
- •Strict feeding schedule
- •Regular blood glucose monitoring
- •Consistent exercise routine
- •Weight management
- •Regular vet checkups
Prevention:
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Provide regular exercise
- •Feed high-quality, consistent diet
- •Regular vet checkups
Commonly Affected Breeds: Poodle, Beagle, Dachshund, Golden Retriever
When to See a Vet:
Immediately if you notice excessive thirst/urination or sudden weight loss
Cushing's Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Excessive thirst and urination
- •Increased appetite
- •Pot-bellied appearance
- •Hair loss and thin skin
- •Panting excessively
- •Muscle weakness
Common Causes:
- •Pituitary gland tumor (most common)
- •Adrenal gland tumor
- •Prolonged steroid use
Treatment:
- •Medication to suppress cortisol production
- •Regular monitoring and blood tests
- •Surgery in some cases
- •Managing secondary conditions
Prevention:
- •Avoid unnecessary long-term steroid use
- •Regular health checkups
- •Early detection through blood work
Commonly Affected Breeds: Poodle, Dachshund, Boxer, Boston Terrier
When to See a Vet:
If you notice pot-belly, excessive thirst, or hair loss
Hypothyroidism
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Weight gain despite normal appetite
- •Lethargy and mental dullness
- •Hair loss and dull coat
- •Cold intolerance
- •Skin infections
- •Slow heart rate
Common Causes:
- •Autoimmune thyroiditis
- •Thyroid gland atrophy
- •Rarely: cancer or iodine deficiency
Treatment:
- •Daily thyroid hormone replacement
- •Regular blood tests to monitor levels
- •Lifelong medication
- •Usually excellent prognosis with treatment
Prevention:
- •Cannot be prevented, but early detection helps
- •Regular senior dog blood work
Commonly Affected Breeds: Golden Retriever, Doberman Pinscher, Dachshund, Cocker Spaniel
When to See a Vet:
If you notice unexplained weight gain, lethargy, or skin/coat changes
Heart Disease (Various Types)
SevereSerious
Symptoms:
- •Coughing, especially at night
- •Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- •Reduced exercise tolerance
- •Fainting or weakness
- •Abdominal swelling
- •Blue-tinged gums
Common Causes:
- •Mitral valve disease (common in small breeds)
- •Dilated cardiomyopathy (large breeds)
- •Congenital heart defects
- •Heartworm disease
- •Age-related degeneration
Treatment:
- •Medications to manage symptoms
- •Dietary changes (low sodium)
- •Exercise restriction
- •Regular monitoring
- •Surgery in some cases
Prevention:
- •Heartworm prevention
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Regular vet checkups with heart auscultation
- •Quality diet
Commonly Affected Breeds: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Doberman Pinscher, Boxer, Great Dane
When to See a Vet:
Immediately if difficulty breathing, coughing, or fainting occurs
Pancreatitis
SevereSerious
Symptoms:
- •Severe abdominal pain
- •Vomiting
- •Diarrhea
- •Loss of appetite
- •Hunched back posture
- •Fever
- •Weakness
Common Causes:
- •High-fat diet
- •Obesity
- •Trauma to pancreas
- •Certain medications
- •Genetics
Treatment:
- •Hospitalization with IV fluids
- •Fasting to rest the pancreas
- •Pain management
- •Anti-nausea medications
- •Gradual reintroduction of low-fat food
Prevention:
- •Feed low-fat, high-quality diet
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Avoid fatty table scraps
- •Regular exercise
Commonly Affected Breeds: Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier, Cocker Spaniel
When to See a Vet:
Immediately if severe vomiting, abdominal pain, or refusal to eat
Chronic Kidney Disease
SevereChronic
Symptoms:
- •Increased thirst and urination
- •Weight loss and poor appetite
- •Vomiting
- •Lethargy
- •Bad breath (uremic odor)
- •Pale gums
- •Weakness
Common Causes:
- •Age-related deterioration
- •Genetics
- •Infections
- •Toxins
- •Dental disease
Treatment:
- •Prescription kidney diet (low protein, low phosphorus)
- •Medications to manage symptoms
- •Fluid therapy
- •Phosphate binders
- •Blood pressure medications
- •Regular monitoring
Prevention:
- •Provide fresh water always
- •Regular dental care
- •Avoid toxins (antifreeze, grapes, etc.)
- •Annual blood work, especially for seniors
When to See a Vet:
If increased thirst/urination, vomiting, or appetite loss occurs
Cancer (Various Types)
Life-threateningSerious
Symptoms:
- •Abnormal lumps or swelling
- •Sores that don't heal
- •Weight loss
- •Loss of appetite
- •Difficulty eating or swallowing
- •Bleeding or discharge
- •Offensive odor
- •Lameness or stiffness
Common Causes:
- •Genetics
- •Environmental factors
- •Age (more common in older dogs)
- •Some breed predispositions
Treatment:
- •Surgery to remove tumors
- •Chemotherapy
- •Radiation therapy
- •Immunotherapy
- •Palliative care
- •Combination approaches
Prevention:
- •Spaying before first heat reduces mammary cancer risk
- •Avoid environmental toxins
- •Healthy diet and weight
- •Regular checkups and early detection
Commonly Affected Breeds: Golden Retriever, Boxer, Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler
When to See a Vet:
Immediately upon discovering any unusual lumps or symptoms
Cataracts
ModerateCommon
Symptoms:
- •Cloudy or bluish-gray eyes
- •Difficulty seeing in dim light
- •Bumping into objects
- •Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
- •Changes in eye color
Common Causes:
- •Age-related (most common)
- •Diabetes
- •Genetics
- •Eye trauma
- •Nutritional deficiencies
Treatment:
- •Surgery to remove cataracts (very successful)
- •Managing underlying diabetes if present
- •No medication to reverse cataracts
- •Anti-inflammatory eye drops
Prevention:
- •Control diabetes if present
- •Protect eyes from trauma
- •Antioxidant-rich diet may help
- •Regular eye exams
Commonly Affected Breeds: Poodle, Cocker Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Siberian Husky
When to See a Vet:
When you notice cloudiness or vision problems
Cherry Eye
MildCommon
Symptoms:
- •Red, swollen mass in corner of eye
- •Excessive tearing
- •Squinting or pawing at eye
- •Discharge from eye
Common Causes:
- •Weakness of ligament holding third eyelid gland
- •Genetic predisposition
Treatment:
- •Surgical replacement of gland (preferred)
- •Removal of gland (can lead to dry eye)
- •Anti-inflammatory medications
Prevention:
- •Cannot be prevented
- •Choose breeders who screen for this condition
Commonly Affected Breeds: Bulldog, Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Boston Terrier
When to See a Vet:
As soon as you notice the red mass - earlier treatment better
Luxating Patella (Dislocated Kneecap)
ModerateCommon
Symptoms:
- •Intermittent skipping or hopping
- •Sudden lameness in hind leg
- •Leg held up then normal again
- •Reluctance to jump
- •Bowlegged appearance
Common Causes:
- •Congenital malformation
- •Genetics
- •Trauma
Treatment:
- •Surgery for severe cases (grades 3-4)
- •Weight management
- •Anti-inflammatory medications
- •Physical therapy
- •Joint supplements
Prevention:
- •Choose reputable breeders
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Avoid excessive jumping in small breeds
Commonly Affected Breeds: Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Boston Terrier
When to See a Vet:
If you notice skipping, hopping, or limping
Addison's Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)
SevereSerious
Symptoms:
- •Lethargy and weakness
- •Vomiting and diarrhea
- •Loss of appetite
- •Shaking or trembling
- •Increased thirst and urination
- •Collapse in crisis
Common Causes:
- •Autoimmune destruction of adrenal glands
- •Sudden stoppage of steroid medications
- •Tumor or infection
Treatment:
- •Lifelong hormone replacement therapy
- •Emergency treatment for Addisonian crisis
- •Regular monitoring
- •Excellent prognosis with treatment
Prevention:
- •Cannot be prevented
- •Gradually taper off steroids, never stop suddenly
Commonly Affected Breeds: Standard Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, Great Dane
When to See a Vet:
Immediately if severe weakness, vomiting, or collapse
Epilepsy (Seizure Disorder)
ModerateChronic
Symptoms:
- •Seizures (convulsions)
- •Loss of consciousness
- •Muscle twitching or spasms
- •Drooling or foaming at mouth
- •Confusion after seizure
- •Loss of bladder/bowel control
Common Causes:
- •Idiopathic (genetic, unknown cause)
- •Brain tumors or injury
- •Toxins
- •Metabolic disorders
- •Infections
Treatment:
- •Anti-seizure medications
- •Identifying and treating underlying cause
- •Keep seizure diary
- •Safety during seizures
- •Regular blood work to monitor medication
Prevention:
- •Idiopathic epilepsy cannot be prevented
- •Avoid breeding affected dogs
Commonly Affected Breeds: Beagle, German Shepherd, Belgian Tervuren, Labrador Retriever
When to See a Vet:
Immediately for first seizure or if seizure lasts over 5 minutes
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
SevereSerious
Symptoms:
- •Back or neck pain
- •Reluctance to move or jump
- •Hunched back
- •Weak hind legs
- •Paralysis
- •Loss of bladder/bowel control
Common Causes:
- •Genetics (especially in long-backed breeds)
- •Age-related degeneration
- •Trauma
- •Obesity
Treatment:
- •Strict crate rest for mild cases
- •Pain medications and anti-inflammatories
- •Emergency surgery for severe cases
- •Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Prevention:
- •Maintain healthy weight
- •Use ramps instead of allowing jumping
- •Support back when lifting
- •Regular exercise to strengthen muscles
Commonly Affected Breeds: Dachshund, Beagle, Basset Hound, Shih Tzu
When to See a Vet:
Immediately if sudden paralysis, severe pain, or inability to walk
Separation Anxiety
ModerateCommon
Symptoms:
- •Destructive behavior when alone
- •Excessive barking or howling
- •House soiling despite being housetrained
- •Pacing or restlessness before you leave
- •Escape attempts
- •Depression or anxiety
Common Causes:
- •Change in routine or family
- •Move to new home
- •Loss of family member
- •Traumatic event
- •Never being left alone as puppy
Treatment:
- •Gradual desensitization training
- •Counter-conditioning
- •Calming supplements or medications
- •Environmental enrichment
- •Exercise before leaving
- •Professional trainer or behaviorist
Prevention:
- •Teach independence from puppyhood
- •Practice short departures
- •Don't make arrivals/departures emotional
- •Provide mental stimulation
When to See a Vet:
If anxiety is severe or training isn't helping
Lyme Disease
ModerateSerious
Symptoms:
- •Lameness (often shifting between legs)
- •Fever
- •Loss of appetite
- •Lethargy
- •Swollen joints
- •Swollen lymph nodes
Common Causes:
- •Tick bites (deer ticks carrying Borrelia bacteria)
- •Most common in Northeast, Upper Midwest, Pacific Coast
Treatment:
- •Antibiotics (4-week course)
- •Pain medications
- •Most dogs improve within 24-48 hours
- •Some may need longer treatment
Prevention:
- •Tick prevention medications
- •Check for ticks after outdoor activities
- •Remove ticks promptly (within 24 hours)
- •Lyme vaccination (discuss with vet)
- •Avoid tick-infested areas when possible
When to See a Vet:
If sudden lameness, fever, or known tick bite
Preventive Care Schedule
Regular preventive care is the best way to keep your dog healthy. Follow these schedules and consult with your veterinarian.
Vaccinations
- ✓Puppy shots: 6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks, 14-16 weeks
- ✓Rabies: 12-16 weeks, then every 1-3 years
- ✓DHPP: Annual or every 3 years
- ✓Bordetella: Every 6-12 months
- ✓Lyme, influenza: Based on risk factors
Parasite Prevention
- ✓Flea and tick prevention: Monthly, year-round
- ✓Heartworm prevention: Monthly, year-round
- ✓Intestinal parasite treatment: Quarterly
- ✓Fecal tests: Annually or as recommended
Veterinary Visits
- ✓Puppies: Every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks
- ✓Adult dogs: Annually
- ✓Senior dogs (7+): Every 6 months
- ✓Dental cleanings: As recommended
Dog First Aid Kit Essentials
Supplies
- •Gauze pads and rolls
- •Adhesive tape
- •Cotton balls and swabs
- •Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- •Antibiotic ointment
- •Digital thermometer
- •Tweezers and scissors
Additional Items
- •Muzzle (even gentle dogs may bite when hurt)
- •Blanket or towel
- •Disposable gloves
- •Flashlight
- •Ice pack
- •Emergency contact numbers
- •Copy of medical records