Common Health Issues in Dogs
If you are thinking about getting yourself a loveable pooch to spend your time with, then it is worth knowing what to expect when it comes to the side of pet ownership that is not all fun and games.
Like all living things, dogs are prone to their own issues, and these are something that you need to be aware of so that you can spot them early if you and your pup are unlucky enough to come across any.
With that in mind, this piece is going to take a look at some of the common health issues that can be found in dogs, how to spot them, and what you can do about them.
Obesity
Much like for humans, obesity is a serious problem in dogs. Not only are dogs bound by their owners for adequate exercise, but it is also up to the owner to feed their pups responsibly too. It can be all too easy to give in to those puppy dog eyes or excessive whining when you are eating your dinner, but it is for the best that you stay strong, provide a balanced diet, and keep your dog moving.
It is pretty easy to tell when your dog is overweight, but by the time that this happens, you will have a real problem on your hands. Nip it in the bud early by making sure you are taking your dog for regular checkups and weigh-ins – that way, a good veterinary practice, such as ortinganimalhospital.com, can spot anything untoward, like quick weight gain before it gets seriously out of hand.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is rife among canine friends. Between saliva, food, and any other particles they may pick up, everything congeals to make plaque, just like it does in humans. However, dogs don’t generally brush their teeth twice a day, so that plaque can harden and start causing issues with their gums.
Look out for bad breath, bleeding gums, dribbling, pawing at the face from discomfort, and a loss of interest in chew toys or food, as these can all be signs that something is not quite right in the mouth department.
Diarrhea
Perhaps one of the least pleasant health issues your dog can experience is diarrhea. Best case scenario: it has happened outside the house. The worst case scenario is that no one is able to pinpoint what is causing it. There are many different reasons why this might happen. It can be anything from a bug to simple stress. In more serious situations, it could indicate a threat, such as parasites or a problem with the bowel.
If your dog has a one-off bout of the runs but otherwise seems fine, it is likely that they have just eaten something that doesn’t agree with them. However, if they experience consistent diarrhea and you notice other signs that suggest your pooch is poorly, it is essential that you take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Thank you for sharing