Common Dog Health Issues

Submitted By: Annette Lode
Category: Articles · Dogs · Health & Wellness · Pet Allergies · Pet Diseases · Pet Skin Care · Pet Vitamins & Supplements          Tags: Health & Wellness, pet illnesses

There are lots of common dog health issues that can effect you and your pet. The results can be both emotionally devastating and expensive, if not dealt with effectively. As opposed to answering and adjusting potential illness issues when they occur, be prepared in preventing them, and keep your pet happy and healthy.

Similar to humans, dogs can have a variety of health issues. The real difference is that dogs cannot communicate, letting you know “I have an upset stomach”. They often suffer in silence, until noticeable symptoms arise. Common health issues include infections, allergies, diseases such as diabetes, arthritis and obesity. Learn to recognize the symptoms and take appropriate and immediate action.

 

Infections
Of most dog illnesses, infections are the easiest to control. Many dogs tend to have infectious problems within their ears, on their skin, and their teeth. Ear infections are the most frequent and are often as a result of the presence of foreign body and bacteria. Check your dog’s ears frequently for red spots, swelling, excess moisture and dirt. Clean your dog’s eyes, brush their teeth and hair regularly, to avoid bacteria build up.

 

Allergies
The most common type of allergy found in dogs, are from fleas. Flea allergies cause hot spots, leading to infections. Apply pet flea medication monthly, and make certain the dog receives regular checkups. The vet may also administer flea medication for longer term effects. If their skin problem leads to ear infections or other hot spots, it may also be a sign of a type of food allergy. Food allergies tend to be more severe and require the attention of a professional veterinarian.

 

Diabetes
Similar to humans, a serious health issue for a dog can be diabetes. Excess rich, fatty and sugary foods may result in pancreatic problems, causing diabetes. In order to avoid diabetes, keep your dog on a strict diet of dog foods with minimal table scraps or excess meals. If your pet is diagnosed with diabetes, they will need to visit a vet regularly and be administered regular shots.

 

Arthritis and Dysplasia
Some dogs are highly susceptible to joint pain. Pure breeds, more often, have a long history of arthritic dog illnesses due to having longer, narrower joints. Make certain your pet receives the required nutritional supplements daily and make certain to have the vet check for joint degeneration at least once per year.

 

Obesity
Obesity is an also common, but deadly dog health issue. Obesity is due to both excessive eating and lack of adequate exercise. While obesity alone does not cause mortality, the associated higher rates of heart failure, tumors and liver disease does. Fortunately, obesity is treatable with proper diet and ample amount of exercise for your pet.

 

If you provide your dog with lots of exercise, a proper diet, and regular grooming, you can avoid its having significant health problems. Also, make certain to have annual visits with a veterinarian, to check for potential problems. The earlier you catch a disease, the more chances you have of being able to successfully treat it.

Do you experience dogs behavior problems? If so, visit Annette Lode’s site to learn how to handle obedience problems.