3 Tell-Tale Signs That Indicate That Your Dog May Be Sick
In a way, taking care of a dog is a lot like having a baby. You have to give them a lot of attention and always be on the lookout for indications that something is wrong. However, unlike babies dogs are a lot more complicated as they communicate things differently. Due to this, some issues may go unnoticed and may progress into something way more serious.
To help you out with this, we thought it would be useful to put together a brief list of signs that you should be on the lookout for. If this is something that you want to learn more about, read on for three tell-tale signs that indicate that your dog may be sick.
Loss of Appetite
While dogs have pretty erratic eating habits as they may eat more food on some days than others, a drastic loss of appetite may indicate a more serious problem. If you notice that your dog has been eating less and less, then it would be wise to bring them in for a check-up. This is especially true if the loss of appetite is accompanied by bad breath as this may be indicative of dental disease.
Changes in Disposition
The symptoms of sicknesses aren’t all physical. If you notice any changes in your dog’s disposition, then it may be worth having them checked. Decreased activity or lethargy are both signs of sickness. The same can be said about an increase in their aggressiveness, as this may indicate that they’re going through significant levels of discomfort.
It’s also important to note that all dogs are different and some may become more clingy or needy when they are sick. It’s best to pay attention to these signs as well, as this will help you detect problems more quickly.
Coughing or Wheezing
Coughing or wheezing is a clear sign that your dog is having trouble breathing. This is an indication of a respiratory problem. Now, this shouldn’t be a cause for panic as it can be something as simple as a cold or flu. With that benign said, we suggest bringing your dog in for a visit to the vet as coughing and wheezing can also be signs of kennel cough or heat failure. If you hear a honking noise along with the coughing or wheezing, then it may be a sign of a condition called tracheal collapse.
If you notice that your dog’s tongues and gums are turning blue, it’s best to treat this as a medical emergency. In cases, like this, it’s important to bring your dog to the vet as soon as possible as their life may be in danger.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article helps you spot any potential problems before they get worse. Be sure to keep all of the information that we’ve discussed in mind so you can best take care of your pet. If you notice any of these signs, we suggest bringing your dog to a vet as soon as possible.
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