Dogs are amazingly loyal, fun, and playful creatures. They appreciate their owners, wag their tails, and fetch toys. However, it can be challenging to tell whether your furry friend is sick, especially since they cannot tell you how they feel.

But, noticing the signs and symptoms of sickness in dogs can help you to get your pet the care they need. Here are the top 10 signs that demonstrate your dog is sick.

1. Loss of Appetite

One of the most frequent indicators that your dog is ill is when they lose their appetite. Dogs adore their meals, and when they refuse to eat or have lost their appetite, it’s usually a sign that something is wrong.

It’s vital to keep an eye on their eating habits, and if they are not eating, take them to the veterinarian for a check-up.

2. Lethargy

Lethargy is when your dog appears exhausted, tired, and weak. If your furry friend shows no interest in playing, going for walks, or even standing up, it’s time to contact the vet.

Lethargy may be a sign of many diseases such as infections, Lyme disease, anemia, or even cancer.

3. Vomiting

Vomiting is a common indication that your dog is sick. They may vomit for a variety of reasons, such as because they ate something bad or due to motion sickness.

Nevertheless, if your dog is persistent in vomiting, looks unwell, and has other symptoms, like diarrhea or dehydration, a visit to the vet is in order.

4. Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be an indication that your dog is unwell. It typically happens when their digestive system is suffering from something they ate. If diarrhea persists, it’s necessary to visit the vet as it can be a sign of something more severe.

5. Changes in Behaviour

If your dog is sick, you might notice significant changes in their behavior. They could withdraw from activities, become aggressive about visitors or other pets. They may also appear to be anxious and moody.

Alterations in behavior such as these are a reason to visit the vet.

6. Breathing Problems

If your dog is experiencing any issues with their respiratory system, it’s crucial to take them to the veterinarian promptly. The symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

Respiratory issues or disorders can be as small as just congestion, but it could also be an indication of something more severe.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Sudden weight loss causes can indicate a possible underlying illness. Maintaining an eye on your dog’s weight and feeding habits is vital.

A warning sign for weight loss is the noticeable loss of muscle mass or sudden weight loss, or a visible reduction in your pet’s usual energy level.

8. Discharge from Eyes or Nose

Another sign of your dog’s illness is unnatural discharge from their eyes or nose. This could indicate a respiratory infection or an allergy. You should treat discharge as an indication of sickness and see your veterinarian.

9. Skin Issues

Your dog may have scaly, itchy, or irritated skin. Red spots on their skin or hair loss might also indicate sickness.

If left untreated, skin conditions can lead to more severe problems, so it’s advisable to see your vet if you see any of these issues arise.

10. Inability to Urinate or Defecate

If you not see your dog peeing or pooping, it may indicate constipation. Constipation in dogs can be a cause for concern and may be related to a spinal cord issue.

If your dog is straining to poop or pee and nothing is coming out, it’s advisable to contact your vet immediately.

Conclusion

Playing with your pet is a joyous and entertaining experience that makes us happy. So, when they become ill, it can be heartbreaking to watch.

For this reason, it is essential to keep an eye on their behaviors and note any unexpected changes that cause concern. Always trust your instincts if you think something is wrong with your dog. Taking care of their health ought to be a priority, and if you think that they might be sick, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible.