Last Updated on September 3, 2022 by Dogs Vets
The Most Common Dog Diseases: Signs and Treatment
Recognizing the symptoms and signs of common diseases in dogs as a dog parent is critical so that you may seek veterinary care for your canine buddy as soon as possible.
In this article, you’ll learn about illnesses and other medical complications that commonly affect dogs.
From diarrhea to vomiting, dogs can get sick from a variety of reasons. In this blog, we will be discussing some of the most common dog diseases and their signs and symptoms. Afterwards, we will provide instructions on how to treat these diseases appropriately.
So don’t wait any longer – read on to learn all you need to know about these pesky afflictions!
There are different types of diseases that can affect your dog from Kennel Cough, Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), Bloat, Distemper etc.
Each disease has its specific symptoms and requires a different approach in treating it – this is why it is important to consult a vet as soon as you notice any changes in your dog’s health.
If you’re like most pet owners, you’re familiar with the signs and symptoms of common dog diseases.
However, if you’re not sure how to treat your dog’s symptoms or if you’re not sure which disease your dog is suffering from, read on for a comprehensive overview of dog diseases and their treatments.
From diarrhea to cancer, this blog will provide you with all the information you need to take your dog to the best possible health.
Don’t wait any longer – read on for all the details!
What are the most common dog diseases?
There are many different dog diseases that can affect both dogs and their owners. Some of the most common include:
1. Ear infections:
These infections can occur due to a wide variety of factors, including accumulated dirt, moisture, and bacteria in the environment.
Symptoms can include ear discharge, itching, reduced hearing, coughing, or even vomiting.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics as well as supportive care such as warm compresses and rest.
2. Pneumonia:
This is a serious illness caused by infection in the lungs. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, fever, coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics as well as supportive care.
3. Skin infections (mastitis):
This condition is often caused by bacteria getting into the bloodstream and spreading throughout the body.
Signs of mastitis include swollen breasts, redness, and tenderness around the nipples, lameness, diarrhea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics as well as supportive care.
4. Urinary tract infections (UTI):
This condition is usually caused by bacteria getting into the bladder. Signs of a UTI may include frequency of urination, blood in urine, urinary urgency or pain, reduced urination volume or hesitancy to urinate
Signs and symptoms of common dog diseases
If your dog is having trouble getting his appetite or energy back, it might be time to take him to the vet.
Keep in mind that not all dog diseases require treatment, but if your dog is having any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s best to bring him in for a check-up:
Diminished appetite or energy, diarrhea, vomiting, vomiting blood, weight loss, lethargy, seizures, and paralysis.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s best to take him to the vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Some common treatments for dog diseases include antibiotics, pain medication, and surgery. It’s always a good idea to keep up with regular vet check-ups to make sure you’re catching any potential problems early on.
How to treat common dog diseases?
Dog owners know that their dogs are their best friends, and they go to great lengths to take care of them. However, even the best-cared-for dogs can get sick.
If you’re noticing any of the following symptoms on your pet, be sure to call your veterinarian: limping, increased appetite or panting, coughing up blood, seizures or coma.
In most cases, dog diseases can be easily treated with antibiotics or a change in diet. However, if left untreated, some dog diseases can be fatal. Some of the most common dog diseases include ear infections, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Remember to get vaccinated regularly against common breeds of dogs and keep them groomed properly to help prevent them from getting sick in the first place.
What are common dog diseases?
Keeping your pet healthy is of the utmost importance. That’s why knowing about the most common dog diseases is so important.
Each disease has its own signs and treatment, so it’s important to stay up to date on their health. By knowing the symptoms of each disease and how to identify them, you’ll be better prepared when your pet does get sick.
Additionally, learning about the common dog diseases will help you better understand your pet and better care for them. So, why not start learning today?
Canine distemper
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease which affects dogs of all ages.
It causes fever, coughing, sneezing and vomiting, as well as diarrhea and seizures.
Some breeds are more prone to developing the disease than others – be sure to check with your vet before bringing a new dog home!
If you think your pet may have distemper, take them straight to the vet for treatment Fortunately, there is no cure but antibodies can be given in order not only fight the virus but also protect your dog from future infections.
Cancer
It can be frightening and bewildering for a family member to find out that he or she has cancer. Remember that various veterinarians may have diverse points of view on how to manage the illness when that cherished friend is your dog.
Seeking a second opinion, possibly from a veterinary oncologist, is always a good idea. It’s also a good idea to carefully evaluate your options.
Cancer is one of the most common dog diseases, and it can be deadly if not treated quickly.
Treatment options vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, but often surgery or chemotherapy is recommended.
Early detection is key – make sure to take your dog to the vet if they show any signs of the disease. If you’re worried about your dog’s health, talk to a veterinarian immediately!
In short, keep your furry friend healthy and happy by following a few simple tips.
Keep them vaccinated, and make sure to get them checked up regularly by a vet. They’ll thank you for it!
Cancer is a group of disorders in which cells proliferate unrestrainedly, invading nearby tissue, and may metastasize to other parts of the body.
Dogs may develop a variety of cancers, much like people. Localized or widespread infection is possible (tumors, for example, are localized infections).
Dog Cancer Diagnosis
If a lump is visible, the initial operation is typically a needle biopsy, which collects a small tissue sample for microscopic examination of cells. Alternately, surgery may be utilized to remove the entire or a portion of the mass for pathologic analysis.
Additionally, radiographs (x-rays), ultrasonography, blood analysis, and other diagnostic procedures may be used to determine the existence or spread of cancer.
Dog Breed that are more susceptible to cancer.
Cancer can be diagnosed in dogs of all ages and breeds, although older dogs are substantially more likely to be affected.
Certain breeds are prone to various cancers. Boxers, Boston terriers, and Golden Retrievers are among the breeds most likely to develop mast cell tumors or lymphoma, but Great Danes and Saint Bernards are far more likely to develop bone cancer than smaller breeds.
Understanding the diseases to which your dog’s breed may be predisposed is vital.
Diabetes in dogs
Diabetes in dogs is a complicated illness that develops when the hormone insulin isn’t produced enough or isn’t used properly.
When a dog eats, his digestive system breaks food down into many components, including glucose, which is transported into his cells via insulin, a pancreatic hormone.
The blood sugar levels of a dog who does not produce insulin or cannot use it properly rise. As a consequence, the dog develops hyperglycemia, which may lead to a variety of complicated medical issues if it is not treated.
It’s essential to note that diabetes is considered a controllable illness, and many diabetic dogs may live happy, productive lives.
Canine influenza (“canine flu” or “dog flu”)
Canine influenza (or dog flu) is a highly contagious virus that primarily affects dogs of all ages. It’s best treated by treating the underlying cause such as pneumonia or bronchitis, and then protecting your dog from other viruses.
If you think your pet may have canine influenza, it is important to take them to the veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
Some common signs of canine influenza include fever, coughing, sneezing and diarrhea.
Unfortunately, this disease can be fatal in some cases if not detected and treated quickly enough. So keep an eye out for any unusual behavior in your dog – anything from lethargy to difficulty breathing – and contact their vet if you suspect they might have canine influenza infection!
Canine parvovirus (“parvo”)
Dogs are natural companions and lovable family pets. However, one of the dangers they face is parvovirus – a highly contagious virus that can be deadly to dogs.
Signs of parvo include high fever, vomiting, diarrhea and extreme lethargy. Often times these symptoms progress rapidly and lead to death if not treated promptly with antibiotics.
In severe cases, euthanasia may be required as the dog cannot recover on its own.
Thankfully, vaccination against parvo is available through your vet at no cost to you or your pet! So make sure your dog is up-to-date with their vaccinations so they can stay safe from this dangerous viruses.
External parasites (ticks, fleas and mange)
It’s important to be vigilant of external parasites like ticks, fleas and mange.
These diseases can easily lead to death if not treated properly. To help prevent these infections from spreading, keep your dog vaccinated against common diseases such as kennel cough and leptospirosis.
You can also apply topical treatments such as dips or shampoos to get rid of the parasite head on! However, do consult a vet before using any of these methods in case there are any side effects.
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Fungal infections (blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, coccidioidomycosis, etc.)
Blastomycosis is a fungal infection that can be deadly if not treated quickly. It is caused by fungi, and symptoms may include fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, fatigue and rash.
Treatment typically involves antibiotics and/or surgical treatment depending on the infection.
Pets should always be taken to the vet immediately if they show any of these symptoms – even if they seem like just minor problems!
Heartworms
Heartworm is one of the most common diseases in dogs. It can cause severe heart problems and is easily spread through contact with infected blood or saliva.
If you’re not sure if your dog has heartworm, consult a vet immediately – it’s best to avoid any potential health complications before they even occur.
There are several ways to prevent heartworm infection: use a mosquito repellent, keep your dog out of wetlands etc.
However, the most effective way is using either oral or topical medications – both of which are quite easy to administer and have minimal side effects on dogs.
Once your pet is treated, make sure they follow all instruction given by their vet so as not to re-infect themselves later on!
Heatstroke
Summertime can be a perilous time for dogs – especially those that are more prone to heatstroke.
Here are some simple tips on how to prevent and treat the condition:
- Always make sure your dog is hydrated – give them lots of fluids, even if they seem thirsty.
- Cooling pads can help keep your pet cool and reduce their chance of getting heatstroke. – If your dog does getheatstroke, take them to the vet immediately for treatment with anti-seizure medication as necessary, fluid therapy and cooling devices if needed. Be aware that seizures may also occur in this situation.
Injuries
Injuries are a common occurrence in dogs and can be fatal if not treated quickly.
Some of the most common injuries include broken bones, lacerations, seizures and parvovirus.
If you think your dog has been injured, always bring them in for a diagnosis as soon as possible!
To prevent any further injury or illness, make sure to feed your dog the right food and keep them vaccinated against some of the most common diseases such as rabies and kennel cough. Watch out for signs of injury such as vomiting diarrhea lethargy etc.
Intestinal parasites
Intestinal parasite is a term that refers to several different types of infections that can infect dogs. Unfortunately, these infections are very common and often go untreated.
If you have a dog and it seems unwell – perhaps with vomiting or diarrhea – there’s probably something wrong with its intestines!
To avoid your dog getting diseased in the first place, take these few simple steps:
1) Remove any food or water left out for them; parasites love to breed in dirty environments.
2) Keep your dog well-fed and hydrated; dehydration makes dogs more susceptible to infection.
3) Brush their teeth regularly; parasite eggs are killed by brushing but plaque can accumulate over time and harbor the parasite.)
If your pet does get sick, be sure to take it to the vet as soon as possible for treatment which might include antibiotics if necessary. (It can be fatal if not treated promptly!)
Kennel cough
Kennel cough is a common respiratory illness in dogs and cats. It can be caused by several viruses, including parvovirus B19.
When your pet starts to coughing, make sure they have access to plenty of fresh air and water.
Give them antibiotics if their symptoms are severe. If it’s not possible to give them antibiotics, provide shelter from the wind and cold temperatures, provide food that is low in fat content (i.e., kibble), and keep your dog stimulated with toys or playtime indoors when kennel cough is prevalent outside。
Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory illness that is mainly caused by the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacterium. It can be spread through coughing and sneezing, as well as contact with saliva or mucus from an infected dog.
Symptoms of kennel cough include coughing, sneezing, fever and runny nose.
Treatment usually involves antibiotics and rest to allow the body to fight the infection. It is most common in dogs that are housed in close quarters with other dogs, such as kennels, breeding facilities or pet stores.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a highly contagious disease that can be deadly in dogs. Although it is usually not fatal, signs to look out for include vomiting, diarrhoea and fever.
Prevention is key – keep your dog vaccinated and wash their paws regularly! Treatment usually involves antibiotics and rest. If you think your dog might have leptospirosis, contact your vet immediately!
Rabies
If you are in the U.S., Canada, Mexico or most of Central and South America, it is important to know that rabies is a very real threat. Rabies attacks dogs rapidly if not treated in time and can kill them quickly.
It is spread through contact with saliva, blood or other body fluids from an infected animal – so anything your dog does such as playing fetch or going for walks must be supervised VERY closely!
Make sure to get your dog vaccinated against rabies (see our vaccination guide for more information) and take them to the vet immediately if they show any of the following signs: aggression, loss of appetite etcetera.
If caught early enough there is often a good chance of saving their life – but don’t wait too long as rabies kills dogs quickly without warning!
Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the skin that can be quite debilitating for dogs.
Signs of ringworm include red, itchy skin and patches which may also feel sore to the touch.
Treatment usually involves applying antifungals to the infected area for two weeks and then repeating this every three weeks until the infection has cleared up.
It can often be treated with antifungals but it is important to get it treated early so that it does not spread further – ringworm tends to thrive in warm, moist environments.
Tick-borne diseases (hemobartonellosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, rickettsial diseases such as Lyme disease, and others)
Tick-borne diseases are a big problem and can be fatal in dogs if not treated quickly.
If you’re dog shows any of the following signs, it is important to get them checked out by a vet as soon as possible: fever, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy or seizures.
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in dogs and it can be treated with antibiotics if caught early enough.
Other less commonly seen but still deadly tick-borne diseases include babesiosis and ehrlichiosis etcetera.
Tick-borne diseases are often transmitted through contact with infected ticks –
So make sure to keep your dog safe from ticks by regularly checking their body for attached ticks, applying repellent when outdoors preventing them from attaching themselves to your dog, and removing any ticks that do attach themselves immediately using a suitable method (such as boiling water).
Viral infections
Dogs are great companions and friends, but they can also be susceptible to a variety of viral infections. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behaviour or general health, it is important to take them to the vet for a check-up as soon as possible.
The most common diseases affecting dogs are fleas and ticks, but other viruses such as canine distemper and mange can also affect them.
It is important to get your dog vaccinated against the most common diseases so that they stay healthy and protect both you and your pet from potential health problems down the line.
Bacterial infections
Puppies are especially vulnerable to dog diseases, as their immune system isn’t fully developed. If you think your dog has contracted a disease, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible!
One of the most common bacterial infections in dogs is Kennel Cough, which can be deadly if not treated promptly.
There are a number of treatments available for bacterial infections, including antibiotics and vaccines. Be sure to consult with your vet before using any of these medications on your pet; they should only be used when absolutely necessary.
Fungal infections
If you’re dog is suffering from a fungal infection, it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible. This can be caused by a wide variety of things – both environmental and lifestyle choices – so the best way to diagnose the problem will depend on your pet’s specific cases.
In most cases, treatment involves antibiotics and/or surgery. If left untreated, these infections can lead to pain, lameness or loss of appetite in dogs. So if you see any of these signs in your furry friend, it’s best to take them straight to the vet!
Protozoal diseases
Protozoal diseases are a common problem for dog owners. Giardiasis and Cryptosporidiosis, the most common ones, are caused by parasites that live in the dog’s intestines.
If not treated promptly, these diseases can lead to serious health problems for your dog, including death.
There are various ways to prevent these diseases from occurring in the first place:
washing your hands regularly; keeping your dog parasite-free through prevention methods such as vaccination; and providing adequate hydration and food. If you do catch one of these diseases, antibiotics will usually cure it quickly.
Parasites
Pets can be susceptible to a variety of parasites, and it’s important to get them checked-up regularly so that any infections are detected and treated as quickly as possible.
Some of the most common diseases caused by parasites include roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and fleas. It is always best to follow the advice of your vet when it comes to parasite treatment – they know what works best for each individual pet.
It’s also important not forget about your own hygiene; make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after handling dogs or their feces, especially if you have been in contact with any infected animals.
Skeletal and muscular disorders
It is definitely time to take your dog to the vet if you notice any changes in his/her behaviour. These diseases can be serious and, if left untreated, may lead to permanent damage or even death.
Knowing what these disorders are and how to treat them is essential for a pet’s long-term health.
There are many different diseases that can affect dogs – some of which are caused by genetic factors while others occur as a result of lifestyle choices or other environmental factors. However, with the right treatment always available, your dog should be able to recover fully from whatever ailment he suffers from.
Cardiovascular and circulatory
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in dogs include a variety of conditions that can affect the heart, blood vessels and other organs. Some common dog CVDs include dilated cardiomyopathy, mitral stenosis and arrhythmias.
Lameness
Lameness is often caused by orthopedic problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis, or neurologic diseases like cerebellar ataxia.
If your dog has any of these conditions, it’s important to get them checked out as soon as possible by a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for their health and well-being.
Treatment depends on the underlying disease and may include surgery, medications or shelter for homeless dogs.
Nervous system
There are various diseases of the nervous system, which can cause a wide range of symptoms in dogs.
Some common ones include tumors and meningitis, while other diseases of the nervous system such as encephalitis, rabies, and stings from wasps and bees can also be very dangerous to your pet’s health.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or appearance that concerns you then it is best to seek professional help right away. By doing so, you will ensure that your dog receives the best possible treatment for whatever disease may be affecting them.
Dogs Eye Cataracts
Aging canines develop cataracts in a manner similar to that of humans. A foggy coating forms on the lens of the eye, preventing light from entering.
The eyes of your dog contain both water and proteins. Cataracts develop when proteins in the lens of the eye begin to clump together and produce a cloudy substance.
Are cataracts uncomfortable for dogs?
Cataracts can cause discomfort or pain for your dog. As the lens’s protein structure alters, inflammation commonly accompanies cataracts and causes discomfort. Untreated inflammation of the eye may potentially result in glaucoma, which is extremely painful for dogs.
Can a dog live with cataracts?
Can dogs with cataracts live comfortably? No. Untreated cataracts can cause significant inflammation within the eye and lead to glaucoma if left untreated. These ailments are quite uncomfortable.
It is always important to consult your veterinarian if you are not sure what’s wrong with your dog or if their symptoms seem to be worsening.
In some cases, the condition may even be serious and require treatment by a vet.
Dogs can get several different diseases, including encephalitis (a brain disease), pneumonia (an infection of the lungs), and conjunctivitis (an infection of the eye).
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Thankfully, most dogs usually improve quickly once they’re treated with antibiotics or medication.
If you notice any changes in behavior or appetite in your pet during this time, it’s best to bring them into see a veterinarian as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis.
Ears
If your dog has any ear problems, you will likely become their primary source of information and guidance.
Disorders of the ears can be caused by a wide variety of things – from allergies to parasites.
Prevention is key, so make sure you are keeping your dog healthy by checking their ears regularly! When it comes to ear infections, antibiotics will clear up the infection and then pain relief medication will help alleviate any discomfort.
In some cases surgery may also be required; however this is extremely rare.
Skin
It is always important to be aware of the different diseases that dogs can get. This way, you will be able to identify any signs your dog may be having and determine the best course of action for treatment.
Your dog skin is very delicate and you can easily see some signs of skin infections on your dog skin.
Endocrine diseases
Endocrine diseases are a group of conditions that are caused by problems with the dog’s endocrine system.
These systems regulate many important processes in the body, including appetite, thirst and energy levels. Some common diseases of dogs include diabetes mellitus, obesity and arthritis.
Endocrine diseases can be difficult to diagnose because they may only present asymptomatically or very mildly.
However, if left untreated they can lead to significant health problems for your dog such as vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst or appetite loss and depression.
Treatment usually includes medication and surgery but often resolves without any major incident occurring later on.
Gastrointestinal diseases
Gastrointestinal diseases are a common problem in dogs, and can be quite serious. If caught early enough, most of them can be treated without any surgery required.
However, if left untreated they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. There are a variety of gastrointestinal diseases that dogs can get:
• Rotavirus is the most common stomach virus in dogs and causes vomiting, diarrhea (often watery), lethargy (sluggishness), dehydration, abdominal pain/discomfort (especially during feeding time), heart failure, seizures, coma or death.
The dog’s prognosis is good if treatment starts within 12 hours after exposure to the virus but less so if it develops later on.
Treatment usually involves antibiotics and/or pain relief. If your dog becomes sick with vomiting or diarrhea – even just once – contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for advice about what to do next
Urinary and reproductive systems
If you’re noticing any sudden changes in your dog’s behavior, it might be time to take them to the vet for a check-up.
As dogs are susceptible to many diseases, even the most trivial ones can lead to serious health problems.
Most common dog diseases are caused by bacteria and viruses – which is why it is so important for owners of dogs to keep their pets healthy by regularly taking them for checkups and administering antibiotics or pain relief medication when needed.
If left untreated, these conditions can quickly deteriorate your pet’s health and may even result in death.
Diseases and disorders by system
Dogs are man’s best friend, and we love them dearly. However, like all animals, they can get sick.
In this post, we’ll be discussing some of the most common dog diseases and disorders by system.
Keep in mind that vaccination is important for your dog’s overall health and well-being, so be sure to get them up to date on their shots.
Additionally, be on the lookout for changes in your dog’s behavior or health.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary, be sure to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. We hope that this post has given you a better understanding of dog diseases and how to treat them. Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog has a particular disease?
It is important that you keep up with regular vet checkups to make sure that your dog does not develop any diseases.
If you notice any of the following signs, it is best to take your dog to the vet for a checkup: drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, discharge from eyes or nose. Depending on the disease, treatment may include antibiotics if necessary.
What are some of the most common symptoms of dog diseases?
If you’re noticing any of the following symptoms in your dog, it’s best to take them to vet for a checkup as soon as possible. – diarrhea or vomiting – fever – coughing – weakness – lethargy – anorexia (vomiting caused by lack of appetite)
How can I treat my dog’s disease effectively?
When it comes to treating your dog’s disease, the most important thing is prevention. That means keeping them vaccinated and up to date with their veterinary care.
If you do notice any signs of a disease, take your dog to the vet immediately for treatment.
In general, treatment will depend on the type of disease and whether or not it has progressed too far for early intervention.
However, some general guidelines that may help include antibiotics when needed, pain relief medication, holistic remedies like acupuncture or aromatherapy, and dietary changes like adding more omega-3 fatty acids to their diet.
Conclusion
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