Categorized | Dog Health

Dog Health: Early Signs of Illness

Posted on29 December 2009. Tags: Breeds/Hybrids/Mixed Breeds, dog, dog breed, dog breeding, Dog Care, Dog Health, dog health issues, Dog Health: Early Signs of Illness, doggy, dogs, Early Signs of Illness, good dog, owner, Ownership Advice, Puppies, Puppy, tips, Tips and Advice

In most cases dog health concerns and illnesses are not evident for a long period of time before being diagnosed. However some of the dog problems related to the condition may be there but are so mild that owners don't realize their importance. Having a good understanding of dog health and dog care can help you identify these precursor symptoms that can lead to an earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcome.

Early Signs of Dog Problems and Dog Health Issues

There are several key factors in dog care and dog health monitoring that will help you report issues to your vet and provide the necessary information. The symptoms or signs that may indicate minor or major dog health issues include:

Changes in the coat
This can often be a coat that changes from a lustrous, shiny coat to a dry, brittle or dull looking coat. Hair loss may or may not accompany this change in the coat either in a uniform manner across the entire dog's body or just in patches or spots.
Lethargic behavior
Even those dogs that are over seven years of age are far from senior pets. Any dramatic or gradual decrease in your dog's normal energy or activity levels is typically the first sign that something is not right. These dog problems can range from a simple digestive problem or parasite infestation to a serious neurological or circulatory problem.
Eating and appetite changes
Dogs should not have large changes in the amount of food they eat after they mature. Of course dogs that work or are very active are going to eat more than dogs that rest all day, but their appetites are consistent from day to day. When a dog suddenly goes off his or her food, dramatically cuts down their food consumption or leaves food in the dish this can be a signal that all is not well. In addition dogs that suddenly begin to eat more than usual or appear constantly hungry can also be ill or have some type of parasite or other dog health problem.
Temperament changes
Dogs that are in pain will not always react in the same manner. Some dogs will hide and try to stay away from people and other animals, while others may look to their owners for comfort. Most dogs will react with growls, whines or even snapping at people when the area that is hurting is touched or tested.
Stiffness
Muscle stiffness is not just symptomatic of aging, it can occur in growing puppies and even adult dogs that are at the peak of their physical abilities. Muscle stiffness, paralysis and tremors or seizures can signal everything from some type of poisoning to neurological conditions or metabolic conditions.

Always keep a careful record of any unusual behavior you notice in your dog. Dog health, dog care and dog problems relating to changes in the normal behavior should be discussed with your vet as soon as possible to start working towards a diagnosis and treatment if necessary.