Dogs don’t always make a huge fuss when they feel sick. In fact, sometimes, they try to hide pain or discomfort. This is why it is important to learn to identify subtle changes in your dog’s behavior or habits. It may be the only way to catch an illness before it becomes more serious. Let’s take a look at six signs that your dog is sick. It all starts with spotting what is not normal, quickly.

How Can I Tell My Dog is Sick?

If your dog shows even small changes to their routine, it can be a hint that there is something going on with them. When a dog doesn’t feel well, they may show it some way whether it is through behavior, changes in their normal energy levels, or their body language.  Dogs can communicate that they are not feeling well in several ways. Here are six signs to watch for that may indicate your dog is sick.

Loss of Appetite

Healthy dogs usually eat enthusiastically. Skipping a meal or not showing their usual interest in food can mean they are sick. It may indicate digestive problems, fever, infection, or a dental problem. Did you know you can use Pawer Dog Wipes as part of your dog’s dental health care plan?

Changes in Body Weight

Unexpected weight loss or gain can indicate serious underlying medical conditions.

Unusual Tiredness or Low Energy Levels

If your dog seems to be more tired than usual, or if they start resting in odd spots further away from their humans, they may not be feeling well.

Changes in Behavior

Dogs can exhibit different behaviors if they don’t feel well. Some dogs will withdraw or avoid attention. Others may become more clingy than usual if they are sick. Anytime you notice a sudden shift in your dog’s demeanor, it is worth noting.

Digestive Issues

Your dog may give you some signs that they are dealing with a digestive issue. If they vomit repeatedly, have soft or loose stool, or have an unusual house accident, they may have an internal issue or gastrointestinal problems.

Respiratory Symptoms

Respiratory symptoms need immediate attention. Some of the most common signs of respiratory problems include coughing, wheezing, sneezing, shortness of breath, or discharge from their nose or eyes.

Serious Symptoms Can Be Harder to Spot

There are times when an illness sneaks in slowly and quietly. Maybe you notice a few small changes, like how your dog moves, grooms, or drinks. Small changes are easy to overlook, especially if they occur slowly.

Always keep an eye out for signs like sudden disinterest in jumping or stairs, stiffness when standing, or excessive liking at one joint or paw. These behaviors may indicate joint pain or inflammation that need to be addressed. A sudden change in bad breath, weight, or having to urinate more often may be signaling health problems like diabetes, kidney trouble, dental disease, or a urinary tract infection.

Trust your instincts! If you start asking yourself if your dog is sick, there is a reason you wondered about it. When in doubt, all your vet and schedule a checkup. It may help you avoid an emergency trip or more serious complications.

Ways to Help a Sick Dog

The first thing you can do if you realize you have a sick dog, is to start jotting down notes. Track their symptoms, note the date they started, and observe how your dog acts during the day. Giving some attention to their behavior can help you give your vet a better idea of what is going on.

Don’t give your dog human medications! Even if their symptoms seem to be mild, don’t medicate without talking to a vet. Keep your dog comfortable and hydrated. Help reduce their stress by remaining calm and keeping a familiar routine while you wait for your veterinarian’s advice.

About the Author: Hazel

Hazel is the head engineer at Pawer Lab. He develops and tests the latest pup-focused inventions for the Pawer Lab. He is passionate about enjoying the small things in life. The border collie’s hobbies include riding in the car, stalking the mailman, and fetching tennis balls.