Dog Diseases

Signs, symptoms and what you can do to keep him healthy

Keep your dog healthy by keeping yourself informed. Learn about the warning signs and symptoms of many common dog diseases. You can also pick up a few recovery tips to help speed up the healing process. Choose from the items below to read about a certain disease.

Allergic Dermatitis

Is your dog scratching or licking more than usual, or is his skin rough, flaky or irritated? If so, then he might be suffering from a skin condition, and your veterinarian may recommend tests to identify the exact reason.

Arthritis and Joint Pain

Arthritis is a general term for abnormal changes in a joint. These changes occur when cartilage is worn away faster than it can be replaced. Cartilage acts as a cushion to protect the bones. When it wears away, joints become swollen and painful.

Brain Aging and Behavioral Changes in Dogs

It's important to remember that aging is a natural part of your dog's life. And as your dog ages, she may begin to act differently. Aging takes a toll on a dog's entire body, including her brain. This may lead to behavioral changes.

Cancer in Dogs

In many ways, your dog is a lot like you. You both need the basics of proper nutrition and exercise to stay active and healthy. The bad news: Dogs can develop cancer, just like humans. The good news: Dogs have cancer treatments, just like humans.

Dental Disease in Dogs

Spending a lot of face time with your pooch is a fun time for both of you - until you get a whiff of his breath! Taking care of your pet's teeth can do more than just freshen his breath - it could improve his quality of life.

Developmental Growth Disorders in Puppies

Proper nutrition is the best opportunity to keep your puppy healthy throughout her life. If you start her with good nutrition and give her adequate veterinary care from the beginning, her chances of developing a growth disorder are greatly reduced.

Diabetes Mellitus in Dogs

If your dog appears weak or thirsty, frequently urinates, experiences rapid weight loss, is depressed, or has abdominal pain, she could be diabetic.

Food Allergy and Food Intolerance in Dogs

Allergies aren't fun for anyone, but especially not for your dog who can't tell you what's making him so sick. If your dog vomits frequently, has diarrhea, irritated skin, a poor coat condition or hair loss, then he may have a food allergy.

Gastrointestinal Disorders in Dogs

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and diseases affect a dog's stomach and intestines, resulting in pain and other problems.

Heart Disease in Dogs

No matter your dog's size, he has a big heart - metaphorically speaking, of course. He has a personality all his own, he is a loyal companion and seems to know when you need a good laugh.

Kidney Disease in Dogs

The kidneys, the frequently forgotten but life-sustaining organs, remove waste from the bloodstream and regulate fluids in the body. If the kidneys are not able to do their job, the result could be life threatening for your dog.

Liver Disease in Dogs

The liver performs numerous important functions for your dog's body, including the filtering of toxins from the bloodstream. Because the liver works to rid the body of so many different substances, it is susceptible to damage from many different sources.

Serious Illness, Accidents and Surgery in Dogs

Imagine being hurt or injured and not able to ask for what you need to feel better. That is exactly what your dog feels during a serious illness, or after an accident or surgery.

Urinary Tract Disease in Dogs

You already know the food you feed your dog is extremely important in keeping him healthy.

Weight Management in Dogs

How can you tell if your dog is overweight? First, your veterinarian will weigh your dog at her regular check-ups. Between check-ups, place your hands on her side - are her ribs hard to feel or even impossible to feel? If so, she is likely overweight.