As humans, we all hate the feeling of being under the weather, but imagine not being able to tell someone or your doctor what ails you or what hurts. If you clicked the title of this article, you are obviously a dog lover, owner, enthusiast, or a dog’s best friend. I hope that some of the tips or signs listed below can help you better understand what your dog might be trying to tell you.
As a qualified animal scientist and current veterinary student, animals have always been a part of my life and hold a significant place in my heart. Here are some of the signs I have either learnt or experienced that can be important to look out for if your furry friend is under the weather.
Know What Is Normal
A very underrated aspect of animal care and ownership is understanding their normal behaviours. What is even more important is that dog owners know their dogs best, whether it be their quirks or their routine; these are all pivotal things to acknowledge. In understanding your dog’s routine, you will notice if something is off. For example, if your dog typically rushes up to bark at the postman every time and doesn’t do so, this could be a sign they are feeling a little under the weather.
My Dog Isn’t Eating Like They Usually Do
When we humans get the flu, we know our appetite is one of the things that goes. The same goes for a dog. If they are usually good eaters and you notice they don’t come running at the sound of their food or show no interest in it, this is a sign they are not feeling well.
My Dog Is Drinking A Lot Of Water
Water intake, whether it is excessive or insufficient, is cause for concern. Of course, as an owner, you are familiar with your dog’s general habits. On a hot day or after exercise, you can expect them to drink a bit more, and this is normal. However, if they are drinking excessive amounts of water or not at all, it would be best to contact your local veterinarian.
I Haven’t Seen A Poo
Again, if you know your dog’s usual bathroom schedule and notice they are not defecating as frequently as they usually do, this could indicate they are under the weather. Of course if they are eating less, they will poop less but that brings us back to them being sick. This is especially cause for concern if your dog likes to eat unusual things, such as socks or corn cobs. These items are known to cause blockages and constitute a definite emergency that requires treatment by your local veterinarian.
The Poo Is Watery
Dogs can exhibit a runny poop and still be healthy. However, if a dog has excessive diarrhoea and the consistency has become quite watery, this could be a sign that your dog is unwell and needs to be seen by a veterinarian. The colour and consistency of both your dog’s faeces and urine are important to note. Normal urine is yellow and of a liquid consistency; if you notice red or thicker urine, this is not normal.
My Dog Feels Warm
It can be challenging to determine a dog’s temperature by touch alone, as some dogs enjoy sunbathing. A good option is to keep one of those inexpensive digital thermometers in the dog cupboard, in case you need to check their temperature if you’re concerned. I suggest keeping this thermometer separate from your own. A normal dog temperature is 37.5-39.5 degrees Celsius. Anything above or below this is cause for concern.
My Dog Sounds Short Of Breath
Dogs, interestingly, do not sweat like humans, and therefore, panting is an essential way for your dog to keep itself cool. On walks, hot days, or when spending time in the sun, a certain level of panting is normal. However, if panting is excessive or continues for a prolonged period without an apparent cause, it may indicate a fever. Here is a good time to get their thermometer out and check their temperature. Remember, if you decide to take their temperature, it’s not their favourite thing to have done to them, so get someone to hold them, ensure they do not sit down during this, and do not let go of the thermometer until it beeps and you can read their temperature.
My dog is looking a bit slim.
Weight loss in a dog, either suddenly or over a period of time, is never a good thing. Unless their vet put them on a diet. Weight loss is usually caused either by severe dehydration or an underlying illness that has caused them to lose weight over a period of time. This could be a result of decreased appetite or the disease using up the nutrients they are taking in. Once again, this warrants a visit to your vet.
My Dog Is Acting Weird
Whilst weird is not a clinical sign of illness, if your dog is exhibiting abnormal behaviour, something could be out of sorts. Signs such as lethargy and disinterest in things that they are usually interested in could indicate they are unwell. Other behaviours, such as signs of aggression when you touch them, could indicate discomfort or pain. Finally, signs of disorientation or confusion are also something to look out for.
My Dog Is Sleeping All The Time
If your dog is spending more time than usual sleeping or is generally lethargic, it can be a sign that they are unwell. Just like us, when we feel sick, we stay in bed they sleep more. Signs such as them burrowing or hiding in a corner to rest away from noise or stimulation are something to look out for.
Your Dogs Appearance
Taking note of their physical appearance is a good thing to do. Signs such as excessive snotty noses or stuffy eyes are a sign of illness. You should also be on the lookout for skin irritations or patchy hair growth. Also, keep a keen eye out and feel for any odd lumps or bumps.
My Dog’s Breath Stinks
Like humans, dogs also get plaque buildup. However, abnormally stinky breath or strong odours should be investigated by your veterinarian. It could be a case where they need to undergo dental hygiene to remove plaque. This is common in older dogs, where the plaque has had time to build up. Some tips to help avoid plaque buildup quickly include feeding them kibble or dry dog food and using dental chews or dog-safe, hard-chewing bones available at the pet store. This allows them to remove the plaque themselves while enjoying their treat.
What Colour Should My Dog’s Gums Be?
Examining their gums is a quick way to assess if they are ill; although this is not the only measurement, it is something you can do at home. A healthy dog should have pink, moist, and glistening gums. If you notice they are pale, blue, or very sticky, this could indicate illness.
With dogs and signs of illness, it’s never a one-size-fits-all approach, but I hope some of the things mentioned in this article will help you identify if your dog is sick. Whilst most of these signs warrant a visit to your local veterinarian, you need to trust your gut, and if you think they are unwell, you are probably right. An owner truly does know their dog best.
