9 Sick Dog Symptoms to Watch Out For Warning Signs That Your Dog Could Be Sick

BY Meredith Allen | October 29 | COMMENTS PUBLISHED BY PETCARERX

vet verified PetCareRx Staff Veterinarian DVM

Dogs can be hard to read at times, so it may be difficult to tell if your dog is sick. We've compiled some telltale symptoms you can keep an eye out for.

Dogs can’t tell us with words when something is wrong, but they can tell us with behavioral changes and physical symptoms. This is why it’s important for pet parents to keep a close eye on their dogs and to take note of anything that seems unusual. These are some symptoms that may mean that your dog is sick:

Symptom 1: Vomiting

Less Serious Causes: All dogs throw up once in a while, and it is often because they have eaten something they shouldn’t have or devoured their food too fast.
More Serious Causes: Vomiting several times a day, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy and lack of appetite, is a sign that your dog needs veterinary attention. Blood in the vomit is another indicator that your dog is unwell. More serious causes of vomiting include but are not limited to: poisoning, foreign bodies in the intestines, gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal illnesses, viral infections, bloat, pancreatitis, liver failure, kidney failure, and parasite infections.

Symptom 2: Diarrhea

Less Serious Causes: Dogs can have diarrhea as a result of changes to their diet, food sensitivities, or stress.
More Serious Causes: If your dog’s diarrhea continues for more than a day or two, contains blood, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or vomiting, it is time for a trip to the veterinarian. More serious causes of diarrhea include but are not limited to: poisoning, ingestion of a foreign body, gastrointestinal illnesses, parasite infections, inflammatory bowel disease, bacterial or viral infection, kidney or liver disease, cancer, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, colitis, and parvovirus.

Symptom 3: Lack of Appetite

Less Serious Causes: A dog may eat less because of stress, recent vaccinations, pickiness, or because they are getting older. While these causes are less serious, you should still contact your veterinarian if your dog refuses to eat for more than 24 hours.
More Serious Causes: A decreased appetite can also be a sign of illness, especially if your dog is exhibiting other symptoms as well. More serious causes of appetite loss include but are not limited to liver problems, kidney failure, cancer, infection, dental disease, and pain.

Symptom 4: Lethargy

Less Serious Causes: Your dog may be tired simply because it had a busy day or a long run at the park. If you don’t notice any other symptoms, your dog probably just needs to sleep it off.
More Serious Causes: Lethargy can also be caused by any number of serious medical conditions, including but not limited to heart disease, parvovirus, distemper, kennel cough, heartworm disease, liver disease, diabetes, and hypoglycemia. Your dog may also pick an unusual place for rest, and this is what is referred to as hiding behavior.

Symptom 5: Increased or decreased urination

Less Serious Causes: Urinating more or less frequently for a day or two could simply mean that your dog has consumed a lot of water or not enough.
More Serious Causes: If your dog is housebroken and urinating inside of the house, drinking excessively, straining to urinate, or needs to go out more often than usual, it may mean that one of these issues is to blame: diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, adrenal gland disease, urinary tract infection, or bladder stones.

Symptom 6: Coughing

Less Serious Causes: A dog might cough because they have something stuck in its throat. In less serious cases, the foreign body will typically work its way out, but if you notice the symptom continuing, contact your veterinarian.
More Serious Causes: Persistent coughing could mean kennel cough, heart disease, heartworms, lung disease, tracheal collapse, tumors, or congestive heart failure.

Symptom 7: Scratching or hair loss

Less Serious Causes: Fleas, ticks, mites, skin conditions, allergies, stress, and anxiety can all cause a dog to scratch. While these causes are less serious, they still need to be treated.
More Serious Causes: Itchy skin and hair loss could also be caused by a number of serious medical conditions, including but not limited to endocrine problems and fungal, yeast, or staph infections.

Symptom 8: Stiffness or Lameness

Less Serious Causes: Unless your dog has recently had an operation or injury that would result in this symptom, stiffness or lameness usually means that your dog needs veterinary attention.
More Serious Causes: If your dog is having difficulty getting up, lying down, going upstairs, or if they are exhibiting stiffness or lameness, they may be suffering from one of the following conditions: hip dysplasia, arthritis, disc disease, or ruptured ligaments.

Symptom 9: Pale Gums

Causes: Veterinarians are always saying, “check the gums,” and this is because gums often change color when a dog is sick. If your dog’s gums are pale, bluish, bright red, splotchy, or yellow, it probably means something serious. Conditions that could cause your dog’s gums to change color include but are not limited to: liver disease, diabetes, hypoglycemia, anemia, shock, poor circulation, lack of oxygen, overheating, carbon monoxide poisoning, blood-clotting problems, and jaundice.

7 Signs of a Sick Puppy - And the Solutions

Having a puppy can be a real treat, but it certainly isn’t without its fair share of challenges. Just like babies of any species, puppies can get sick, and when they do, it can be a handful, especially since puppies aren’t the best at communicating what is wrong.

Knowing the signs that something might be wrong can help you get the jump on a budding sickness, giving you a leg up in the fight against puppy infirmity. Here are seven common signs your furry little buddy might be under the weather:

1. Lethargy

Puppies need lots of rest -- it's just a part of the developmental stage they are in. However, when they are not napping the day away, they should be playful, inquisitive, and energetic (some more than others). If you notice that your puppy is lazing around, or exhibiting a general lack of enthusiasm, consider taking them to the vet, as this could be a sign of a wide variety of illnesses, from bacterial infections to a virus such as parvo.

2. Loss of Appetite

Your puppy may stop eating for a number of reasons. Perhaps they are nervous about moving to a new place or anxious about the loss of a family member. It could be that you have been spoiling them with table scraps (how can you say no to that face?), and now they refuse to eat anything else. At the same time, it could be something far direr.

First, you should try coaxing them into eating. If they still refuse, there is a good chance that their reluctance to eat is caused by something serious, in which case you should plan to take them to the vet.

3. Diarrhea

It is something that plagues us all, and when it strikes, it’s no fun for anybody. While diarrhea could just be caused by anxiety (i.e., moving to a new home), it could also be caused by a virus or parasite. It could be a good idea to take a stool sample over to the vet for them to analyze. If, however, you notice that diarrhea has blood in it, you should take your puppy to the vet immediately, as this could be a sign of gastrointestinal disease.

4. Vomiting

Just like with diarrhea, vomiting could also just be a nervous reaction to a change in the routine. However, it could also be the result of something more serious. Perhaps your puppy has been eating their food too quickly, in which case you should consider giving them smaller meals at more frequent intervals to prevent them from scarfing it all down. If the vomiting persists or is unusual (i.e., has blood in it), they should be taken to the vet immediately, as it could be symptomatic of something much larger.

5. Whimpering

Just because your puppy can’t speak to you doesn’t mean they won’t try. If you notice your pup making unusual noises or whimpering incessantly, it could be they are trying to tell you something about their health. It could very well be that they are just vying for attention, but if the whimpering persists, or if it seems like they are not whimpering to be noticed, it might mean that they are injured in some way or possibly suffering from internal pain, which could indicate an illness. Use your best judgment, but don’t hesitate to visit a vet if you think they are hurting.

6. Licking or Itching

Puppies are still dogs, and dogs lick and scratch themselves. It's just part of being a dog. However, if you notice that they are really going after one spot, in particular, it could be caused by a rash or an allergy, in which case you might want to consider getting them an antihistamine or soothing ointment, but only after getting the go-ahead from your vet.

7. Dizziness (ataxia)

Puppies are certainly no stranger to unusual behaviors, often chasing their own tail or things no one else can see. It is all part of how they are hardwired. But if it seems like they are walking around listlessly, or in a drunken manner, it could be symptomatic of low blood sugar or dehydration. For low blood sugar, you can try rubbing some Karo syrup on their gums and see how they respond. Beyond that, if symptoms persist, you should take them to the vet as soon as you can, as this could become serious.

How to prevent your dog from falling sick?

Feed your dog properly and consistently.

It’s tempting to give our pets anything we would eat, but it’s important to remember that dogs don't have the same dietary needs as people. They need more protein than us, but also more fat and carbs. Plus, they can't process certain foods that we can—like onions or grapes (which are toxic in dogs). We should only give them human food if it's something they're used to eating already: for example, some older dogs will eat baby carrots as treats when they are puppies. If you want to try giving your pup something new, check with the vet first, just in case, it's bad for him or her!

Also, remember not to overfeed or underfeed them. The latter can cause health problems, including obesity which leads directly to diabetes mellitus, which is very dangerous because it causes organ failure, eventually leading to death in some cases, so always be careful not too much food could mean less fun stuff later on down life's path!

Regularly take your dog to the vet for checkups.

Get your dog vaccinated. Dog health is important, and regular checkups can help you keep your pet healthy. It’s best to see the vet at least once or twice a year, but if your dog has any specific health issues, then it’s even more important to bring them in for an appointment as soon as something seems off.

Checkups are expensive but worth it! Checkups allow vets to do a variety of things: perform blood tests, take x-rays or ultrasounds if necessary, and monitor heart rate/breathing rates over time. They also allow them to see how well-treated illnesses are doing so far (if not cured completely). The sooner problems are caught early on during treatment cycles or checkup visits means less money spent overall because treatments won't be needed as often later down the line if caught immediately after symptoms arise. And they also mean that less damage will be done overall, which could lead to more expensive surgeries down the road!

Brush your dog's teeth regularly.

Your dog's teeth are just like yours. They need to be brushed at least two or three times a week for optimal oral hygiene. Use a canine toothpaste and brush, which is the same size as his or her mouth. Never use human toothpaste, it is not formulated for dogs, so it can make their mouths quite sore. Also, avoid using a human toothbrush; it'll be too big for your pup's mouth and could cause him/her pain while they try to chew on it! Lastly, don't give him/her any mouthwash either; it's not good for dogs because of its alcohol content and potential toxicity levels (or lack thereof).

Exercise your dog on a regular basis

The first thing you need to do is exercise your dog on a regular basis. Walk them at least once a day, play with them and take them to the dog park or other places they can run around. This will give them plenty of exercises so that you can prevent their illnesses from occurring in the first place!

It's important for dogs to have regular exercise because it helps keep their muscles strong and prevents joint pain from spreading throughout the body - especially if they're older than six years old!

Overview

It may seem like the overall response to any symptom is to rush over to the vet, and this article is not intended to make an alarmist out of you, but the reality is that it can be very hard to tell when your puppy is just being a puppy or if there is something more serious going on below the surface. Use your best judgment when trying to help your puppy get back to normal, and never hesitate to let a vet take a look. Better safe than sorry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can cause a dog to vomit?

A dog's vomiting can stem from various factors, often rooted in its stomach health, dietary habits, or underlying medical conditions. One common cause is dietary indiscretion, where dogs consume items like spoiled food, garbage, or indigestible objects, irritating the stomach lining and prompting vomiting. Additionally, gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis or gastroenteritis, marked by inflammation in the stomach or intestines, can arise due to infections, parasites, or sudden changes in diet, leading to vomiting and discomfort.

Motion sickness is another culprit, as some dogs experience nausea and vomiting during car rides or other forms of travel. Furthermore, food intolerances or allergies can trigger digestive upset, resulting in vomiting, particularly if the dog consumes ingredients like dairy, grains, or certain proteins that don't agree with them. Sudden dietary changes, such as abrupt transitions to new foods, can also upset a dog's stomach and induce vomiting.

While cooked chicken is often considered a safe and bland option for dogs with upset stomachs, it can still cause vomiting if the dog is sensitive to it or if it's seasoned with ingredients harmful to canines, such as garlic or onion. Similarly, boiled chicken, commonly used in bland diets for dogs with gastrointestinal issues, may lead to vomiting if spoiled or contaminated.

What can cause a dog to be lethargic?

Lethargy in dogs can indicate various underlying health issues. Dogs, especially seniors, are prone to urinary issues like UTIs and kidney stones. Symptoms may include trouble walking, excessive panting, weight loss, and changes in drinking habits. Sudden lethargy in dogs may signal an underlying health problem. Dogs, especially senior dogs, can experience various health issues such as infections, hormonal imbalances, organ dysfunction, or metabolic disorders, which can lead to lethargy.

Lethargy can also be a symptom of heart disease in dogs. Excessive diarrhea can lead to lethargy and weight loss in dogs. Pay attention to any changes in your dog's eating habits and the consistency and frequency of its bowel movements. Lethargy coupled with difficulty walking or sudden collapse could indicate a medical emergency such as gastric dilation-volvulus (GDV) or a neurological issue.

Illness or infection can cause sudden lethargy in dogs. Common illnesses include gastrointestinal upset, respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or tick-borne diseases. Obesity can lead to lethargy and other health concerns in dogs. Monitor your dog's weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine accordingly. A dull or unkempt coat can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. Regular grooming can help you notice changes in your dog's coat condition.

Changes in behavior, including sudden lethargy, could be a sign that something is wrong with your dog. Dogs may become lethargic due to stress, anxiety, or depression, especially if there have been recent changes in their environment or routine. In some cases, sudden lethargy in dogs may indicate a medical emergency, such as poisoning, heatstroke, or internal bleeding. If your dog is unresponsive, has pale gums, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care.

When should you be concerned about a dog throwing up?

If your dog vomits once and then returns to their normal activities and behavior, it might not be a major cause for concern. However, if the vomiting becomes frequent or persistent, occurring several times within a short period, it could indicate a more serious issue. Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms your dog may exhibit, including vomiting. These could include lethargy, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or changes in behavior. These symptoms may provide clues to the underlying cause of the vomiting.

Consider factors related to your dog's stomach, such as recent dietary changes, ingesting foreign objects, or exposure to toxic substances. Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn't, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset and vomiting. Certain health conditions, such as infections, gastrointestinal disorders, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or liver problems, can manifest with vomiting as a symptom. If your dog has pre-existing health issues, monitoring their condition closely is especially important.

Significant changes in your dog's weight, either rapid weight loss or weight gain, accompanied by vomiting, could indicate a serious underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention. Changes in your dog's coat quality, such as dullness, dryness, excessive shedding, and vomiting, may suggest nutritional deficiencies or other health concerns.

If your dog is vomiting persistently, seems lethargic or in pain, has bloody vomit or diarrhea, or shows any signs of distress, seek veterinary care. Delaying medical attention could worsen your dog's condition and lead to complications. In some cases, vomiting can be a sign of a life-threatening emergency, such as gastric torsion (bloat), which requires immediate veterinary intervention to save your dog's life.

Can an upset stomach make a dog lethargic?

Yes, an upset stomach can indeed make a dog lethargic. When a dog's stomach is upset due to dietary indiscretion, gastrointestinal issues, or other health concerns, it can lead to discomfort and a lack of energy. Dogs with upset stomachs may experience discomfort or pain, leading to decreased activity levels and reluctance to engage in normal behaviors such as playing or walking. Lethargy can indicate that your dog is not feeling well and needs attention.

When a dog is sick from gastrointestinal upset or other stomach health issues, it can result in lethargy as its body focuses its energy on healing and recovery. Lethargy is often a symptom of an underlying health problem in dogs. While occasional lethargy may not be cause for immediate concern, persistent or severe lethargy, especially when accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite, could indicate a more serious issue affecting your dog's health.

Digestive issues can stem from various causes, including dietary indiscretion, food allergies, infections, inflammatory conditions, or organ dysfunction. Chronic digestive issues can contribute to weight loss in dogs, as they may have difficulty absorbing nutrients from their food or may lose their appetite due to discomfort. Unintentional weight loss can be a red flag for underlying health problems and should prompt a visit to the veterinarian for evaluation and treatment.

This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.

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