Common dog diseases and ailments

Our four-legged friends deserve all the care and love we can give them. As a dog owner, it is important to be aware of the most common dog diseases and how we can prevent them. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the most common diseases that can affect our beloved dogs and provide tips on how to keep them healthy and happy.

Joint diseases

Osteoarthritis : Degenerative joint disease that gradually destroys the cartilage of the joints. Symptoms include stiffness, pain, and decreased mobility. Prevent through gentle exercise and regular veterinary check-ups.

Hip dysplasia : Genetic disease affecting the hip joints. Symptoms include stiffness, limping, and pain. Prevent by avoiding excess weight and avoiding overexertion in puppies.

Digestive problems

Stomach and intestinal problems : Usually caused by poor diet, eating toxic substances or parasites. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and bloating. Prevent by providing a balanced diet and avoiding harmful substances.

Fur and skin problems

Eczema : Skin inflammation that can be caused by allergies or parasites. Symptoms include itching, rash and hair loss. Prevent by regular brushing and bathing with suitable products.

Parasitic infestation : Infestation by fleas, ticks or lice. Symptoms include itching and irritation. Prevent by using preventatives and keeping the dog clean.

Ear and eye infections

Ear infection : Most often caused by moisture and dirt in the ears. Symptoms include redness, swelling and itching. Prevent by regular cleaning of the ears and avoiding water in the ears during bathing.

Conjunctivitis : Eye infection that causes red and irritated eyes. Symptoms include tearing and eye redness. Prevent by avoiding contact with irritants and keeping the eye area clean.

Heart and lung diseases

Heart disease : Some dog breeds are more susceptible to heart problems. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue. Prevent through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Dental health and gum disease

Gum disease : Caused by plaque and calculus. Symptoms include red and inflamed gums, bad breath and tooth loss. Prevent through regular brushing and use of chewing gum to promote dental health.

Infectious diseases

Common Infections : Contagion from other sick animals or the environment. Symptoms include fever, fatigue and loss of appetite. Prevent by vaccinating your dog against common diseases and keeping it clean and protected from sick animals.

Parvovirus infection : A serious and contagious disease that affects the dog's digestive system. Symptoms include severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite and dehydration.

Canine Distemper : A viral disease that affects the dog's respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract and nervous system. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, watery eyes, and convulsions.

Leptospirosis : Caused by bacteria that are spread through contact with infected urine from other animals or contaminated water. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, yellowish skin and mucous membranes.

Kennel cough : A collective term for various viral and bacterial diseases that cause symptoms such as persistent coughing, sneezing and a runny nose.

Rabies : A deadly viral disease that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through the bite of infected animals. Symptoms include agitation, aggressiveness, salivation and paralysis.

It is important to be aware of these diseases and at the slightest suspicion that your dog may be infected, seek veterinary care immediately. Preventive measures, such as regular vaccinations and avoiding contact with sick animals, can also help protect your dog against these infectious diseases. A healthy and active lifestyle also contributes to strengthening the dog's immune system.

Age-related diseases

Age-related health problems : Age-related changes in the body. Symptoms include decreased mobility, weight loss and changes in appetite. Prevent through regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle.

Abnormalities in urine and stool

Urinary stones : Formation of stones in the urinary tract. Symptoms include pain when urinating and blood in the urine. Prevent by providing a balanced diet and enough water to keep the urinary tract healthy.

Constipation : Difficulty emptying the bowels. Symptoms include irregular bowel movements and painful bowel movements.